Points South

Individual Tours to India and Sri Lanka

Northern India – City Hotels

The Points South Point of View – India is a vast continent, it is best not to attempt covering both the North and South unless you have abundant time. In the North the landscape and the climate are more harsh, with arid desert plains and rocky outcrops. The food is different to the South, more meat is eaten, with dishes more familiar to the Indian food served in restaurants in the UK. The tourist trail is over established, especially in Rajasthan, with tour busses ferrying weary tourists around the “must see ” sights on hectic schedules, however it is still possible to enjoy the less known sights by staying in the smaller restored palaces, where the owners insight can often lead to special discoveries. It is often said that doing three places well in Rajasthan can be far more rewarding than six places in haste, as the scale of the magnificent forts and palaces and the distances between them can be tiring on the chaotic roads. The Tiger reserve at Ranthambore offers a contrasting environment and excursion.

The Imperial – This iconic hotel designed by Blomfield, an associate of Lutyens, opened in 1931. The Imperial has been awarded the best luxury hotel in India and retains many superb original features as well as a fascinating art collection. Four excellent restaurants including the award-winning Spice Route, the famous 1911 bar adorned with military memorabilia.

A superb Spa, health and racquet club, as well as a large pool and gardens. The spacious rooms are all beautifully furnished using period piece and sympathetic décor. An outstanding Heritage hotel, located in the centre of New Delhi.

The Maidens – One of Delhi’s oldest hotels, built in the early 1900’s and retaining a colonial charm. The hotel is located in the Old Delhi residential area, near the Red Fort. The property sits in eight acres of gardens with a huge Banyan tree and a good pool. There is a restaurant, terrace café and bar.

The rooms are spacious and decorated in a simple style, using interesting artefacts. The hotel is part of the Oberoi group. An excellent choice for mid-range budget.

Samode Haveli – Located in the heart of old city, this beautiful mansion was built 150 years ago for the rulers of Samode. Sympathetically converted into a charming hotel, the former royal apartments are now deluxe rooms, with smaller rooms overlooking the central courtyard. Well-tended gardens lead to a beautiful pool built in a Moorish style offering quiet seclusion from the busy city.

Raj Mahal Palace – One of the many fabulous palaces in Jaipur. Raj Mahal palace was opened as a luxury hotel in 2015 by the renowned Sujan group. The property has been superbly modernised whilst embodying the period features and fascinating history.

Set in lovely gardens with a spa this provides a peaceful retreat from the busy city. They have their own vegetable garden, and afternoon tea is served each day in the conservatory. Part of the Relais en Chateaux group.

Alsisar Haveli – Situated near to the centre of the city and set back behind a wall with courtyard gardens and a lovely pool. Alsisiar is a lovely retreat from the busy city, authentic and well run with good sized rooms. The hotel is decorated and furnished in a traditional and comfortable style. There is a beautifully decorated dining room and terrace to dine on.

Khas Bagh – A farm retreat located in the Aravali hills near to the Amber fort. The property is built in the style of a Haveli using local stone, with open courtyards and verandas overlooking the grounds. It has eighteen rooms with authentic style furnishings, a pool and polo lounge. The owner, a keen polo player, and his charming wife provide an authentic Rajput home stay experience.

Bujera Fort – Bujera Fort is a recently built fortress, constructed using traditional lines, with hand carved columns, salvaged Rajasthani doors and windows creating the feel of a much older building.

It is located in the Aravalli hills, on the west side of Lake Pichola. Fifteen minutes’ from the busy town, this is a perfect place to re-charge after sightseeing. With a pool, spa, shop and library. Forty minutes’ drive to the airport.

The Oberoi Udaivilas – Originally conceived as a replica of a traditional Indian Palace, Udaivilas is located on the far side of Lake Pichola. Arrive by boat and wander through the rambling courtyards and gardens, resplendent with fountains and pools.

The luxurious rooms all have terraces opening onto a semi-private pool with distant views. Spa with separate pool, yoga and meditation. Three restaurants.

Oberoi Amarvilas – Situated in an unrivalled location within walking distance of the Taj Mahal. All the rooms have a view of this iconic mausoleum.

Built in a style inspired by Mughal architecture, with lovely gardens with fountains and a large pool, the property provides a relaxing environment to re-charge after sightseeing in the bustling city. Two restaurants and spa.

