Srinagar, Indian Himalayas, India

Set amid extensive lawned gardens on the shores of Dal Lake, the Lalit Grand occupies a converted royal palace complex built by the local Maharaja in 1910. Gandhi and Lord Mountbatten numbered among the guests who strolled under its stately chenar trees and admired the views across the water. Though the exterior of the buildings have changed little since, the rooms have a had a modern makeover that incorporates a wealth of traditional, antique Kashmiri furniture, rugs and handicrafts, as well as all the conveniences you’d expect of the state’s most luxurious five-star hotel.