Quite rightly, many of our guests visiting Rajasthan are keen to stay somewhere with local flair. As experts in private, luxury, tailor-made tours of Rajasthan, we know that the hotel is just as important as the destination and can elevate a satisfactory experience into an unforgettable one. If the thought of staying in a Radisson or a Hilton leaves you cringing, here for your inspiration we share 10 of our favourite boutique hotels in Rajasthan:
1. RAAS, Jodhpur
Kicking off our list of favourite boutique hotels in Rajasthan, RAAS is nestled at the foot of the mighty Mehrangarh Fort in the heart of Jodhpur‘s old city. Stepping away from the buzz of the old town and walking through RAAS’ stunning gateway is like entering a peaceful oasis. The hotel is a beautiful contrast of old and new; slick décor and modern structures stand side by side with a restored, red sandstone haveli. The view of the fort looming above is spectacular and perhaps one of the best hotel views in Rajasthan.
RAAS, Jodhpur
2. RAAS Devigarh, Udaipur
RAAS Devigarh is a splendid 18th-century fort which has recently been converted into a stylish boutique hotel. The property retains many of its original features, and there are countless terraces, balconies and turrets to tuck yourself away in with a private candle-lit dinner. The ultimate fairytale-like experience, this is one of the most enchanting boutique hotels in Rajasthan.
RAAS Devigarh, Udaipur
3. RAAS Chhatrasagar, Nimaj
RAAS Chhatrasagar is a peaceful camp overlooking a reservoir and is the ideal place to relax, bird-watch, and go for walks. The comfortable tents are tastefully designed and feature a private sit-out overlooking the water. The charming and friendly owners will entertain you as you sit around the campfire, listening to folklore while traditional Rajasthani dishes are served.
Your luxury lake-side tent at RAAS Chhatrasagar in rural Rajasthan
4. Anopura, Jaipur
Quite possibly the smallest boutique hotel in Rajasthan, Anopura – an oasis of natural beauty and serenity – is located an hour outside of bustling Jaipur. This is hidden Rajasthan at its best, and a side to India that many tourists never get to see; a glimpse of rural life that hasn’t changed for centuries. The only noise you’ll hear is the occasional peacock’s cry or the gentle chirping of crickets in the evening – a welcomed contrast from the buzzing Pink City of Jaipur. Take a closer look at Anopura here.
Anopura, Jaipur
5. Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur
The Rajmahal Palace has lived many lives over its 250-year history. From its origins as a pleasure garden for the Maharani to being taken over by the British as their official residence, the Rajmahal Palace was returned to the royal family of Jaipur after independence came to India in 1947. Today, it serves as what can only be described as one of the loveliest boutique hotels in Rajasthan. A spacious, glamorous and elegant space, bursting with history and local flair, unlike anywhere else in the world. Stay at the Rajmahal Palace and you’ll have absolutely no doubt where you are – the palace evokes the essence of Rajasthan in every room, on every wall, and every cranny.
Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur
6. Killa Bhawan, Jaisalmer
Set high within the watchtowers of Jaisalmer fort, the charming Killa Bhawan offers beautiful views of the royal palace and town down below and is one of our favourite boutique hotels in Rajasthan. Each of the five rooms is furnished traditionally, with accents of bright colour, reflecting the local area perfectly. The delightful roof terrace is a highlight and offers sensational views. Being positioned within Jaisalmer Fort, Killa Bhawan is ideally located for those who’d like to embrace the rich culture of the city, people-watch and check out the local restaurants.
Killa Bhawan, Jaisalmer
7. Ranvas, Nagaur
Ranvas is one of the most stunning boutique hotels in Rajasthan. It occupies the former women’s quarter of Ahichhatragarh Fort and was once a pleasure palace of the Maharaja of Jodhpur. As all rooms are within the fort walls, a stay at Ranvas evokes the history and pomp of yesteryear.
