The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Just 600m southeast of the Taj Mahal, this property’s suites, rooms, terraced lawns and swimming pool all boast uninterrupted views of the iconic monument across an expanse of shrubbery and thin forest.

Pavilions, fountains and reflection pools – all echoing the architecture and motifs of refined Mughal and Rajput design – add to the hotel’s sumptuous atmosphere.

Rooms here balance modern styling with vintage detailing and ‘ethnic’ touches, and all have Taj Mahal views – the only hotel in the area that can offer that.

Amarvilas experiences include private balcony dining – candle-lit dinners for two served by a butler – and dining under the stars beside gurgling pools of water, a particular treat on full-moon nights.

There’s probably no better hotel in Agra.