Christmas is a holiday best spent with loved ones. And after the quaint Christmas celebrations from last year, a family getaway is probably the best thing to do this year. Rounding up destinations in India that join in the merriment of Christmas, here are some of the most luxurious hotels, for a last-minute getaway with your family.
Goa
The most popular holiday destination in India, Goa is also the ideal destination to ring in Christmas festivities. The entire state echoes of Christmas, with stars, trees and Santa figures decorated all around town. From midnight church vigils to Christmas fiestas, fairs and buffets, Goa is the ultimate destination to experience the best of Christmas in India.
Maravilha a Boutique Stay
Photo Courtesy: Maravilha
Traditional from the inside out, this beautiful boutique hotel was restored from a 200-year-old old heritage home belonging to Mr Francisco Xavier Saldanha. The baroque meets contemporary design runs throughout the hotel with elegant rooms furnished in colour coordinated themes, with a direct view of the garden or swimming pool from your own private balcony. Foodies will be able to enjoy authentic local cuisine in addition to North Indian, South Indian, Continental and Turkish delicacies, with specially curated menus, grills by the pool and more.
Far from the noisy streets of Calangute, this much-loved property by Postcard Hotels is a modernist colonial hideout. The Postcard Velha, a luxurious private estate sits tucked amid the sprawling two-acre Champakali estate, combining the best of nature and luxury. The bungalow’s six sun-kissed suites come with private balconies that are spaciously separated from one another, promising utmost privacy to all guests. Tours of Old Goa, adventure waters sports and cycle rides through town are some of the best ways to experience this quaint but fascinating town.
While most believe that Goa is the go-to spot for a memorable Christmas, there’s nothing like celebrating the holiday cheer on the backwaters of Kerala. The entire state comes together celebrating the joyful season with absolute enthusiasm handing out gifts and fruitcakes, joining in midnight carol singing, not to forget their deliciously grand feasts laid out for one and all.
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Photo Courtesy: Kumarakom Lake Resort
A luxury retreat nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Lake Resort is a flawless blend of the charm and aristocratic heritage of Kerala. Exuding this charm, the hotel’s lavishly appointed villas are built in resemblance to the 16th-century traditional homesteads of Kerala, fitted with modern but chic amenities and a pristine view of the backwaters. Authentic Ayurveda treatments and packages are specially organised by expert therapists at the hotel to help guests relax and unwind.
Surrounded by 26-acres of natural beauty, Taj Bekal Resort is a lavishly designed 5-star property in the small town of Bekal, Kasargod district. The hotel is painted in a mellow cream-and-brown theme with luxurious rooms and villa accommodations that are inspired by the Ketuvallam houseboats. While the rooms come with their own private terraces or balconies, the villas have their own private courtyards, with fountains, swings and hammocks, overlooking the Arabian Sea. A host of activities including trips to the Bekal Fort, Kettuvallam Cruise, dinners by the sea and bird-watching trips will keep guests occupied and entertained.
Pondicherry is popular for its awe-inspiring French architecture and culture that attracts tourists from all over the world. During the festive season of Christmas, this beautiful town is a sight to behold. Transforming into a mesmerising attraction, the city is lit up with colossal Christmas trees, bright lantern displays and lights decked throughout the city.
Palais De Mahe
Photo Courtesy: CGH Earth
If we were to visually describe the beauty of Puducherry, this would be it. Located in the French Quarter of Puducherry, Palais De Mahe is an adorable representation of colonial French architecture, designed in resemblance to a classic French mansion with traditional archways and colonnades, painted in vibrant hues of yellow. The ancient architectural style is balanced with a few contemporary elements, with a spectacular courtyard pool and library. The hotel also has a cosy Ayurvedic spa with a wide menu of herbal massages, therapies and packages that can be customised on request.
While Shimla is not exactly a Christmas destination, it is quite popular during the holidays, for those looking to enjoy a beautiful white Christmas. The snow-laden pine trees decorated with string lights make for some beautiful natural Christmas trees. The whole town joins in the merriment with carols and Christmas dinners.
Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Tavleen, Chail
Photo Courtesy: ITC Hotels
Hills, forests and dreamy landscapes, WelcomHotel Tavleen Chail has it all. Perched high up on a secluded hillside, Tavleen Chail is where one can take in the best of Shimla’s surroundings. The hotel spread over 6.5 acres of woody landscapes, is divided into an elegant set of rooms and cottages resplendent with old-world, contemporary décor. Regardless of the room you pick, each is fitted with its own private balcony serving the most breathtaking view of Shimla. For the adventure lovers, the hotel organises exciting activities like paragliding, off-roading, and snow driving, headed by expert supervision of course.
One of the finest looking hotels in Shimla, Oberoi Cecil is a super exclusive five-star hotel that is perched 1,700 ft. above sea level. While the outside of the hotel has a clean look, the interiors are especially elegant, with a colonial theme taking over. The rooms exude a warm ambience with classic décor, carpeted wooden floors, glowing fireplaces, and cavalry and flag designs paying homage to the city’s military history.
