Must-see hotels in The Western Ghats

The cream of Kodai’s hotels is a magnificent five-star colonial-era mansion overlooking the lake. Rooms are spacious with extra-comfy beds and, for some,…

Exquisitely located on a rambling tea estate, Sinna Dorai has just six huge rooms bursting with local early-20th-century history. A cosy library,…

Flower-draped, French-owned La Maison is a beautifully renovated 1890s Scottish bungalow superbly situated on a hilltop surrounded by tea plantations, 5km…

Along with ecofriendly touches (solar power, rainwater harvesting), Jungle Hut has probably the best food in Bokkapuram (if you’re visiting from another…

Arguably Mudumalai's most stylish resort, with accommodation in lovingly built stone cottages, two tree houses and a dorm (minimum four people), all…

This multilevel hillside guesthouse will blow your mind with jaw-dropping views that are far better than those offered by any hotels in Kodaikanal proper…

A classic 1900s British bungalow at the top of town has been transformed into something special. The six handsome, airy rooms sport antique furniture,…

Deep in the valley 22km northeast of Kodaikanal, off the Kodaikanal–Palani Rd, this ecofriendly French-run retreat sprawls across 48 hectares of mountain…

This beautifully positioned farm on Coonoor's southeast edge is sustainably run with solar heating, rainwater harvesting and fresh cheeses from the milk…

A colonial-era priory turned gorgeous heritage hotel, the Taj-group Gateway has homey cream-coloured rooms immersed in greenery, most graced by working…

The Savoy is one of Ooty’s oldest hotels, with parts dating back to 1829. Cottages and swing-chairs are set around a charming lawn and garden. Colonial…

This former brewery and sprawling complex of cottages is dotted with flower gardens. With clean, character-filled and freshly painted rooms, helpful staff…

This 1855 British bungalow has an edge over many of its peers. The cosy cottage features garden-fresh flowers, four-poster beds, working fireplaces and…

A beautiful hill-fringed hideaway, three hours’ drive below Kodaikanal, seven-room Cardamom House overlooks bird-rich Lake Kamarajar (which you can admire…

A wonderful lodge 8km southwest of Masinagudi, in a converted coffee warehouse on a working coffee plantation filled with tall trees that give it a deep…

Cinnabar's two elegant yet homey rooms offer a blissful escape, with 24-hour hot water, tea/coffee kits, glassed-in showers and lovely wooden floors and…

Hidden away above Ooty on Strawberry Hill is this classic colonial-era house with wood panelling, antique furnishings, a snug lounge and good Indian…

Take in the fantastic Coaker's Walk views from your garden breakfast table at this lovely old stone-built hotel, right next to the walk's northern end. It…

Six simple, wonderfully spacious colonial-feel rooms open up to classic Nilgiri panoramas at this delightful sun-yellow heritage house high above Ooty…

Opening through a soaring lobby, the Residency is a top choice for its professional staff, well-equipped rooms, swimming pool, and excellent eating and…