Holidays are a time of relaxation and calm. They are a period when we like to soak ourselves in luxury and lay back, enjoying a break from work. Spending time with family, taking time for oneself and roaming around an unknown land while getting to know the history and culture. Now that describes the perfect holiday.
With its status as a state of living history, Rajasthan is the perfect place for anyone to spend their vacation. The state is marked with its distinctive culture, gorgeous desert landscapes, and some of the best-preserved and maintained forts, havelis, stepwells and heritage structures that the country has to offer.
A holiday in the state is your ticket to enjoying the same comforts as an Indian Royal. Here is a list of 22 of the most luxurious heritage hotels in Rajasthan where you can vacation like a Maharaja.
Rajmahal Palace RAAS, Jaipur
Constructed in 1729, the Rajmahal Palace has long been the residence of Jaipur’s royalty. In 1821, it underwent an Art Deco makeover and became home to the British resident of the Rajputana. Having been the home of Maharaja Sawai Man ‘Jai’ Singh and Maharani Gayatri Devi for a long time, the palace finds special mention in the Maharani’s Memoirs, “A Princess Remembers.”
The palace was refurbished by interior designer Adil Ahmed into the luxury heritage hotel today. The Rajmahal Palace Hotel is your chance at sharing the same royal experience with the Palace’s famous visitors like the Kennedys, the British Royals, and the Shah of Iran.
The Colonnade – Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur, photo credits Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur and Avesh Gaur
Marble staircases, vintage interiors and original royal possessions are sure to make your stay at the Rajmahal Palace like no other. The hotel has 13 rooms and suites furnished with a combination of family heirlooms and artefacts, some even named after famous visitors who stayed in them during their visits.
You could reside in the Kennedy, the Mountbatten, and the Princess of Wales. The rooms are laden with luxury amenities and magnificent décor that will leave you feeling like a Maharaja yourself.
RAAS Rajmahal Palace offers a mix of Indian and international cuisines from three restaurants: The Colonnade, 51 Shades of Pink and Orient Occident. The Polo Bar, a tiffany blue ode to Polo, offers a litany of cocktails, wines and spirits, both local and international.
RAAS Rajmahal offers a load of experiences around the hotel to their guests – a visit to the Johri Bazaar, shopping at Narain Niwas Palace, visiting other heritage sites such as the Hawa Mahal Palace, the Amer Fort and the City Palace.
Location: Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur, Sardar Patel Marg, C-Scheme, Jaipur, 302001, India
Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Once the Maharaja of Jaipur residence, the Rambagh Palace is now a hotel managed by the Taj Hotels group. The Palace was first built like a garden house in 1835. In 1887 it was converted into a hunting lodge and was extended into a palace in the early 20th century. Finally, the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II made Rambagh his principal residence in 1931.
Today, it stands as a hotel with 78 suites, chhattris, marble hand-carved latticework, Mughal gardens and sandstone balustrades. Accommodation at the hotel includes rooms with garden and courtyard views. The grand presidential suite is the largest suite at the hotel, with a private lounge overlooking the courtyard, a private terrace, a royal dining room and a master bedroom. All rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities that ensure guests have the best of contemporary luxury. The hotel has hosted a number of celebrities, royals and politicians.
Dining at the Rambagh Palace is a royal affair. The Suvarna Mahal is the spot to enjoy a royal Indian feast while dining in the former palace ballroom built in an 18th-century French style. The Rajput Room, an all-day dining restaurant, offers a more diverse multi-cuisine menu. The Verandah Café also offers a multi-cuisine menu. Cocktails can be enjoyed at the lounge bar, Steam, or the Polo Bar, the polo-themed bar decorated with the memorabilia and trophies of the Jaipur Polo Team.
You could get a massage at the Jiva Grande Spa, indulge in unique dining experiences at the Hawa Mahal, the Gazebo, the Heritage wing, or wherever you please. An extraordinary place to dine is the Hawa Mahal, or you could go for heritage walks through the palace to unveil its history and grandeur.
Location: Taj Rambagh Palace, Bhawani Singh Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302005, India
Samode Palace, Jaipur
The Palace was built as a fort in the 16th century but was later converted into a palace in the early 19th century by Rawal Berisal with influences from Muslim and Rajput architecture. The palace is located near the Samode village, at the foot of the Aravali hills. The sandstone structure features the ancient Rajasthani interior style with marble floors, ornamental pillars, mosaic walls and old wall paintings.
