Taj Rambagh Palace

If you would like to live it up like a Maharaja, then the Rambagh should be your address in Jaipur. It was first built for the Maharani’s favourite handmaiden in 1835, later converted as a regal hunting lodge and finally given its grand overall in the early 20th century as a palace for Maharaja of Jaipur, Sawai Man Singh II. The architecture is quite something, from ornate marble ‘jalis’ or latticework, arched Mughal walkways and striking domed towers.

Taj Hotels lovingly restored the hotel whilst retaining all the regal charm and now offers 78 richly decorated rooms and suites. The hotel is just five miles from the old city walls, yet is set within 47 acres of Mughal Gardens. The rooms are all different (and we know which are the best in each category). We generally say opt for the Palace Rooms and upwards as the Luxury Rooms are a tad small (and its worth upgrading your room here). The Historical Suites are delightful, each with their own sitting area. The Suites all have their own distinct charm, and we think the Prince’s Suite is our favourite. In the rooms you find everything you need from a world-class hotel, from large flatscreen TVs, 24-hour in-room dining and even a menu offering a range of bath salts.

The opulent dining options are again outstanding. The Suvarna Mahal has a renaissance feel about it, and served classic Indian fare at lunch. The Rajput Room serves all-day multi-cuisine dishes with a more Indian feel about the place. You can opt for light snacks on the Veranada before heading to the Polo Bar for a cocktail. For a bit of fun, you can head to Steam, set within a traditional steam train carriage in the grounds for Middle Eastern kebabs and wood-fired pizzas.

There is a superb Jiva Grand Spa to opt for a full range of treatments, a larger outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness centre.