When people talk about Indian hospitality, they often speak about warmth, generosity and the spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava. It has always been about making guests feel at home — sometimes with dhol beats, sometimes with garlands, and often with small gestures that make a stay feel just a wee-bit more special. But today, it’s not just the warmth and service that’s winning hearts. The architecture, design and sense of place behind some of the country’s most remarkable hotels and restaurants are also earning global spotlight.
The latest recognition comes from Prix Versailles, a prestigious architecture and design award programme that celebrates outstanding hotels, restaurants and other spaces around the world. For 2026, India has scored a double win: a heritage palace in Khajuraho has been featured on the World’s Most Beautiful Hotels list, while a stylish restaurant in Pune has made it to the World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants list.
Indian hospitality gets global spotlight
The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace, Khajuraho
The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh has been named among the World’s Most Beautiful Hotels 2026 by Prix Versailles. The annual list features 16 properties from across the globe that stand out for their architecture, design and sense of place.
The 350-year-old palace combines heritage architecture with modern luxury, offering scenic views, regal interiors and an immersive experience rooted in the history and culture of the region. Originally built by Maharaja Hindu Pat of the Bundela dynasty, the palace is a striking example of Bundelkhand’s architectural legacy, thoughtfully reimagined with modern comforts and elegance.
Set amid the forested Maniyagarh Hills near Panna National Park, the property was originally a fortress before being transformed into a luxury palace hotel. Prix Versailles praised its “princely grandeur” while describing it as one of the finest examples of Indian hospitality.
A night at The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace starts at approximately Rs 40,000, while the property’s most luxurious stays can cost upwards of Rs 11 lakh per night.
The recognition adds to a growing list of international accolades for the property, which opened in late 2025.
Rosso, Pune
As for the World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants 2026 list, Rosso in Pune has made the cut. It joins an international line-up of dining destinations recognised not just for their food, but also for exceptional design and ambience.
Nestled in Hotel Irada, which is also a working winery, Rosso is a beautifully-designed space known for serving delicious Italian food. The space blends Mediterranean influences with contemporary design. Its carefully curated interiors, warm textures and immersive aesthetic have helped it earn a place among the world’s most visually striking dining destinations.
As travellers increasingly seek experiences that go beyond good food or comfortable stays, recognitions such as Prix Versailles highlight how design has become an integral part of hospitality. And India is on the map too.
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