Immerse your five senses in a royal palace resort vacation in India

By Wei Ruyi, compiled and reported     Source / Monocle Editorial Department

February and March are ideal times to visit India—not too hot, not too cold. If you're tired of the modern architectural vibe, why not plan a trip to India? Experience a sensory transformation and enjoy the unique ambiance of residing in an Indian royal palace in a whole new setting!

Opened in 2006, Shiv Vilas is located on the outskirts, about 15 kilometers from Jaipur city center, along the road from Delhi to Jaipur. Spanning 21 hectares, its architecture draws inspiration from three iconic sites in India: a marble and red sandstone water channel reminiscent of the Taj Mahal, a building façade crafted from pink sandstone modeled after the City Palace Museum in Jaipur, and interior decorations inspired by Amber Fort. From the outside in, every detail exudes luxury. The hotel’s lofty lobby floor is adorned with inlaid hard stone, while life-like marble female musician statues stand elegantly, and the ceiling is painted with European-style masterpieces under dazzling chandeliers—blending Eastern and Western styles. The guest rooms are equally opulent, complemented by modern furnishings that evoke a colonial-era charm. The Indian restaurant named “Sheesh Mahal” (Mirror Hall) is the most beautiful dining venue at Shiv Vilas, where the inlaid stone flooring and ceiling mirrors playfully interact. Additionally, the gold-colored paintings found anywhere in the hotel—from floors to paintings to walls—are all made using real gold pigment. Upon closer look, the portraits on the walls and the ornaments worn by royalty are genuine semi-precious or precious gemstones.

Another option is the Rambagh Palace, which was once a genuine royal palace in Rajasthan, India. Built in 1835 as a countryside hunting lodge for royalty, it was converted into the Maharaja of Jaipur’s palace in 1925 and transformed into India’s first royal palace hotel in 1957. It has hosted celebrities such as Britain’s Prince Charles and renowned actor Omar Sharif. The palace combines Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, with guest rooms facing inner courtyards featuring fountains and gardens. Over 100 royal suites are divided into four types, including heritage suites decorated with marble floors, traditional Rajasthani artworks, and textiles. The restaurants are also distinctive—Suvarna Mahal is an Indian restaurant infused with Italian Renaissance flair, highlighted by its original Florentine-style ceiling murals and mirrors. In addition, the former steam train car converted into a dining car is a fascinating and popular feature among guests.

[Accommodation Information]

Shiv Vilas website: www.shiv-vilas.in

Rambagh Palace website: www.tajhotels.com