Fernhills Palace

Fernhills Palace began life as a colonial bungalow in 1844 and changed hands several times until it was acquired by the 12-year-old Prince of Mysore in 1873. It served initially as the summer palace of the Maharajas of Mysore and was only transformed into a heritage hotel in the 1990s. Situated at 1,800 metres, this all-suite hotel is on a 50-acre estate with sweeping views of the surrounding hills. Inside Fernhills Palace, red Burmese teak dating back to the 19th century, glass-panelled corridors with photographs of the Maharajas line the walls, and solid wood furnishings add character, stateliness, and old-world charm.

Each of the 19 spacious suites has been individually decorated with period-style furniture and has a large sitting room, an even bigger bedroom, a private sit-out, and a bathroom featuring a bathtub with Jacuzzi.

The property’s Curry & Rice restaurant offers an intriguing menu dominated by Anglo-Indian cuisine and dishes based on the secret recipes from the royal kitchen of the Mysore royal family. The atmospheric Fox Hunt bar is decorated with leather sofas and nostalgic old hunting trophies and serves beer, a selection of wines from around the world and imaginative cocktails. Leisure facilities at Fernhills Palace include an indoor games room featuring a billiards table and board games, including chess and table tennis. Guests staying at the Fernhills Palace can also borrow bicycles to explore the surrounding area.