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The 9 Best Hotels in Mumbai
By Chris | January 26 2007
Elite Traveler has chosen a few of the fi nest places to stay in Mumbai
LE SUTRA – THE INDIAN ART HOTEL
Whether you stay for a night, a week, or longer, your time here will be full of learning, discovery and romancing the beauty in Indian art.
Awarded India’s Most Unique Hotel, Le Sutra, as the world’s first Indian art hotel is a journey in time where thousands of years of Indian ethos are narrated through contemporary art. The three levels are symbolic of the Gunas (the attributes in people, nature and things) of Indian philosophy – Tamas, Rajas, Sattva,
As you ascend the Chakra lift the 14 rooms are each based on a ‘Character’ (Ravana, Ashoka, Buddha) or ‘Characteristic’ (Sensuality, Love, Purification) from a theme in Indian culture; every element telling a part of the story.
Home to award-winning restaurants Out of the Blue, Olive Bar & Kitchen and Deliciae, it also has the Gallery Le Sutra for art shows and banquets and the Angdai Day Spa.
Famous former guests have included Baz Lurhmann, Mallika Sarabhai and Anjolie Ela Menon.
ART ROOMS RAVANA, TAMAS FLOOR
Each art room is unique in concept and art form using a mix of specially crafted original frescos, sculptures, inlays and installations. The Ravana room tells the story of history’s master strategist. The headboard is a graphic representation of his fictitious diary, the horns and scepter chair symbolize the notorious king of demons. The door eye installation portrays his ten heads standing for the four Vedas and six Upanishads.
Personalized service is the mantra. Guests enjoy 24 hour room service, buffet breakfast, wireless internet, daily newspapers, flowers and music. The package includes a one hour deep tissue massage at the Spa, an in room special bath experience, airport pick up and drop, room check in and check out service, personalized stationary, welcome drink and memorabilia from the hotel upon check out.
- Square footage: 250
- Nightly rate: Experience Package $285
Ranjan Gupta, Head Operations
+91 22 2649 2995/7
14 Union Park, Khar (W), Mumbai – 400 052
TAJ MAHAL PALACE AND TOWERS
Built in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace is an iconic landmark almost as famous as its namesake.
The great and the good – from royalty and presidents to authors and artists – have been entertained beneath these vaulted alabaster ceilings and graceful archways for more than a century. The establishment brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine architectural styles, combining European grace with Indian elegance. The décor is just as luxurious with sumptuous hand-woven silk carpets, crystal chandeliers, and a dramatic cantilever stairway. With panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, the award-winning hotel offers 46 generously appointed suites as well as the luxurious Taj Mahal Palace and Tower Rooms, each adorned with original paintings and period furniture to transport guests into a world of regal luxury and grandeur.
TOP SUITE TATA SUITE
Why we love it: Housed on the 6th floor of the Palace Wing, the Tata Suite is a gloriously adorned set of 15 rooms offering the ultimate in imperial opulence. The interior décor is spectacular, and specially commissioned from one of Malaysia’s leading designers. The dome of the grand living room is embellished with intricate gold stencil artwork while the room itself is replete with elegant inlaid tables, silver-framed mirrors, sparkling royal chandeliers and intricate marquetry. Each room is decorated with furniture, paintings and artifacts from the hotel’s own extensive collection, and a butler is on hand to ensure that every need is met. A truly unforgettable experience, the Tata Suite encapsulates a slice of history, legend and romance.
- Square footage: 5,000
- Nightly rate: Price on request
Nitesh Gandhi, Hotel Manager
+91 22 6632 6011
nitesh.gandhi@oberoihotels.com
Sir Dorab Tata Rd, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021
THE OBEROI
Situated in the heart of Mumbai’s shopping and business district, the Oberoi combines the finest contemporary and cutting-edge accommodation and service with the timeless traditions of the subcontinent.
Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the 287 guestrooms and 73 suites are luxurious havens of contemporary elegance and have played host to heads of state and other dignitaries. The luxury hotel is also a perfect business destination; The Jaipur Suite and The Udaipur Suite are ideal for intimate meetings and conferences, while a 24-hour Business Center is available for guests. Recreational facilities include an outdoor heated swimming pool, a fitness center and a full service Oberoi Spa. The Spa and the Fitness Center are open 24 hours.
TOP SUITE THE KOHINOOR PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Why we love it: Named after the largest Indian diamond in the world, The Kohinoor Presidential Suite offers contemporary elegance and spaciousness, complemented by expansive views of the ocean. Located on the 21st floor of the hotel, the suite comprises a living room with a fully equipped workspace and dining area, a master bedroom with a luxurious en suite bathroom, and an interconnected guest bedroom, along with a butler pantry and powder room. Graced with a grand piano, the suite showcases specially commissioned oil paintings and lithographs from the personal collection of the Chairman of The Oberoi Group, Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi. A connecting room serves as a security room where personnel can monitor various pre-installed hotel security cameras.
