Jaisalmer offers a host of places to visit with each taking pride in its beauty and grandeur. A city where history meets class, where the desert comes to life with intriguing events, where architecture leaves you spellbound and activities keep you on your toes, where local and international cuisines are a treat and not to forget the visit to the local markets that have a range of handicrafts to pick from. The beautiful city has remarkable things to offer to one and all. Preserving its tradition yet offering a taste of modernity, Jaisalmer offers several tiny gems to explore.
Rambagh Palace is not just any hotel with a fancy name. It is a part of royal history. This magnificent Palace was built in the 1830s by the then Maharaja of Jaipur Man Singh II as a guesthouse. Later it became the primary residence for his grandson. When you stay at the Rambagh Palace, you are staying in a legit Rajasthani palace where the royalty lived, held royal events and coronations, and entertained state guests. Now operated by the Taj Group, the Rambagh Palace is set in sprawling manicured lawns featuring cenotaphs, cupolas, and sandstone balustrades. The building is decorated with traditional latticework (Jaali) and mahogany furniture. Some rate it as a 7-star hotel.
If you want a contemporary luxury hotel experience, consider the splendid Rajvilas operated by the Oberoi Group, India’s biggest 5-star hotel chain. A famous Jaipur 5-star hotel, the Oberoi Rajvilas features beautifully landscaped gardens and is housed in a modern building that is modeled after Jaipur palaces and forts. Surya Mahal (the Sun Palace), its fine-dining restaurant is considered amongst the best in the city. The signature Oberoi Spa offers a wide range of Indian and European therapies.
RAAS Rajmahal Palace positions itself as a “luxury boutique hotel” offering only 13 intimate suites and rooms in a historic establishment that’s a blend of Indian Art Deco and traditional Rajasthan. The palace prides itself on having hosted Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburg. The establishment still cherishes the memorabilia and heirlooms of the royal family that it was once home to. Do check out the 1950 Ford Thunderbird. Polo Bar and 51 Shades of Pink are two stylish and classy cuisine options offered at Rajmahal.
The Samode haveli was built in the early 19th century inside the walled city of Jaipur by the rules of Samode (an allied region of the Maharaja of Jaipur). This mansion is a fine embodiment of the architecture that’s associated with Rajasthani Havelis. Each of its walls, with its hand-carved marble-stone floral motifs and design is a masterpiece to look at. But what’s unique about this establishment is that the descendants of the original rulers who built the Haveli still own, live in, and operate it. With them,...
Jaipur is called the “City of Pearls” for it’s legendary Johari (jewels) bazaar. The Johri, a luxury hotel, is located in this famous bazaar of gold, jewels, and pearls. Also known as the Lal Haveli (or Red Haveli), the Johri is a 19th-century Haveli meticulously restored. It transports you back into an era of grandeur. It is a refuge from the busy hustle of the old city outside and a great base to immerse yourself in the vibe of the city. With only 5 spacious suites, a chic little...
The Jai Mahal was built around the same time as that of the City Palace in the first quarter of the 18th century. With over 90 rooms and suites, now tastefully restored, this sprawling palace set in 20 acres of Mughal gardens was the residence of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom. It is located in the Civil Line area, so attractions like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar are in proximity. Jai Mahal is counted amongst the top hotels and resorts in Jaipur.
Rose Amer doesn’t call itself a hotel or haveli, but an intimate “vacation home opened to like-minded people who value privacy” and wish to spend time away from the noise of the city. And, what you are promised is what you’ll get from this recently refurbished 100-year-old villa of wide open spaces, broad glass doors, and high ceilings. It boasts an architecture that’s a blend of British Colonial and Rajasthani architecture. During the colonial period, this property was used by British officers. Later it served as a wedding...
Open only two years ago, the Villa Palladio is a cozy 9-unit boutique luxury hotel that is modeled after a country estate and a rural retreat. It is located near the Abhay Niwas Palace in Jamdoli Chouraha. The restaurant offers seasonal, local, and international dishes sourced from local farmers. The outdoor pool is large. The Erema, a meditation and yoga room nestled in the garden is the ideal place to find serenity. Enjoy a spa experience at the in-house Palladio spa.
Shahpura House is the palace of the royal family of Shahpur. It was built in the 19th century in the traditional design of the Shekhawati region. It is a fine luxury heritage hotel, now managed by the Shahpura Hotels & Resort. You get an unmistakable Shekhawati vibe in this property in Jaipur —two birds with one stone!
Leela Palace Jaipur is a reimagining of the palaces of the past in a contemporary luxury setting. The blend you get, therefore, is one of Rajasthani and Mughal royalty with modern 5-star opulence. Marbled corridors decorated with Parchin Kari (marble inlay) art greet you as you set foot in the regal Leela. Sprawling frescoes depict chapters from Jaipur’s history. Marble fountains set in Mughal gardens are a treat to look at. Outdoor dining in the evening with a view of the Aravalli hills is a joy.
