Raffles Jaipur spells luxury in so many ways that once you’ve checked into this hotel in Rajasthan’s capital, it’s hard to leave it. In India’s Pink City where royals once lived opulent lifestyles, Raffles Jaipur has been designed to resemble a queen’s palace by architect Clive Gray, and cocoons one in the grandeur of a past era.
Hotel
The drive to the hotel, which lies on the city’s outskirts, in an electric BMW, sets the tone for the weekend that lies ahead. It was pouring when I arrived, so I rushed past stone columns standing around a pool as someone held an umbrella over my head. Pushing open a golden door to enter the main lobby called the Great Hall, I stood awestruck.
The massive octagonal space had a high ceiling bordered with intricate patterns in gold leaf, a patterned marble floor and mirrored doors – all a throwback to the famed craftsmanship of an earlier era. After the check in, I walked into the central atrium around which most of the rooms are located on three levels. Framed with palm trees, it’s like an enclosed courtyard which also doubles up as Safir, where traditional afternoon tea is served. Everywhere in the hotel, the eye settles on elaborate inlay work, thikri art, intricate carvings and giant chandeliers, set against marble and a soft colour palette.
Room
Raffles has 50 rooms and suites divided into eight different categories, and I checked into the princess suite with a plunge pool. The massive room with floor to ceiling glass doors opens out to a temperature controlled pool with deck chairs around.
I was amazed to see the detailing in the suite – its décor in yellow tones was highlighted by a wall panel in gold leaf, the huge king sized bed, with a partial canopy on top, had a carved head board, and a wooden fan whirred on a ceiling with art work. Modern-day conveniences such as the mini bar and Nespresso machine were discreetly hidden behind a wooden cabinet with gorgeous inlay work. I sat on the sofa for a few minutes to take it all in.
The opulence spilled over into the bathroom, which boasted two of the most beautiful hand-carved sinks I have ever seen, a massive clawfoot bathtub and a shower cubicle with a strong rain shower. After spending an afternoon in the pool, I began to feel like a royal myself. All the suites come with butler service that caters to the tiniest need you may have.
Food and drink
Raffles has four options for dining and drinks. Arkaa, the main restaurant, serves modern cuisine of the Northwest Frontier region. If the massive selection of dishes is confusing, then go for the tasting menu which brings the best selection to the table. I really enjoyed the gol gappa chaat (street food) that comes with seven kinds of flavoured water.
Safir is the tea and champagne lounge serving the traditional afternoon tea. One can opt for champagne also, but I chose tea because they serve a special one – London Tea Exchange. The tea Charlie arrives with scones, sandwiches and pastries and I highly recommend it. They even have snacks and small plates through the day for those feeling peckish. The atrium, where it’s located, has a fountain carved in yellow stone in the middle and is framed by beautiful palm trees, making for the perfect spot for the musicians who play soft classical music in the evening.
The Writers Bar, a signature space across all Raffles hotels, stands out in this property. It has powder blue interiors, a soaring ceiling and exquisite hand painted wall art. A circular iron staircase and beautifully bound books are so inviting that I could picture myself spending hours here, if I only had the luxury of time. I chose their signature drink, the Jaipur Sling to sip on. It all started with the famous Singapore Sling at Raffles in Singapore and now all of their hotels offer their own version of this cocktail.
The Jaipur Sling hits a different spot because, apart from gin and pineapple juice, they use a local liqueur named Chandra Hass which contains more than 80 herbs and has a lovely pink colour – a must-have. The Mediterranean and Italian restaurant, Sehara, lies on the rooftop, with views of the Aravalli hills. Smokers can retire into a stylish cigar lounge.
To do
The spa was still getting the final touches when I visited, but I got a sneak preview. Spread over two levels with four treatment rooms, hot and cold mineral pools and also a hammam, it will offer a range of treatments and therapies to relax and rejuvenate tired guests. I can’t wait to visit the hotel again when it’s done. There’s also a gorgeous infinity pool at the rooftop that’s lit by mashaals (a long stick lit with fire at one end), giving it a royal touch.
Steeped in history, Jaipur has many must-visit spots, but if you do not want to travel too far then Amer Fort lies close and the hotel can organises your trip. One can also visit the Anokhi Museum to get a glimpse of the art of block printing.
In a city known as a shopper’s paradise, the colourful alleys of Bapu Bazaar are lined with shops selling traditional clothes, while Johri Bazaar is the place to pick up ethnic jewellery. Raffles also plans to organise special excursions like a trek to the surrounding Aravalli hills with breakfast and helicopter tours.
In a nutshell
Raffles makes you feel like royalty the moment you step inside. The architecture and attention to details makes it a winner all the way.
Factbox
Address: Khasara No 2060-2061/2267 Kukas Amer 302028 Jaipur
Phone: +91 1426 35 5555
Email: reservations.jaipur@raffles.com
Website: raffles.com/jaipur