- Square footage: 2,050
- Nightly rate: $6,600
Nitesh Gandhi, Hotel Manager
+91 22 6632 6011
nitesh.gandhi@oberoihotels.com
Sir Dorab Tata Rd, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021
FOUR SEASONS MUMBAI
Situated in the up and coming Worli district of the city, Four Seasons Mumbai brings to the Indian subcontinent the renowned standards and service of this exclusive hotel group.
Boasting 202 extra-large guest rooms and suites, there are no more than eight rooms to a floor. Inspired dining, a destination spa and health club, an outdoor pool and a full-service business center add to the hotel’s prestige. The interiors feature a mix of mahogany and maple, rich fabrics and wool carpets. The Four Seasons’ central location allows guests to take advantage of privately guided tours of the sights and sounds of the bustling metropolis.
TOP SUITE PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Why we love it: From its location on the 32nd floor, the Presidential Suite offers panoramic vistas of the Arabian Sea and Mumbai’s skyline, with the greenery of Mahalaxmi Racecourse in the foreground. Contemporary in style, the interiors exude elegance and warmth, with a spacious living area furnished with decadent furniture and equipped with a state-of the- art home entertainment system. An elegant mahogany dining table for eight is serviced by an adjacent kitchen. Off the living area, a fully furnished private study caters for the practicalities of business, while the master bedroom and marble bathroom adds a touch of opulence. A guest powder room is located off the living area.
- Square footage: 3,336
- Nightly rate: Price on request
Andrew Harrison, General Manager
+91 22 2481 8000
Andrew.Harrison@fourseasons.com
114, Dr E Moses Marg, Worli, Mumbai 400 018
GRAND HYATT MUMBAI
Located in South Mumbai, The Grand Hyatt contains everything you could possibly want and more – all under one roof.
The hotel includes 547 luxurious guest rooms and suites, plus 147 serviced apartments. The executive floors offer exclusive privileges and amenities to guests, such as the city’s most sophisticated conference and meeting facilities. In addition, there are four innovative specialty restaurants, a fitness center, spa and beauty salon and a multi-level shopping plaza that houses a range of local and international brands.
TOP SUITE PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Why we love it: Sycamore wood paneling and beautiful garden views complement this sumptuous suite, fully furnished with a balcony, luxurious bedroom and separate living area. The suite comes complete with modern amenities such as a work desk with complimentary highspeedinternet access, and a marble bath with jetted spa tub plus a shower and steam room. Enjoy exclusive extras including a personal butler and technology concierge, wine and chocolate upon arrival, a private bar, limousine airport transfers and access to the private Grand Club lounge with full amenities.
- Square footage: 1,786
- Nightly rate: Price on request
David Mansfield
+91 22 6676 1234
Off Western Express Highway, Santacruz (East) Mumbai 400 055
INTERCONTINENTAL MARINE DRIVE
Located in the heart of the financial district of Mumbai, the InterContinental Marine Drive sets high standards of personalized service for business and leisure travellers.
With sweeping views of the Arabian Sea the hotel houses 58 Club Rooms and Suites, all fully equipped with the latest technology. A complimentary massage upon arrival aims to make business a pleasure, as well as 24-hour meeting rooms available for conducting those all-important conferences across different time zones. The InterContinental also houses Onyx, a customized banquet hall which can cater for 150 guests. The perfect venue for conferences, events and private gatherings.
TOP SUITE PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Why we love it: Situated on the top floor of the hotel, the Presidential Suite comprises two guest rooms, a lounge, a private pantry, a dining area for eight and two bathrooms covering an area of 1,711 square feet. This premium suite offers sprawling seafront views of the Arabian Sea and Queen’s Necklace. The delightful interior décor is matched by a state-of-the-art home entertainment system and a spacious, fully equipped work area. A personal butler is at your service 24/7, and guests enjoy exclusive Club Lounge services in addition to complimentary arrival and departure drop to the airport.
- Square footage: 1,711
- Nightly rate: Price on request
Romil Ratra
+91 22 3987 9999
135 Marine Drive, Mumbai 400 020
THE LEELA MUMBAI
Set among 11 acres of lush, landscaped gardens and cascading waterfalls The Leela Mumbai is an oasis of calm and tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
The hotel offers all the facilities the discerning Elite Traveler would expect from a five-star luxury hotel, complete with a touch of the true essence of India. The Leela is conveniently situated next to North Mumbai’s commercial center, and is only a stone’s throw from rail arrivals and departures at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and domestic airports.
