Top 10 most expensive hotels in India to celebrate New Year 2025

India’s most popular destinations are experiencing a surge in hotel rates, making festive getaways a costly affair for travellers as the New Year draws near. The prices have skyrocketed, from luxurious hotels in Delhi and Mumbai to the most lavish beachfront resorts in Goa. For those without worries over the budget, here are the 10 most expensive hotels for the New Year celebrations.

The holiday seasons have become a goldmine for the hotel industry, with millions of people eager to start the year in style and festivities already underway. This trend underscores the steadily increasing demand for lavish experiences, even if they cost high.

During the New Year season, hotel occupancy rates in India usually shoot up considerably in the wake of both tourists from India and abroad, who want to spend New Year in many places around the country.

India’s average hotel occupancy rate increased from around 66 pc a year ago to 70 pc in the fiscal year 2024. The Indian hospitality industry experienced a 10.8 pc year on year increase in revenue per available room (RevPAR) during the July–September quarter of 2024, which indicates a sound recovery and increasing demand, says a report by Smith travel research (STR). Industry experts predict that occupancy rates in hotels in India will touch 75 pc or even more due to an uptick in business and leisure travel.

Iconic destinations like Goa, Kerala, Jaipur, Agra and Udaipur are expected to command significant average room rates by luxury domestic and international travellers looking for premium experiences. Mid-market and budget hotels may also experience more moderate room rate hikes of 6-8 pc, whereas luxurious and upscale hotels are to enjoy a hike of about 10 pc.

Numerous luxurious hotels in India provide outstanding experiences, particularly during the New Year’s celebrations, which are in higher demand than ever this year as the super-rich hunt for an ideal place where they could welcome the New Year 2025.

Here are 10 of the most expensive hotels for the night of December 31 for two adults, along with breakfast, inclusive of taxes:

Taj Lake Palace

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Built inside Lake Pichola back in the 18^th century of marble, it is romantic and serene, with viewscapes of the huge Aravalli Mountains from all corners.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 1,427,000

Taj Rambagh Palace Hotel

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Formerly the abode of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and Queen Gayatri Devi, now a hotel, this old palace tells much about royal Rajasthan and its beautiful design and enormous gardens.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 410,000

The Oberoi Udaivilas

Udaipur, Rajasthan

This resort covers an area of more than 50 acres, with grand architecture, luxurious rooms, and intricate gardens, all reflecting the rich heritage of Mewar. Hotel is sold out for New Year’s Eve.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 467,000 for January 3-4

Umaid Bhawan Palace 

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

One of the world’s largest private residences, this golden-hued palace offers a blend of eastern and western architectural influences, along with museum exhibits and vintage car collections. Hotel is sold out for New Year’s Eve.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 1,017,120 for December 29-30

The Leela Palace Kovalam

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

The Leela Kovalam in Kerala sits on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Kovalam shoreline and the Arabian Sea. It is steps away from a private access to beach, and features a spa.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 275,440

The Taj Mahal Palace

Mumbai, Maharashtra

This hotel, which has been an icon of luxury and hospitality for more than a century, welcomes dignitaries and celebrities alike, overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 127,440

The Oberoi Amarvilas

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

With breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Taj Mahal from just 600 meters away, Mughal-inspired architecture, and lush gardens, this is located right next to the majestic monument. Hotel is sold out for New Year’s Eve.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 840,000 for January 2-3

The Oberoi Rajvilas 

Jaipur, Rajasthan

This property offers a regal stay experience, given its conventional architecture, lavish villas, and extraordinary service over 32 acres of perfectly maintained and designed gardens.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 1,298,000

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Hyderabad, Telangana

Situated 2,000 feet above Hyderabad, this palace gives an insight into the lavish lifestyle of the Nizams, from its Venetian chandeliers to its grand marble staircases and priceless artefacts.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 708,000

The Oberoi Vanyavilas

Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Located adjacent to the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, this resort provides luxury tents in the midst of natural surroundings, combining adventure with comfort in a perfect way.

Price (2 adults, with breakfast & taxes): INR 198,240

These hotels tend to have higher occupancy rates during the New Year season since they often conduct special events. Hence, travellers can enjoy a seamless and happy New Year experience all over India’s diverse locations by booking early, being flexible with travel dates, and visiting lesser-known destinations.