Top Ten Luxury Hotels in Rajasthan
India is a luxury destination, let no one tell you otherwise. But with so many amazing luxury hotels in Rajasthan, choosing one can be a challenge. After all, Rajasthan is where you can roll back the years and live the golden days. Spending some time in the majestic state of Rajasthan is one of the best ways to witness luxury and royalty. With palaces, forts and havelis preserved and converted into heritage hotels, the state has managed to keep the golden age alive. So here’s a list of the top ten luxury hotels in Rajasthan, which let you live like royalty.
RajVilas, Jaipur
A royal property set amidst acres of lush greenery in the pink city, The Oberoi RajVilas is sure to get you mesmerized. The rooms here are a blend of Rajasthani architecture and modern facilities. One thing which we love about The Oberoi RajVilas is that they let guests watch the chefs cook the region’s finest cuisine. You can even watch local artisans work on bangles and embellish them with precious stones. Personally, we love watching the sunset from the Naila Fort while sipping on cocktails, which is another feature of this marvellous property.
The Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
This majestic palace was designed by renowned Edwardian architect Henry Lanchester and has a blend of both eastern and western architectural influences. It is one of the largest private residences in the world, spread across 26 lush acres of land. What fascinated us was how The Umaid Bhawan Palace displayed royalty and luxury at every turn of the way. The hotel has two multi-cuisine restaurants: Risala and Pillar, with both serving exquisite meals. They also have an outstanding spa which offers services that pamper you in the best possible way.
The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
The Oberoi Udaivilas sits on the banks of the lake Pichola in Udaipur, with 30 acres of well kept lawns surrounding the property. Known as a city of lakes, there’s no better way to experience the charm of Udaipur. The Oberoi Udaivilas even has special rooms that come with their own private pools and majestic views. Their fine dine restaurant Chandini, lets you dine under the stars, with a view of the lake and the city palace. The hotel also offers exclusive experiences like dining in a boat on the lake, Rajasthani miniature painting lessons, a Thekri workshop and private dinners under their many lakeside domes.
Gajner Palace, Bikaner
Gajner Palace was built by Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh of Bikaner, on the edge of the Gajner lake in the Thar Desert. Converted into a heritage hotel nearly six decades ago, the hotel is nothing but royal and luxurious. Soon as we entered the premises of the palace, we spotted parrots and flamingos, among other beautiful creatures. The place is like a beautiful sanctuary, with the lake on one side and greenery on the other. Their suites have decades of old charm and history and some even offer great views of the lake. The restaurant and bar keep up with their theme of elegance and gentility. You can also get to witness a fun Rajasthani Folk Program in the evenings.
Suryagarh, Jaisalmer
Suryagarh is a palatial hotel located 7 km from the village of Kuldhara, and 15 km from the Bara Bagh temple. The exterior of the hotel is made entirely of sandstone and it’s located in the middle of the great Thar desert. Their recreational facilities are easily the best part of the stay, which include cultural evenings and archery workshops. The hotel also offers Yoga, chanting and meditation for those who want to spend some relaxing time away. One of the things which fascinated us the most at Suryagarh, was that the property was home to a variety of pets like a rabbit, peacock, parrot and a few dogs and even a donkey. So if you want to enjoy the most lavishing of experiences which involves soothing music being played by a flutist, during breakfast, you should definitely visit Suryagarh.
The Mountbatten Lodge, Ranakpur
The Mountbatten Lodge is a traditional colonial hunting lodge that acts as a launch pad from where you can experience the true essence of Rajasthan. You can enjoy some of the most exciting experiences like horse riding and horse trekking, at The Mountbatten Lodge. With the Lodge being set at a beautiful valley, going on jungle trails, safaris, sundowners in the mountains, and interacting with local villagers also becomes easier. To make sure that their guests get a great dose of luxury, The Mountbatten Lodge also have rooms which open up to huge private courtyards that include a fire pit. Each of their suites also have private pools.
The Jawai Leopard Camp, Jawai
Nestled in the wilderness of Jawai Bandh, Sujan Jawai has 9 luxurious tents and one royal suite that offers both modern space and privacy. The property is like no other and each luxury tent has its own private veranda with a seating area that looks onto the mesmerizing wilderness around. It also has a dining tent with a live kitchen that offers delicious meals cooked using local home grown produce. Meals are offered around the campfire at night. They also provide spa treatments and can arrange numerous activities around the area like wilderness drives, cycling tours, treks and hikes.
Rawla Narlai, Rawla
Once a hunting Manor of the Maharajas of Jodhpur, the Rawla Narlai has over the years continued to maintain its grandeur. Tucked away in the Aravallis, all 32 rooms in this heritage boutique hotel have a mix of old charm and modernity. If rejuvenation is what you’re looking for, the hotel also has a glorious spa. The best parts are the experiences it offers, like dinner at the 16th century step-well, high tea at the lake, riding a thoroughbred ‘Marwari’ steeds, village and local crafts tour and leopard spotting adventures.
MihirGarh/House of Rohet, Jodhpur
Rohetgarh or Mihirgarh, also known as the House of Rohet, is a fort like luxurious châteaux in the Thar desert, that holds nine magnificent suites. Build by the Rohet family, these suites are equipped with private Jacuzzi’s or plunge pools and spell nothing but royalty. The hotel offers experiences like village safaris, royal picnics, shikar dinners, culinary workshops and also have an Equestrian Program. If that wasn’t enough, the hotel also has a luxurious spa which offers the best of Ayurveda therapies.
The Bundi Vilas, Bundi
The Bundi Vilas Is a 7 room restored townhouse that sits right next to the Bundi palace. You will absolutely love the panoramic view of the city from the Bundi Vilas. The townhouse is both luxurious and cosy, so you’re likely to get a homely feeling. The original architecture has been preserved and kept intact, with local art paintings on walls and furniture made by local artisans. The best part is that the Sharmas who own this elegant townhouse are welcoming and delightful. They extend their hospitality by taking you around the many markets and hidden gems around Bundi.
As one of the states in India which is rich is heritage and history, Rajasthan never fails to surprise with its many palaces and luxury properties. We can help you personalise a luxurious trip to Rajasthan, if you too are looking to live like kings and queens.
