Centuries of culture, a bucket full of traditions, tens of royal homes and an expanse of history. The royal city of Jaipur has held one of the most iconic spots in India’s history for thousands of years and seen a multitude of civilisations.
Situated in this beautiful pink city of Jaipur is a little gem, The Rajmahal Palace. Helmed by the Suján Group and adopted by Relais & Chateaux, this property has an unmatched history, making it one of the most special palaces of the royal family.
Home to the Maharaja of Jaipur, this breath-taking royal palace is located at the heart of Rajasthan’s bustling capital in an area called C-Scheme. Expansive verdant gardens, the most wondrous colour palette and a true repository of a celebrated history. Conceived by H.H Sawai Jai Singh II as a private palace, a garden retreat, built for his beloved wife, Chandra Kanwar Ranawatji, the daughter of the Maharana of Mewar, Rajmahal Palace has stood witness to over two hundred and fifty years of history.
Over the decades this remarkable Palace has hosted Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, as well as several other members of the British Royal Family, and eminent international celebrities such as Jackie Kennedy, Lord and Lady Mountbatten, and the Shah of Iran.
Tall bay windows, mirrored doors and meticulously appointed interiors allow guests to be transported to a new era of 21st century regal living.
When I walked into the palace for the very first time, my heartbeat stopped and I gasped in awe of what had stood the test of time and still looked ever so pristine, but unable to process that this lay in the centre of Jaipur city. Being treated like an absolute royal from the moment I arrived, I was received with the traditional tilak on my forehead and a little welcome drink.
After being given a personalised royal tour of the property I made my way to my room and boy, I was in for the treat of my life! I was put up in a room called ‘Sukh Niwas 1’ and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Beige tunes with interesting Indian prints, the ideal amount of fresh light and the most picturesque verandah. Every room of this 14-suite palace is completely different from the other, offering a fresh and enchanting experience to its guests at every visit.
Marble detailing, state of the art bedding, impeccable furnishings and art in every corner. I was then shown some of the more luxurious suites of the property, each one better than the last. Well informed staff, courteous service and a complete homely feel had me set for my stay.
The restaurants in the property offer some of some most authentic and honest food, truly cementing their knowledge of flavour. Their Indian restaurant, Fifty Shades of Pink orchestrated the most beautiful Rajasthani meal for lunch. Because I was visiting in November, the weather was kind and I enjoyed a high tea experience seated in the royal gardens. The Polo Bar made for a great nook to sip on some cocktails before we made our way to The Colonnade for dinner. Faithful European food layered our tongues while we rejoiced in the thought of experience this marvel.
The next morning, I headed to the Suján Spa after which I checked out and made my way to my next adventure in the city.
With a treasure trove of luxury in my heart, the Sujan Rajmahal Palace has dug a niche in my heart like no other hotel has. It stands to be one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.
Written By Priyanka Agarwal
Week 20, May ’19
