India is arguably the most interesting country in the world. A symphonic melee of cultures, cuisines, and climates make it a destination of many destinations with countless experiences to discover. One of its many-must have experiences is a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the Taj Mahal. An ideal base to see all the treasures that Agra has to offer is the ITC Mughal Agra, a five star palace created as a royal respite for the area’s travelers.
From visiting the big cities of Delhi and Mumbai to frolicking the coastal beaches and exploring the mountains and jungles, India a plethora of places to see and experiences to have. Most first time travelers to the country will choose to visit the golden triangle which is Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi, which gives a good taste of what this incredible country has to offer.
Agra is India’s most prized tourism attraction and was once home to the mighty Mughal Empire that ruled over the region. They left behind countless influences in architecture, art and science. The most famous of those relics is the Taj Mahal which was created by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in the 17th century, as a symbol of love created to honor his wife. It is in fact the most beautiful and colossal mausoleum in the world and is home to her remains.
So how do you create a hotel for guests who will visit India’s most prized natural treasure? You create a palace as if it were for visiting royalty and that’s just what ITC, India’s luxury hotel group, embarked on a mission to do. The grandeur of the property is evident as you walk through the white marble lobby with cathedral ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and detailed Indian wall carvings. The Mughal influences are evident throughout the resort in the architecture, design as well as the landscaping with channels of running water, fountains, and gardens.
Everything is big and grand here, especially the guest suites. They have separate living spaces and comfortable sitting areas with Indian furnishings. The bathrooms are spacious as well with separate marble bath and shower. The bedrooms are striking, with exquisite décor elements like silk wall tapestries, artwork and dramatic ceiling draped fabrics. Their royal suites are even larger with outdoor spa treatment areas, pools and sunning areas.
There is arguably no better way to be pampered than at a spa. The ITC Mughal has created a spa experience worthy of royalty in the Kaya Kalp (The Royal Spa). In fact, it is India’s largest spa at over 100,000 square feet. The size is only one of the aspects which makes it impressive and you’ll quickly understand why the Condé Nast Readers Poll, Spa Magazine and others keep it at the top of the best spa’s list.
The facilities create an environment of peace with a décor of flowing silk fabrics, rose petals in vases and trickling water features. White marble is accented by blood red marble used to reflect the color of the pomegranate, as well as the ornate wall carvings embellished with stone latticework, mother of pearl inlay and mirrored details.
There are numerous treatment rooms with state-of-the-art equipment, Vichy showers, and Jacuzzi whirlpools. Beyond the facilities, the spa has some of the top staff from around the world and an extensive menu of treatments from beauty, to massages, to the ancient Indian healing practices, Ayurveda.
One thing that will amaze anyone traveling to India is the food and hotels must cater to the finicky palates of India’s locals as well as international guests. The ITC Mughal Agra offers several dining options and all are fantastic. Expect a wide variety of dishes and the most popular recipes from around India. It’s heaven on earth for vegetarians as many of the dishes don’t have any meat, especially beef which is actually illegal to serve in the country.
One must-have experience is at the Perswarga which serves northern Indian cuisine and is more like Afghan food. Less spicy and lacking as much curry, the style of cooking features grilled meat and seafood, alongside awesome Indian breads. The restaurant is colorful and exciting with an open kitchen and northern Indian décor to set the tone for the meal.
When we think of luxury hotels, we usually think of the big chains such as the Ritz-Carlton, Waldorf Astoria and Four Seasons. However, when visiting a destination, there are luxury hotel groups that have all of the creature comforts of the big chains, but an additional level of local nuance and unique services in a way that only a local host can provide. In India, the chain worthy of your next visit destination is the ITC Hotels. A part of Starwood's Luxury Collection, they have eleven uber luxurious five star properties throughout India, making them a perfect host for your exploration of this incredible country.
