From the most opulent palace hotel stay to a royal garden retreat, here are three of the most unique palaces-turned-hotels in Rajasthan to check into.
Relax in Samode Bagh’s stunning gardens.
SAMODE BAGH: Glamping in a royal garden retreat
The main draw of Samode Palace’s sister property Samode Bagh (“bagh” means garden) is the eight hectares of stunningly manicured gardens built by the Mughals in the Persian style. The gardens are 400 years old, but beautifully maintained. Samode Bagh is a five-minute drive through the countryside from Samode Palace, yet it seems like a different world with its lush greenery, horse stables, fountains, water channels, and an abundance of flora. Accommodation is in dune-coloured tent rooms fitted out with modern amenities and royal luxuries (we’re talking marble bathrooms, air-conditioning and plush furnishings – glamping, anyone?) This was once the garden retreat for Samode’s royal family, and a royal experience is exactly what guests today will enjoy.
The grand Rambagh Palace was the official residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur.
RAMBAGH PALACE: The ultimate in luxury
Located just outside Jaipur city, Rambagh Palace was once the official residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. This is the ultimate luxury palace hotel, with 78 grand royal suites. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by decorated camels, horses and elephants alongside a bevy of women performing to music from traditional shehnai musical instruments. Guests who have stayed here include Britain’s Prince Charles, and Jacqueline Kennedy. The grand Rajputana architecture, complete with hand-carved marble latticework, sandstone balustrades, cupolas and cenotaphs, is as awe-inspiring as the manicured palace grounds peppered with rare birds. Guests are also treated to a personalised butler service. If you can afford it, stay in one of the themed suites that is high on opulence and filled with historic significance.
The entrance to the Sujan Rajmahal.
SUJAN RAJMAHAL PALACE: Bespoke city experiences
The Sujan Rajmahal Palace is a 14-room luxury hotel that was once among the Jaipur Royal family’s most treasured palaces. It is located in the heart of Rajasthan’s capital city of Jaipur, also called the Pink City (all the buildings in the historic city centre are painted a pinkish terracotta colour). Accommodation here is in royal apartments, suites or palace rooms – each expertly restored and adorned with antiques, collectibles, art and art-like wallpaper. A stay at the Rajmahal Palace entitles guests to highly coveted experiences such as a private tour of Jaipur’s iconic City Palace. And should there be a polo match taking place in the city, guests can watch it from the royal box.
