Dubbed Kohinoor after the eponymous diamond, which is from India, the biggest selling point with this suite is the incomparable views it offers of the Taj Mahal from nearly every vantage point. Features include three terraces, a spacious dining room, a bathtub in the bathroom of the primary suite overlooking the Taj Mahal, and a decadent style that’s reminiscent of the décor in royal palaces during India’s Mughal era. That means vivid colors, rich upholstered fabrics, and golds. Nightly rates from US$14,750.

Every year, millions of people flock to the Taj Mahal, but only one hotel in Agra boasts uninterrupted views of the architectural masterpiece from every room. Located less than half a mile from the country’s most famous monument—built in the 17th century by Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved wife—the Oberoi Amarvilas epitomizes modern Indian luxury. Spread out over nine acres of terraced gardens, pools, and pavilions, the property has hosted celebrities and royals, including Prince William and Kate Middleton, who visited the Taj Mahal and posed for a photo on the same bench where Princess Diana sat more than twenty years ago.

To visit the Taj Mahal: Glimpses Holidays

Though it was built from the ground up, the hotel’s architecture and design were inspired by the Mughal heritage of Shah Jahan’s dynasty, with intricate marble inlays, carved jaali (screens commonly found in classical Indian architecture), colonnades, gold accents, and even fountains resembling the ones in front of the Taj Mahal. Upon entering through the forecourt, guests find themselves in a grand lobby where an opulent chandelier hangs from a blue-and-gold dome, glittering brilliantly against the marble floor. A staircase leads down to the elegant restaurants, spa, gardens, and pool, which takes on the indigo hue of the signature blue tiles found at all Oberoi hotels.

All 102 rooms and suites look out onto the Taj Mahal, so you can’t go wrong, but for the ultimate pied-à-terre, request the Kohinoor Suite. Named for the 105.6-carat Indian diamond, the spacious suite comprises a living room, dining room, study, master bedroom with walk-in closet, marble bathroom, and a large terrace where you can enjoy romantic meals. Wall-to-wall windows ensure that every room—including the glassed-in shower—has a clear view of the Taj Mahal, while Indian antiques, artwork, and textiles lend a sense of place.