7 places in India perfect for a relaxing pet-cation

The next time you have an itch to go on a quick weekend getaway but are worried about finding a place for your pet to stay at the last minute, fret not—just bring them with you. An increasing number of hotels and resorts in India now allow pets on their properties and most go the extra mile too—with special services like pet-sitters, dog-walking, and even curated menus. 

Bazaar India tracks down the seven hotels in India that should be on your radar for a paw-fect vacation.

Elgin Hotels and Resorts, Darjeeling

Gift your pet a vacation in the middle of nature at the Elgin Hotels and Resorts. The 125-year-old hotel was once the summer residence of the Maharaja of Cooch Behar and today serves as a luxury heritage hotel. Located in the heart of Darjeeling, the hotel doesn’t have any additional charge for pets and is the perfect place for them to experience the mountain air while enjoying the comfort of the colonial-era hospitality. 

The Himalayan Village, Himachal Pradesh 

Surrounded by deador forests, The Himalayan Village is another retreat that your canine companion will love. Situated six kilometers from Kasol, the hotel offers stunning views of the Parvati valley. There is ample of open space around the hotel so you can let your pet run to their heart’s content as they explore all the exciting sights and smells. While your pet is busy frolicking, try out some new activities on your own like river crossing, rock climbing, and trekking. They charge an additional ₹1,000 to ensure the best experience for your pet.  

Taj Green Cove Resort and Spa, Kovalam

The Kovalam resort welcomes both your canine and feline friends on its spacious 16 acre property. With a coastline stretching for a kilometer, Balinese-style villas hidden among lush greenery, and a lagoon, it will be a tropical vacation like no other for both you and your pet. The resort charges a fee of ₹3,300 per pet, per stay, and has sprawling lawns and jogging trails along the coastline where you can enjoy with your pet babies. 

RAAS Devigarh, Udaipur 

Your pets are in for a royal treatment at RAAS Devigarh, which is situated in Udaipur and overlooks the dramatic Aravalli hills of Rajasthan. Built by Maharana Pratap, the King of Mewar, some of the suites in the 18th-century palace hotel have a sweeping private garden attached that will quickly become your pet’s favourite space. The heritage hotel also treats your furry buddy to special meals on request. As for you, make the most of their spa, heated pool, and the billiard room. And if a trip to Jodhpur, Jaipur, or Chhatra Sagar is on your mind, they have pet-friendly outposts there too. 

Hyatt Regency, Dehradun 

Here’s a hotel that pampers your pet as much as you! Hyatt Regency, which happily hosts both dogs and cats, is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and has picturesque views of the dense Malsi forest and the imposing mountains. Your pet gets the special treatment, including a bed of their own, a food bowl, and an exclusive menu to pick from, all at the cost of ₹2,500 for a three-night stay. 

Savoy, Ooty–IHCL SeleQtions

Established in 1829, Savoy Ooty is one of the few hotels in the country that have been pet-friendly for a long time. Your pets receive a grand welcome on arrival with garlands and bubbles. They also have a veterinary doctor available on call, in case of any emergencies. If your pooch is a fussy eater, rest assured that the exhaustive menu at the resort will convert them in a jiffy—it includes dishes like grilled chicken strips with peanut butter, vegetable and egg scramble, and rice and lentil kedgeree. 

Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner 

The grand Narendra Bhawan, a boutique hotel in Bikaner is the perfect backdrop for a fun getaway with your pet. The hotel will indulge your furry companion with a special menu and also deep clean your room (which is done up eclectically with Bikaner terrazzo tiles and intricate ceiling details), so you and your pet can have a blast without worries. They welcome both cats and dogs and charge an additional ₹1,500 for your four-legged companion. 

Lead image: Hyatt Regency, Dehradun