The hotel has played host to celebrities, artists, royals and travellers alike. Today, it is a testament to Rajput grandeur and contemporary hospitality and luxury. Accommodation at the palace is diverse, with each room seemingly having a personality of its own. Each royal suite is a luxury apartment with private courtyards overlooking the mountains and a private Jacuzzi. Gorgeous wood furniture, white linen, carved couches and four-poster beds are featured in each room.
Dining at Samode Palace is an experience in itself. Breakfast is served in the open-air courtyard, evening cocktails are usually a poolside venture, and the terrace garden is the place to feature in your dinnertime reservations. The Palace wine cellar has an exquisite selection of local and international wines to accompany your food.
Experiences at the Samode Palace include a guided tour of the hotel, massages & therapies at the hotel spa and workouts at the fitness centre. In addition, you could visit the Mughal gardens at Samode Bagh, go for a horse or Camel Safari and visit the dunes, or go shopping in the local market in Samode village.
Location: Samode Palace, Village Samode, Tehsil Chomu, District Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303806, India
Amanbagh, Ajabgarh
The resort, set within a walled oasis, is a testament to the Mughal architecture of Rajasthan. It is located in a secluded area in the Aravali hills region of Rajasthan steeped in history for centuries. From early Hindu history to the glory of the Rajputs and finally being conquered by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, Amanbagh has seen it all.
The resort’s location was the site of the walled compound used by the Maharaja of Alwar for his tiger hunting camps in the Aravali hills. The area is lush with greenery that draws water and nutrients for a nearby lake, and a vacation here will rejuvenate your soul and make you one with nature. The resort is a modern creation that works to preserve the ancient by providing contemporary comforts through traditional architecture and design.
Amanbagh, India – Swimming Pool Pavilion Terrace
The suites at Amanbagh are a haven surrounded by fruit trees and flowering shrubs, and further out, by the arid Aravali hills. Depending on which ones you choose, the suites feature private swimming pools, terraces, and courtyards. All of them offer a royal experience through their palatial beauty and grandeur.
Dining at Amanbagh is an adventure of delectable tastes and health – the food here is rich with flavours of the North Indian cuisine and the healthiness of Ayurvedic cuisine. Local dishes made with recipes passed down through the generations are a heavy feature on the menu. In addition, the resort offers local, pan-Indian delicacies, all using locally sourced ingredients and homegrown medicinal herbs.
Dining experiences at Amanbagh include hands-on cooking demonstrations and private dinners at gorgeous locations such as the pool pavilion, the Rooftop Chhatri, the Jhilmil Bada, and breakfast or lunch at Bhangarh.
Other experiences include visits to the ancient ghost town of Bhangarh, the Somsagar Lake, the Sariska Tiger Reserve or a trip to the Ajabgarh fort.
Location: Amanbagh Resort, Ajabgarh, Rajasthan, 301027, India
Alila Fort Bishangarh, Jaipur
The resort is located only 6 km from the Delhi-Jaipur highway and is designed in harmony with the environment. The hotel aims to provide contemporary luxuries while preserving the region’s natural beauty. The fort’s restoration was completed through traditional Rajasthani construction techniques using local stone and contemporary architecture.
The fort is located atop a granite hill in the Aravali range and is a 230-year-old warrior fortress, which served as home to various kings. The hotel’s design is a testament to the Jaipur Gharana architecture, with Rajput and Mughal influences. The style is clean and stark, with uncluttered interiors marked by Rajasthani elements. Jharokhas, stone latticework, brass panels and hand block printed fabric are regular features.
The Alila Fort Bishangarh include 20 grand suites, 18 heritage rooms, 11 royal suites, eight regal suites and one presidential suite. The rooms are all equipped with luxury amenities and state-of-the-art technology to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. In addition, the presidential suite features a private terrace.
Four restaurants make up the dining experience at Fort Bishangarh. First, the Amarsar is a speciality restaurant inspired by the Silk Route and serves a Thala breakfast, a la carte breakfast and international lunch and dinner menus. Second, the Nazaara is a dinner service restaurant specialising in Shekhawat and Bishangarh food and Rajput hunter cuisine. Third, the Madhuveni is the bar and restaurant to enjoy whisky blends, cocktails and cigars. Finally, Haveli is their poolside boutique restaurant with a Mediterranean menu.
