Why not live like a royal at a traditional fort, Indian palace at the beach, or a hillside hideaway retreat? Here, travel expert Leo McNabb shares a few ideas to help you round off your India trip of a lifetime in style.

Raas Devi Garh

With a focus on wellness, Devi Garh is a perfect escape from-it-all set in the Aarvalli Hills of Udaipur. Its intimate atmosphere, incredible spa and breathtaking views from the old Rajput palace make for a relaxing end of a wonderful trip.

Raas Devi Garh, pool, India

Raas Devi Garh, view, India

Raas Devi Garh, spa, India

Indulge at the spa, run by British brand Ila, which has an array of fabulous treatments, all of which use natural ingredients sourced from different parts of India. Here you’ll find jasmine fresh from Tamil Nadu and damascene rose otto oil from Rajasthan. The two hour treatments guarantee to soothe and rejuvenate to give you one last heavenly pampering before you board your flight.

Rajakkad Estate

For a back to nature experience, Rajakkad Estate is a hidden gem in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. With only seven bedrooms nestled amongst coffee and peppercorn plantations, this secret hideaway is perfect if you love the great outdoors. Hike, visit nearby plantations, or watch the resident bird life from a comfortable chair and be as active or relaxed as you wish.

Garden, Rajakkad Estate, India

The absence of WiFi throughout the hotel is the perfect chance to enjoy the last few days of your trip totally disconnected.

Neeleshwar Hermitage

If impressive pools and unspoilt beaches float your boat then Neeleshwar Hermitage in northern Kerala is for you. After making your way through the sleepy south, head to this quiet oasis, widely considered one of the best beach hotels in Kerala.

Pool at night, Neeleshwar Hermitage, India

Hammock, Neeleshwar Hermitage, India

Petals, Neeleshwar Hermitage, India

Having recently joined the esteemed Relais & Châteaux group, you can expect outstanding food and service but in an unpretentious setting. Spend four nights of r&r, relax on the seemingly endless beach, try yoga or one of the many amazing Ayurvedic treatments, and unwind on the hotel-run backwater cruise.

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Urdu for ‘mirror of the sky’, Taj Falaknuma Palace is a heavenly way to end a trip through the north and south of the country. From the moment you arrive, you’re treated like a king or queen. The property is brimming with grand staircases, glittering chandeliers, Italian marble and gracious gardens—all part of the unique traditions and history embedded into the Nizam’s palace that once almost fell into ruins.

Courtyard, Taj Falaknuma, India

Grand staircase, Taj Falaknuma, India

Leo McNabb, birthday girl, Taj Falaknuma, India

Take the Champagne Palace walk with the resident historian. During this fascinating tour, learn about the palace’s history and how each room and suite has been carefully restored to its former glory.

As dusk falls, sip on jasmine martinis on the terrace of Gol Bungalow and soak up the sight of the city’s lights twinkling before you. Listen to the mesmerising sounds of live Qawwali music before enjoying a feast of exceptional cuisine (including the famous Hyderabadi biryani). Whatever the occasion, Taj Falaknuma Palace will not disappoint.