Often during big festive seasons, one falls into the trap of procrastination and delays planning a decent getaway. While Diwali always presents the opportunity to take a break from the usual celebrations at home, one often years for a homely comfort away from home. With the festive long weekend falling between November 6 and 8 this year, a short holiday can be built around a heritage town, a lake, a plantation or the desert, all with a view to the comfort of a luxurious room. For travellers making plans at the last minute, these five destinations offer a selection of luxury properties, with published rates for the festive period.
Khajuraho is an appropriate choice for a holiday combining architecture, history and wildlife. The town is known for its medieval temples, while Panna National Park offers an opportunity to explore the region's wildlife. The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace provides a base for both. Commissioned as a fort in the late 17th century by Bundela king Raja Hindupat Singh, the property was subsequently converted into a palace by Maharaja Chhatrasal. Set across 76 acres against the Maniyagarh Hills, it has 65 rooms and suites, including garden rooms and accommodation in the historic palace wing. Maanya, one of its three dining venues, serves royal-inspired tasting menus. Guests can also plan visits to Khajuraho's temples and safaris in Panna National Park.
Where to stay: The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace.
Price: From Rs 82,000 per night for a Premier Room with private garden. Taxes and fees extra.
For a Diwali break centred on Kerala's backwaters, Kumarakom offers access to Lake Vembanad and its surrounding village landscape. Coconut Lagoon, a CGH Earth property, is reached by a 10-minute boat ride from the Kavanattinkara boat landing. The resort has three accommodation categories: Heritage Bungalow, Heritage Mansion and Lakefront Villa with Private Pool. Its architecture and interiors incorporate old furniture, artefacts and materials sourced from traditional Kerala manors. The property also has an Ayurveda centre, a yoga hall, a swimming pool and a butterfly garden. Guests can arrange sunset cruises and private dining by the lake, while the surrounding waters attract a variety of bird species. The resort's published rates include a complimentary one-hour sunset cruise, subject to weather conditions.
Where to stay: Coconut Lagoon, a CGH Earth Experience.
Price: From Rs 26,118 per night for a Heritage Bungalow; Lakefront Villas with private pools start at Rs 47,727. Taxes and fees should be confirmed.
Sawantwadi offers a less conventional luxury holiday, with its palace heritage and traditional arts providing the focus. The Sawantwadi Palace Boutique Art Hotel occupies Taisaheb Wada, the historic wing of the palace that once housed five queens of Sawantwadi. The six-suite property is designed and operated by the erstwhile royal family, Lakham Khem and Shraddha Lakham Sawant Bhonsle. Each suite takes inspiration from an avatar of Lord Vishnu and incorporates Ganjifa artwork, handcrafted furniture and antiques from the family's collection. The hotel also organises Ganjifa art workshops, local village lunches and private picnics in Amboli Ghat. For travellers interested in regional craft and a smaller heritage property, this is a useful alternative to the more familiar palace hotels of Rajasthan.
Where to stay: Sawantwadi Palace Boutique Art Hotel.
Price: From Rs 18,400 per night for the Matsya Suite. Taxes extra.
Jodhpur is usually associated with Mehrangarh Fort, its old city and its historic palaces. A stay at Daspan House offers a different way to experience the city, away from the conventional palace-hotel format. Built in 1921, the property has been restored over two years with the involvement of Rajasthani artisans and now operates as a 24-room heritage hotel. Its interiors bring together contemporary art, traditional craftsmanship and antique elements. The hotel's restaurant and bar, Old Loco, serves classic cocktails and has a wine programme. Guests can also book a Heritage Liqueur Tasting, which explores recipes inspired by the royal distilleries once maintained by princely families in Rajasthan. The property offers a more intimate base for exploring Jodhpur's architectural and cultural heritage.
Where to stay: Daspan House.
Price: From Rs 36,900 for a two-night stay in a Heritage Superior King Room. The Heritage Suite starts at Rs 44,500 for two nights. Confirm applicable taxes and inclusions.
For a Diwali holiday in the Thar Desert, Michelin Guide SUJÁN The Serai is set on a private 100-acre estate approximately 45 minutes from Jaisalmer. Opened in 2009 by Jaisal and Anjali Singh, the camp has 21 canvas suites inspired by the caravan camps that once occupied Rajasthan's desert routes. The accommodation uses locally sourced golden sandstone and draws on Rajputana architectural influences. Dining can be arranged in the organic garden, beneath the Dining Tent or in private courtyards. Experiences outside the camp include guided camel safaris and private desert sundowners. The property also has the SUJÁN Spa, which offers massages, reflexology and treatments drawing on Ayurvedic principles. It is an option for travellers who want their luxury holiday to revolve around the desert rather than a city itinerary.
Where to stay: SUJÁN The Serai.
Price: From Rs 98,000 per night for a Luxury Tent. Luxury Tented Suites start at Rs 1,44,000 per night. Breakfast is included; taxes and fees extra.