Experiences include a Rajasthani Rasoda Masterclass, Spa and wellness, private dining, visits to local artisan shops, and ride to the 500-year-old Hanuman temple near an old dam on the Madhuveni river.
Location: Alila Fort Bishangarh, Off NH-8 at Manoharpur Bishangarh Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303103, India
Samode Haveli, Jaipur
Initially designed by the Rawals of Samode nearly 225 years ago, the Haveli has been home to the rulers of Samode ever since. Even today, the Haveli is owned by the descendants of the initial rulers who converted the Haveli into a luxurious hotel. The Haveli is a traditional Indian mansion with decadent gardens and apartments arranged around various courtyards. The Haveli has seen many additions over the years, giving its distinctive charm to it.
The former royal residences have been turned into suites to provide you with a royal experience. Contemporary amenities with old-world antiquities is the perfect description of the suites at the Haveli. Hand-painted murals adorn the restaurant’s walls that once used to be the dining hall at the Haveli.
The restaurant offers a combination of local Rajasthani flavours and international cuisines. You can choose to take your afternoon tea in the veranda lounge and enjoy cocktails and dinner by the poolside.
Experiences at Samode Haveli are as exquisite as its interiors. Samode Haveli has something for everyone from morning walks through Jaipur to Safaris at the Jhalana Park and from cycling tours to massages at their state-of-the-art spa.
Location: Samode Haveli, Gangapole, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302002, India
RAAS Jodhpur
The RAAS Jodhpur is located around an 18th century Haveli overlooked by the Mehrangarh Fort, located 400 feet above Jodhpur’s skyline. The hotel comprises four original buildings and three contemporary structures that have been inspired by the walled city. The new additions are modern in their approach (think in terms of space and light) but are grounded in tradition.
The old Haveli’s guest house, the Darikhana, serves at the hotel’s most popular dining venue. The Baradari, the Thakur’s personal entertainment pavilion built in the 1850s, serves as another venue for dining, and much like its original purpose, serves as a host for various events.
Rooftop Bar, Mehrangarh Fort – RAAS Jodhpur, photo credits RAAS Jodhpur
RAAS Jodhpur has five restaurants to choose from, all of which boasts an exceptional view of the Mehrangarh Fort and offer contemporary western and authentic Rajasthani cuisine. You could choose to dine at the Baradari, the Darikhana, or the Stepwell café, which overlooks the stepwell and serves lunch and dinner, with refreshments and cocktails.
The suites at the RAAS Jodhpur marry the historic Rajput grandeur with sleek contemporary design, all in spacious rooms with luxury amenities. Experiences at the hotel include Ossian expeditions, family activities, visits to the Mehrangarh Fort and the City of Jodhpur.
Location: RAAS Jodhpur, Tunwar ji ka Jhalra, Makrana Mohalla, Gulab Sagar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001, India
WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake Palace, Jodhpur
Located only 5 km away from Jodhpur is a lake named Balsamand. The lake was designed as a water basin in the 12th century to provide water to the locals. In the 17th century, Maharaja Jaswant Singh I of Jodhpur added a red stone palace on the shore of the lake. The Bal Samand Lake Palace is now converted into a heritage hotel. The palace is located on a private estate of 60 acres, boasting fruit orchards, manicured lawns, and flower gardens.
There are 26 garden suites, nine regal suites and one Maharani suite, from which to choose. Five restaurants comprise the dining options at the Bal Samand Lake Palace Hotel. These include the Garden Restaurant, barbeque at the Kebab Corner, cocktails at the Bar Lounge, and scenic views while dining at the Lake View restaurant. You can even request a theme dinner at the restaurant if you wish to experience true royalty.
The hotel has an obstacle Golf course and offers various other activities such as bird watching, horse riding, royal horse buggy rides, horse safaris and village safaris. The hotel also offers excursions to various Jodhpur landmarks like the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Mehrangarh Fort, the Maha Mandir and the Guda Bishnoiyan.
Location: Bal Samand Lake Palace, Mandore Road, Jodhpur- 324006, Rajasthan, India
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
One of the world’s biggest private residences, The Umaid Bhawan Palace, is an iconic Jodhpur structure that was built between 1928 to 1943. The palace was constructed by Maharaja Umaid Singh, the 37th Maharaja of Marwar at Jodhpur. The palace was commissioned after the Maharaja was approached by farmers of the region suffering from severe drought and famine of the 1920s. The palace’s construction offered the farmers employment opportunities and was headed by architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester. The architectural style of the palace is the Beaux-Arts Style.
