7 Indian palaces you didn’t know you could stay in…

Built in 1792 as the pleasure palace to the Maharana Jagat Singh II, Taj Lake Palace is now known as the world’s most romantic hotel. Celebrities such as Nicole Kidman lovingly refer to the hotel as ‘magical’ and when you consider the location ensures complete privacy in the midst of Lake Pichola – it’s a perfectly justified claim to fame.

Sometimes referred to as the Venice of the East, the city of Udaipur with its splendid palaces, serene lakes, fascinating temples and perfectly manicured gardens has a lot to offer. If you are looking to relax then take the time to explore the Jiva Spa Boat. Once on-board you can make a trip around the lake whilst indulging in a massage or time in the upper-deck Jacuzzi.

Considered by some to be the ‘Jewel of Jaipur’, this elaborate 19th-century palace has been handed down through several generations of Indian royalty. This stately home is one of the most elaborately decorated, in particular, the palace ballroom with its large crystal chandeliers, is an opulent feast for the eyes presiding over the hotel’s restaurant, Suvarna Mahal.

A palace room offers the utmost in luxury and comfort. Choose a garden or inner courtyard view and enjoy the 550 square feet of space, all just for you. The decadent marble bathrooms will leave you feeling royally flushed, and there’s even a Bath Butler service to help you draw an exquisite bath to luxuriate in.

Another gem of Udaipur, the HRH Shiv Niwas Palace houses 17 individually decorated suites with spectacular views of the surrounding city and lakes. The heritage, opulence and impressive facade of the palace create a unique and friendly atmosphere where guests can enjoy being treated like royalty.

The palace often finds itself transformed into the setting for elaborate weddings or even film sets for anything from Hollywood to Bollywood. So hang out in the right places and you may find yourself the unwitting extra to a blockbuster film whilst you’re there.

‘Abode of the Gods’ is the description most often applied to Deogarh Mahal. Stepping away from royalty to now mingle with the immortal you wouldn’t be far wrong for confusing this place for heaven on Earth. What more could anyone want than stunning architecture, luxury at every turn and devilishly good food?

A tour of the Royal Suites shows a traditional style mixing plush red and gold tones with delicate mosaic tiles and stone baths the size of swimming pools. If you’re a car enthusiast then don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the classic car experience around the Rajasthani countryside.

Located within over thirty acres of immaculately manicured gardens, The Oberoi Rajvillas is a quiet luxury retreat for the body and soul. From the Mughal arches and high domed ceilings to the gold leaf frescoes and crystal chandeliers this palace is really something special. While away the days alternating between the hotel’s different eateries and bars: the Rajwada Library Bar, the Rah Mahal Indian Restaurant, or the Suya Mahal for breakfast, snacks and afternoon tea.

Choose between a room, suite, or even push the boat out and splurge on the ultimate luxury holiday by opting for the Kohinoor Villa in its own private enclosure. The piece de resistance of the villa is the 20 metre swimming pool overlooked by a private dining pavilion.

The epitome of 19th century majesty, the Taj Falaknuma Palace is a white-stone superstructure with European styled interiors that blend effortlessly with the Indian hospitality and amenities.

The Nizam Suite, in the shape of a scorpion, was once the home of the world’s wealthiest man. The opulent interiors, private swimming pool and cavernous living area will leave you speechless in what is arguably the best presidential suite in the country.

Located high above the desert capital of Jodhpur, Umaid Palace is a delightful piece of Rajasthan’s history and home to the Jodhpur Royal Family. The palace is nestled in 26 acres of tropical gardens, complete with dancing peacocks and a subterranean zodiac pool.

The art-deco rooms instantly seem modern and classic all in one whilst the palace rooms are steeped in luxury and offer a new experience at every turn. The historical suite offers a more traditional style of decoration with a decadent viewpoint over the lawn or courtyard.