India, a land of rich history, diverse cultures, and vibrant landscapes, also boasts a flourishing hospitality industry. Travelers seeking luxurious accommodations and grand experiences often wonder which hotel reigns supreme in terms of size and grandeur.
To answer this intriguing question, we embark on a journey to explore the contenders for the title of India’s biggest hotel.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Determining the ‘biggest’ hotel in India depends on how you define ‘biggest.’
Here, we’ll explore various contenders based on different criteria like number of rooms, total area, and architectural scale. Buckle up as we delve deeper into the fascinating world of India’s most impressive hotels!
This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of defining ‘biggest’ in the context of hotels, followed by an in-depth analysis of leading contenders across various categories. We’ll explore their unique features, amenities, and historical significance, providing you with a well-rounded understanding of India’s most remarkable hospitality giants.
Defining ‘Biggest’ in the Hotel Arena
Number of Rooms
When it comes to defining the “biggest” hotels in India, the number of rooms is certainly one of the key factors. The largest hotels in the country boast room counts in the thousands – with the absolute giants having over 1,000 rooms.
To put that into perspective, that’s more rooms than many small towns have total housing units! Some examples of mega hotels by room count include the Trident Bandra Kurla in Mumbai with 667 rooms, the Leela Palace Bangalore with 357 rooms, and the awe-inspiring Grand Hyatt Mumbai with a whopping 547 rooms.
Total Area
In addition to sheer room volume, total square footage is another important metric of hotel size. Sprawling mega hotels in India occupy millions of square feet of real estate.
The Venetian Macao in Macau, for example, has a floor area covering a mind-bending 10.5 million square feet – making it one of the largest hotels in the world by total area.
The Westin Gurgaon Hotel boasts over 1.5 million square feet of space. Even more moderately sized hotels like The Park Chennai still take up several hundred thousand square feet of space.
Architectural Scale
Beyond just the number metrics, the biggest Indian hotels distinguish themselves through jaw-dropping architectural scale and design. Iconic hotels like the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai exemplify this with their majestic, sprawling facades and soaring towers.
The distinctive sail-shaped towers of the JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar integrate massive scale with modern aesthetics. Many of the largest hotels employ renowned architecture firms to create one-of-a-kind superstructures housing their thousands of rooms and amenities.
The sheer size and architectural presence of hotels like the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai makes them urban landmarks. Of course, the interior design and amenities of these massive hotels must match their bold exteriors.
Contenders by Room Count: Quantity Reigns Supreme
Aurika, Mumbai Skycity
Towering over Mumbai, the newly opened Aurika Mumbai Skycity holds the title for having the most hotel rooms in India at a whopping 669 keys. This towering giant offers unparalleled views of the Arabian Sea and Mumbai cityscape.
Guests can choose from a range of room types, including suites and service apartments, all furnished with modern amenities. Facilities include multiple dining outlets, event spaces, a spa, fitness center, and an infinity pool on its top floor. Without a doubt, Aurika sets a new standard for large-scale luxury lodging in India.
The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake
With 600 exceptionally appointed rooms and suites, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake ranks among the top contenders for largest hotels in India by room count. Nestled alongside the serene Powai Lake, this contemporary hotel offers a peaceful ambiance just minutes from the energy of Mumbai.
Guests can take advantage of the Westin’s signature Heavenly Beds, relax in the sprawling outdoor pool, dine at one of the hotel’s excellent restaurants, or utilize the 24-hour Westin Workout fitness studio.
With abundant event space and comprehensive business services, The Westin caters brilliantly to both leisure and corporate travelers.
Grand Hyatt Mumbai
As a flagship property of the Hyatt luxury brand, the Grand Hyatt Mumbai is a foremost choice among India’s largest hotels with 547 well-appointed guest rooms. The contemporary high-rise structure is strategically located near major business hubs and attractions in Mumbai’s Santacruz neighborhood.
Signature amenities include the resort-style outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness studio, and decadent spa treatments. The Grand Club Lounge provides exclusive services and stunning city views from the upper floors.