Today, a part of the place is managed by Taj Hotels, as the Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel in Jodhpur. The Hotel’s location atop the Chittar hill offers exquisite views of the Blue City, the Mehrangarh Fort, and the dunes near the city. The Palace hotel has hosted a range of international and local celebrities and has also been the site of a celebrity wedding. The hotel offers a range of suites and rooms decorated in the Art Deco style of the 1970s.
The dining experience at the Umaid Bhawan palace are like no other. You can enjoy authentic Rajasthani and Indian cuisine at Risala or enjoy more European and Mediterranean delicacies at Pillars. Cocktails with cigars at the Trophy Bar are a great way to unwind amidst hunting themed décor. Experiences include heritage walks, rejuvenating massages at the Spa, and museum visits for history and architecture.
Location: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, 342006, India
Rawla Narlai, Jodhpur
Lying in the shadow of the Elephant hill, Rawla Narlai is a 17th-century hunting Manor of the Jodhpur Royals that has undergone restoration to return to its original state. Today, it houses the hotel, which caters to an exclusive clientele as a boutique getaway. The manor is lush with open spaces and indoor spaces that have been specifically designed to ensure your comfort. As a result, the hotel manages to preserve much of its original glory and offers a glimpse into the rich lifestyle of the countryside manors.
It is located between Jodhpur and Udaipur and has plenty to offer both at the hotel and nearby. Accommodation at the hotel includes grand heritage suites, luxury grand heritage suites and the Narlai suite. In addition, the hotel offers various unique experiences. When staying at a hunting Manor, a trip to the jungle is a must.
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At Rawla Narlai, you can choose to incorporate a High Tea with your trip to the jungle and have it there while observing some leopards. For example, you could go for a sunset walk up Elephant Hill or visit the various sites in and around Narlai. Dinner at the Rampart involves a 16th-century stepwell, earthen lamps, folk music, and traditional Rajasthani cuisine. You can also enjoy a wide variety of classic and house cocktails.
Location: Ajit Rawla Narlai, Village Narlai, Rajasthan, India
RAAS Chhatra Sagar, Pali
Based on the historical Rajput luxury caravans concept, the RAAS Chhatra Sagar is a boutique encampment along the reservoir at Nimaaj village in Jaitaran. The luxury tents offer every possible comfort that a luxury hotel can – spaces with air conditioning and heating ensure that the RAAS Chhatra Sagar is one of the only camps of its kind in the country that remains open all year round.
The tents are equipped with contemporary furniture and muted colours to help you feel at ease and in tune with nature surrounding the area. Walkways offer a private space outside the tent to enjoy the idyllic view with your thoughts or your loved ones. Chhatra Sagar, known for its diverse birdlife, is home to nearly 200 bird species that can be observed from anywhere in the camp.
The camp has 16 luxury tents – four family tents and 12 luxury tents. Each tent is equipped with luxury amenities and offers gorgeous panoramic views of the reservoir and the countryside.
Dining at the Chhatra Sagar is quite literally a feast. The All-Day-Dining restaurant offers a wide variety of authentic Rajasthani, Indian and International dishes. In addition, the bar provides a litany of cocktails, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Experiences at RAAS include sundowners, bird watching, excursions to the village and the Farm, Wildlife safari, Private cooking sessions with the chef, and even birdwatching on a boat.
Location: RAAS Chhatrasagar, Khasra No. 1962/1, Chhatra Sagar, Nimaj, Jaitaran, Pali, Rajasthan, 306303, India
Chanoud Garh, Pali
The Chanoud Garh Fort is a 300-year-old fort palace that stands as an oasis in the Thar desert. The fort has undergone painstaking restoration efforts to become a heritage hotel today. The fort was commissioned by Thakur Anoop Singh Ji and managed by the same family for 13 generations. It spans an area of 200,000 square feet and features quintessentially Rajput architecture.
The palace offers gorgeous marble pillared corridors, stone Jharokhas, courtyards and lawns. The current royal family headed by Patriarch Thakur Ajeet Singh Ji resides in a cordoned off wing of the palace. The family act as the hosts and the managers of Chanoud Garh.
