India, the world's second-most populous nation, is a country of distinct flavors and landscapes. Hopping on a train to cover its vast distances is one way to travel cheaply. Indian trains range in service and speed, and long-haul journeys usually provide sleeper carriage options. But sleeping on the train isn't always required as many hotel options are near train stations in the major cities, varying in price and amenities. From the budget hotel to the super luxurious, India has accommodations for every budget.
Less than a mile from Jaipur's train station, the Hotel Umaid Bhawan is a budget hotel in the heart of the Pink City. Hotel Umaid Bhawan offers free pick up from the railway station and all of the amenities of budget hotels in India: hot and cold water in attached bathrooms, room service, power backup. The hotel also books and customizes safaris in the Jaipur region.
Hotel Umaid Bhawan
D1-2A Bank Road
Bani Park, Jaipur 302016
Rajasthan, India
011-91-141-231-6184
umaidbhawan.com
Agra---home to the Taj Mahal---is also home to the Raj Mahal, a mid-range hotel with 52 rooms (some with views of the Taj Mahal). The Raj Mahal features a roof-top lounge with views of the Taj and a swimming pool. The rooms are standard with air-conditioning and direct-line phones. Agra train station is only a short distance a way, and the hotel provides travel assistance.
The Raj Mahal
1/2, Taj Nagri Phase-II
Fatehabad Road, Agra 282001
Uttar Pradesh, India
011-91-562-402-3625
rajmahalagra.com
The Sarin Inn, less than a mile from Varanasi's train station, gives visitors access to India's Hindu holy city and offers color TV with satellite reception, hot showers, and a restaurant offering both Indian and international food. The 23-room boutique hotel also offers free beverages in every room.
Sarin Inn
14 Sant Raghuwar Nagar
Sigra Road, Varanasi 221010
India
011-91-542-250-2580
hotelsarininn.com
The Park, New Delhi, offers guests a choice of 220 full-equipped rooms with LCD TVs and DVD players, mini-bars, in-room safes, 24-hour currency exchange and travel services in addition to a night club, spa, salon, health club and four element-themed restaurants. This luxury hotel just minutes from the Delhi train station.
The Park, New Delhi
15 Parliament St.
New Delhi 110001
India
011-91-11-2374-3000
theparkhotels.com
