Location Hampi, Karnataka

With regal, tiered rooflines and sprawling stone-paved boulevards, this palatial retreat near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi’s 14th-century temple ruins features arched corridors, lush gardens and long reflecting pools filled with lily pads. The ornate lobby, with a tiled black-and-white floor, hosts lamplit performances of traditional music and courtly dances in the evenings.

Spacious guest rooms provide separate living areas, plush window-side seating, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, arched windows and private balconies overlooking the gardens and Karnataka’s boulder-studded landscape. Above wooden poster beds, red velvet canopies drape across the ceilings and pleated red curtains frame large windows. Carved wooden beams accent the ceilings, built-in wall niches spotlight large vases, and wall sconces add coziness. En suite bathrooms offer glass-enclosed showers, water-jet tubs, double sinks and luxury bath products.

Served at tables overlooking the infinity pool or indoors beneath ornate archways, dinner features fragrant soups, curries, lentils and spiced rice; breakfast includes freshly made dosas and house-baked breads. The infinity pool is modeled after the aqueduct-fed tanks of Hindu temples. Relax with a traditional massage at the Ayurvedic spa or stroll the lantern-lit garden paths.

Locally sourced stone was used in the property’s construction. Rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling and in-room water filtration reduce reliance on plastic bottles, while bath products are chemical-free.