For the last few centuries Rajasthan has been the "IT" place for Indian Royalty. While most palace locations may have been directed by whatever battles were currently going on, it never stopped the Raj from letting fly with gilt and jewels to create some of the most extravagantly romantic and self-indulgent residences this planet has ever seen. With their descendents (and hotel groups) now opening them up to guests, there are plenty of opportunities to make like a Maharaja and Maharani. While most are sumptuous from the outside, some palaces and forts are a little lacking in luxe on the inside. Here, we pass through the corridors to list what we consider to be the best.
So authentically royal, a part of the Mahal is still occupied by family of the present owner Rawat Nahar Singh, treating guests to Mewari (local) hospitality.
Widely regarded as the "Jewel of Jaipur", the beauty of the Maharani in the 1930s drew a host of international dignitaries making it the "IT" palace of Rajasthan.
Built in 1622, this fort was a gift to Thakur Dalpat Singh for his bravery in battle. Today, his descendants - the Rohet family - have done a brilliant job of keeping reinterpreting and reinventing the glory of those days.
Built in the early 20th century during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh, this palace might not be the most up-to-the-moment modern, but it is full of original splendour.
Ornateness is given unprecedented reverence in this palace. It not only contains one of the largest suites, but also the most expensive suite in the world.
