Luxury Himalayan Holidays

As the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion, the northwestern city of Amritsar is the home of the Golden Temple holy pilgrimage site. But that's not the only reason to visit. The narrow streets provide a bustling, frenetic snapshot of local life which is just waiting to be explored.

People fly from around the world to see the shimmering Golden Temple. Built on a marble plinth, its two storeys, topped with a magnificent dome, create a striking spectacle. As you step into the peaceful temple, the chaotic streets melt away. Although Amritsar is a sacred place of worship for Sikhs, being there gives you a sense of inner peace no matter your beliefs.

Amritsar is strategically important for India because of its proximity to the border with Pakistan, which gives rise to the flamboyant spectacle of the Wagah Border Ceremony. Each evening, the Indian and Pakistani guards perform the Border Ceremony with signature goose-stepping and dramatic flourishes. If you're visiting Amritsar for culture, you mustn't miss this display.

For the top luxury hotels in Amritsar, expect a sanctuary to relax and unwind in. Whether you're looking for a hotel near the Golden Temple or a resort a little further away from the action, our experts have handpicked the best options.

Due to the influences of Tibetan Buddhism, Leh has been lovingly named Little Tibet or the Land of Lamas.

Perched high in the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh, Leh is a charming town surrounded by rugged peaks and boasting the imposing ruins of a former palace. As one of the most beautiful regions in the Himalaya, you'll find brightly painted gompas (monasteries) interspersed with tiny settlements and the beautiful Indus River.

At an altitude of 3,500 metres, you'll need to acclimatise before you start exploring. But the laidback charm and stunning surroundings make adopting a slower pace thoroughly enjoyable.

The town is a bustling warren of restaurants and shops offering handicrafts, jewellery and woollen clothes lovingly created by locals. But just a short walk brings you to crystal-clear mountain streams and lush fields set against a backdrop of jagged mountain peaks.

Adrenaline junkies are spoilt for choice with high-altitude trekking and white-water rafting, while the wealth of monasteries, gompas and temples offer a fascinating insight into Buddhism in this remote region. You should also spend time admiring Leh Palace, which stands watch from the hillside, before heading back to stay in the hotel.

There are plenty of places to stay in the city of Leh. Our India specialists have carefully curated a selection of the best hotels and resorts in the Himalaya. Whether you're looking for an opulent Himalayan retreat in Leh or a luxury travelling camp for the ultimate nomadic experience, we’ve sourced incredible accommodations.

Set in the foothills of the Himalaya and centred on the holy River Ganges, Rishikesh is a pilgrimage site for Hindus. But as the 'yoga capital of the world', it also attracts Western travellers in search of spiritual guidance and meditation. With a laidback charm and picturesque setting, Rishikesh offers an escape from the heat of the plains.

Life in Rishikesh revolves around the river. It's where the fire ceremony of the evening aarti takes place and there are colourful temples spread along its banks. For a more active pursuit, the fast-flowing river has become popular for white-water rafting, while the pine-forested hills offer challenging hiking trails.

You should spend time in the hot water springs near the Raghunath Temple. It's believed that Lord Rama came to bathe in these springs during a period of exile.

For the best hotels in Rishikesh, picture award-winning spas, traditional Ayurvedic treatments and personalised holistic care while you disconnect from the hustle and bustle of every day life.

Shimla is one of the most popular destinations in the Himalaya and has been attracting visitors for centuries. Once a summer retreat for the British Raj, Shimla retains a faded elegance in its colonial churches, half-timbered Town Hall, and quaint homes, all nestled among the pine forests and snow-dusted peaks of the Himalayan foothills.

One of the best things to do on your holiday to Shimla is ride the iconic Toy Train from Kalka to Shimla. Prepare to be mesmerised as you take a journey back in time and follow in the footsteps of memsahibs and civil servants who regularly took this journey to escape the heat of the plains.

Hike through thick pine forests and warm up with a cup of steaming chai before strolling through the pedestrianised streets of the town. Foodies will enjoy an afternoon tea at Wildflower Hall, the former home of Lord Kitchener, while taking in the panoramic views.

While it's easy to think there's not much to do in the evenings, it's actually when the Lakkar Bazar comes alive. The long stretch of shops offers fine ornaments, intricate wooden gifts, and stellar winterwear, making it an excellent location for a spot of late-night shopping.

When it comes to luxury hotels and resorts in Shimla, we recommend staying in the foothills. Here, the best hotels in Shimla boast incredible service and architectural character set amongst the sprawling landscape.