In April, I had the privilege of travelling to India for the first time, a journey that was as rich in culture as it was in unforgettable experiences.
We began in New Delhi, staying at the legendary Imperial Hotel - one of India’s oldest and most storied properties, known for hosting dignitaries and world leaders. One memorable moment was enjoying breakfast at the marble table once used by Mahatma Gandhi, an experience steeped in quiet historical significance.
Delhi introduced us to India’s layered heritage, from the restored grandeur of Humayun’s Tomb - a precursor to the Taj Mahal, to a visit to a Sikh Gurdwara, where we experienced the remarkable generosity of the daily community kitchens and a deeply inclusive spirit that welcomed all faiths.
From there, we travelled to Udaipur, the city of lakes. Staying at the Taj Lake Palace, we enjoyed a breathtaking rooftop dinner overlooking Lake Pichola, with views of the Oberoi Udaivilas and The Leela Palace. A peaceful early morning boat ride offered a different perspective, watching fruit bats overhead as the city slowly stirred awake.
Our next stop was the vibrant city of Jaipur, where we visited the famed City Palace and stayed at the regal Taj Rambagh Palace. A hands-on block printing workshop gave us insight into India’s rich textile traditions, and a visit to an elephant sanctuary added a meaningful conservation element to the journey. One of the most memorable evenings was a private dinner at the City Palace - still home to the Jaipur royal family, where we wore traditional sarees and enjoyed a celebration of local music, dance, and cuisine.
Seeking calm after the city’s energy, we journeyed to Amanbagh in Ajabgarh, a sanctuary of stillness surrounded by nature. With yoga at sunrise, a heartfelt visit to a nearby village led by a member of the Aman team, and quiet time by the pool, our brief stay here left a lasting impression. It’s a place I hope to return to.
Next, we headed to Ranthambore National Park, a destination I had been especially excited about. We were fortunate to spot four tigers during our time on safari, an extraordinary stroke of luck in a place where sightings aren’t guaranteed. We stayed at Sujan Sher Bagh, a luxurious camp with a strong conservation ethos, and also visited the stunning Aman-i-Khas and Oberoi Vanyavilas properties nearby.
Our final stop was Agra, where we stayed at The Oberoi Amarvilas, the only hotel with direct views of the Taj Mahal. A 5am start gave us a peaceful, crowd-free visit to this architectural wonder, an awe-inspiring way to end the trip.
India surpassed every expectation. The warmth of the people, the richness of its traditions, and the thoughtfulness of the experiences arranged made this journey truly unforgettable.
