Amarvilas

It's one of the most talked-about hotels in the world and your experience visiting the Taj Mahal and Agra will be enhanced by a thoroughly worthwhile splurge at this extraordinary property. The lobby, bar, and lounge all offer the same surreal views of the Taj, but even those public spaces that don't offer a monument view are lovely, with large reflecting pools, colonnaded courts, terraced lawns, and pillowed pavilions. By day some of the exteriors look a little bland and in need of the detailing featured in the interior, but at night it's a pure Arabian Nights fantasy, when burning braziers provide a wonderful contrast to the fountains and trickling streams. The rooms are compact but extremely luxurious, showcasing the best-quality Indian craftsmanship available but with every modern amenity. The only significant choice you need make is whether or not to pay extra for a balcony (recommended!). While the hotel scores high points for its understated opulence, it's the silky smooth service that accompanies your encounter with the Taj that really makes a difference; be sure to make use of the courtesy golf cart rides to just within striking distance of the monument's East Gate.

Room with a View -- It's been enjoyed by a global who's who: from Salman Rushdie to William Dalrymple, Will Smith to Meg Ryan, not to mention a host of world leaders but no matter what anyone tells you, there's little to beat the satisfaction of enjoying all-day views of the Taj from your bedroom at the Amarvilas hotel -- just 600m (1,968 ft.) away. Every room has a beautiful view. You can literally sip a cappuccino in your king-size bed at dawn, watching the subtle color variations the monument undergoes as the sun rises; or you can order a cocktail on your private balcony at sunset, admiring the ethereal marble silhouette as staff light the burners that line the hotel's grand stepped terraces leading down to the central pool. The in-house spa also has views of the Taj -- lying there, gazing at the dreamlike monument, you might just have to ask the masseuse to pinch you.

Facilities:
2 restaurants; lounge; bar; airport transfer (Rs 1,268); cultural performances (Oct-Mar); doctor-on-call; drop-off at Taj; fitness center; Internet (Rs 220/hr., Rs 881/day); outdoor heated pool; room service; Banyan Tree spa

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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