Rajasthan is a destination that quickly leaves every traveler spellbound with its charming heritage architecture and luxury palace hotels. From the luxury camps in the dunes of the Thar desert to the beautiful palace and castle hotels of the cities, each has its own distinct character and is designed to provide unforgettable stays at every step of the way.
Palace hotels and boutique hotels are a Rajasthani signature. You cannot miss staying at locations that once used to be where the kings lived. The famous Taj and Oberoi chains have kept up with the architecture and legendary traditions in their properties. With the breathtaking scenery, here are our top property picks for every type of stay.
One of the most romantic destinations in India is the Taj Lake Palace, a hotel that has been the spot for several iconic movies and has hosted some of the top names in the world. This magnificent architectural beauty is made with white and black marble and adorned with ornamental niches and semi-precious stones. Intricate gardens, structured terraces, and fountains adorn the palace’s interiors, while peacocks can be seen recreating magic, elevating the magic of the courtyard. This hotel offers grand suites among deluxe rooms, all retained of the original palace decor and structure.
Another Taj group hotel is the Umaid Bhawan Palace, a deep-rooted property providing experiences for the traveler rather than just an elevated stay. With wellness and art at the forefront, many activities such as Mocktail making, Luxurious Afternoon High Tea, Cookie Making for the kids, Horse riding sessions, A Vintage car ride, Royal Bathing Experience, Baradari Dining, Wine and dine at the highest dining points at the Sunset Pavilion, Chef’s studio, where you whip up your cooking skills and participate in an unforgettable activity, and Champagne breakfast at the Bougainvillea Garden, among many more, it aims to please the traveler with the authentic royal treatment.
Every Taj Property has its history surrounding culture, traditions, and luxury, just like the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur. Right from the grand arrivals in trumpeting royal elephants and hooves of the horses and music from the trumpets – it lays down the expectations you can receive here. The palace interiors can be defined as timeless as the residence of the last ruler of Jaipur, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, and this gorgeous queen, Maharani Gayatri Devi. With over 78 stunning suites and rooms, the interiors have been maintained to resemble its history. The exquisite sandstone blister, the pretty cenotaphs, and the scenic Mughal gardens are all preserved to provide a royal experience.
The Westin Pushkar Resort and Spa, located at the center of the picturesque Aravalis, is a haven for wellness and rejuvenation. The stunning property consists of 5-star luxury villas with grand amenities, plunge pools in select villas, and Westin’s designed bath amenities. Submerge yourself in diverse cultural and historical spots such as the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, Brahma Temple, the Sadar Bazaar, and more. The restaurants at the resorts are sure to renew and exhilarate your complete experience with flavourful cuisine and undergo an intensive therapy that combines the power of body and soul at Heavenly Spa by Westin.
The last reigning Maharaja of Bikaner, His Highness Narendra Singh, a young prince, was born and influenced by the culture and ideologies of the new India. He turned his gaze away from the royal lineage carried out by his forefathers in terms of design and taste and established this haveli based on the modern outlook and perspectives. This palace is curated most unconventionally, from artifacts and designs collected throughout his travels, the art and decor from enthralling Bombay, influences drawn from the glamorous Broadway, rich velveteen fabrics, intense inviting caverns, chiffons, and gorgeous pearls. All of this has added to the eclectic, private, and upbeat palace it is today.
The Leela Palace in Udaipur is the landmark of the City of Lakes, and it recreates the magnificence of the Era of the Maharanas. Give sail to your experience by getting on a boat ride to your destination, dining in your Maharaja Suite, visiting the Sheesh Mahal, and dropping by the Library Bar. The palace is adorned with beautiful Rajasthani art and crafts, sculptures, thikri mirror work, and silverwork, making the Leela Palace highly sought after by every tourist.
The Oberoi Rajvilas, spread over beautifully landscaped gardens with traditional architecture and reflection pools, is a culturally rich destination offering its guests versatile luxury options. Luxury tents inspired by the lives of the Maharajas, fine dining in Rajasthani and International cuisines, personalized, curated experiences such as Indian Wine Tasting, a detour among the wild, and cruising the sunset at Naila Fort make for a breathtaking trip in and around Jaipur. Understand the world of astrology, cook with the masters of the kitchen, and fly over Jaipur in a hot air balloon. Discover Jaipur in complete luxury while you get closer to the Rajasthani roots.
When surrealism and magnificence join hands, it brings you Oberoi Udaivilas. Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, this resort includes interconnecting corridors and domes, luxurious gardens, superior accommodations, and fine dining restaurants under the vaulted dome that satisfy your every taste bud. Chandni transforms into a candlelit restaurant with options of Western and Indian cuisine, the Bar features traditional archways and domes where you can relax with a glass of alcoholic options or strong coffee, watching the view of the luscious gardens and the lake out front.
Experience the beauty of the Thar desert through the eyes of Suryagarh in Jaisalmer. This luxury abode is more than just a careful preservation of the Rajasthani tradition; it is also a reminder of this modern era. Go deep within the culture of Thar, uncovering activities such as witnessing spellbinding musical traditions, archery, horse riding, and a game of billiards. Take full advantage of the experiences provided to you by the hotel and embark on a silk route trail, thar trail, temple trail, and chudail (persecuted spirits) trail. The Thar Desert and Suryagarh combined bring you an authentic and immersive dining experience, such as a Picnic at Oases, Sundowners at Kuldhara, and Dinner on the Dunes.
Raas, Jodhpur’s first boutique hotel, is a haven among Jodhpur’s hustle and bustle streets of the old city. The entrance is donned with a magnificent pool, and the hotel overlooks the Mehrangarh fort. The red sandstone and contemporary designs add a new dimension to the ancient carving styles. The hotel encompasses four original buildings in addition to three contemporary structures. Sightseeing and experiences to Jodhpur’s top sites are a walk away; the hotel offers five unique dining choices, with glorious views of the Mehrangarh Fort, the entire set-up is meant to be unforgettable that makes indulging in the best cuisines an elevation and drink taste even flavorful and rich.
