Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur, has been recently taken over by RAAS Hotels, transformed, possibly even surpassing its former glory, and is one of India’s most stylish boutique hotels. Moving away from the more expected ‘heritage décor’, it has contemporary, colourful, flamboyant interiors. Stunning wallpapers inspired by royal palace tradition, ceilings and furnishings give an instant ‘wow’ factor wherever you wander. With a wonderfully central location, expansive grounds and beautiful gardens – ideal for parties – this little gem is a fabulous addition to the top end of the Jaipur hotel scene. Redolent with history, and having been visited by the great and the good, it was originally built in 1729 by the Maharaja of Jaipur, and in 1821 became the official residence of the British Resident. In 1958 HH Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II then chose it as his private residence.

Now run by RAAS in their inimitable style, it has re-opened its majestic doors to guests and is replete with a stunning original marble staircase, intricate chandeliers and mirrored ceilings, not to mention walls adorned with some of the most beautiful wallpaper to be seen – almost like art in itself, it makes you want to stroke it! The combination of traditional royal motifs, classic architecture and the designer’s modern sensibility has culminated in a colour palette of soft pastels and an eclectic sense of style. The drawing room demonstrates opulence at its best with rich, sensuous fabrics, family photographs and unique artefacts. The various dining rooms and bar contrast dramatically and have stunning, bright colour themes that simply make you smile. Sweet smelling flower arrangements greet you throughout and the gardens and pool are equally as pretty and easy on the eye, both by day and by night.

With just 13 spacious rooms and suites, as well as two gorgeous Royal Apartments which, just as they once were, really are fit for a king, it retains the intimacy and exclusivity for which it has always been known. The suites all vary in design and décor and each is beautiful in different ways, with either pastel colours, more ‘male’ colours or subtly fun and colourful. All are exquisite and there’s a suite to suit all tastes. Nothing is left to chance here, with the eye for detail and the ‘finish’ of everything being exemplary. Whether you stay here to explore Jaipur, to enjoy the excellent spa, to dine on superb cuisine (excellence and deliciousness abound here) at any of the stunning and varied restaurants or in your private tented pavilion in the gardens, you will come away with memories of excellence and perfection. Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur offers a level of sophistication and style rarely found.