Page 693 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - India

WHERE T O ST A Y  691

with simple decor, Indian or
Western-style toilets, ceiling
fans and basic food options
in a dining hall. The tariff in
major cities is higher than
in smaller towns.
An excellent option,
particularly in lesser-known
tourist destinations, is the
countrywide network of tourist
bungalows and lodges run by
the state tourism departments.
Moderately priced, they offer
Picturesque setting of the Neemrana heritage hotel in Alwar both independent rooms
with en-suite baths and
room service (if this is not a and many are still run by former dormitory accommodation.
regular service), business centre princely families, who treat
usage, heaters in cold locations, visitors like honoured guests. Guesthouses, Paying
concierge services and even Bookings can be made
pay channels on television. through private agencies, Guests and Home Stays
Transfers to and from the hotel such as the HRH Group of In some states, such as
are complimentary only for Hotels, Neemrana Hotels Goa, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan
upmarket package tours. and WelcomHeritage. and Madhya Pradesh, family
For non-local and Bookings at these hotels cottages and old mansions
international telephone calls, can also be made through have been converted into
check if there is an in-house reputed travel agencies. guesthouses. While these usually
ISD/STD facility, though it is fall into the mid-range or budget
cheaper to get a local SIM card categories, the number of
(see p746). Small hotels, with Middle-Range Hotels amenities, quality of service
no running hot water, often The four- and three-star hotels and price can be erratic. Look
charge extra for buckets of offer a scaled-down version at the rooms before checking
hot water. of five-star luxury and are less in, as the difference between
expensive. Levels of comfort, two rooms of the same price
cleanliness and professional can be substantial.
Luxury Hotels services are, however, high. Staying with local families
India’s luxury hotels are Rooms are air conditioned and is a popular option. It is best
comparable with the best have en-suite bathrooms. In to check with the state tourism
any where in the world. They addition, there are restaurants, offices (see p737) for a list of
offer capacious suites and rooms, gift shops, business centres and establishments under their
fine service and a host of sometimes extensive gardens. Paying Guest Scheme. Rajasthan
amenities. These usually include Tourism has a comprehensive
a travel desk, state-of-the-art Budget Hotels and list, as does Madhya Pradesh
conference facilities, shopping Tourism. For Kerala, Sundale
arcades, swimming pools, Tourist Lodges Vacations is a reliable resource.
modern fitness centres and Budget hotels are often found The UK-based Munjeeta Travels
multi-cuisine restaurants. The around bus stands and railway and Home & Hospitality also
staff are polite and attentive and stations. They are inexpensive, organize home stays.
can help plan itineraries and
make arrangements for activities
such as tennis, golf or riding.
Reservations should be made
in advance, especially during
the peak season.

Heritage Hotels
Several palaces, forts and
havelis, particularly in Rajasthan,
Madhya Pradesh, Himachal
Pradesh and Gujarat, have been
restored, modernized and
converted into plush, luxury
hotels. These establishments
have a gracious, old-world charm, Lounge of the Lakkhotaa Lodge, Shillong

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