From Chennai to Jaipur, 6 Indian hotels that international royalty has stayed at

Have you ever wondered where the royals from across the world live while visiting India? These affluent royal families are raised in palaces and mansions, so it’s no surprise that they opt for equally palatial residences and hotels wherever they travel. With its profound royal history and magnificent architecture, India has plenty to offer; from structures built to impress the wealthiest elites to hotels that were once actual palaces. Indian hospitality has welcomed royalty and dignitaries such as the King of England and the Crown Prince of Dubai.

Scroll below to discover 6 royal and luxurious properties where international royals have stayed while visiting India.

1. Taj Coromandel, Chennai—Queen Elizabeth of England

The longest-reigning monarch of England stayed at the imperial Taj Coromandel in Chennai in October 1997, as India celebrated its 50th Independence Day. She arrived with Prince Philip and her envoy at the majestic estate, where they were given a warm welcome. Spread across four and a half acres of greenery, complete with an atrium garden, the hotel boasts 47 rooms and suites in its Tower and Heritage wings. The interiors and architecture exude regality, a hallmark of the Taj legacy and its rich history.

2. ITC Maurya, New Delhi—King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

The late King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, who reigned from 2005 to 2015, stayed at ITC Maurya in New Delhi during his state visit to India in 2006. The hotel has also hosted King Abdullah II of Jordan, former U.S. President Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. A symbol of luxury, ITC Maurya is located in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. Inspired by the grandeur of the Mauryan dynasty, one of India’s most powerful empires, the hotel offers 437 luxury rooms, including 25 designer suites. Beyond its accommodations, ITC Maurya is renowned for its world-class dining, with restaurants that rival Michelin-star standards.

3. Diphlu River Lodge, Assam - Prince William and Princess Catherine of Wales, England 

On their tour of India in April 2016, Prince William and Princess Catherine stayed at the Diphlu River Lodge, a safari retreat on the edge of Kaziranga National Park. They were welcomed with a traditional folk dance featuring instruments like the gogona, pepa, gamosa, and khol. The lodge features 12 semi-detached cottages inspired by the local architecture of Mishing tribal homes, made of bamboo and wood with thatched roofs. Guests can enjoy open jeep safaris through Kaziranga or opt for a dolphin boat safari in search of the elusive Gangetic dolphin.

4. Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur—Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth of England

Once a neglected palace, today the Rajmahal Palace in Jaipur is one of the city’s most regal stays. Over the years, it has hosted Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and even Jackie Kennedy. Owned by the royal family of Jaipur, the palace is among India’s most opulent retreats. With only thirteen rooms and suites spread across an expansive estate, every corner is designed with elegance and sophistication, offering a once-in-a-lifetime royal experience.

5. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai - Prince William and Princess Catherine of Wales, England

One of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is renowned for its majestic architecture and storied history. During their 2016 visit, the Prince and Princess of Wales stayed at the hotel and paid tribute to the victims of the 2008 terrorist attack, one of the darkest moments in the hotel’s history. Despite the tragedy, the hotel quickly recovered and today stands as a symbol of resilience and valour. With over 120 years of history, it offers 246 rooms and 12 suites, combining timeless grandeur with world-class hospitality.

6. Taj Mansingh Hotel, New Delhi -  Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of UAE

(Also Read: 9 royal residences in the UK where the British monarchs live)

During the G20 Summit in September 2023, Crown Prince Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE stayed at Taj Mansingh in New Delhi. Located in the heart of the city, the hotel offers sweeping views of Lutyens’ Delhi. The property features 213 luxurious accommodations, ranging from grand suites to private residences. Its dining options present a culinary journey across the world, making it a truly global experience wrapped in Indian hospitality.

(Also Read: These 7 palaces-turned-hotels in Rajasthan allow guests to live like royalty)