The hotel has ten suites furnished with antique and contemporary furniture. The rooms are decorated with family heirlooms, and the décor is reminiscent of the grandeur of Rajasthan. All rooms have a private lounge area, and some are reminiscent of Victorian architecture built during colonial rule.
Dining at the Garh is an exquisite affair. The Moti Mahal is the main dining hall. Decorated with the original vegetable dye paintwork, this is the spot to enjoy your breakfast. The Badal Mahal is the terrace with a dinner service for summer nights. The Thakur himself hosts the communal dinner service, which moves to Mor Chowk with the warm bonfires in the cold winters. The Garh serves traditional recipes passed down for generations made with homegrown ingredients. The Thakurani herself presides over the kitchen, so the whole thing truly is a royal affair.
Experiences at Chanoud Garh are like no other. Besides the Leopard Safari, the hotel offers a heritage walk and the chance to celebrate various Hindu festivals, such as Teej, Diwali, Holi, with the family. You can dress in complementary traditional attire and join the prayer ceremony presided over by the family priest at the family temple. Then you can take part in all the merriment. You can also go for a village walk with the retired school headmaster of the Chanoud village through the historic temples and the artisan shops.
Location: Chanoud Garh, Chanod, Rajasthan 306602, India
Suján Jawai, Pali
Established in 2014, the Suján Jawai is a haven amidst granite rock formations and wilderness home to another majestic jungle cat, the leopard. Here you’ll be surrounded by the Aravali Hills, grasslands, and sand riverbeds, all for you to explore. In addition, you could wander around with the local Rabari herdsmen for a cultural immersion like no other.
The luxury campsite has ten luxury suites with a Royal ‘Panthera’ suite and a Family ‘Felidae’ Suite. The camp marries comfort and luxury with panache, and strangely enough with a contemporary industrial style using brushed steel furniture and a black and white colour palate. The red you see around, both on the land, and the splashes of colour around the camp and its décor, represents the Rabari herdsmen.
Each tent has a large verandah where you can sit and take in the sights of the Jawai Bandh. The Royal ‘Panthera’ Suite, with its private heated pool and dedicated butler, is the one to stay at if you prefer extra privacy and luxury.
The dining at the Suján Jawai is an amalgamation of the local and contemporary, the food is made from homegrown produce and fresh ingredients from local farmers. The dining tent offers an opportunity to watch your food being made with its live kitchen, and enjoying your meal in a private and secluded location is always an option.
With game drives being the highlight, the experiences at the Suján Jawai are unique – you could take a walk with the Rabari herdsmen, go for a guided tour of the local villages, or hike around the camp in the fields surrounding the area or up one of the various hills in the area.
Location: Suján Jawai, Awai Dam District, Pali Marwar, Rajasthan 306126, India
Mihir Garh, Rohet
A desert hotel celebrating Rajasthan, Mihir Garh, is located in Rohet against the backdrop of the expansive Thar Desert. The fort takes inspiration from the rural architecture of Rajasthan and is known as the “Fortress of the Sun.” Mihir Garh is owned and operated by Thakur Sidharth Singh, the 14th Thakur Saheb of Rohet and Double Tazimi Siryat of Jodhpur. One hundred local craftsmen and carpenters built the hotel under the supervision of Thakurani Sahiba Rashmi Singh. It is located on “Mali Nathji ka Dhora”, the sacred dune dedicated to the Warrior God hero of Mewar.
Mihir Garh
The fort has nine suites. Each suite is 1700 square feet big, with private Jacuzzis or plunge pools. The Alishan suites are located on the ground floor and offer a private courtyard and plunge pool. The suites on the floor above are called the Shandaar suites and offer a private Jacuzzi and private terrace. Each suite boasts modern amenities and fireplaces handcrafted by villagers from the neighbouring villages.
The dining experience at Mihir Garh is very personal; the food is prepared to your tastes, so they offer multiple cuisines, both local, pan-Indian and International. Their speciality, however, is Rajasthani cuisine. Breakfast is a poolside affair, lunch is in the room or the tent, and dinner features a gorgeous dining room with hand-painted interiors.
Experiences at the hotel include village safaris, Shikar dinners with special Rajput hunting cuisine features, lakeside royal picnics after safaris, an equestrian program, and culinary workshops in the Rajasthani cuisine.
