5-star hotel guide to Rajasthan
Covering 10% of the subcontinent, with Pakistan to its west and Punjab to its north, Rajasthan is India's largest state. This dusty but regal land is blessed with some of the most stunning palaces on the planet – many of which have been turned into exquisite 5-star luxury hotels.
Before the East India Company arrived in here, India was the wealthiest country on earth and Rajasthan was where much of the royal Maharajahs' wealth was concentrated. No wonder it was called the 'Land of Kings' and features so many astonishing palaces.
Today, Rajasthan offers incredible 5-star experiences and is the focus for a 'Golden Triangle' tour, landing in Delhi, visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra, before travelling to the capital of Rajasthan, the Pink City of Jaipur, and maybe extending the trip to Udaipur or Jodhpur. If you haven't visited India before this is one of the best ways to first experience the sub-Continent to uncover its many splendours. We propose an entirely 5-star Rajasthan hotel experience.
In Agra, which is not technically in Rajasthan, we highly recommed Oberoi Amarvillas, which is just 600m from the Taj Mahal. In Jaipur, the iconic Rambagh Palace revels in Mughal splendour, adorned with rich fabrics from the area surrounding the beautiful state capital, Jaipur. All this opulence is paired with faultless Rajput hospitality, a combination that never fails to make a lasting impression.
Floating ethereally on the gentle waters of Lake Pichola, a stay at the Taj Lake Palace is to die for. Piercing the skyline of the 'Blue City' of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace offers dreamy suites with a heady fusion of western Art Deco and Rajput ostentation.
Meanwhile, if you are looking for a safari escape, Aman-i-Khas on the outskirts of the Ranthambore Nature Reserve is a romantic tented 'camp' of just 10 tents, where you can relax in the Aravalli Hills and take morning and evening guided treks on foot or in jeeps to watch India's finest wildlife, including the famously rare Bengal tigers. Pairing Aman-i-Khas with Amanbagh, a dreamy Moghul resort in verdant orchards in the Aravalli Hills will provide insights into ancient villages, temples and forts, as well as pamper you with an incredible Ayruvedic spa, all in Aman 5-star luxury.
For any initiation into the wonders of India, Rajasthan is an absolute must.