Rambagh Palace

The Jewel of Jaipur, Rambagh Palace truly lives up to this name as it is one of the most beautiful palaces in India. Once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, the palace has now been converted into a lavish hotel. The most expensive hotel in Jaipur, it is a favourite with international celebrities and considered by many as one of the best hotels on the planet.

Originally built as a garden house in 1835 for Ram Singh II’s wet nurse, Kesar Badaran, the palace and landscaped gardens are spread over 47 acres.

Under the reign of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh, the garden house and the surroundings were modified and made into a royal hunting lodge as it was surrounded by thick forests at that time.

The task of converting the garden house into a guest house and a hunting lodge was given to Sir Swinton Jacob. Marble halls, corridors and courtyards were added to the garden site and Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II made Rambagh Palace his main residence in 1931. There were alterations and additions to the initial structures but they were all carried out with meticulous detail so that the Rajput architectural style remained intact. The well maintained gardens and flower beds that add to the beauty of the palace, remained unchanged. The garden is a mix of Mughal and Rajasthani styles and has also been featured in books and magazines. The palace also boasts of a mini golf course.

The palace was also home to Maharani Gayatri Devi of Jaipur, among the most beautiful women in the world. The palace also hosted many dignitaries from India and abroad like Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. With rich textures, exquisite art collections and lavish furnishings, the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur is your chance to step back into time and relive the royal past of Rajasthan. Though, the palace is a hotel now, visitors are allowed to take a tour.