Indian palace hotels fit for a king or queen on holiday

Built in 1792 as the pleasure palace to the Maharana Jagat Singh II, Taj Lake Palace now takes on the claim of being the most romantic hotel in the world. Given that Nicole Kidman refers to it as ‘magical’ and the hotel is set in the midst of Lake Pichola—completely secluded from everyday life, is a perfectly justified claim to fame.

Known as the Venice of the East, the city of Udaipur—with its resplendent palaces, serene lakes, intricate temples and immaculate gardens—has a lot to offer. If you are looking to relax you can also take advantage of the Jiva Spa boat for a trip out onto the lake where you can indulge in a massage followed by time in the onboard Jacuzzi.

Known as the ‘Jewel of Jaipur’, this elaborate 19th-century palace has been passed down through Indian royalty for many years. Notably, the palace ballroom, decorated in the French style with huge crystal chandeliers, is a decadent and delicious feast for the eyes and taste buds as it now hosts the hotel’s restaurant Suvarna Mahal.

Opt for a palace room for the utmost in luxury and comfort. Choose from a garden or inner courtyard view with 550 square feet of space all for you. The opulent Italian marble bathrooms will leave you feeling royally flushed, and you can make the most of the Bath Butler service to have an exquisite bath drawn for you to luxuriate in.

Another gem of Udaipur, the Shiv Niwas Palace offers 17 individually decorated suites overlooking the natural panorama of the surrounding city and lakes.  The history, luxury and impressive architecture of the palace combine to make a unique friendly atmosphere and guests can enjoy being treated just as the Maharaja himself would have expected.

The palace is often the host of large events such as weddings or film sets for anything from Hollywood to Bollywood, so you may find yourself an unexpected extra in a blockbuster whilst on your holiday.

Hailed as the ‘Abode of the Gods’, we’ve stepped up from royalty and now entered the realm of divinity and this hotel might just be heaven on Earth. What more could you ask for than incredible architecture, luxury amenities and splendid Mawari cuisine?

A peek inside the Royal Suites shows traditional decoration with plush red and gold tones, intricate mosaic tiles and deep stone baths. Whilst there you can take advantage of the classic car experience and enjoy the Rajasthani countryside.

The Oberoi Rajvillas is a stunning luxury retreat hidden away in more than thirty acres of meticulously landscaped gardens. Expect Mughal arches, gold leaf frescoes, crystal chandeliers and high domed ceilings. For drinking and dining choose between the Rajwada Library Bar, the Rah Mahal Indian restaurant, or the Suya Mahal for breakfast, snacks and afternoon tea.

Both rooms and suites are available but if you’re looking to splurge and steep yourself in the ultimate luxury experience then we suggest the Kohinoor Villa in its own private enclosure. The centrepiece of the villa is a 20-metre swimming pool overlooked by a private dining pavilion.

Epitomising 19^th century magnificence, the Taj Falaknuma Palace is a traditional white stone superstructure with interiors that take inspiration from the European style blended seamlessly with Indian hospitality and amenities.

The Nizam Suite, which is shaped like a scorpion, was once the abode of the world’s richest man. With ornate interiors, a private swimming pool and a spacious living area, you will have access to arguably the largest presidential suite in the country, alongside privileges such as having decadent creations served by the chef in the comfort of the suite.

Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur, Umaid Palace is a magnificent piece of Rajasthan’s heritage and is home to the Jodhpur Royal Family, currently the world’s sixth-largest private residence. The palace is set amongst 26 acres of lush gardens, complete with dancing peacocks and a subterranean zodiac pool.

The art deco style rooms appear both modern and classic all at once. The palace rooms are a feast for the senses and emanate luxury at every turn, whilst a historical suite offers a slightly more classic style of decoration with a seating area overlooking the lawn or courtyard.