ITC Mughal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Spread across 35 acres of luscious grounds this 233-room hotel could have wound up being quite a corporate affair. Yet its rather lavish rooms, inspired by Persian and Mughal design influences, ensure that corporate it is not. Canopied ceilings, cushioned day beds on which to recline, and open bathrooms create an air of luxury. Whilst spoiling spa treatments, yoga classes, and a well-equipped gym allow guests to unwind or stay active as much as they choose. As with most ITC properties, the food is superior to the usual fare. Peshawri serves rich North Western cuisine whilst Maikhana laidback lounge snacks and cocktails. Its sprawling gardens are a respite from the hustle and bustle of Agra's town centre, afforded by being 4km away from The Taj Mahal. Yet it's just a short drive. And as you lie by the azure pool, with its decorative pergola, with poolside service courtesy of the Bagh E Bahar Lounge a moment away, why you quite forget you're in the middle of Uttar Pradesh. Remembering why you came here, the Taj is just a fifteen-minute drive away