Rajasthan was home to some several princely states of varying sizes, status, prestige, and strength which merged into the union of India after indendence, before their merger with India, these states enjoyed nominal autonomy under the British and Mughal empires and often competed among themselves and against foreign invaders.
The region is, therefore, aptly named, the “land of Rajas”—Rajasthan. Famous for its opulent palaces, towering forts, and scenic beauty, this northern Indian state attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world.
A major attraction for tourists is the opportunity to enjoy a luxurious state at a former Rajasthani palace, fort, or Haveli.
Here is a list of the top 25 luxury fort and palace hotels in the state.
Contents
- 1. The Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
- 2. Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel, Jodhpur
- 3. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
- 4. Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur
- 5. Rajmahal Palace RAAS, Jaipur
- 6. Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
- 7. RAAS, Jodhpur
- 8. Samode Palace, Samode
- 9. Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur
- 10. Raas Devigarh, Udaipur
- 11. Tijara Fort-Palace – 19th Century, Alwar
- 12. Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner
- 13. Royal Heritage Haveli, Jaipur
- 14. Rawla Narlai Hotel, Kumbhalgarh
- 15. Six Senses Fort Hotel, Barwara
- 16. Brij Laxman Sagar, Pali, Raipur
- 17. Mihirgarh, Rohet, Jodhpur
- 18. Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur
- 19. Chanoudgarh Hotel, Pali
- 20. Alila Fort, Bishangarh
- 21. Ramathra Fort, Karauli, Eastern Rajasthan
- 22. The Raj Palace, Jaipur
- 23. Hotel Narain Niwas Palace, Jaipur
- 24. Amet Haveli, Udaipur
- 25. Pal Haveli, Jodhpur
1. The Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
The Rambagh Palace was the residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh in the early 20th century. It was originally built in the 1830s as a royal guest house and hunting lodge and later converted into a residential palace for the royal family.
This sprawling 47-acre heritage property now houses one of India’s greatest heritage 5-star palace hotels that has won TripAdvisor’s “Best Luxury Hotel in the World” award.
The Rambagh Palace has carved out a name for itself as the ultimate heritage palace hotel in India offering a level of hospitality that is unmatched and ranked among the best in the world.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5/10
Amenities: Exclusive royal butlers, spa, concierge services, polo bar, fine-dining restaurants, J Wellness Circle, Horse carriage rides, vintage car rides.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 770 per night per room.
2. Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel, Jodhpur
Jodhpur is affectionately known as India’s “Blue City” due to the traditional hue of blue color used to paint its old quarter. The Umaid Bhawan Palace is considered the last great palace of India’s bygone princely era that ended with the independence of India in 1947, and the merger of princely states in the Indian Union.
The Umaid Bhawan Palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh, in an architectural design that is a fusion of Hindustani, Mughal, Rajput, British Tudor, and Italian influences. Inaugurated in 1943, it took 15 years to build.
Nestled on Chittar Hill, the Umaid Bhawan gives you splendid views of the Blue City, the great Mehrangarh Fort, and the gargantuan Thar Desert that surrounds the region. Notable amenities at the Umaid Bawan include 70 deluxe rooms, a Zodiac Pool, a gym, a spa, and several specialty restaurants.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5/10
Amenities: J Wellness Circle Spa, Yoga, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, 24-hour business center, yoga facility, billiards and pool tables, squash courts, golf course.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 850 per night per room per night.
3. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
The Taj Lake Palace is one of Udaipur’s most recognizable historical attractions. Nestled in the middle of the serene Lake Pichola, this great palace was originally named Jag Niwas Palace and built in the 1740s as a summer escape for the royal family of the Kingdom of Mewar.
Now transformed into a luxury hotel, the Taj Lake Palace offers 65 deluxe rooms and luxury suites. Preserved in its original condition, it is the ultimate venue for you to get an authentic glimpse of the glorious Mewari royal lifestyle.
The Taj Lake Palace is located in the most romantic of all locations in Udaipur—the middle of the lovely Lake Pichola. Watching the sunset over the Aravalli hills and the city of Udaipur is a memorable experience.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5/10
Amenities: Romantic private boat rides in Lake Pichola, multiple specialty restaurants, swimming pool, spa, gym.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 750 per night per room.
4. Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur
The City Palace of Udaipur is one of Udaipur’s top attractions. The Taj Fateh Prakash Palace is located within the complex of the City Palace. It was added in the early 20th century and is named after the Maharana who commissioned it—Fateh Singh. The monarch built this palace as a venue for royal events and ceremonial gatherings.
The Taj Fateh Prakash Palace offers 65 rooms and suites and gives you unhindered views of the Aravalli Hills and Lake Pichola.
