RAJASTHAN
Immerse yourself in India’s largest state for iconic cities, ornate temples, elusive wildlife, rugged mountains and the great Thar Desert.
The first places that come to mind when talking about Rajasthan are the spectacular cities. If India is the country of many colours, then Rajasthan is the capital of colour and nowhere is this more evident than in its cities. Jaipur, known as the Pink City is a chaotic city home to some of the most majestic palaces and ancient sites. Painted pink in 1876 in advance of Prince Albert’s visit, the colour was so pleasing to the Maharaja’s wife that the painting of the buildings in this delicate colour was enshrined in law and the delightful hue remains today. This is a wonderful place to shop for souvenirs and you can spend a pleasant few hours wandering the bazaars in search of textiles in every colour, jewellery and handicrafts. Venture beyond the city walls to visit the spectacular forts of Amer, Jaiarg and Nahargarh which once formed the defence of the ancient city. that once formed the city’s defence. Visit the royal cremation ground of Gaitore to see the cenotaphs dedicated to the legendary kings or this region. Nowadays it is a Hindu pilgrimage site and you will be accompanied by tribes of monkeys bathing in the holy water tanks.
Jodhpur, the Blue City is perhaps the most photogenic. The second largest city in Rajasthan, it is home to the spectacular Mehrangarh Fort, an enormous complex of palaces, gardens, and courtyards. This is the most spectacular of many ancient sites in this atmospheric city. Here you will discover winding streets and aromatic spice bazaars as well as plenty of beautiful handicrafts. Known as the Gateway to the Thar, it is also the entry point into this spectacular desert.
Udaipur is perhaps the most romantic of Rajasthan’s cities. Surrounded by the beautiful Aravalli hills, it is a city of serene lakes and grand palaces and also bustling side streets and colourful bazaars. Filled with a vibrant history and culture, it is certainly a must-see on a luxury holiday to India.
Rural Rajasthan is sometimes overlooked in favour of the more famous cities but away from the hustle and bustle you will find traditional villages, beautiful mountain retreats and of course the great Thar Desert. Walk with local herdsmen in search of leopards or of course visit the famous Ranthambore National Park to spot tigers, often found resting amongst the ruins that litter the park. It is these ruins that make the atmosphere in Ranthambore as the 10th century fort stands at the heart of the park, an amazing resting spot for the wildlife. This is a great spot for plenty of other wildlife too including striped hyenas, sloth bears, wild boar and many species of birds. Stay in ancient castles, desert camps, exclusive wildlife lodges or boutique hideaways in the hills The Rajasthan countryside is a lovely spot for some of the finest luxury hotels in India and we have handpicked the best.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
Taj Rambagh Palace – Jaipur
A spectacular heritage hotel in the heart of Jaipur. Dating back to 1835, this former royal residence is a stunning example of traditional regional craftsmanship with hand-carved lattice work. The 68 rooms and suites are spacious and bright, decorated with antiques but with modern amenities. The grandeur of the Raj is maintained with the Sivarna Mahal ballroom where guests can dine on fine cuisine or the Polo bar where signature cocktails are served. Relax in the gardens with afternoon tea, play a spot of croquet or enjoy the pool and spa with a selection of traditional treatments.
Dera Amer – Jaipur
Dera Amer is a beautiful wilderness camp in the foothills of the Aravalli mountain range. Surrounded by protected forest, it is a tranquil hideaway just 45 minutes from Jaipur. The camp features just four spacious tents, offering a comfortable and cosy retreat after a day on safari. Guests can encounter elephants, cows and camels at the camp, making this a particularly special spot. Guests can interact with the elephants, helping the mahouts to bathe and feed them. Enjoy walks to local villages and exploring on a jeep safari through the spectacular scenery.
Sujan The Serai – Jaisalmer
This ultra-luxe desert camp is set on a 100-acre private estate in the Thar Desert. It’s an oasis for rest and rejuvenation. As a Relais & Chateaux property, quality is inherent. The 21 tents combine simplicity with contemporary and elegant styles effortlessly. Built on sandstone plinths, each stylish tent is extremely spacious, and comes with its own covered lounge and luxurious en-suite. The Serai serves a delicious fusion of local and western delicacies using home-grown, fresh ingredients. Spend a heavenly afternoon beside the stunning main pool, or delight in the Raison d’Etre Spa.
Taj Lake Palace – Udaipur
The Taj Lake Palace is a gorgeous hotel situated in the middle of Lake Pichola. Dating back to 1746, it was built by a prince and has been beautifully restored. The white marble walls glow with the different light of the day and its easy to see how this has earned the reputation of one of the most romantic hotels in India. The 74 rooms and suites reflect the palace’s history, offering views over the lake to the hills or the city of Udaipur. Dine on Indian delicacies, admiring the view from the rooftop restaurant or private dining on a boat sailing across the lake.
