PRICE:
Frommer's Highly Recommended

Don't be put off by the unattractive exterior of this stalwart Agra hotel. What from the outside looks a bit like an unfortunate 1970s apartment block, actually offers a wide range of amenities and, thanks to a massive refurbishment, provides bright, comfortable guest rooms, the best of which offer views of the monument you're in town to see. Whatever you do, reserve a Taj-facing room, and do your best to secure room 518, which has the best view. Generally, the deluxe rooms have more appeal, with marble floors and colorful throws and cushions, but they aren't that much different from the slightly smaller, cheaper superior rooms. You'll be pleased to know that, while you'll never beat the close-up views offered at Amarvilas, here your picture of the Taj (albeit from 1km/ 1/2 mile away) is more complete, despite overlooking the fairly ugly city; a pair of binoculars might come in handy. What can't be helped, however, is the constant intrusion of the dull drone of noise from the streets. With extensive landscaped lawns and a marble pool with its own swim-up bar, this is a fair place to come home to after the rush of sightseeing. It's more competitively priced than the brash Sheraton, but not as good value as the Trident. Facilities: 2 restaurants; bar; seasonal poolside barbecue; pool; putting green; tennis court; health club and spa; travel services; car rental; airport transfers; shops; 24-hr. room service; babysitting; laundry; doctor-on-call; currency exchange; cultural performances by arrangement; sightseeing; astrologer.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's India, 3rd Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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