As a part of the City Palace Complex, you get the authentic experience of the royal Marwari life at the Taj Fateh Prakash Palace. Operated by the Taj Group of Hotels, one of India’s leading luxury hospitality names, you are guaranteed a high-class experience.
Our Expert Rating 9.5
Amenities: Bar, swimming pool, multiple dining options, spa.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 500 per night per room.
5. Rajmahal Palace RAAS, Jaipur
The Raj Mahal was built in 1729 when the capital of the Kingdom of Kacchwaha was moved from Amber to Jaipur and used as a royal palace by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh. Among the many accolades of this historical fort is that it has hosted the Queen of England and the Duke of Edinburgh.
Now operated by the RAAS network, this palace offers 13 Art-Deco-themed rooms, tastefully decorated with vintage furniture from the royal collection. The property has a splendid specialty restaurant, an excellent spa, and many other amenities.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5
Amenities: Bar, Spa, Swimming pool, two restaurants, vintage car rides.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
6. Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Jai Mahal became the residence of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom when a new capital was built, shifting the administrative center away from Amber to what is now Jaipur. Sprawling in 18 acres of manicured traditionally designed gardens, the construction of Jail Mahal was completed in 1745.
Jai Mahal is located in the heart of the city in Civil Lines. If you are looking for accommodation that is centrally located in proximity to major attractions in the old city, the Jai Mahal is a good option.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5
Amenities: Spa, Sauna, fitness center, heritage deluxe rooms and suites.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 400 per night per room.
7. RAAS, Jodhpur
The RAAS Jodhpur is located in the shadow of Mehrangarh Fort—a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of India’s most famous ancient forts. From its courtyard, you get excellent views of the fort. The design of RAAS is modeled after old Havelis, with four standalone blocks built around a rectangular courtyard.
Jodhpur is one of the most picturesque and photogenic parts of Rajasthan. RAAS is one of the city’s finest heritage hotels.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Spa, Salon, Swimming pool, gift shop.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
8. Samode Palace, Samode
A fine exhibit of Indo-Saracenic architecture, the Samode Haveli was built 480 years ago, and is a great blend of ancient heritage and modern luxury. Over the centuries, this palace has hosted princes, kings, noblemen and statesmen.
Operated by the Samode Group that runs a string of some fine heritage properties owned by the Samode rulers. It is located in the small village of Samode in Chomu Rajasthan. With its exquisite location in a small valley surrounded by lush green hills, you get splendid serenity and peace.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Spa, guided village tours, hikes, Swimming pool, fitness center.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
9. Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur
The Shiv Niwas Palace is located only 300 meters from the City Palace. It was built in the early 20th century during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh. Now operated by the HRH Group of Hotels, this palace hotel offers a world-class spa, a wellness center, a large outdoor swimming pool, and plenty of other amenities, making it a great blend of contemporary luxury and ancient heritage.
As the former residence of the rule of Udaipur, you are living off as a Maharana in this luxury hotel that has had the privilege of hosting the Prince of Wales and King George V in 1905.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Spa, Swimming pool, fitness center.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 700 per night per room.
10. Raas Devigarh, Udaipur
The RAAS is located on the top of a hill in the Devigarh hamlet in the Aravalli Hills, half an hour’s drive from the city center in Udaipur. The property was built in the 18th century and has still preserved its ancient elements—arches, turrets, swings, Marwari Horse Mural, and antique items dating back over 200 years.
With state-of-the-art facilities like deluxe rooms and suites, hot tubs, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a yoga center, and a spa, the RAAS Devigarh is a great retreat tucked away in pristine isolation from the hustle and touristy rush of downtown Udaipur.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Yoga facility, fitness center, swimming pool, guided city tours.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 365 per night per room.
11. Tijara Fort-Palace – 19th Century, Alwar
Located 150km north of the capital Jaipur, the region of Alwar is famous for its Rajpur warrior values, grand forts, and palaces. The Tijara Fort-Palace Hotel, operated by the Neemrana Hotels is housed in a 19th-century property. Located on top of a hill, the Tijara Fort boasts seven terraced gardens, perched at varying tiers, modeled after the legendary seven hanging gardens of Babylon. You get the splendid views of the Alwar landscape.
The stunning Tijara Fort Palace offers 101 units (rooms, suites) decorated in the royal Alwar theme. Tijara falls a mere 2.5-3 hours drive from Delhi, and is, therefore, an excellent weekend getaway from the capital.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Multiple dining options, spa, gym, swimming pool.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 200 per night per room.
12. Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner
The Narendra Bhawan is a boutique design hotel that is located within the premises of the grand palace complex of Bikander. It was built by the last reigning ruler, the late Maharaja Narendra Singh. It lies only 4 km from the Bikaner Railway Station.
