BEST ROOM IN THE HOUSE

Private mansions, intimate overwater villas and bespoke amenities—the best rooms in hotels in India and beyond.  

- Arundhati Ail

ROOM 204 VISALAM This CGH Earth property is a charming 70-year-old Chettinad mansion in the village of Kanadukathan in Tamil Nadu. It was originally built as a family house by KVAL Ramanathan Chettiar for his eldest daughter. A sense of warmth permeates the space by way of family photographs and personal artifacts. This spacious Chettinad Suite features handmade Athangudi tiles, bed runners made by local artisans and period-style furniture made with Burma teak. cghearth.com

THE ROYAL SUITE SOUKYA, BENGALURU Spread over 6,647 sqft, the Royal Suite is flanked on three sides by beautiful private gardens. There’s a fourposter bed, a spacious living room and a bathroom with a double vanity sink, jacuzzi and outdoor shower. It’s not called the Royal Suite without reason—it’s the room King Charles III and his Queen Consort Camilla occupy when they visit India. soukya.com

ROOM 603 HILTON SHILLIM ESTATE RETREAT AND SPA Nestled in the Sahyadri range, Hilton Shillim is great for a weekend getaway from Mumbai or Pune. The three-bedroom Presidential Villa spans 5,900sqft and is located on the highest point of the retreat. It is meant to be a private residence for larger groups. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outdoors in. With a private deck, a lovely swimming pool and a well-equipped kitchenette—there’s absolutely no reason to leave. hilton.com

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE SHANGRI-LA EROS, NEW DELHI The Presidential Suite with two bedrooms and a private balcony, walk-in closets and pristine all-marble bathrooms with a luxe whirlpool bath. There’s also a dining area that seats eight, so you can have people over for a luxurious meal in the finest crystal glassware. shangri-la.com