The Trident, Agra – Built of red stone to reflect the Mughal style, The Trident is located 1.5 kms from the Taj Mahal. With delightful gardens and a good sized pool.

This popular hotel is decorated in a contemporary Indian style, with a restaurant overlooking the gardens and bar. The Trident is part of the Oberoi group, an excellent mid-range hotel.

Ratan Vilas – Maharaj Ratan Singhji, a renowned horseman and polo player, built this charming mansion in 1920. The property was converted into a small hotel by his great grandson; the family still resides here.

The rooms are spacious, furnished with period pieces and traditional hand blocked fabrics. Interesting family memorabilia lines the walls. There is a good garden with a swimming pool and a restaurant in the evening. During the day, meals are taken on the veranda or in the courtyard dining room.

Raas – Located in the centre of the town with superb views towards the Meherangargh Fort. This converted Haveli combines Heritage character with the charm of a boutique hotel, though most of the rooms are in the modern wing. The pool is set in the courtyard gardens. The property has a great atmosphere.

Balsamand Lake Palace – Situated 5 kilometres from the city, amidst 60 acres of beautiful gardens where peacocks stroll. Balsamand was created as the summer residence for the maharajas of Jodhpur, built of local red sandstone the palace overlooks a vast lake.

The suites are decorated and furnished using traditional style pieces. There is a large pool and golf course. The Maharajah’s Marwari horse are stabled in the grounds.

Killa Bhawan – The city of Jaisalmer rises out of the Thar desert like a scene from Arabian Nights. It was built of sand stone in 1156.

This fascinating medieval city is renowned for the magnificent sandstone palaces and forts. The hotel is comprised of three town houses built into the fort walls. The three terraces command magnificent views.

The rooms are decorated with vibrant colours. This small boutique hotel is a charming place to stay in this ancient city.

Northern India – Countryside hotels

The Points South Point of View – India is a vast continent, we think it is better not to attempt covering both the North and South unless you have abundant time. In the North the landscape and the climate are both more harsh, with arid plains and rocky outcrops. The food is very different to the South, with rich meat curries and tandoori cooked dishes. The tourist trail is over established, especially in Rajasthan, with tour busses ferrying weary tourists around the “must see ” sights on hectic schedules, however it is still possible to enjoy the less discovered by staying in the smaller restored palaces, where the owners insight can often lead to special places. It is often said that doing three places well in Rajasthan can be far more rewarding than six places in haste, as the scale of the magnificent forts and palaces and the distances between them can be overwhelming in the harsh desert heat.

Pushkar Camel Fair– This annual event is held at Pushkar, hundreds of herdsmen and farmers bring their livestock to the town. Camels, cows and horses are brought and sold by the men sitting on their haunches discussing the price over tea and a pipe, this spectacle offers visitors a chance to witness a scene unchanged for centuries. In the town of Pushkar (with over five hundred temples) a carnival atmosphere pervades as thousands of pilgrims arrive for the Kartik Purmina religious festival, which coincides with the camel fair. Tented camps are erected for the many visitors; we recommend a camp on the outside of the town. For a truly memorable experience a hot air balloon ride can be taken over the fair at dusk or dawn. Accommodation is simple, with meals taken in a communal dining tent.

Dev Shree – Dev Shree is a small boutique hotel, recently built in a Mughal style, on the edge of the lake, with the Gokul fort in the distance. With wide verandahs, a central courtyard and pool. All the rooms overlook the gardens where peacocks stroll. The property embodies the best of Mughal hospitality. Cookery lessons and yoga. A local train journey can be taken from nearby to Deogarh, through the Aravalli hills. An evening jeep ride to a nearby lake for sundowners is a memorable experience.

Chambal Safari Lodge – A very rural location only 1 1/2 hours from Agra. The main house was once used by the Singh family when attending the cattle fair at Bhubaneswar. The spacious cottages are located around the charming gardens.

Early morning boat safaris are taken on the river Chambal, and there is a resident naturalist to take you bird watching. There are also trips to the nearby temples at Bhubaneswar overlooking the river Yamuna, and camel safaris to a nearby fort.

Chanoud Garh – A 300 year old palace near to Jodhpur, originally gifted to Thakur Anoop Singh for his valour and bravery by the Maharajah of Mewar. In 2013 the palace was extensively restored and converted for guests to stay. The vast rooms encapsulate intricate traditional features and modern amenities.

