Umaid Bhawan Palace

India
Asia

The Experience

Sometimes called "India's Last Palace," the 347-room Umaid Bhawan Palace was indeed completed relatively late in the game--1944. This stunning royal residence stands in stark contrast to what many erroneously consider to be classic Indian architecture--that is, the Moghul tradition as typified by the Taj Mahal. Instead, architect Henry Lanchester looked back to Hindu temples--which predate the Moghuls' Muslim influence--then added his own dash of era-appropriate art deco. The result is one of the world's largest private residences--and certainly one of the most stunning. In 1972, a portion of the palace was converted to a luxury hotel, and it's been a favorite of dignitaries, celebrities and well-heeled honeymooners ever since.

The Rooms

Book one of the entry-level Deluxe rooms, and you'll spend a lot of time exploring the nearby attractions and wandering the sprawling, lush gardens. They've lovely, but not quite fit for a king. For a taste of the good life, upgrade to the Regal suites, which were original designed for visiting heads of state; or better yet, splash out on a Royal suite, which comes with a spacious living room and a private balcony overlooking the gardens. The top-end Maharani and Maharaja suites are exactly what you'd imagine--beyond words.

The Service

The moment you step into the domed foyer, you're greeted by a smiling staff bearing fresh flowers and juice--a ritual that will be repeated throughout your stay. It's not just the high expectations of Taj Hotels management, who have run the property since 1978; a formal but warm air is put forth by all staff members. Which is only appropriate--Jodhpur's current Maharaja, His Highness Gaj Singh II, still lives at one end of the palace with his family.

The Highlights

Though the museum gets mixed reviews by some visitors, don't skip the palace tour. More importantly, don't skip the underground Zodiac swimming pool, with its hand-painted walls and mosaic tiles; a steam room and private Jacuzzi are also available to all guests. Take your meals on the terrace, overlooking the gardens, and time your dinner according to the sunset--when the grounds become candlelit and the live traditional music starts up. Wine lovers are advised to put their palates and pocketbooks on hold--the selection is lacking and the prices are too high. Maybe try some champagne, but otherwise stick to cocktails.

 

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