TOP SUITE THE MAHARAJA SUITE
Why we love it: Located on the 8th floor, this magnificent suite is an ideal blend of traditional and modern styling. Antique Indian artifacts, paintings, mother of pearl inlaid teak wood cabinets and rich silk fabrics add elements of sophistication to the décor, while two luxuriously appointed bedrooms and a bathroom with a Jacuzzi and rain shower add a touch of opulence. The dining room is furnished with exquisite Rosenthal crockery, and a 24-hour personalized butler is on hand to meet your every need.
- Square footage: 1,722
- Nightly rate: $3,000
Biswajit Chakraborty, General Manager
+91 22 6691 1234
Sahar, Andheri East, Mumbai 400 059
HYATT REGENCY MUMBAI
Located adjacent to Mumbai’s international airport and minutes from the domestic terminal, the Hyatt Regency is the city’s premier gateway hotel and the perfect choice for business and leisure travellers.
Complementing the sophisticated ambience, the hotel offers technological facilities superior to other hotels in the area, as well as personalized and efficient service, and an authentic dining experience.
TOP SUITE PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Why we love it: With stylish interiors complemented by chic furnishings, this well-appointed suite is the perfect place to lay your weary head. The large living room with an attached dining section is ideal for a corporate or family gathering. Complete with a state-of-the-art Jacuzzi, a luxury massage chair and personal bar, the suite offers guests the chance to rest and rejuvenate after a hectic day in the city.
- Square footage: 2,206
- Nightly rate: $1,676
Aseem Kapoor
+91 22 6696 1234
Sahar Airport Road, Andheri (East), Mumbai 400 099
COCO SHAMBHALA
The exclusive destination Coco Shambhala in Goa, India offers the sophisticated international traveler a chance to experience tropical living at its very best with a stay in one of the greatest examples of tropical villa design in the world.
Every aspect of each villa, both interior and exterior, has been carefully designed to enhance well-being and relaxation through the creation of the ultimate, indulgent barefoot retreat. Proprietor Giles Knapton and General Manager Lindsay D’Souza ensure that guests are contacted shortly after booking a stay to discuss their individual preferences and to provide guests with a personal contact who is available at any time, day or night, both prior to their arrival and throughout the duration of their stay. The level of service and attention to detail is exemplary as Coco Shambhala seeks not only to meet expectations—but to exceed them. Both Giles and Lindsay regard every person who travels to Coco Shambhala as a valued guest in their beautiful home—someone who is welcomed and appreciated at every moment of their stay. A stay at Coco Shambhala leaves every guest with a wealth of memories, experiences and friendships that ensure a return journey, in the very near future, to one of the most exotic, serene places in the world.
TOP SUITE VILLA ASHVINI
Suite style: Open-plan living spaces take advantage of the cool sea breeze to provide cross-ventilation and capture the magic of the tropics. The most seductive rooms have no doors or windows—these sumptuously furnished indoor/outdoor spaces allow guests to interact with the environment. Extraordinary jungle-style gardens enhance the ambiance.
Key selling points: Rates include return airport transfers and a complimentary car and driver for the duration of your stay, giving you the freedom to explore Goa. Coco Shambhala provides daily maid service and light laundry. The phone’s pre-programmed numbers allow you to contact the team with ease. Other amenities include a jet pool, sky satellite TV and DVD player in each bedroom, iPod docking stations, a shared swimming pool and exquisite service from the entire staff.
Number of villas in hotel: Four
SPA SERVICES
For an added touch of luxury, guests can spoil themselves with deluxe treatments from Coco Shambhala’s on-site therapist Josef, who uses a gorgeous, secluded, private area of the garden to allow for restoration between mind, body and nature. Josef offers a range of naturopathic treatments, a consultation for tailored detoxification or a rejuvenation package. Guests can also opt for in-room massages.
TOP DINING
Coco Shambala’s extremely talented chef, Rushad, is on hand to discuss dietary requirements, and will meet with guests every morning to talk about their preferences for the day. Breakfast is included, and lunches and snacks are available from the kitchen until 5:30pm. The cuisine places an emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients, with meals served to you in the comfort of your own villa. Each meal excites the senses through Rushad’s blend of technique, flavor and unique gastronomic flair. Evening service, including the chef’s very special “in-villa” barbecue experience, is available by appointment.
- Square footage: 2,368
- Nightly rate: $700, with a three-night minimum
- Weekly rate: $4,000
- Number of rooms in suite: Five, including two bedrooms
- Number of entrances to suite: One
- Number of baths: Two
Giles Knapton, Proprietor
+91 937 226 7182
Coco Beach, Nerul, Bardez, Goa