Ranvas, Nagaur
8. Lakshman Sagar, Raipur
One of the most remote boutique hotels in Rajasthan, Lakshman Sagar is a hidden gem with a unique concept – everything placed within the 12 small cottages has been locally sourced. This creative idea, paired with a range of bespoke village-themed excursions, allows guests to embrace traditional Rajasthani village life. The stunning interiors are colourful, quirky, and wonderfully ‘shabby-chic’. Lakshman Sagar is an ideal place to unwind and recharge mid-trip in a beautiful natural setting. You can read about our recent stay by clicking here.
Lakshman Sagar, Raipur
9. Rawla Narlai, Narlai
Originally a royal hunting lodge, Rawla Narlai retains many original features – such as the carved wooden doors, jaalis (stone lattice screens) and sepia portraits – and is possibly our favourite of all the boutique hotels in Rajasthan. We recently spent a night at Rawla Narlai – you might like to read about our experiences by clicking here.
Rawla Narlai, Narlai
10. Samsara, Dechu
If you’re seeking an authentic yet comfortable desert experience in Rajasthan, this is the one for you. Located seemingly in the middle of nowhere, Samsara is a golden oasis of luxury tents, lying in the vastness of the barren Thar Desert. Embark on an exhilarating Jeep ride out over the dunes, experience a sunset camel ride on the desert sands. Sitting atop one of these strange and lovely creatures is a fantastic experience and one which is unlikely to be forgotten! Evenings come alive with al fresco barbeque dining and colourful folk musicians.
Samsara, Dechu
11. Dev Shree, Deogarh
Dev Shree, Deogarh is a stunning new property nestled amid rural Rajasthan. With just seven tasteful guest rooms, this intimate luxury homestay is a charming addition to any of our Rajasthan tours. Thanks to Dev Shree’s gorgeous location amidst the Aravali mountain range, you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s in the middle of nowhere. Still, in reality, it’s very conveniently located in the middle of everywhere: just two hours’ drive from Udaipur, three from Jodhpur or four from Jaipur, Dev Shree is perfectly positioned to experience the peace and natural beauty of rural Rajasthan. It’s ideal for relaxing and recharging your batteries mid-tour, for steering off the beaten track – beyond the 5-star hotels, and beyond the Taj Mahal – to discover something enriching.
Dev Shree, Deogarh
12. Mihir Garh, Rohet
Tucked away in the middle of the Thar desert, Mihir Garh is surrounded by arid scrubland, and its name translates to ‘Sun Fortress’. Built from wattle, mud, and wood, Mihir Garh blends seamlessly into its surroundings and has a wonderfully rustic feel (while still being superbly comfortable and offering all the facilities one expects from a luxury hotel). Each of the eight air-conditioned suites sprawl across 1,700 sq ft, boasting a private terrace, plunge pool, and courtyard.
Mihir Garh, Rohet
13. Khandela Haveli, Jaipur
One of the smaller heritage hotels in Jaipur but big in character, Khandela Haveli is an intimate haveli in a bustling area of the Pink City, within easy reach of the sights. The rooftop pool is ideal for cooling off in after a day of sightseeing, and in the evening guests are treated to a traditional puppet show. Rooms are decorated in a charming, classic style with grand furniture and local touches, creating a regal feel. Khandela Haveli is an ideal choice for those seeking a modest-yet-comfortable heritage hotel experience in Jaipur.
Khandela Haveli, Jaipur
14. Amet Haveli, Udaipur
This little haveli has one of the best locations in Udaipur, overlooking the lake, the town, the City Palace and the Lake Palace. The rooms are simply furnished yet have lots of charm and character, and most have beautiful views over the lake. The charming restaurant area is shaded by large mature trees and is right on the water. Amet Haveli is not the most luxurious of our favourite boutique hotels in Rajasthan, but its location and local character make it an extraordinary place.
Amet Haveli, Udaipur
If you’re keen to stay at one or more of our favourite boutique hotels in Rajasthan, do get in touch. As experts in tailor-made tours of this colourful corner of the earth, we’re the ideal match to assist with your arrangements. Meanwhile, to get you started, may we suggest taking a look at our Rajasthan with Boutique Hotels sample itinerary?
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