The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

A wise, caring and gentle man once told me that 6 out of 10 people who have an excellent hotel experience will leave a good review, whilst 9 out of 10 who have a bad experience. I suspect that’s true, which makes it even more important to write this, because our one-night stay at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra was, without question, the most special and unforgettable hotel experience we have ever had and likely ever will have. We had deliberated about whether to pay the premium price, and I’m so glad we did - and in fact, having stayed, I can safely say the hotel is excellent value for money. From the moment we arrived, the experience felt magical. We were welcomed with flower necklaces and a traditional blessing, which immediately set the tone for everything that followed - warm, thoughtful and deeply personal. I had tears in my eyes as we were walked onto the balcony for the first Taj Mahal view. The service throughout was simply exceptional - effortless, intuitive and completely genuine. Every member of the team made us feel not just welcomed, but truly cared for. There is a level of attention here that is very hard to describe. It is in the smallest gestures, the quiet anticipation of your needs, and the warmth behind every interaction. I have tried to name staff members but honestly, I lost track of names and the levels of service were equal across all staff members. We travelled as a family with young children, and what truly stood out was how incredible the team were with them. This wasn’t just “child-friendly” - it was thoughtful, imaginative and completely above and beyond. From children’s cocktail-making (a huge hit!) with Gaurav (and others), to special in-room dining just for them, everything felt tailored and considered. The activities were magical. A treasure hunt ended with our son being presented with a remote-controlled car - which he proceeded to play with on the beautiful terrace. And one moment that really stayed with me: our 6 year old daughter was watching another guest flying a kite, and within minutes Subhan had quietly arranged a brand new kite just for her. It’s that level of attentiveness - turning a fleeting moment into something unforgettable that defines this hotel and it’s people. There are so many thoughtful touches everywhere you look - the beautiful slippers with elephants on them, the immaculate grounds, the special touches by the pool (cold towels, cold water, sunscreen), and even the turndown service, which felt like a little moment of calm and care at the end of the day. But more than anything, it’s the people. Everyone we encountered was kind, warm, and completely dedicated to making our stay exceptional. And then, of course, there is the view. Seeing the Taj Mahal from the hotel is something that genuinely takes your breath away. It feels surreal, peaceful, and deeply special - far removed from the crowds, and somehow more personal because of it. The experience of visiting the Taj itself was seamless. We left early in the morning and were provided with a light breakfast beforehand, before being taken by golf buggy directly to the entrance. Everything was handled for us, including getting us to the front of the queue, which transformed what could have been hectic into something calm and memorable. Our guide, Muzammil, was absolutely outstanding - knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate. He showed us all the best photo spots, took photos for us, and brought the entire experience to life in a way we’ll never forget. His patience, calmness and problem solving capabilities when I couldn’t find my pre purchased tickets was quite unbelievable. He safely returned us to the hotel in time for the wonderful breakfast. The food and drink throughout our stay were exceptional. Lunch at Bellevue was a real highlight - beautifully prepared, delicious, and perfectly set against that incredible backdrop. The cocktails (for both adults and children!) were fantastic, and we had such a lovely time in the bar with Mayank, whose warmth and attention added yet another special touch. Breakfast on the terrace was amazing - the staff took the liberty of bringing some wonderful Indian specialties for us to try. And the Mickey Mouse pancakes for the kids! The evening atmosphere was also magical, with traditional music and dancing at sunset that added to the sense of place and made the whole experience feel even more immersive. The highlight of our stay, and something we will carry with us forever, was renewing our wedding vows at the hotel. Ripudman arranged everything so beautifully - it was intimate, emotional and deeply meaningful. It’s hard to put into words, but it genuinely shook us in the best possible way and created a memory we will never forget. I’d highly recommend to anyone thinking about this experience. A special thank you also to Murari, our photographer, who captured everything so perfectly, and to Ishveen, who translated and helped everything feel even more personal and connected. And to the wonderful trainee (whose name began with S) who helped me put on a saree - it was such a kind, memorable moment that meant a lot. Even our departure was thoughtful. The children were given beautiful marble elephants as a leaving gift, which was such a lovely and meaningful touch. The printed photo we were presented with on the balcony will be treasured forever. Even for those whose names we didn’t catch—every single person we encountered was exceptional. This is not just a hotel - it is an experience crafted with care, generosity and genuine warmth. Every waking minute feels thoughtfully designed to give you the most incredible stay. If you are visiting the Taj Mahal, there is simply no better way to do it. It is worth the splurge. We left feeling incredibly grateful, slightly overwhelmed (in the best possible way), and already knowing we’ll return one day. Thank you everyone. Now onto oberoi Udavilas - you have a high bar to meet!

The location and the view are spectacular… the atmosphere is not super relaxing but is luxurious. Rooms on higher floors have a view that is breathtaking!

We were here for 3 days -to say that the hospitality was exceptional would still be an understatement. This is an exceptional property to begin with given that every room has a view of the Taj Mahal. But even beyond that the Oberoi hospitality really shone through. For instance, I had an outfit that got torn two days before our trip; they mended it in less than half an hour. We needed to work and they were very helpful in setting up fast internet. And finally, they have the best guides - highly recommend Muzammil who works with the Oberoi and whose knowledge of Agra is beyond what most historians who have. He guided us through Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort and of course the Taj Mahal. Also highly recommend the Indian restaurant where the Santoor player is exceptional. If you come here, come for the hospitality and the history of this wonderful city. Thank you!

We stay on paradise , everything was perfect ! I be back soon it’s posibile Oberoi locations , every where in the world ! All the best for all staff ! Calin L from România

This property is designed with elements of a Mughal palace and has exceptional views of the Taj from most common areas and every room. Visiting the Taj from here is the easiest experience. For all of this, stay here if you can even if for one night.