Location: Mihir Garh, Village, Khandi, Rajasthan 306421, India
RAAS Devigarh
Constructed in 1760 under the reign of Rajrana Sajja Singh II and located on the top of a hill in the Aravali Range, the RAAS Devigarh is a sight to behold. The RAAS Devigarh overlooks the village of Delwara. The fort is 45 minutes away from the city of Udaipur.
The history behind this fort dates farther back than the year of its completion. The principality of Delwara was gifted to Rajrana Sajja Singh I and his brother Ajja Singh by Maharana Pratap of Mewar for their service following the battle of Haldighati in 1576. The fort was restored two centuries later, over a period of 15 years, by a team of 750 people led by architects Gautam Bhatia and Navin Gupta.
Silver Lounge (Outdoor Sitting Area) – RAAS Devigarh, photo credits RAAS Devigarh
The hotel opened its doors to visitors in 1999, offering an amalgamation of the ancient and the modern. RAAS Devigarh has played host to various celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Fardeen Khan, the Ambanis’ and Liz Hurley and is known as one of India’s best-designed hotels.
The hotel has 39 suites that work to meld together the ancient beauty of the fort with the contemporary luxuries of the 21st century. You could choose to stay in the luxurious Palace and Aravali suites, with their gorgeous views and sense of the old-world Rajasthan. You could also choose to stay in the more modest Garden suites – they offer simplicity with their garden views and outdoor patios. The Devigarh complex is the most luxurious, with its private sun deck, jacuzzi and a private black granite pool.
Experiences at the fort include a heritage walk through Delwara, a trip to the summit of Sajjan Garh, trips to the Chittorgarh and Sawaryaji Temples, and a visit to the museum to learn about the battle of Haldighati.
Location: RAAS Devigarh, NH8, Near Eklingji Temple, Delwara, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313202, India
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
The Lake Palace is located on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola in Udaipur. Once the summer palace of the Royal Dynasty of Mewar, today, the palace is managed as the Taj Lake Palace Hotel. It was built between 1743 and 1747 under the direction of Maharana Jagat Singh II of Udaipur. The palace walls were constructed with black and white marbles and are adorned with semiprecious stones. It also has many courtyards, all lush with gardens, fountains, terraces and columns.
The palace was converted into India’s first luxury Hotel in 1969 by Maharana Bhagwat Singh, and in 1971, Taj Hotels took over the hotel’s management. The hotel has played host to several dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth, the King of Nepal, Jacqueline Kennedy, Vivien Leigh and Lord Curzon.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
The hotel boasts 65 luxurious rooms and 18 grand suites, all flanked by gorgeous lake views, the City Palace, the Aravali Hills, the Machla Magra Hills and the Jag Mandir.
Four restaurants serve residents guests at the hotel. For traditional Rajasthani and Northwest Frontier cuisine for dinner, Neel Kamal is the place to go. The Bhairo offers an exquisite menu of contemporary European cuisine, while the Jharokha is your multi-cuisine option. The Amrit Sagar is the onsite bar that offers a selection of vintage wines, spirits and cigars. In addition, they serve Asian and Tapas cuisine. Finally, the Jiva Spa is the hotel go-to for massages. They also offer heritage walks, unique dining experiences and boat rides after cocktails.
Location: Taj Lake Palace, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India
Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur
The Taj Fateh Prakash Palace is located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola and is part of the City Palace complex. Built in the 20th century by Maharana Fateh Singh as a venue for royal events, the hotel today has 65 rooms and suites spread across two wings.
The hotel is adorned with vintage artefacts, miniature paintings, crystal chandeliers, Persian carpets and period Mahogany furniture. The palace is a mixture of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and retains its original glory by maintaining its original interiors and grandeur.
Taj Fateh Prakash, Udaipur
You could choose to stay in the luxury suite or the palace room at the palace. The deluxe suite, the grand luxury suite and the royal suite are a few other options for your stay. In addition, the hotel offers you the opportunity to enjoy a multi-cuisine menu at Sunset Terrace. The restaurant serves local Mewari cuisine and other pan-Indian and global dishes while providing a gorgeous view of the Lake Palace Complex.
The Suryadarshan Bar is the spot to enjoy afternoon tea while taking in the gorgeous sunset views in Udaipur. Unique experiences include exclusive boat cruises, high tea at the Nazar Bagh and a private dining experience at Rang chowk within the fort.
