Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Perched atop Chittar Hill, the highest elevation in Jodhpur, the Umaid Bhawan Palace stands as a magnificent testament to Rajasthan’s heritage. Constructed between 1928 and 1943, it ranks among the largest private residences globally and is recognized as India’s last truly magnificent palace. Currently, it remains the residence of the former royal family of Jodhpur, with part of this grand edifice converted into an opulent hotel where attentive butlers cater to guests as if they were personal visitors of the Maharaja. 

The palace features an expansive domed lobby adorned with the same exquisite marble found in the Taj Mahal, leading to 22 rooms and 42 suites, each reflecting the palace’s distinctive art deco aesthetic. 

Dining experiences at the Umaid Bhawan Palace are equally splendid, particularly at Risala, which offers Rajasthani thali dishes once reserved for the wealthiest of royalty. The open-air Pillars restaurant provides a more relaxed atmosphere with breathtaking views of the city and Mehrangarh Fort, while the royal champagne breakfast is an extravagant way to begin the day. The Trophy Bar offers a cozy ambiance for cocktails, cigars, and light snacks, and private dining can be arranged in various enchanting settings throughout the expansive grounds. 

After a day of exploring the Blue City, guests can return to the palace to relax in the Jiva Spa, refresh in the shimmering indoor pool, delve into the building’s history through guided tours, or engage in tennis and squash on the courts.