These 7 palaces-turned-hotels in Rajasthan allow guests to live like royalty

Throw a stone in Rajasthan and you'll probably hit a palace. The state; once home to many royal dynasties, continues to house an astronomically high number of palaces till date. Although monarchy rule officially ended in India, the treasures; which are their palaces, have remained upright. Today, many of these marvellous creations have been converted into hotels which allow guests to enjoy palatial luxury in the most regal manner. Among them stand these 7 royal palace hotels which feature their signature intricate architecture and breathtaking interiors, along with generous hospitality of a hotel.

1. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur sits high above the blue city surrounded by 26-acres of gardens as part of Mehrengarh Fort. A part of the palace is now managed by the Taj group of hotels, while the royal family of Jodhpur resides in the other portion, earning it a spot as one of the world's largest private homes. The palace is an awe-inspiring work of architecture with 347 rooms. Built between 1928 and 1943, the architecture of the palace is a fusion of Indo-Saracenic and classic regal styles with Western art-deco thrown into the mix. 

2. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Once a residence of Maharani Gayatri Devi, Rambagh Palace in Jaipur; built in 1835, was originally intended to be the home of the queen's favourite handmaiden. Later, the palace also served as a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge before becoming one of the most coveted stays in India. The 47-acre property was converted by the Taj group into a royal hotel that is synonymous with luxury. The palace is adorned with hand-carved marble latticework, sandstone balustrades, and lush Mughal gardens, merging Indian heritage and royal history for guests of the hotel.  

3. Udai Bilas Palace, Dungarpur, Udaipur

Built in the 19th century by Maharawal Udai Singhji II, the palace stands tall in the city of lakes, the erstwhile capital of the Mewar dynasty of Udaipur. While the palace retains most of what it originally was, it is now resplendent with art deco interiors to add a contemporary touch to its heritage. Owned by the Oberoi group of hotels, Udaivilas is spread over 30 acres of luxuriant gardens, with an intricate layout of interconnecting domes and corridors which speaks of royalty with every curve. 

4. Samode Palace, Jaipur

Samode Palace is nestled in the Aravalli mountain range just outside of Jaipur. The palace allows one to indulge in the royal stay with a chance to traipse through the wildlife sanctuary to enjoy the best of what nature has to offer. The Rajputana palace is built in sandstone and is believed to be nearly 475-years-old. The architecture of the palace is an amalgamation of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles and was converted into the exquisite palace it is today under the rule of nobleman Rawal Berisal, who served as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan in the 19th century. 

5. Gogunda Palace, Udaipur

Constructed as part of a war strategy in the 16th Century, Gogunda Palace was the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, ruled by one of the greatest Rajput kings, Maharana Pratap Singh. The palace is only 25 kilometres away from Udaipur. The medieval Mewari architecture shines through the palace's original flooring, murals, woodwork, and external structures, making it a history aficionado's paradise. When it comes to accommodation, the palace allows one to stay in the Raj Tilak suite, where royal coronations used to take place. 

6. Rajmahal Palace, RAAS Jaipur

Rajmahal Palace, originally built in the 19th century, is a regal retreat in Jaipur city that has a past of hosting many royals within its walls. Rajmahal Palace offers 13 rooms and suites, including two spectacular Royal Apartments. Each room is a blend of classically royal luxury and contemporary comfort, resulting in a perfect example of Indian Art Deco. The palace has magnificent gardens surrounding the main building and a gorgeous swimming pool flanked by fountains. Along with Rambagh Palace, Maharaja Sawai Man ‘Jai’ Singh and Maharani Gayatri Devi also resided at the Rajmahal Palace for a while. 

7. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Situated by Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Taj Lake Palace is a fairy tale-esque stay in the city of lakes. The palace's architecture marries Mughal and Rajasthani designs, creating something so beautiful, it is desired and envied by many. The palace features intricate carvings, delicate filigree work, ornate balconies, and elegant arches laid out in a symmetrical manner with domes and cupolas, evoking a sense of regal splendour. Mirror work and stained glass windows characterise the breathtaking interior.