With versatile event venues, sophisticated dining and impeccable service, the Grand Hyatt Mumbai delivers unmatched luxury on a grand scale.
Spacious Sprawls: Contenders by Total Area
ITC Grand Chola Hotel, Chennai
The ITC Grand Chola in Chennai is an architectural marvel spanning over 1.6 million square feet. With 600 keys, it is the largest hotel in India in terms of total area.
The palatial property features 4 presidential suites, 178 luxury rooms, and 448 executive club rooms along with 12 specialty restaurants, an expansive spa, and one of the largest convention centers in South Asia.
The opulent interiors draw inspiration from the Chola dynasty with intricately carved pillars, frescoed domes, and Dravidian-style architecture. Guests can marvel at the regal ambiance while enjoying world-class amenities and impeccable service.
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Spread over 26 acres, the magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is one of the world’s largest private residences.
Built between 1928 to 1943, the sandstone edifice features a blend of eastern and western architectural styles. A section of the palace is managed by Taj Hotels and offers 64 lavish art deco rooms and suites fit for royalty.
The palace grounds house an indoor swimming pool, spa, tennis courts, lush gardens, and a museum displaying the automobiles and memorabilia of the Jodhpur royal family. Guests can soak in the old-world charm while relishing authentic Rajasthani and international cuisine.
Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Spread across 50 acres, the Oberoi Udaivilas is located on the banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. It is considered one of the largest luxury heritage hotels in India. The majestic white structure features sweeping arches, domes, fountains, and courtyard gardens inspired by the palaces of Rajasthan.
It offers 87 lavish rooms embellished with hand-painted frescoes, intricate mirror work, and decorated artefacts. Guests can enjoy rejuvenating spa therapies, yoga sessions, cooking classes, and cultural performances along with views of the tranquil lake from their private terraces.
The hotel’s world-class amenities, intricate craftsmanship, and royal hospitality offer an unparalleled regal experience.
Grandiose Grandeur: Contenders by Architectural Scale
Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad
Built in the late 19th century, the Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad is a stunning example of Indo-European architecture. Spanning 32 acres, this opulent palace features 60 lavishly decorated rooms and 22 halls, making it one of the largest palaces in India.
The palace’s vast central staircase, made of the finest Italian marble, is just one of the many breathtaking features within the premises. The palace’s Jade Room draws inspiration from Chinese themes, while the dining hall is lined with massive Belgian mirrors.
The palace cost an estimated 40 lakh rupees to construct in 1897, which translates to 41 crore rupees in today’s economy. Taj Falaknuma Palace continues to mesmerize visitors with its architectural grandeur and rich history.
The Lalit, Mumbai
Spread across 4.5 acres in Mumbai’s bustling suburbs, The Lalit is renowned as one of India’s largest city hotels. Built in 1956, it was originally known as the Centaur Hotel and was rebranded as The Lalit in 2017.
The property encompasses over 470 well-appointed rooms, including several specialty suites like the 3-bedroom Presidential Suite spanning over 6500 sq.ft. The hotel boasts of over 50,000 sq.ft. of banquet space including the massive Centaur Hall, which can accommodate over 2000 guests.
Recreational amenities within the hotel include an outdoor pool, spa, fitness center and several restaurants like the pan-Asian restaurant, Asia Kitchen by Sun Tung Lok. The Lalit stands out for its vast scale and excellent range of amenities, making it a preferred choice for large-scale social events, weddings and corporate functions in Mumbai.
These three opulent palatial hotels truly represent the pinnacle of grandeur in Indian hospitality. Their majestic architecture, decorated interiors and vast expanse enable them to host royalty along with large-scale events with elan. Their magnificence has withstood the test of time to emerge as iconic hospitality landmarks in India.
Beyond Size: Exploring Unique Features and Amenities
Luxury Experiences
India’s largest hotels go beyond impressive size to offer truly luxurious and memorable experiences for guests. From award-winning spas to Michelin-starred restaurants, these hotels provide exclusive amenities not found anywhere else in the country.
The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur, for example, is renowned for its world-class spa tucked away in beautiful Mewari architecture. The spa offers rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments in a tranquil setting with private plunge pools and views of Lake Pichola.