Aside from being an excellent heritage palace hotel, the Narendra Bhawan is also a museum of sorts, cataloging the life and time of the Maharaja, with memorabilia from his times and travels carefully preserved and showcased. You cannot miss the impact the Art Deco movement had on the Maharaja’s aesthetic style, with the dark inviting caverns, splendid velveteen fabrics, peals, chiffons, and chic style of the palace.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Guided city tour of Bikaner, Spa, gym, business center, swimming pool.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 180 per night per room.
13. Royal Heritage Haveli, Jaipur
The Royal Heritage Haveli was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Madho Singh II. Now a boutique heritage hotel that prides itself on its painstakingly restored 250-year-old heritage, it is run by the niece of the Maharaja of Jaipur, Angelique. Known for their hospitality and warmth, she and her husband Pradip make sure that this property gives guests a glimpse of the glory of the past.
With 19 suites, sprawling lawns, beautiful courtyards, plush interiors, and stately living areas, the Royal Heritage Haveli is a splendid heritage stay.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: In-house fine dining, swimming pool, spa, gym.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 290 per night per room.
14. Rawla Narlai Hotel, Kumbhalgarh
This splendid property is located in the ancient village of Narlai in the Aravalli hills, in what used to be a 17th-century “Country Manor” which has been painstakingly restored to its original condition. It is a cozy and stylish boutique hotel with a quaint old-world vibe.
Rawla Narlai is noted not just for its chic quaint aesthetics but also for its leopard safaris. It lies in the hills between Udaipur and Jodhpur in a terrain that is also home to a large population of Indian leopards.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Swimming pool, gym, fitness center, wellness spa.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 355 per night per room.
15. Six Senses Fort Hotel, Barwara
The Six Senses Luxury Hotel and Resort is another of Rajasthan’s famous heritage stays. Barwara is an ancient part of the state. The fort dates back to the 14th century and was constructed by the then-royal family of Barwara.
Still owned by the descendants of the royal family, the property is now operated as a luxury hotel by the reputable Six Senses For. It overlooks the scenic Barwara Lake and the famous historical Chauth ka Barwara Mandir (temple). The fort is located a mere 30-minute drive from the Ranthambore National Park, so you get the option of going on a tiger-spotting safari as well.
What could be better than enjoying high-end traditional opulence in a seven-hundred-year-old royal fort-residence? It has everything you need: a sauna, an outdoor swimming pool, a yoga pavilion, a modern fitness center, several dining options, and the excellent Swedana Spa, offering Ayurveda and European massage therapies and treatments.
Our Expert Ranking: 8.5/10
Amenities: 700 year old fort, sauna, swimming pool, spa, yoga pavilion, multiple restaurants.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 1500 per night per room.
16. Brij Laxman Sagar, Pali, Raipur
The Brij Laxman Sagar was built in the 19th century as a hunting lodge by the Thakur of Raipur and is located 6 km from the famous fort of Raipur. Located in the badlands of Rajasthan and sprawling over 32 acres, this heritage hotel, meticulously preserved, offers 12 elegantly designed cottages built in the traditional Pali style.
The Brij Laxman is an oasis in the rugged countryside with its serene gardens and pools. Its hand-carved outdoor swimming pool on the edge of a cliff is an absolute joy. The property also has an excellent Wellness Spa and a yoga pavilion.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Yoga pavilion, wellness spa, cliffside outdoor pool.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 450 per night per room.
17. Mihirgarh, Rohet, Jodhpur
Mihir Gar (which means “the fortress of the sun”) is the picturesque countryside of the Mewar region. This small and intimate resort in the village has been designed by a couple Sidhart Singh and Rashmi, who belong to the region. Tastefully decorated with rural-themed artifacts, traditional furniture, and modern amenities, the Mihirgarh offers only 8 villas.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
One of the biggest attractions of this property is its amazing stable that is home to some fine Mewari horses—the finest breed in all of Rajasthani. And, of course, you can go horseback riding in the countryside.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Swimming pool, spa, horseback riding, birdwatching, guided village tours.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 380 per night per room.
18. Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur
What is now the Ajit Bhawan luxury hotel used to be the residence of the Prime Minister of the Maharaja of Jodhpur. It is ideally located in the middle of the Mehrangarh Fort and the Umaid Bhawan Palace—the erstwhile residence of the royal family.
Built in 1927, the Ajeet Bhawan Palace is an integral part of Jodhpur’s history. As the custodian of the state’s royal heritage, the Ajit Bhawan Palace makes sure that you are looked after well—like a royal guest.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Fitness center, guided city tours, guided Mehrangarh tours, Swimming pool.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 250 per night per room.
