Written/Compiled by Wei Ruyi & Reported Source/Mook Editorial Department
February and March are great times to visit India—not too hot, not too cold. If you’re tired of modern architecture and urban vibes, why not plan a trip to India? Experience a sensory shift and enjoy staying in an Indian palace in a whole new setting.
Marble, intricate wood carvings, and tasteful furnishings create the refined ambiance of royal Indian living. (Image provided by Mook Editorial Department)
Opened in 2006, Shiv Vilas is located in a suburban area 15 kilometers from Jaipur’s city center, situated along the road from Delhi to Jaipur. Covering 21 hectares, its architecture draws inspiration from three iconic Indian landmarks: a marble and red sandstone fountain channel inspired by the Taj Mahal, a facade carved from pink sandstone modeled after the City Palace Museum in Jaipur, and interior decorations referencing Amber Fort. From the outside in, the property exudes luxury. The lobby’s high ceilings feature inlaid hardstone floors, life-like marble female musician statues, and chandeliers hanging beneath ceilings painted with replicas of European masterpieces—a fusion of Eastern and Western styles. Guest rooms are equally opulent, furnished with modern pieces yet retaining a colonial-era charm. The Indian restaurant, named “Sheesh Mahal” (Mirror Hall), is the most beautiful dining spot in Shiv Vilas, where inlaid stone floors playfully reflect the ceiling’s mirrored panels. Moreover, every gold-painted detail—on floors, paintings, or walls—is made using real gold pigment. Upon closer inspection, the portraits on the walls and the decorations worn by the maharajas are genuine semi-precious or precious stones.
This recreated palace luxury hotel took five years to build as a “modern palace.” The American designer alone spent two years researching the historical palaces and castle architecture of Rajasthan. (Image provided by Mook Editorial Department)
Another option, Rambagh Palace, was once a bona fide Indian royal palace in Rajasthan. Originally built in 1835 as a countryside hunting lodge for royalty, it was transformed into the Jaipur Maharaja’s palace in 1925 and converted into India’s first palace hotel in 1957. It has hosted celebrities such as Britain’s Prince Charles and the famous actor Omar Sharif. The palace blends Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, with guest rooms overlooking courtyards adorned with fountains and gardens. Its over 100 royal suites are divided into four types, including heritage suites featuring marble floors, traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, and textiles. The restaurants are also distinctive—Suvarna Mahal is an Indian restaurant infused with Italian Renaissance flair, notable for its original Florentine-style ceiling murals and mirrors. Another highlight is the charming and popular train restaurant, created from a restored vintage steam locomotive.
Rambagh Palace is famed for its celebrity guests. (Image provided by Mook Editorial Department)
[Accommodation Information]
Shiv Vilas website: www.shiv-vilas.in
Rambagh Palace website: www.tajhotels.com