This area of Rajasthan is very rural and a village walk if fascinating, visiting the local school and temples. Trips to the nearby lakes and cookery demonstrations.

Fort Begu – On the edge of the village, Fort Begu is a 16th Century fort and small Palace arranged around courtyards and gardens. Part of the palace remains in ruins and contains fascinating murals.

The main part of the property has four atmospheric bed rooms, a dining room and sitting room. Temples and step well in the village. Evening drinks at old summer palace, taken by jeep.

Ranvas at Naguar Fort – Naguar Fort is located 120 Ks north of Jodhpur, the vast fort built in the 12th century is currently undergoing a restoration project started over 20 years ago. With several palaces, courtyards and fortified walls, Naguar is a fascinating destination in itself.

Ranvas consists of eight beautifully restored havelis each with three rooms, within the fort. There is a with a pool, courtyard gardens where meals are taken the freedom to explore the fort.

Udai Bilas Palace – Udai Bilas Palace is situated on the banks of Lake Gaibsagar. This small palace is still occupied by the family. The spacious rooms each have their own character and have large marble bathrooms.

Exotic hunting trophies line the walls of the Africa room. Everyone comes together to dine in the marble dining room. Delightful gardens and pool overlooking the lake.

Chhatra Sagar – situated in an outstanding location overlooking a 100-year-old reservoir, home to many species of birds.

The property is now run by the Raas group, the villas are set on the wall of the dam; each one is beautifully decorated with en-suite bathrooms and a sitting area overlooking the reservoir. A very relaxing place to enjoy the rural peace and a stunning view.

Shahpura Bagh – Shahpura personifies the type of property I try to find for my customers. This lovely 19th Century palace is still home to the Singh family, and is in a great location, surrounded by lovely countryside and lakes, with ten rooms decorated in a traditional style.

Meals are taken with the hospitable family who will entertain you with stories of royal life pre-Independence, lovely terraces, gardens and pool. Built as a summer residence for the rulers of Shahpura, from here you can visit the nearby dam their farm, and old fort where evening drinks are held.

Khem Villas – Established in 1989 when the grassland was planted with indigenous trees and waterholes created to encourage birds and wildlife.

This delightful resort offers accommodation in cottages and tents, organic food is served and there is a pool. Walks can be arranged in to the nearby forest, a short drive to the Tiger reserve.

The Oberoi Vanyavilas – Set at the foot of the hills 7 kms from Sawai Madhopur (nearest town and station), Vanyavilas has been superbly built in the style of a royal hunting lodge. The accommodation, tented, is scattered amidst the beautiful grounds extending to 20 acres with mango orchards.

The luxury tents have a/c, wooden floors and proper bathrooms. There is a spa, a lovely pool and an excellent restaurant. I was greeted by the two resident elephants. Vanyavilas is part of the exclusive Oberoi group.

Bhanwar Vilas Palace – Bhanwar Vilas was built in 1938 for the Maharajah of Karauli. The family still live reside. Much of the original Art Deco furnishings and fascinating memorabilia is still in use, providing an authentic atmosphere.

There is a dairy farm and garage full of vintage cars. Nearby is the superb 600-year-old Karauli Palace – this has been featured in U.K. Interiors magazine and is frequently used for fashion magazine shoots.

West Bengal and Assam hotels

The Points South Point of View –The immediate pre-conception of Kolkata is of a city that overwhelms, lacking the modernity and power of Mumbai and Delhi, but no city offers so much by way of exploration of India’s colonial past. The centre is a snapshot of the city 30 years ago, virtually unchanged since. The wide streets are filled with Ambassador cabs and trams, and the city has an abundance of extensive Maidans (parks). The architecture traces even further back into the city’s history, offering glimpses of the birth of the East India company in 1772, all the way up to the transfer of the British to Delhi in 1911, forming a new capital of the Raj. Kolkata is the starting point for exploring Darjeeling and Assam.

Oberoi Grand – The Oberoi is a famous old hotel, refurbished by the renowned Oberoi group, centrally located with all the amenities one expects of this luxury hotel.

The Oberoi has a great Thai restaurant called Baan Thai. Their new coffee shop 363 is also quite good now.

