If the Taj Mahal can satisfy one Mughal king’s endless love for his beloved queen, then the ITC Mughal, Agra in India will likely satisfy today’s modern-day wanderluster in search of divine experiences.

While the ITC Mughal, Agra, part of the Luxury Collection of ITC Hotels, is not on many U.S. travelers’ radar, it should be. The hotel is popular among heads of state and pop-culture icons like Sean Connery.

Evoking the majesty of the Taj Mahal nearby, India’s premier chain of luxury hotels promises to indulge its guests in experiences one can only cherish in the Great Land of the Taj Mahal.

The hotelier celebrates the rich Mughal dynasties of yesteryear as soon as you step on the polished marble-covered bridge by the lily ponds. A uniformed brigade holds a flowing scarf above your head in a greeting ceremony as you enter the greenest luxury hotel chain in the world. Every ITC Hotel is LEED platinum-rated.

This hotel in particular bears the award First on Earth, a plaque the hotel proudly displays in the main lobby detailing its sustainable LEED accolade.

For a refreshing welcome drink, guests toast Champagne glasses of pomegranate juice, the elixir of health, as sari-clad staff shower you in an Indian ceremony fit for nobility, draping a luxurious scarf around your shoulders while female guests receive the hallmark bindi on their forehead.

Expect daily surprises, from treats inside your suite to your personal butler assisting in every need from retrieving sunglasses to laundry requests.

With a nod to the grandeur of the Mughal culture, the interiors radiate luxe riches inspired by the pomegranate, the hotel’s signature theme.

My Mughal fantasy world hit all the high notes. For good sleep, the hotel has a sleep bar with antioxidant-rich sleep aids guaranteed for a good night’s sleep. Among the finds there is an elegantly appointed trio of almonds labeled, “Intake of almonds soaked in water is beneficial for healthy hair, glowing skin and good eye sight.”

The Taj Bano is the hotel’s anchor buffet restaurant with local and international fare. The Mughal Pavilion is elegant and offers Indian and continental cuisine.

Lastly, no one visiting Agra should skip out on a meal at Peshawri. The highly acclaimed resto is theater on its own. Diners are served generous portions of tandoori-barbecued specialties inspired by India’s northwest frontier cuisine. It’s street food-casual seating in a 5-star property. The menu hasn’t changed in decades.

For a peekaboo surprise of the Taj Mahal, head to the Grand Observatory Jharokha-e-Taj. My fabulous butler led me on a tour that culminated in this jaw-dropping bucket list-worthy view seen sparkling in the distance.

Feel like a modern-day Mughal royal at this enchanting, sustainable, luxury property where personal butlers provide the most attentive service. The lavish green setting, with its symmetrical ponds and fountains. emit more royal touches that add to the magic of this beautiful place. Take a break for a night, give time to yourself and spend a night here before you continue your India journey across the Golden Triangle.

ITC Mughal, Agra

Taj Ganj
Agra, 282001
Uttar Pradesh, India
tel  9156 2402 1700