Royal Abodes
Nine beautiful heritage palaces, each imbued with the Taj brand of hospitality, are offering guests the opportunity to be treated like royalty
December 2024 | 846 words | 4-minute read
Once a realm of numerous monarchies, India is dotted with beautiful palaces, many of which continue to bear witness to their storied past and rich history. Each of these hotels is the epitome of grandeur and splendour.
Indian Hotels Company is proud to offer its iconic brand of hospitality in nine such palaces around the country. The attraction of the elegant charm of a bygone world along with modern conveniences and the famed Taj brand of customer centric hospitality adds up to an unforgettable and unmatched experience of luxury in a setting that is the stuff of dreams.
Here is a glimpse of the nine palace hotels:
The Palace Experience
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur: The sight of the Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur, standing unruffled upon an island in the midst of the calm waters of Lake Pichola, can fill one with a sense of wonder. Arriving at the palace hotel on a boat, guests are swept off their feet, charmed by the architectural masterpiece, the opulent décor and the famed Taj customer service that makes one feel like royalty. (Slides 1-4)
Rambagh Palace, Jaipur: The residence of the former maharaja of Jaipur, Rambagh Palace is picture-perfect. The hotel, made of sandstone and marble, has been fitted with the best of Rajasthani art, culture and architecture, as seen in the wall carvings, the intricate wood detailing, the wooden and marble floors, and the furniture. (Slides 5-7)
Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur: A vision in shimmering gold, the property consists of 65 rooms and suites, each housing vintage artefacts, miniature paintings, crystal chandeliers and antique furniture. Stepping into this magnificent palace is like stepping into India’s glorious past. The hotel also offers stunning views of Lake Pichola and the majestic Aravalli mountains.
Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur: Showcasing the Rajput style of architecture, the Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur offers stunning views of the Man Sagar Lake and the Nahargarh hills. Built with sandstone, the hotel is surrounded by 18 acres of beautiful gardens. The hotel is close to local landmarks like the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal and City Palace.
Taj Nadesar Palace, Varanasi: Situated just 5 km from the Ganges, this is a beautiful palace hotel in Varanasi, one of India’s holiest pilgrimage sites. The grounds of the palace, built in 1782, are home to mango orchards amidst which peacocks roam. The rooms still contain the Maharaja’s own furniture and pieces from his extensive art collection. The walls are decorated in shades of jasmine and marigold, flowers which are traditionally offered at the river.
Sawai Man Mahal, Jaipur: Steeped in the richness of Rajputana culture and heritage blended with modern elegance, this hote's entrance is flanked by two antique cannons, a reminder of its royal lineage. It has 51 tastefully designed rooms, each with its own private courtyard. The hotel has been designed as a tribute to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, who was also Spain’s first ambassador. In his honour, the hotel’s restaurant is named La Mesa, while its al-fresco dining venue is the La Terraza.
Taj Usha Kiran Palace, Gwalior: Built by the Maharaja Jayaji Rao Scindia, this palace hotel is set in a nine-acre estate. Fifty rooms, including suites and luxury tents decorated with antique furnishings and historical artefacts, and evoking the history of Gwalior, await guests. The rooms are a work of art, with stone carvings and filigree work adding to their beauty. Local attractions include the Gwalior Fort, besides the Jai Vilas Palace, now a museum.