Glenburn Penthouse – A colonial style boutique hotel situated in the heart of Kolkata, the Penthouse is a gem occupying the top two floors of a modern office building. The average exterior disguises its outstanding interiors – the décor is exquisite and elegant while still homely. There are only nine bedrooms, creating an intimate feel.

The location is unrivalled, and the hotel offers spectacular views of Kolkata’s landmarks – see from the balconies the green spaces of the Maidan, the iconic Victoria memorial, and the Raj Bhawan palace. There is a small spa and a rooftop terrace with an infinity pool. The sister property of the Glenburn Tea Estate near Darjeeling.

Rajbari Bawali – Rajbari is a fascinating property. The mansion was formerly owned by the wealthy Zamindars (Nawabs) and built 250 years ago to entertain and enjoy their lavish lifestyle. Post-independence, their wealth diminished and the mansion fell into disrepair.

Discovered by Ajay Rawla in 2008, the task of purchasing and restoring the house began. The property is near to the Ganges where boat trips can be taken, as well as rural walks in the countryside. This is a fascinating place to explore and relax in at the end of a tour of West Bengal.

Bari Kothi – Azimganj is situated four hours by train from Kolkata, on the banks of the Ganges. Bari Kothi palace has undergone extensive renovation, to provide a fascinating heritage hotel. Nearby is the town of Murshidabad, the capital of Bengal, during the 18th and 19th century Murshidabad, with palaces, temples and mansions depicting the wealth of this once important town.

The owners of the property are Jains, part of the Sherwali community, they built many properties here, inspired by European and Mughal architecture.

Glenburn Tea Estate – An hour’s drive from Darjeeling, the Glenburn Tea Estate is a charming property tucked away in the Himalayan foothills. There are eight rooms split between two colonial bungalows – the original plantation buildings, polished up to the nines. The suites are spacious and all offer antique furniture, private balconies and breath-taking views overlooking the rolling tea plantations.

It is a peaceful base ideal for relaxation, but there is also the opportunity for hiking and fishing just nearby, or visits to the tea estate and factory can be arranged. All activities, indoor and outdoor, are included.

Diphlu River Lodge – A short drive to Kaziranga National park. Diphlu is situated close to the entrance of the park overlooking the river, with twenty-four cottages each with a private veranda, some overlook the Diphlu river.

Meals are taken in the Machan, a raised dining area with a thatched roof leading onto a verandah overlooking the river. The park has the largest population of rhinos in India. Safari are taken by jeep and elephant.

Wild Mahseer – Wild Mahseer is surrounded by the Addabarie tea estate; this was established by the British Assam tea company in 1864. The bungalows have been converted to provide modern comfortable rooms whilst retaining some fascinating memorabilia.

Visit the tea factory nearby or enjoy walking the estate with a rich variety of wildlife.

Wathai Heritage Bungalow – Located on the tea estate of Limbuguri on the banks of the Dibru River, this beautifully maintained bungalow is over one hundred years old. It is rich in history, as is conveyed through its simple architecture and original furniture – though not at the expense of comfort or luxury.

Near the Dibru Saikhowa National Park. Explore the tea plantation, watch the birds, or simply rejuvenate in the peaceful surroundings of the plush gardens – a wonderful resting place. Wathai is owned by Purvi Discovery.

Chowkidinghee Heritage Chang Bungalow – The bungalow is situated in the heart of the Dibrugarh district, skirting the garden and the tea factory of the Chowkidinghee Tea estate. It is a ‘chang ghar’, built on stilts (to keep the house cool by allowing the breeze to blow underneath, and keep out both water and animals).

Rooms are generously proportioned and the décor harks back to its colonial heritage. A tranquil environment, a warm and inviting fireplace, and superb views from the verandas, it is an ideal location to relax and explore the Assam tea gardens.

Mancotta Heritage Chang Bungalow – This bungalow encapsulates perfectly the sense of the serene, simple and very comfortable life in the tea estates. In the outskirts of Dibrugarh, it is a hidden gem away from bustling city life and surrounded by the immaculately manicured tea gardens.

It is the ideal location for birdwatching, exploring the tea plantations and heritage factory. Authentic colonial architecture, spacious and luxurious rooms. Perfect for a rejuvenating stay.

Please contact Jane Points to discuss your specific holiday requirements.

Mob: +44 (0)780 106 3335 email info@points-south.co.uk