Taj Lake Palace Hotel

The Lake Palace seems to float on the rippling waters of Lake Pichola and the views back to the impressive shoreline of Udaipur which contains the City Palace is one of the most picturesque you can find in India. The Lake Palace came into being because the then Maharana, Jagat Singh II, felt that the City Palace a little too public when he was courting the beautiful young ladies of Udaipur with decadent, moonlit picnics which were often too easily spotted by the chattering classes. Tongues started to wag, and as such he decided to construct a little palace in the middle of the Lake Pichola where he could tempt the young ladies for intimate parties, far away from prying eyes and gossiping so-and-so’s! It was completed in 1746 and named Jagat Niwas.

You are greeted on the banks of the lake and taken by small boat to the Lake Palace, where quite often a cascade of rose petals are thrown down from the roof (a traditional Rajput greeting). The Palace has a delighful inner courtyard, complete with lily pond and fountains, a welcome regal retreat. You also find a sun-catching swimming pool and a superb Jiva Grande Spa.

All rooms and suites have views over the lake, but we suggest getting room that looks back to the City Palace. They are ornately and richly furnished. It goes without saying that you won’t lack comfort. The Luxury Rooms are a tad on the small side, so it might be better opting for the Palace Rooms and up. The three Historic Suites offer more space, whilst the Royal and Grand Royal Suites are divine, offering the best views. Our pick is the Khush Mahal Suite, complete with swing and one multi-coloured wall that shimmers against the rising sun.

There are three restaurants, all of which are excellent. The Jarokha is the all-day dining restaurant. The fine-dining Neel Kemal offers specialist Indian cuisine, or try the roof-top Bhairo restaurant that serves up tasty European dishes.