India's mountain palace hotels have a distinctly British feel to them as most originate from the time that the British Raj ruled India. They were built and used as cool summer retreats.
Fernhills Palace, Ooty
Fernhills Palace is located on 50 acres of land in the rolling hills of Ooty, in south India's tea growing district. It became the summer palace of the Wadiyar royal family from Mysore after it was acquired from the British. The hotel retains much of its colonial charm, and each room has a delightful open fireplace for guests to warm themselves by a log fire during winter. Visit Their Website
Kasmanda Palace, Mussoorie
The small but elegant Kasmanda Palace hotel is one of the oldest buildings in Mussoorie. Built in 1836 as part of a church complex, it has an interesting history that's seen it used as a sanatorium for the British forces and a school, before being purchased by the Kasmanda Royal Family as their summer retreat. The royal family still owns the hotel. Filled with memorabilia, and with a picturesque elevated location slightly above the town of Mussoorie (at the foothills of the Himalayan ranges), the hotel provides a wonderful glimpse into the bygone era. Visit Their Website
Wildflower Hall, Shimla
Wildflower Hall, now a luxury award winning Oberoi hotel, was once the home of Lord Kitchener during the rule of the British Raj in India. It has an enviable fairytale setting high in the Himalayas, amidst 23 acres of dense pine and cedar woods. The hotel provides a tranquil sanctuary with panoramic views of snow covered peaks. You can do as little or as much as you want there -- relax at the spa, take walks in the wilderness, or enjoy the thrill of adventure activities such as white river rafting.
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