10 Unique Luxe Experiences Around India

The focus of luxury tourism has moved from expensive hotel suites to bespoke experiences. From a theatrical bar experience in Gurugram to a private meditation session in Ladakh, here is a roundup of our favourite high-end travel experiences in the country.

- Riaan George

1 Sip on a Sundowner at a Deserted Riverbed, MADHYA PRADESH

This gets our vote for India’s most unique - and secluded - sundowner. At Bori Safari Lodge in Madhya Pradesh, you drive around in an open-top jeep, through this relatively undiscovered national park, and do a bit of spotting as scheduled. The team then takes you to a deserted riverbed on the Tawa River where they set up high tea and sundowners. The river dries up significantly during certain months leaving gorgeous sandy banks where you are parked. One of the specialities of the area is a local brew called mahua. Have a mahua martini on the sandy riverfront as you watch the sun set over the national park. Approx ₹35,000 per room, jehannuma.com/bori-safari-lodge

2 Enjoy Private Dinner With a View, UDAIPUR

Guests at The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, can indulge in opulence by reserving a private dinner under the Lakeside Dome. This is a gorgeous dome decorated with fresh marigold flowers and candles. While a personal butler serves you a customised multi-course meal on the beautifully set table, you can enjoy views of Lake Pichola, City Palace, and Jagmandir. Live music by Rajasthani musicians sets the right ambience and rounds off the experience. Now we’re all for curated dining experiences, but this one really spells ultimate luxury to us. Approx ₹35,000 per couple; oberoihotels.com

3 Sit in on a Private Meditation Session, LADAKH