Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur

Hotel review

Fit for a king, literally! Rajmahal Palace was once home to the Royal family, they lived in the palace for twelve years. Dating back to 1729 this retreat was originally set in the countryside but given the growth of Jaipur, it is now well within the centre of the city, less than 15 minutes' drive from the walled city. The interiors (by acclaimed designer Adil Ahmad) are a feast for the eyes, but won't be to everyone's taste. Each room and suite has a massive bed and is named after a former famous guest (e.g. Maharaja Suite); all are decorated in bold, contrasting colours including reds, pinks, oranges and greens. The marble bathrooms are huge with shower and bath, body and bath products and cotton dressing gowns. It's worth noting that none of the bedrooms have windows, though this really doen't take away from the magical experience. Symmetry is evident throughout the palace with fake doors and mirrors in place to ensure this continues in all of the bedrooms and bathrooms.

Afternoon Tea in the 51 Shades of Pink room is a must, or perhaps on the terrace overlooking the croquet lawn and grass tennis courts. Dining at Rajmahal is a treat with a multi-national menu including Indian, British and Thai food with most of the organic ingredients coming directly from the hotel garden. You can enjoy a candlelit dinner in the beautiful Colonnade dining room overlooking the garden or in the garden itself with your own fire pit. Breakfast is à la carte with a fantastic choice of Indian specialties and the usual suspects including porridge, eggs benedict, omelettes and even baked beans on toast. The pool is an idyllic spot, with a sonorous fountain and comfy sun loungers, baskets filled with towels, and umbrellas.

Rajmahal Palace is a welcome oasis in a sprawling, chaotic city and possibly the best luxury hotel in Jaipur, certainly one of the quietest.

Lulu Townsend Review published: 21/10/2024