Similarly, ITC Grand Bharat in Gurgaon has India’s longest spa experience spanning over 27,000 square feet and offering over 90 different therapies. When it comes to dining, the iconic Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur serves gourmet fare in locations like the luxurious Rooftop Restaurant with panoramic views of the City Palace and Aravalli hills.
For a truly lavish stay, the Presidential Suites at The Leela Palace New Delhi and Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad allow guests to experience these palatial hotels like royalty. From 24/7 personal butler service to private infinity pools, these expansive suites provide the utmost luxury.
Those looking for unique local experiences can stay in the Houseboat Suites at The Leela Kovalam or the famous floating Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur. With such unparalleled amenities and service, India’s largest hotels offer far more than size and scale – they provide guests with memories to last a lifetime.
Historical Significance
Many of India’s grand hotels are located in properties that are architectural and cultural treasures in their own right. Hotels like the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, Raj Palace in Jaipur, and Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad, are converted royal palaces that allow guests to immerse themselves in India’s rich history.
The Lake Palace Hotel was originally built in 1746 as a royal summer palace and still retains its ornate marble walls, courtyards, fountains and resistance. Staying in one of its grand suites transports guests back in time.
Similarly, the Raj Palace is one of Jaipur’s oldest and most famous heritage hotels located in the historic City Palace complex. Its 18th century astronomical observatory Jantar Mantar and the UNESCO World Heritage site Amer Fort are major attractions.
Falaknuma Palace was built in 1892 as a royal residence and is now a luxury hotel managed by Taj Hotels. With its stately architecture, Louis XVI decor, and a library with over 6,000 books, it provides a true glimpse into Nizam’s glorious past.
Other hotels like the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai and The Oberoi Grand in Kolkata are also located in heritage landmark buildings and have hosted royalty, dignitaries and celebrities over the decades.
Staying in these hotels lets guests discover India’s rich culture while enjoying modern comforts and amenities. As repositories of history, these palatial properties offer a unique lens into India’s regal legacy.
Architectural Marvels
India has no shortage of breathtaking architecture, and many of its largest hotels are architectural masterpieces in their own right. The Rajasthani palaces converted into heritage hotels showcase splendid domes, carved archways, and intricately painted walls that exemplify the region’s grand haveli architecture.
The award-winning ITC Grand Bharat designed by masters like Tarun Tahiliani and Paul Bishop, combines ancient Rajputana and Mughal architecture with modern elements through its temple-inspired spires, step-well style pools, and cantilevered terraces.
Facilities like the 27,000 square feet Kaya Kalp spa with its own elaborate maze garden reflect an amalgamation of India’s wellness wisdom and architectural grandeur.
The dome of The Leela Palace Udaipur is an engineering marvel with a single-piece of stainless steel built without any supporting pillars and contributing to the striking futuristic design. The striking lotus temple like structure of Lemon Tree Amarante Beach Resort in Goa and fish-scale mosaic tile work on The Leela Kovalam’s rooftop infinity pool demonstrate innovative contemporary designs.
The Taj Lake Palace, with its lavish courtyards, pillared terraces, lofty moghul gardens, and Aravali hill backdrop, exemplifies a palace floating on water. With designs that encapsulate both traditional regal splendor and modern luxury, India’s largest hotels are true architectural gems.
Conclusion
Defining the ‘biggest’ hotel in India presents a captivating challenge, as various factors come into play. While Aurika, Mumbai Skycity reigns supreme in terms of room count, ITC Grand Chola Hotel boasts the largest total area.
However, hotels like Umaid Bhawan Palace, with its grandiose architecture and historical significance, leave a lasting impression. Ultimately, the ‘biggest’ hotel is subjective, and this guide has aimed to equip you with the knowledge to evaluate and appreciate these remarkable establishments based on your individual preferences.
So, whether you’re a travel enthusiast seeking luxurious accommodations or simply curious about India’s architectural marvels, this journey through the contenders for the title of ‘biggest’ hotel has hopefully provided valuable insights.
Remember, beyond size, each hotel offers a unique blend of experiences waiting to be discovered!
