10 Chic Hotels Below RM350 That Will Make You See India In A New Light
Whether you're into 130-year-old refurbished mansions or thatched igloos shaded by coconut palms, there's a perfect place to suit the alternative traveller in you.
Published for AIR ASIA, 21 Mar 2016, 11:34 AM
There's so much to discover on the hip side of India, but the question is: where should you explore first?
Do you see yourself spending the afternoon in one of New Delhi's kitschy book cafes, accompanied by a steaming cup of chai latte?
Still can't decide? Use these gorgeous (yet affordable!) places to stay at to decide which parts you'll be travelling to:
Note: Rates below are based on currency conversions done in March 2016, and may fluctuate with time.
Nothing says vacation like a playful thatched igloo, tucked away from view in a soothing sand garden. Every room comes complete with intricate Rajasthani artworks on the wall and incense-burners for a spot of aromatherapy. Start your day with their organic breakfast, served right on your doorstep.
Location: Ashwem Beach, Mandrem, Pernem, North Goa
Rates: From INR4,000 (approximately RM245)
Note: The resort is open only from October to May, and closes during the monsoon season.
An old world tranquillity permeates through the grounds of Hotel Diggi Palace, serving as an elegant refuge from the ever-hectic Jaipur. The owners, who live on the hotel grounds, are always on-hand to meet guests' every need. Every inch of the surreal-looking hotel looks straight out of an arthouse film set, which may be one of the reasons it plays host to the world-renowned Jaipure Literature Festival every January.
Location: Diggi House, Shivaji Marg, C-Scheme, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Rates: From INR5,000 (approximately RM308)
3. Amarya Villa
The ultra-hip décor of this cosy place is the work of the French owners and their eclectic taste. Vibrant colours and kitschy furniture are accented with traditional Indian motifs, making it a picture-perfect holiday setting. Its location in New Delhi's central neighbourhood of Safdarjung Enclave makes it a convenient choice for any city explorer.
Location: A-2/20, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi
Rates: From INR5,350 (approximately RM330)
This eco-friendly resort is naturally cool and ventilated, with a majority of its roof construction made from coconut trees and variations of bamboo. The hot water is solar-heated and the restaurant's menu rotates daily according to availability of locally-sourced ingredients.
Location: Cherai Beach, 1078 Convent Beach Road, Cherai, Kochi, Kerala
Rates: From INR4,000 (approximately RM243)
5. Jivana
These white-washed little cottages lie under the shade of lush greenery, including tropical palms and fruit trees. Walk up the winding path of the garden up to the iconic dome-shaped Temple House, and take in the breathtaking views of the Goan countryside. Stay in for a spot of yoga, or get out and explore some of the best beaches in Goa.
Location: Dandoswada, Mandrem, Pernem, Goa
Rates: From GBP 49 (approximately RM288)
This 130-year-old Franco-Tamil mansion beautifully highlights its rich heritage with a minimalistic approach in its cosy rooms. When staying in Anantha, take advantage of the short 10-minute walk to the popular Promenade Beach and don't forget to sample the surrounding restaurants' unique take on Indian-French fusion cuisine.
Location: 96 Rue Perumal Koil, Pondicherry
Rates: From INR 4,891 (approximately RM301)
7. Shanti Home
Located a convenient 13-km drive away from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Shanti Home's tastefully-decorated rooms are complemented with on-site Ayurvedic massage services and free Wi-Fi. Getting around is easy with a metro station just 300m away. If you're staying in, give their cooking class on Indian curries and kebabs a try.
Location: A-1, 300 Janakpuri, New Delhi
Rates: From INR5,500 (approximately RM337)
Located on the much quieter eastern side of Goa, this rustic, family-run homestay is best for reconnecting with nature. The pace of life here is slow and steady, perfect for an afternoon of fishing, birdwatching, or napping on the hammocks. If it's a taste of adventure you crave for, give kayaking a try.
Location: Olaulim, Goa
Rates: From INR4,500 (approximately RM273)
This electic 4-room guesthouse offers a spectacular view of the Arabian Sea, especially from its rooftop terrace. After enjoying the vegetarian breakfast served on your doorstep, while the day away by unwinding at the nearby Kerala backwaters.
Location: Temple Road West, Varkala, Kerala
Rates: From INR5,378 (approximately RM326)
Bikanervala started out as a traditional sweets and snacks maker, and this modern boutique hotel stays through to its colourful heritage by decking the whole place in candy-like colours, from the striped corridors to the red-tiled bathrooms. Sample the popular candies for yourself at the sweets store on the lobby level.
Location: 6-3-190/2, Road No.1, Banjara Hills, Opposite Taj Banjara,Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
Rates: From INR4,600 (approximately RM278)
Figured out where you'll be heading to? Complete your trip with cheap flights to India!
Book from 21st to 27th March 2016 to get fares from as low as RM159! Travel period: 22nd March to 24th November 2016. Click here to start planning your trip.