BACKGROUND

The last palace of a maharaja built in India, Umaid Bhawan was designed by Henry Vaughan Lanchester in the beaux arts style and completed in 1943. It was commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh Jee to give work to Jodhpur'€™s people during a long period of drought and famine. It's also the home of incumbent Maharaja Gaj Singh Jee, who has given over part of the palace to the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces to run as a hotel.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

You'€™re not entering a hotel, but a subcontinental Buckingham Palace. Lines of pillars and a symmetrical layout centered on a grand lounge with a spectacular dome leave one in awe. It's neo-classical opulence meets art deco and lavish gilded gold bric-a-brac, large mirrors and ancestral paintings are commonplace. Class and hospitality merge with ease.

THE VIEW

Nestled on the top of Chittar Hill, the highest vantage point in Jodhpur; Umaid Bhawan Palace has a direct view of the mesmerizing Blue City and the majestic Mehrangarh Fort.

ROOM RUNDOWN

Sixty-four suites in six categories. Historical suites, where royal visitors once resided, are 102 square meters and done in gorgeous art deco. Suites have private sit outs that have amazing views of well-manicured lawns and courtyards. Modern amenities include a pillow menu as well as unique bath menu.

EAT

On offer are a bar, a gorgeous alfresco restaurant and Risala fine dining. Adorned with royal and martial portraits, Risala serves excellent Indian fusions with fresh local ingredients.

TAKE FIVE

Go to Jiva Spa for signature treatments borrowed from royal traditions and ancient Indian spiritual remedies. Enjoy the sparkling indoor subterranean Zodiac Pool, beautifully decorated and depicting the 12 zodiacs in serene dimly light.

VERDICT

Perfect for honeymooners or those who enjoys the finer things in life'€“and definitely for the well heeled. However, those that stay will find the experience more than worth it.

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Highlights

Staying in a real palace, where you can be royal for a day.

Rooms

64 rooms and suites done in art deco style.

Price

From US$352

Contact

Umaid Bhawan Palace

Jodhpur 342 006

Rajasthan, India

Tel: +91 291 251 0101

tajhotels.com

'œ“ Free wi-fi

'œ“ Fine-dining restaurant

'œ“ Bar

'œ“ Spa and fitness center

'œ“ Champagne heritage walk

'œ“ Billiards room

'œ“ Indoor and outdoor pools

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