Over six million people visited the Taj Mahal in 2024, so it’s not surprising that there are hundreds of accommodation options across Agra, ranging from homestays and budget hostels to luxury hotels.

If you’re looking for the best views of the Taj, however, nothing comes close to The Oberoi Amarvilas. Located about 600 metres from the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, this opulent hotel features unadulterated views of the monument from every room, with a large swathe of greenery in between. It’s no wonder it’s the hotel of choice for many celebrities and heads of state, from Tom Cruise and Priyanka Chopra to the British royal family.

The Oberoi’s design pays homage to the city’s rich past as the capital of the Mughal empire, with plenty of Mughal and Moorish influences. The charbagh at the entrance is similar to those found in many Mughal palaces, the quadrilateral layout which is meant to represent the four gardens of Paradise in the Quran.

The buildings are also made from materials mirroring the Taj, namely sandstone and marble, which creates a sense of connection – it feels like you’re a royal guest staying at a palatial estate close to the Taj.

The interiors are equally splendid, with magnificent details everywhere you look. The various embellishments and flourishes inside and out took over 600 artisans eight years to complete. Everything is done with a focus on traditional techniques and craftsmanship, which creates an air of understated luxury rather than one of flamboyance.

We take a gander at the Kohinoor Suite, which, at $14,500 / night, is one of India’s most expensive hotel suites. If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to be royalty, this is it.

At 230 sqm, the massive apartment-esque space features living and dining rooms as well as private balconies where guests can enjoy their meals while soaking in the sights of the Taj. Expect plush sofas, soft carpets, and luxury decor like white marble elephants and golden domed ceilings. Of course, there’s also 24/7 butler service.

In-room amenities may include thoughtful touches – like this white chocolate treat in the shape of the Taj Mahal!

After our tour of the hotel premises, we adjourn to The Bellevue, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant that serves Italian, Pan Asian, and Indian cuisine. True to the design where almost every room or area within the hotel opens up to views of the Taj, the restaurant has large windows that look out to the lawn, which also allows natural sunlight to illuminate the space.

Service is impeccable, as befitting the Oberoi. Our multi-course lunch kicks off with appetisers of Murgh Malai Kebab (boneless tandoori chicken breast marinated with cardamom and cream), Preserved Scallops with laver crisps, swiss chard, and citrus salsa, and a refreshing salad of homegrown mixed greens.

For the mains, I opted for the Jumbo Prawns, served with herb and butter rice, vegetables, and beurre blanc, before finishing off on a strong, sweet note with miniature Indian desserts.

While we weren’t able to stay overnight in the Oberoi, it was still a wonderful experience visiting such a beautiful hotel. For those who have the means to splurge and would like to experience how it’s like living like a maharajah for a night or two, then The Oberoi delivers – in spades.

THE OBEROI AMARVILAS

Taj East Gate Rd, Paktola, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India

Website: www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-agra-amarvilas-resort

PS: My visit to The Oberoi Amarvilas was part of a press trip and the lunch was complimentary. Views here are my own.