19. Chanoudgarh Hotel, Pali
The Chanoudgarh Hotel is housed in a magnificent 300-year-old fort palace in an oasis tucked away in the vast expanse of the mighty Thar Desert. It is located in the oasis of Chanoudgarh in Parl in the foothills of Aravalli Hills in what used to be the land of the Kingdom of Marwar of Mertia Rajput.
Run by Thakur Ajeet Singhji, the Chanoudgarh Hotel offers plush spacious rooms, landscaped lawns, delicious Rajasthani cuisine, and a large collection of Rajput warrior antiques and memorabilia. It also offers guided tours to Chanoud Lake, the famous stepwells (Balwdi), and the Chanoud Garh Fort.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Rooftop terrace, horseback riding, multiple dining options.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 370 per night per room.
20. Alila Fort, Bishangarh
The Bishangarh Fort was constructed in the late 19th century in the Aravalli Hills to serve as a bulwark against foreign invasions into the Kingdom of Mewar. This historical fort is now home to a luxury resort operated by Alila Group that provides high-end luxury. It is the region’s only heritage fort. It offers you a great opportunity to spend time in the Mewari countryside and explore the outback.
Restored to its original condition, the Alila Fort combines modern luxury with traditional charm. If you love remote rural regions and still want to enjoy a heritage experience, the Alila Fort in Bishangarh is a good option to look at.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Spa, swimming pool, fine dining restaurant, gym, guided heritage tours.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 300 per night per room.
21. Ramathra Fort, Karauli, Eastern Rajasthan
The Ramathra region lies halfway between Agra and Jaipur. Unlike much of Rajasthan which is arid and barren, this eastern part of the state irrigated by the Kalisil River, is known for its farming and green villages.
The Ramathra Fort was constructed 350 years ago. It protected the fiefdom of Thakur Brijendar Pal, the son of Maharaja of Karauli.
With its location on a hilltop, the Ramathra Fort offers great views of the Kalisil Lake and the surrounding countryside of the Daang plateau. This heritage hotel also offers guided night safaris, village walks, boating, sailing, kayaking, wildlife and birdwatching tours.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Swimming pool, spa, boatrides, guided tours.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 170 per night per room.
22. The Raj Palace, Jaipur
Originally named the Chaumoo Haveli, the Raj Palace was built in 1727—the same year the capital was founded—making it one of the oldest buildings in Jaipur. It lies in the heart of the old city. It was converted into a luxury palace hotel in 1996 by Princess Jayendra Kumari, the Maharani of Chaumoo.
With its ideal location close to the City Palace Complex, Jaigarh Fort, and the Nahargarh Fort, the Raj Palace is a great place to live in the middle of the action in Jaipur and soak in the vibes of the royal city.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Spa, swimming pool, fitness center, multiple restaurants.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
23. Hotel Narain Niwas Palace, Jaipur
The Narain Niwas Palace was built in 1928 by General Amar Sing, the then Thakur of Kanota. Unlike other palaces of Rajasthan that are built in an Indo-Saracenic tradition, the Narain Niwas is a blend of Indo-Saracenic and Anglo-Indian traditions.
The property has preserved the legacy of the Konata royalty with its vintage furniture, painted wall décor, and plush interiors. It offers 16 suites and 26 rooms adorned with decorations from a bygone era.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Guided heritage walk, bespoke shopping tours, swimming pool, gym, spa.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 150 per night per room.
24. Amet Haveli, Udaipur
The Amet Haveli was built in the 173os during the reign of Maharana Jagat Singh II. When the Lake Palace was being built in the middle of Lake Pichola, the construction material and marble were ferried from the spot where now the Amet Haveli stands. Afterwards, a Haveli was built, where the Maharani spent his evening. Later it was given as a gift to the nobleman Amet Singh.
As the twin sister of the Lake Palace, the Amet Haveli is a part of Udaipur’s history and heritage. An old-fashioned Udaipuri haveli to enjoy a quiet time on the banks of serene Pichola Lake.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Open air dining, Lake Pichola-facing rooms, boatrides.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 140 per night per room.
25. Pal Haveli, Jodhpur
The Pal Haveli was built by Thakur Umaid Karan Ji and is nestled in the shadow of the Mehrangarh Fort. The Thakur family of Rathore Rajput were the top officials at the royal court of Jodhpur.
The Pal Haveli is a part of Jodhpur history and a proud custodian of the noble heritage of the Thakur family that prides itself on its Rathore values of valor and commitment to the and. Its ideal location, a mere 100 meters from the Clock Tower of Jodhpur, allows you to explore the key attractions of the city on foot.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: In-house restaurant, guided city tours.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 100 per night per room.