Location: Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, Lake Pichola, The City Palace Complex, City Palace Road, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India
Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Possibly one of the best hotels in India, the Oberoi Udaivilas is a luxury resort hotel constructed on the Maharana of Mewar’s 200-year-old hunting grounds. Nearly half of the 30-acre property is a designated wildlife sanctuary. Designed by architect Nimish Patel and his partner Parul Zaveri, the structure features Mewari architecture such as large domes, cupolas and Chhatris. The entire hotel premises are creamy-white and lush with large courtyards, gardens, fountains, and reflecting pools.
The hotel has 90 rooms with five suites. Each room boasts a garden space with a patio, and some even have a private infinity-edge pool. You can choose between a premier room with a garden view, a premier room with a semi-private pool and a lake view, a luxury suite with a private pool, or the Kohinoor suite with a view of the Aravalli Hills, Lake Pichola and the City Palace.
Here you can dine at two restaurants. The informal Surya Mahal and its adjoining alfresco dining terrace Chandni offer all-day-dining, a view of the City Palace and Lake Pichola and the chance to be transported back to the 30s colonial era, or the Udai Mahal, the evening fine-dining restaurant with Indian delicacies, live music and a starry feel under the midnight painted domes. The Bar is inspired by Mewar with alcoholic coffees, frozen cocktails, martinis – basically classic and house cocktails.
At The Oberoi Udaivilas, you can dine at the Promenade, under the Lakeside Dome, or at the Lakeside Pavilion. In addition, you can get a massage at the house spa, learn to cook with the chefs, indulge in a private yoga session with a personal trainer, learn the art of miniature painting or take a heritage walk. The hotel also has various children’s activities, a professional astrologer, and the opportunity to watch artisans create glass inlay design tiles at the Thekri workshop.
Location: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Lake Pichola, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan, India
Suján Sher Bagh, Ranthambhore
The Sher Bagh luxury safari camp is located at the edge of the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Reminiscent of a colonial-era hunting expedition, the camp is an ecologically friendly encampment that promotes sustainable tourism. The grounds have been a part of the Suján family’s conservation efforts since 1974 and were once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur.
Today they are the site of 12 luxury tents with two suites, all invoking the colonial era charm of the 1920s. The furniture is all central to this, featuring teakwood and rosewood; the furniture is sure to make you feel like an English noble or Indian royal out on a jungle expedition to observe the majestic Tiger.
You could choose to stay at the tented ‘jungle’ suites with luxury and state of the art amenities that offer both comfort and privacy. The Royal Sher Suite is the suite for you if you prefer your jungle expeditions in seclusion. The double bedroom suite has its own garden, a private heated pool and an outdoor fireplace. The Imperial “Raj Bagh” Suite is known for its spacious interiors and for being the spot for friends and family to celebrate while being surrounded by nature.
The dining options at this Ranthambhore hotspot are diverse – Anglo-Indian and European Lunches and traditional Indian dinners cooked in outdoor clay ovens, all with homegrown, organic ingredients. In addition, you can visit the Sher Bagh Spa, go on game drives, or take a jungle cooking class. You could even go on a Ranthambhore Fort ramble or shop at the chic safari boutique, all at the Suján Sher Bagh.
Location: Suján Sher Bagh, Sherpur, Khiljipur, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan 322001, India
Six Senses Fort Barwara, Ranthambhore
Overlooking the Barwara lake, the Chauth ka Barwara temple and located 22 km from Ranthambhore National Park, the Six Senses Fort Barwara is the newest heritage hotel on this list. In October, it opened its doors to guests and is a three-hour drive away from Jaipur.
The resort is a conservation effort aimed at reinvigorating the royal charm of ancient Rajasthan. The resort comprises two palaces, two original temples and 48 suites within the walls. The landscape keeps the traditional gardens and water features. It faces the Barwara village on the west and the east, a gorgeous and tranquil forest.
The fort was constructed by the Chauhans in the 14th century and was captured by the Rajawat dynasty from the Hadas in 1734. Today, it is owned by Prithviraj Singh, who has been central in the restoration efforts along with landscape designer Savita Punde and horticulturist Pradeep Kishen of Sunder Nursery in New Delhi. The suites have been designed in what can be described as a contemporary Rajasthani style – they incorporate state-of-the-art technology with the old-world grandeur of the fort.
