A traditional welcome is more than a gesture. The Indian luxury hospitality industry is known for its deep-rooted tradition and sense of culture, as well as its personalised services. Staying at an Indian luxury hotel is something beyond accommodation. One can get an immersive experience that reflects the vibrant heritage with artistry and warmth. A thoughtfully curated, personalised hotel experience leaves an impression on guests. 

One of the most attractive features of Indian luxury hotels is the grand welcome extended to their guests—they go beyond plush beds and lavish spas. Treating guests like family proves that Indian luxury hotels uphold Indian culture and royalty and redefine the global standards of elegance, warmth, and authenticity. 

The Oberoi

Staff at the Oberoi are known for their unobtrusive and awestructing services to the guests, the welcoming gesture for guests of this Indian luxury hotel is beyond ordinary. The attentive service is all about ensuring to meet the needs of the guests with care and attention to detail. For a royal welcome, the staff at Oberoi put sandalwood tikka and marigold garland around their neck - all these make the guests feel special and respected. Oberoi’s philosophy is that guests are the most important, and all these rituals are just to make them feel valued and that they are cared for. Additionally, a seamless in-room check with effortless luxury and comfort is accompanied by Indian sweets or fresh fruit. To enhance the welcome experience of the guests, the place is subtly heightened with aromatic diffusers with sandalwood, jasmine or lemongrass fragrances. A personalised recognition is given to the guests upon arrival and for repeated or long-staying guests. Hand-written notes with bespoke amenities are prepared well in advance. 

The Leela Palace

Leela Palace believes in giving their guests the best! To give them the true Indian luxury and treat them with graciousness. The Leela ceremonial rituals are a feast for the senses, with the transition of day to night, the hotel comes to life. Starting with the traditional diya lighting ceremony, flowing to interactive cultural immersion with a sense of distinctiveness. Upholding their ethos of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, the hotel preserves the time-honoured traditions to provide an immersive experience. From lighting the ceremonial lamps, ushering in light, property and happiness to feeding koi fish, which is associated with strength, perseverance, abundance and good luck - guests can experience the customs and traditions of culturally rich India. Leela heartily invites guests to partake in these sensory rituals. The property, Leela Palace, is so versatile that it provides guests with different experiences in different cities. 

The Leela Palace in Chennai reflects the Chettinad style of architecture with a rich heritage. Their evening ritual starts with the blowing of the Sringa, which signals that it is time to fire the mashaals. Four gorgeously dressed ladies encircle the main courtyard's water body to light the Mashaals, followed by a Carnatic music performance by skilful musicians playing a violin, mridangam, and tambura. This theatrical show takes place on a stage built in the centre of the water body and illuminated by mashaals, providing a fascinating experience.

Taj Hotels 

The Taj Hotels' guest reception ritual is an elegant blend of traditional Indian hospitality and contemporary elegance, deeply rooted in the belief of Atithi Devo Bhava—"the guest is God." Upon arrival, guests are typically greeted with an auspicious aarti (a ceremonial lamp welcoming), a tikka, and fresh flower garlands, all of which reflect honour, respect, and comfort. A refreshing welcome drink, often flavoured with local flavours, is also served to reenergize guests. Although these fundamental elements are consistent across all Taj properties, some hotels add unique regional details—for example, Taj Chandigarh features a Phulkari-inspired welcome that reflects Punjab's vibrant embroidery tradition, and Taj Lake Palace Udaipur offers a royal welcome that embodies Rajasthan's timeless charm.

Beyond the initial arrival, Taj Hotels extend guests' experiences with immersive rituals known as "Tajness," such as morning yoga, afternoon tea, sunset lamp-lighting ceremonies, and sleep rituals, all designed to enhance the cultural and sensory experience. This blend of history, customisation, and elegance ensures that every guest feels truly valued and immersed in the essence of India from the start.

RAAS Jodhpur

A luxury boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Jodhpur city offers a warm and traditional welcome to their guests, evoking the grandeur of Marwar’s royal traditions. A warm aarti is performed to honour and bless the guests by putting a tilak on their forehead (vermillion mark), which is a symbol of auspiciousness and respect. Guests are adorned with floral garlands (rose or marigold) to express a gesture of honour, warmth and hospitality. To let the guests get soaked into the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, local Manganiyar musicians play Rajasthani folk music with kamaicha and dholak along with traditionally attired folk dancers performing gracefully, making the stay of the guests quite pleasant. Offering refreshment drinks like buttermilk or mint cooler to ease the tiredness of the guests after their travel. They are also provided with cool, perfumed towels for refreshment in the desert weather. The hand-carved sandstone, building and courtyards with an astonishing view of Mehrangarh Fort reflect the sense of timeless Rajputana's gloriousness. 

The Glenburn Penthouse

The Glenburn Penthouse in Kolkata offers a unique blend of colonial elegance and Bengali warmth, showcasing the city's diverse cultural heritage. While the elements of the welcome ritual are not well documented, the hotel's ambience and offers convey a warm welcome that immerses visitors in Kolkata's history. ​Upon arrival, travellers are likely to be greeted with individualised treatment, setting the tone for a stay focused on both comfort and cultural immersion. The Penthouse provides customised experiences such as "Lunch at Bomti's," where guests may enjoy real, home-cooked Bengali meals in a historic setting, affording a unique glimpse into the traditional Calcutta culture.

The Glenburn Penthouse's furnishings are furnished with vintage Bengali colonial furniture and artworks, creating an aura of subtle elegance. Guests can relax in the inviting library or on the rooftop terrace, which provides panoramic views of Kolkata's prominent sites, including the Victoria Memorial. ​ While the precise parts of the guest welcome may differ, the overall experience at The Glenburn Penthouse is intended to deliver a seamless blend of historical elegance and modern luxury, ensuring that each guest feels honoured and at home.

So, where are you planning to stay on your next trip? Stay connected with Foodism Connect to know about more such exciting travel experiences.