Oberoi Udaivilas – Udaipur
Previously voted the best hotel in Asia, this hotel sits on the banks of Lake Pichola, a location where majesty and grandeur come to life. Designed as a royal palace, the courtyards, gardens, pools and architecture reflect the regal history of the local region. The Oberoi Spa will envelop you in serenity, and there is also a state-of-the art gym and two beautiful pools with gorgeous lake views. The hotel’s 90 rooms have terraces that open on to semi-private swimming pools and exquisite views. Décor is decidedly opulent and the expert chefs take great delight in creating fine cuisine.
RAAS Devigarh – near Udaipur
Much more than just a place to stay, RAAS Devigarh sets the bar for next-generation India. Nestled in the Aravali Hills, just 45 minutes away from Udaipur, this outstanding heritage property was completed in 1760 under the reign of Rajrana Sajja Singh II. Responsibly-updated, eco-minded, and environmentally- conscious, it meets the needs of the modern traveller, whilst remaining a stunning testament to the beauty, charm, and magic of old-world Rajputana. There are 39 unique suites, a range of dining options, plus some intimate bars for relaxation and a pool with a view.
Sujan Jawai – near Udaipur
Sujan Jawai is a luxury camp in an area renowned for leopards with an impressive and varied landscape of hills and winding sand riverbeds. The local Rajbari herdsman with their colourful red turbans are delighted to share their countryside and way of life with guests. The camp consists of 9 luxurious tents including a Royal suite and a 2 bedroom family suite which are spacious and well spread out offering privacy and seclusion. Game drives are obviously a highlight but take advantage of the Camp’s stunning swimming pool while yoga can be arranged in stunning locations.
Mihir Garh – Rohet
Once named as the world’s most extraordinary hotel by Lonely Planet magazine, Mihir Garh is an impressive property. This superb “Fortress of the Sun” overlooks the Thar desert, right in the heart of Rajasthan. Mihir Garh stands as a tribute to this land. It mirrors the architecture of the local villages, with its rounded edges, open fireplaces and alcoves, and the colour of the stone merges seamlessly with the surrounding sand. Each suite provides a unique place to relax, where luxurious appointments act as a foil to the mineral sand of the surrounding desert. A divine hotel.
Umaid Bhawan Palace – Jodhpur
Built between 1928 and 1943 and home to the former Jodphur royal family, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a magnificent piece of Rajasthan’s heritage, and a symbol of new Jodhpur, part of which has been converted to a hotel. Situated on the highest point in Jodphur, Chittar Hill, the hotel offers rooms and suites decorated in an art deco style with spectacular views of the city below. Dining here is particularly special, starting with the champagne breakfast and finishing with the Rajsthani thali. This is a stunning hotel in an amazing location.
RAAS Jodphur
RAAS Jodphur combines modern blue and rose sandstone blocks with an ancient haveli. Jaali-slashed shutters dapple geometric light across 40 elegant bedrooms and suites, furniture is custom-made rosewood, and all the mod cons are in place. The hotel sits in a big sunbowl beneath the Mehrangarh Fort. There’s a lovely big turquoise swimming pool with curtained loungers, a patchwork lawn-and-paving courtyard garden, waterfall-backed reception and a dedicated spa. There is fine dining at the Baradari restaurant, informal food at the Stepwell Cafe, or the Darikhana restaurant.
Oberoi Vanyavilhas – Ranthambore National Park
Located 10 minutes outside of Ranthambore NP the Oberoi Vanyavilhas is the perfect hotel from which to enjoy the splendours of Ranthambore. Set amongst verdant gardens, this is a gorgeous, luxury safari camp. The 25 tents feature large awnings, four-poster beds and standalone beds as well as modern temperature control. Facilities include a swimming pool, indulgent spa and restaurant serving fine cuisine. During the winter guests dine around a fire and in the summer, soak up the balmy evenings. Extras include cooking classes, yoga, cultural tours as well as wildlife walks.
Sher Bagh – Ranthambore Natonal Park
Sher Bagh is a very special camp. Its owners have played an active part in conservation projects in Ranthambore for over four decades. This camp is a true example of conscious luxury travel as it blends inspiring sustainability with a luxury style reminiscent of safaris in the times of the British Raj era. The 12 tents are hand stitched and offer cosy beds, teak furniture and ensuite bathrooms. The food is a combination of Anglo-Indian and European cuisine, using home grown ingredients from he camp’s farm. Guests can enjoy wonderful safaris and there is also a spa onsite.