| Utopian Udaipur
Udaipur also known as the city of lakes is considered the jewel of Mewar - a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 years. Legend has it that the founder of Udaipur, Maharana Udai Singh was out hunting and came across a man meditating on a hill overlooking Lake Pichola. This man then blessed the Maharana and suggested he erect a Palace surrounded by Lakes, fertile hills, low mountains and streams. He did this in 1559 AD and as a result one of the most romantic and picturesque cities stands today. Artists, my father included, have been so taken by its almost surreal beauty, but few feel they have done it enough justice.
Udaipur, the city of Dawn, is quite enchanting, surrounded by lakes and the lush hillsides of the Aravalis. There is so much for the eye to consume that blinking is an occupational hazard as it quite simply wastes precious viewing time.
The Oberoi Udaivilas
Flying direct to Delhi is no hardship from most international airports. From here you can charter the Oberoi's private jet and in 90 minutes you are in Udaipur. If not the private jet, then take the scheduled one with Jet Airways.
From hereonin you are left with impressions that will last a lifetime. A canopied boat glides you across Lake Pichola, leaving the extraordinary City Palace glowing in the evening sun and there is, quite genuinely, an intoxicating smell all around; a combination of spice, musk and erotica.
There is not a snowflakes chance in Arizona that the impressive Mewari-inspired palace that is Oberoi Udaivillas will disappoint you. It is nestled on the shores of the lake and occupies almost 30 acres of lush garden where there are beautiful swimming pools, amazing courtyards, tucked away terraces, domes and arches with 80 rooms and suites.
The service is renowned worldwide and in fact, was listed in Conde' Naste's 2006 gold list as the best hotel for service in the world. I think they should also have mentioned the best looking staff as well (perhaps on a par with the Taj in Bombay).
The food is exquisite, totally indo-evolved and they have an iced rose tea to cool down the spice and heat.
The X-Factor specialties
A room with a view of the Lake is as romantic as it gets, so we suggest you ask for a Superior Deluxe with private courtyard and part-shared pool; or, if you are feeling particularly flush and flirty, the Kohinoor Suite has its own pool, a butler, a garden and a steam room. Or, choose the offer with Luxury Explorer listed below.
There is, as you can imagine, an incredible 5 star spa; one-to-one yoga classes; meditation sessions with Guru Vettri or, if you want to take home some of the taste sensations, then you can have cookery lessons with the master chef, Manish Chandna.
You can hire a private boat and either picnic in the lush hills and feel spiritually connected to temples, or, just enjoy the incredible surrounds of Lake Picholas. This is a romantic break that will leave you gagging for more.
See our other partners in India if you wish to explore other parts of this wonderful country.
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