With the stately Raj Bhavan—the official residence of the governor of Tamil Nadu—as a neighbor, the Park Hyatt makes for a sophisticated urban retreat. The hotel features 201 elegant rooms, including 20 suites, with refined touches such as marble floors, plush rugs, and beautifully appointed bathrooms. Enhancing the serenity factor is the Antahpura Spa, where guests can indulge in Tamil herbal treatments and Chettinad-inspired therapies; there’s also a semicircular rooftop infinity pool that overlooks the lush forests of Guindy National Park. The Park Hyatt has two fine but very different dining options: the theatrical Flying Elephant, which is spread over multiple levels and has six interactive kitchens, and the elegant Dining Room, which specializes in southern Indian dishes such as Manglorean cashew curry and Chettinad-style chicken.
39 Velachery Rd.; 91-44/7177-1234; Park Hyatt Chennai website; doubles from US$158
See more from The Luxe List 2013