Jaipur Hotel Guide - 5 places to stay
After 25 years travelling to Jaipur, the thing I get asked most by friend and customers is to share my recommendations on where to stay, shop and visit as a 'first timer' in India. I have written my '48-hours in Jaipur' itinerary, designed for those who have never visited the Pink City before, but I also thought I would share some of my favourite hotels across a range of pricepoints. I've tried to include stays for design lovers, those who want an authentic heritage 'haveli' experience, as well as some real treats that would be perfect for a honeymoon or special trip.
The hottest stay in town - The Villa Palladio, Jaipur is the new outpost from the Narain Niwas Palace hotel, the home of the famous Bar Palladio from Dutch designer, Marie-Anne Oudejans.
Oudejans has worked her pigmented-magic on The Villa Palladio with a pop of red running through the inside and outside spaces, in candy stripes and traditional Rajasthani wall art.
Set in a lush country estate it is only a 20-mins drive from the hustle and bustle of the city, truly the best of both worlds.
The Alsisar Haveli, Jaipur is somewhere I've stayed multiple times on work trips and keep being drawn back. A simple arch on a busy main road is a portal into a beautiful courtyard with pool, terraces and spa. The traditional haveli is sprawling and has a faded old-school glamour about it. There is live music in the candle-lit courtyard in the evenings and the rooms are some of the most spacious I've stayed in on a mid-price budget.
Nestled in the Pink City's historic jeweller's bazaar, The Johri, Jaipur couldn't be more in the 'thick of things' but still feels like a cossetting sanctuary. The lovingly restored 19th century house is a haven within the city walls. Boutique in size (there are only 5 suites) it always feels intimate, with a high level of service and attention to detail.
Built in the 18th century as the palatial home of His Highness Madho Singh the II of Jaipur, Royal Heritage Haveli, Jaipur is now owned by Maharaj Jai Singh of Jaipur and the heritage haveli has been opened to the public as a hotel for the first time in 250 years.
Complete with rambling lawns, serene courtyards, plush interiors and stately living areas, you get a true 'Maharaj' experience, with 19 discreet, tranquil suites in this haven of discerning luxury.
If you are truly looking to escape the city, the Samode Palace, Jaipur is one of my favourite 'getaway' locations. Set nestled in the Aravalli mountain range, there is no need to leave. With rambling grounds, pools, spa and multiple courtyards and shady terraces to relax and retreat. The highlight for me is the 475-year old palace's Durbar Hall, an incredible example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
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