RAMBAGH PALACE

Despite the vast amounts of space, there are just 78 rooms; each one a dazzling confection of hand-carved marble latticework, gold leaf frescos, lofty ceilings and antique mahogany furniture. Outside, there's a croquet lawn, putting green, yoga pavilion and enormous spa complex, where ancient Indian healing wisdom is blended with to-the minute contemporary treatments. In the cool of the early evening, the grounds play host to a daily candle lighting ceremony, live dancing and roving henna tattooists. Enjoy cocktails in the Polo Bar before dining in the gilded surroundings of Suvarna Mahal restaurant, which used to be the palace ballroom and would make even Versailles blush. Steam Bar, set in a beautifully restored train carriage, is a hit with younger guests too.

SUITABLE FOR:

• History lovers seeking a royal experience 
• Couples and families 
• Spa aficionados

THINGS TO DO AT THE HOTEL:

• Dine like royalty in the spectacular setting of Suvarna Mahal 
• Experience pure indulgence in the Jiva spa complex 
• Enjoy afternoon tea on the verandah or signature cocktails in the Polo Bar 
• Absorb the atmosphere of the evening candle lighting ceremony with traditional music and dance

THINGS TO DO NEARBY:

• Discover Jaipur’s striking temples and the magnificent Amber Fort 
• Learn about traditional Rajasthani cuisine on a cookery class with a local chef 
• Shop for traditional crafts and sample the finest masala chai on a guided tour of the bazaars