Join the Celebration: 3 Luxury Retreats Creating A Festive Gala This Diwali
Explore the art of celebration at luxury hotels, where rich heritage, gourmet cuisine, and vibrant cultural events come together to create unforgettable experiences during this festive season of lights.
Diwali, the festival of lights, bursts with joy as families gather to honor Goddess Lakshmi and seek her blessings. Homes glow with diyas and fresh decor, culminating in a sumptuous feast and dazzling fireworks. Yet, rising air pollution raises questions about our celebrations. Do we need to impact the environment so heavily? This year, embrace a green Diwali with our curated list of eco-friendly escapes that honor tradition while caring for our planet.
Imagine celebrating Diwali in a stunning palace hotel on a tranquil lake, or indulging in an exquisite luxury escape amidst wilderness. Perhaps you prefer a vibrant city break with your family. We have handpicked a selection of exclusive retreats that promise joy, indulgence, and celebrations extraordinaire this Diwali.
1. Get Whisked Away Into The Romance Of Grandeur At Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
The pristine white marble palace floating in the serene waters of Lake Pichola in Udaipur has been filmed by Hollywood and has hosted the world’s most famous and well-heeled. Once the summer palace for the Mewar Family of Royals, today one can immerse in the regal lifestyle with meticulously crafted experiences by Taj Hospitality. This Mughal design-inspired luxury hotel in Udaipur offers 65 luxurious rooms and 18 grand suites that have been restored to their original glory. The bedrooms were the erstwhile living chambers of the maharajas and invite you into a world of regal splendours with pristine white marble interiors, exquisite European-inspired embellishments, rare works of art and stunning crystal chandeliers.
Diwali is that special time when the palace is dressed in florid hues, lights, and gorgeous florals handpicked by experts. From regal lake cruises to unrivalled dining experiences designed by third-generation royal chefs, a stay in Taj Lake Palace is a discovery into the rich heritage and culture of the Mewar Dynasty. A historian takes you on a tour of the design and architecture within the palace chambers, evoking the extraordinary history of the summer palace. As you wander through its opulent halls and lush gardens, you’re surrounded by intricate details and artistic expressions that reflect the culture and heritage of the time. Outdoor excursions to the city’s iconic landmarks are arranged by the concierge where one tours in a vintage car. An itinerary filled with vibrant cultural programs, festive dinners, and enchanting Diwali celebrations is offered to all guests. The highlight, however is the ‘Gangaur Cruise’—step aboard the Maharana’s historic boat for an unforgettable dining experience beneath a mesmerizing starlit sky.
DP Recommends ‘The J Wellness’ which takes place on the royal barge and comes with a double spa suite, relaxation lounge, steam room and shower, outdoor soaking pool and dining area.
2. Embark On A Celebration And Adventure At Aman-i-Khas
On the edge of Ranthambore National Park, once the royal hunting ground of the Rajput royal, Aman-i-Khas rises from the forest ground against the beautiful backdrop of the Aravallis. The 10 tented camps are no ordinary accommodations. The white pyramid-roofed tents are bedecked in leather and mahogany nouvelle-colonial decor with billowing canvas walls of rooms featuring king-size beds paired with all the elements of a luxurious getaway. The light-dappled bathing corner features free-standing bathtub and shower, the living room has twin writing desks and each tent opens into a private sun deck. If you seek a serene getaway during Diwali while still enjoying the festivities, Aman-i-Khas is the perfect choice for an unforgettable off-grid experience. The tented camps transform into a festive haven, inviting guests to spend time in nature with a bespoke itinerary.
Mornings at Aman-i-Khas start with a game drive, in an open-top vehicle with an expert wildlife guide. Post safari, a delightful alfresco breakfast by the serene pond, enveloped by our vibrant, lush grounds, awaits. Choose from a selection of traditional Ayurvedic massage therapies at the Aman Spa for full-body relaxation. After a morning of adventure and discovery in the wilds of Ranthambore, a refreshing soak in the stunning step-well-inspired pool is a must-do. Among other experiences, live cooking with the chef who prepares a picnic banquet of regional specialities amid the scenic setting are moments one cannot forget soon. On the auspicious day of Diwali, a puja will be organised on the lawn followed by a special dinner prepared by the chefs. Immerse yourself in the warmth of camaraderie with fellow wildlife lovers as you sip festive cocktails, gather around a crackling bonfire, and delight in captivating Rajasthani soulful musical performances beneath a canopy of stars. Experience the magic of Diwali like never before at Aman-i-Khas, where the enchanting glow of the forest sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration.
DP Recommends a one-of-a-kind safari with the majestic Marwari horses which were once raised to lead Rajput warriors into battle.
3. Indulge in Luxurious Celebrations at Oberoi SukhVilas Spa Resort, Chandigarh
Against the backdrop of the Siswan Forest Range, Oberoi Sukhvilas in New Chandigarh is set in a landscape of beautiful gardens with fountains, reflection pools, and traditional architecture that hark back to the golden era of Mughal splendor. Discover the enchanting allure of Mughal palace design by choosing from the luxurious royal tents, complete with private gardens and inviting pools, or indulge in premium villas that reflect the elegance of traditional Rajasthani haveli mansions. Understandably the number of people seeking a vacation to rejuvenate and heal their bodies has been on the upswing. Oberoi Sukhvilas is an ideal sanctuary for experiencing the soothing and neurologically enriching practice of forest bathing, where you can truly immerse yourself in the forest’s tranquil ambience. The Oberoi Spa offers hydrotherapy pools, aromatic steam, an infrared sauna, and a heated tepidarium. Besides wellness, celebrate Diwali with exclusive amenities in your guest room, crafted by Oberoi’s skilled master chefs. Enjoy vibrant cultural performances and festive activities, including diya lighting and an exquisite high tea.
Also read: DP Hotlist 2024: Discover 3 Luxe Retreats Redefining Remote Luxury
If good health and well-being are your utmost priority, this Diwali balance your meal experiences with a mix of healthy and festive dishes. The luxurious ‘Anant Mahal’, all-day dining serves specially curated Ayurvedic and sattvic dishes with seasonal produce. The elevated Indian dining ‘Kaanan’ offers an immersive festive experience for a perfect celebration with loved ones. The venue sits on a higher ground with breathtaking views of a serene water body, providing the perfect setting for both cosy indoor seating and delightful al fresco dining, all enriched by refreshing forest aromas. If you feel your Diwali is incomplete without a craft cocktail or a single malt whiskey, step into the ‘Raunaq Bar’ and savour a glass while you relax in an armchair near the fireplace with your closed circle taking in the ambience of the festive decor and recounting the year gone by.
DP Recommends Oberoi’s signature spa therapy — ‘The Queen Of Egypy’ which is inspired by Cleopatra’s body cleansing ritual that uses Dead Sea wraps and salts, along with nature’s purest incense and myrrh, to rejuvenate your skin.
