Yahoo Lifestyle Raffles Offers a Magical Experience in Rajasthan’s “Pink City”
The name Raffles is synonymous with the best in hotel accommodations, a hallmark of luxury, glamour, and bespoke service in some of the world’s most storied destinations. Now comes Raffles Jaipur, which, along with the recently opened Raffles Udaipur, brings the brand to India’s historic and colorful region of Rajasthan.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome guests to Raffles Jaipur, the brand’s second property in India,” says Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts. “At Raffles, we look for world-renowned destinations rich with history, beauty, and culture, which is what led us to grow our presence in Rajasthan—whose ancient heritage of forts and palaces continues to inspire and capture the imagination of international travelers.”
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With an exterior hand-carved from pure white marble, Raffles Jaipur brings to the fabled “Pink City” a modern recreation of a royal palace that pays homage to local culture and craftsmanship. As they arrive, travelers encounter a Shikar tent that kindles visions of Mughal expeditions, then they pass ornately carved sandstone columns before entering, through a hidden door, an exquisite light-filled atrium scented by neroli, orange blossoms, and saffron. The work of Rajasthani artisans is evident in every detail of the interior decor, which features painted corniced ceilings, golden murals, furniture with camel-bone inlays, and locally woven carpets.
The 50 individually decorated rooms and suites—each with its own balcony with a soaking tub or plunge pool—lend Raffles Jaipur an intimacy that is enhanced by the ministrations of the brand’s renowned butlers who cater to a guest’s every need. Here, the butler service also includes traditional local healing rituals that range from botanical-infused baths to plant-based ointments.
Raffles Jaipur offer a choice of cuisines at several dining venues. The menu at Arkaa, the signature restaurant, highlights North Indian specialties. The Writers Bar incorporates spices and herbs from the hotel’s garden into a Jaipur Sling, a localized version of the libation made famous at the Raffles flagship property in Singapore. Safir is the spot for afternoon tea, while Sahara serves Mediterranean specialties with a view of the surrounding Aravalli Hills.
For a truly regal experience there is the spa—a sanctuary of calm with spacious treatment rooms and an extensive menu of rejuvenating and relaxing holistic treatments and rituals, in addition to a state-of-the-art fitness studio.
Raffles Jaipur is a short drive from the historic attractions of the city’s old town, but the hotel also showcases events that reflect regional heritage and culture, connecting guests with local artisans and craftspeople.
To experience another side of Rajasthan, travelers can journey to Raffles Udaipur, located on its own island in Udai Sagar Lake. Opened in 2021 with 101 rooms and suites, the hotel’s Palladian architecture—with details that blend influences from India’s Rajput and Mughal eras—evokes a grand country estate surrounded by formal gardens. The interiors here are filled with Indian art, including miniatures that reflect the styles of several historic eras. Outdoors, the extensive grounds encourage country pursuits like archery and shooting, as well as hiking, wall-climbing, tennis, and swimming in the outdoor pool.
Raffles is known for celebrating local culture through gastronomy, and among the seven restaurants and bars in the Udaipur resort, the signature Sawai Kitchen draws on heirloom menus from the royal Rajput households for its authentic Indian cuisine. Guests also have the opportunity to learn from culinary masters at Rasoi, which offers both a cooking school and a chef’s table at dinner.
The Ayurveda tradition underpins the restorative therapies and treatments at the Raffles Spa, which also schedules meditation retreats and yoga practices in its tranquil and restful space.
Both Raffles Jaipur and Udaipur were created in collaboration with Ratan Kant Sharma and Triton Hotels & Resorts, whose vision was to bring the Raffles brand’s tradition of excellence to a part of India renowned for its own vivid heritage.
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