Taj Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur - hotel review

This is not your typical city hotel. Set in a transformed eighteenth century palace, it occupies no fewer than 18 hectares all of its own, blending the notions of urban address and rural retreat.

Where is it?

Given the amount of space this hotel calls its own, it’s no surprise that it’s not quite slap bang in the centre of town. Set in what’s known as the Civil Lines area, alongside numerous government buildings, it’s around a half hour drive to a lot of the main action – though that goes pretty quickly on a tuk-tuk. In exchange for this journey time you get a hotel surrounded by calm, quiet streets as well as all that aforementioned green space.

Style:

A reasonable number of luxury hotels in India occupy former palaces, but never have we seen one quite as palatial as this one. It’s big for a start, but an epic driveway, long corridors, marble floors, intricate arched windows and stenciled ceilings seal the deal. Not to forget the pagodas, carefully pruned trees and giant chess board and pieces in the grounds.

Facilities:

From concierge to room service, attentive staff and flawless hospitality, this hotel knows how to treat its guests. A fully organic spa provides all you need to relax after a hectic day in town, should the tranquil grounds not already be enough. Those of a more active mindset can enjoy a well kitted out fitness centre or – much more fun – the large outdoor pool.

There are also a range of activities to enjoy in the grounds, including morning poolside yoga. If you need an incentive other than your chakras to awaken early enough to partake, you’ll be doing so with the hotel’s resident peacocks.

Food & drink:

The food offering here includes an international poolside affair and a popular Italian, but assuming you’re in the mood for Indian then it’s Cinnamon which will be of most appeal. Stylish and bright, it serves traditional yet light dishes from both the local Rajasthan area and other regions across the country – go for an epic thali platter for a chance to try as much as possible.

Which room?

Naturally, there are supersized suites available for those wanting to go large, but if you’re after something special with a less palatial price tag, choose the ones located on the far side of the building, away from the lobby and driveway, for the best views of the lush green grounds

Extra-curricular:

Colourful and chaotic in equal measure, Jaipur isn’t one for the faint hearted but neither is it one to miss. The hotel is a perfect base of serenity from which to explore attractions such as the Jantar Mantar, the royal observatory; the intricate Hawa Mahal palace; and the iconic City Palace, which still houses the former royal family.

Roam the narrow cow-filled streets, brave the horn-honking traffic, browse the markets in search of some genuine jewellery bargains among the touts, and slink into trendy eateries for a breathers along the way.

Jaipour is a slick rooftop bar that serves modern takes on Indian classics and great cocktails, while across the street, Talk Of The Town is a roadside stop-off where locals queue for excellent charcoal-grilled kebabs. Join them.

Best for: A city break that merges action with relaxation.

From £248 for a double room, Jacob Road, Civil Lines, Jaipur, India. Visit taj.tajhotels.com.