Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan
Rajasthan has been the land of the Maharajas and their nobles.The legends that surround these dashing inhabitants have now passed into history-the mythical world of blood and blade,of battles won and of their undauted spirit.But it was not just the battlefield that brought out the best in these brave warriors they gave equal attention to their residence.While the princes built the stately palaces and forts in their states-their nobles were not far behind in building suitably impressive havelies which were in keeping with their status.
All of Rajasthan is dotted with these marvelous monuments,each one an outstanding example of our rich architectural heritage.Most of the palaces here are still being used by the erstwhile royal families;a few have sections converted into museums and hotels thus allowing to the tourist a glimpse into the lavish opulence which was part of the regal lifestyle.
The havelies not big enough to be rated as palaces,and too elaborate to be called ordinary palace of residence,out numbered the palaces and forts and these have remained with the nobles as their family homes.Almost every little village has havelie,the size and workmanship varying according to the status of the owner.
With the movement of the owners to bigger cities,quite a few of these havelies,the size started withering with-age the massive courtyards,the “Zenana Mahals” with murals,the carved balconies,the “mardana Baithak” where the nobles sat with visitors,period furniture and traditional decor-it was a world with its own charm and magic.With the growing tourism industry and the constant demand for something different and new for the tourist,the Heritage Hotels concept came on the scene.The tourist who looked for something other than the usual star category hotel,was delighted with the haveli.Within a couple of years,not only the number of Heritage Hotels has risen substantially but also these are booked well in advance invariably
- Hotel Merwara Estate , Ajmer
- Siliserh Palace Alwar
- Hotel Sariska Palace Alwar
- Gajner Palace, Gajner (near Bikaner)
- Udaivilas Palace,Dungarpur
- Narayan Niwas Palace Jaipur
- Raj Palace Jaipur
- Mandawa House Jaipur
- Ramgarh Lodge Jaipur
- Samode Palace
- Fort Neemrana Alwar
- Royal Castle Khimsar
- Rohet Garh Pali
- Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur
- Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur
- Jagmandir Island Palace Udaipur