You could choose to stay at the Sanctuary with a view of the inner garden and the fort wall, or at one of the Fort Suites for a view of the Barwara Village or the lake, or at the Burj suite, which offers a view of the lake, the Chauth ka Barwara Temple and the Aravali range. The resort boasts an extensive library, a boutique and an onsite personal trainer.
The dining options at Fort Barwara are diverse – the Rajasthan restaurants offer a combination of Rajasthani and pan-Indian cuisine blended with international influences. The dishes are produced with locally sourced and seasonal produce. The dining options include dinner at The Cortile by a 14th-century courtyard, the Roohani (the Indian speciality restaurant) or the Rani Bagh. In addition, you could visit the viewing gallery for an exquisite selection of wines or the Rajawat Room for delectable cocktails.
Experiences include witnessing the Aravali sunset, a heritage walk, a Ranthambhore safari, and a spiritual journey across the onsite temples. In addition, you could visit the onsite spa, take a cooking class, go for a morning hike and offsite picnic, or take a cultural walk into the nearby villages.
Location: Fort Barwara, Chauth Ka Barwara, Rajasthan, 322702, India
Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner
Narendra Bhavan is the living memory of Narendra Singhji’s travels far and wide. The Bhawan is a testament to the growth and influence of his travels on the original residence. It has been developed on the running theme of mixing contemporary India with India of the past to create a unique experience.
The palace’s design is inspired by the Art Deco movement and the Royal Military Academies, and the glamour posts of Broadway. The palace consists of the Gaushala (cowshed), located right at the entrance. This shed is a tribute to Lord Krishna and the Verandah, the Diwali Chowk and several other delightful locations that create an amalgamation of the modern and the traditional.
There are 53 suites at the Bhawan from which to choose. The Residence rooms are a tribute to the eclectic tastes of the household, with their Portuguese tiles and English colour palate, while the prince rooms are a look into the western influences on the King’s life with their English prints and mosaics. The Regimental rooms, the India Rooms and the Republic Suite are all testaments to their chosen themes and the Maharaja’s eclectic choices.
Dining at the Narendra Bhawan takes place at three restaurants – P&C, the elegant dining room featuring dishes that were personal favourites of the Bikaner Royals; the Gaushala with a menu of petite collations and cocktails; and the Durbaar Hall. The Mad Hatter – The Bake House is the onsite bakery that offers traditional confectionery and baked goods.
Experiences at Narendra Bhawan include sundowners, The Crescent Grill Diner, a museum dinner, ‘the Night Room’, and a private dinner out in the open while observing the gorgeous desert.
Location: Narendra Bhawan, Karni Nagar, Gandhi Colony, Bikaner, 334001, Rajasthan, India
Suján The Serai, Jaisalmer
Established in 2008, Suján The Serai, is a desert camp located on a one-hundred-acre private estate in the Thar desert an hour away from Jaisalmer. The brand was set up by conservationists Jaisal and Anjali Singh, who have had a deep connection with the area for nearly three generations.
The luxury camp is a sight to behold – drawing inspiration from Caravan sights of the Rajputs; local sandstone artisans have handcrafted the camp’s amenities to create walls, the plunge pools, and the inverted stepwell serves as the sight for the swimming pool.
The Manganiyar folk musician group provides live entertainment for the night, where they sing songs that are ancient and leave a lasting memory. The camp is both desert and Jaisalmer – colourful décor amidst the sandy and beige landscape of the desert.
The luxury camp is home to 21 tents located on sandstone plinths and 14 tented suites, six luxury suites, and one Royal Suite. The luxury suites are cordoned off with their private walls to separate them, while the Royal suite gets its walled enclosure, personal butler, private spa and heated swimming pool.
The Serai is an amalgamation of the modern and the ancient. The dining tent is a place where everyone can share their time to interact, or you can request the staff to set up a dining table where ever you please on the property. The food includes seasonal and local delicacies made from homegrown, organic ingredients. Western options are available too.
The camp offers experiences such as visits to 12th century Jaisalmer, the Golden Fortress, and bazaar hopping with an expert guide.
Location: Suján The Serai, Bherwa, Rajasthan 345001, India
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© This article was first published online in Dec 2021 – World Travel Magazine.