Raffles Udaipur wows discerning travellers with its marvellous architecture and regal opulence
BY RUPALI DEAN
Of all the memorable moments life has to offer, often it is the experience of living amidst rare hospitality that comes foremost. A stay at Raffles Udaipur guarantees an experience of a lifetime.
With its uber luxurious suites, breathtaking attention to detail and old-world aristocracy meets modern-day appeal, Raffles Udaipur is a haven of serenity.
Whether you are looking for those splendid Instagram-worthy spots or are planning to soak in a private moment at a personal plunge pool room, the place is a delight to the weary senses!
BREATHTAKING AMBIENCE
Boating across the serene Udai Sagar Lake, I could almost hear the rustle of the migrant birds that loop around it. At the first glance itself, the property takes the breath away.
Talking about this extraordinary property, General Manager Rajesh Namby says, “Raffles Udaipur boasts of a collection of unique elements that set it apart from the rest. Bringing the legacy of the luxurious Raffles hotel chain and adapting it to seamlessly weave in elements of Rajasthan’s opulence, the mystical oasis of Raffles Udaipur is an unforgettable experience.”
This architectural marvel spread over 121 acres on a secluded island opens doors to 101 well-appointed rooms and suites that elegantly interlace European cultural panache with the Mughal style.
With guests like royalty, Bollywood stars, fashion icons and celebrities, Raffles has become a home to those who want to experience an oasis in the heart of Udaipur.
DETAILS THAT IMPRESS
Raffles opens onto a gigantic lobby where a traditional check in awaits me. As I am seated in the hall amongst plush chairs, a tray with minty lemonade is presented as the perfect welcome drink.
From here, the long hall takes me through the Writer’s Bar – a hot spot amongst both locals and guests to enjoy an afternoon tea. As I walk across the doors, I find to my joy, acres of impeccably gardened rows of trees and alleys perfect for a stroll.
This is your first impression of what your stay at the Raffles would look like. Whether you fancy taking a dip in your own private plunge pool or would like to soak up the outdoor experience at the hotel’s pool in the gardens, there is something for everyone.
Detailing the unique points of Raffles Udaipur, Namby says, “Located on its own private island surrounded by the scenic Aravalli range and the glistening Udai Sagar Lake, the sunset high tea experience from Raffles Udaipur’s Belvedere Point stands undefeated and is guaranteed to register as a core memory for those who experience it.”
“Additionally, there’s an endless array of services and experiences that the impeccable staff of Raffles Udaipur is able to put together to match different guest requirements with ease, crafting personalized experiences during their stay,” he continues.
ROOMS SO ROYAL
When you check into your spacious suite, you would feel as if you have stepped into a fairytale of luxuries and royalty. The patio doors open up to the gardens and the moment I set my foot there the plunge pool and the placid hills mesmerized me.
The room with its separate living room feels ever so inviting. It’s hard to not take a dip in the luxurious bathroom that boasts of a soaking tub set with all the deluxe amenities. There is a double vanity, walk-in closet and a steam shower to complete the experience. The whole vibe is stylish yet comfortable.
Guestrooms have uninterrupted lake views, private gardens, balconies, plunge pools and an east-west design pictorial with frescos, handcrafted furniture and other arts by local artisans.
CULINARY PARADISE
There are a lot of gastronomic delights that await you. No less than eight food and beverage options, invite the foodie in you.
Namby explains, “Raffles Udaipur is a culinary paradise with fresh, new flavors to relish every day. The food and beverage offerings at India’s premier Raffles are holistic, immersive and suited for the discerning global traveller. Every culinary concept is centered on locally sourced fresh ingredients, modern palates and four seasons in the year. Each restaurant and bar has a story to tell and something ultimate to offer.”
As a guest at the hotel, I would vouch for Namby’s words and would say, one dinner at Sawai Kitchen will redefine how you taste Indian cuisine. It’s a dinner to remember with manifold courses serving cuisine from the land of the kings.
Sawai Kitchen has its own beautiful central courtyard that circles it on three sides giving it a feel of a private sanctuary. The famed long bar will set you on a memorable walk back in time with classic cocktails and the famed Sling, in this case Udaipur of course.
Harvest is the hotel’s centerpiece that can delight you with its tailormade services which can be a perfect combination between a light and traditional cuisine or inventive and sophisticated.
Lunch and dinner options are available at The Dining Room offering brasserie-style dishes such as grilled fish with lemon butter sauce, Goan fish curry with red rice etc.
SERVICE TO REMEMBER
A stay at Raffles can be a study in what a regal experience can be like. The concierge is knowledgeable and happy to custom make experiences for guests in Udaipur.
Talking about his guests Namby says, “Being a luxury property located in Udaipur, Raffles is home to a lot of travellers who wish to explore different heritage sites and local markets, and then immerse themselves in the opulence of Rajasthan through luxuriously curated experiences and gastronomy. A significant number of travellers can also be attributed to the destination weddings that take place at Raffles Udaipur.”
To cater to their crème de la crème guests, the experience curators and the outstanding Raffles Butlers ensure that you experience an immersive and luxurious stay in Udaipur.
To help you refresh, the spa offers revitalizing as well as tranquil treatments. Relax with a Raffles signature massage and a dip in the pool — the perfect way to unwind at the end of a stylish holiday away…and, of course, I leave Raffles refreshed and renewed!
THE STUFF OF DREAMS
Spending a few days at the property is the stuff fairytales are made of. If you want to sample what a day at Raffles would look like, try this.
GM Namby suggests a tailormade experience for you. He says, “You can begin your day with a decadent breakfast at The Patisserie while taking in breathtaking views of the Udai Sagar Lake and nestling Aravallis. The courteous staff also helps organize excursions to famous Udaipur markets, temples and heritage sites for guests to rediscover Udaipur anew.”
He adds: “After an afternoon of exploration, one can plan an unforgettable sunset high tea experience from Raffles Udaipur’s Belvedere Point, followed by a traditional royal dinner at Sawai Kitchen with Rajasthani folk dance and music. You can end the day with a wonderful relaxing night at one of the legendary Raffles bars.”
India, the land of spices, can be a treasure trove to study and the spice artisans will be happy to take you on a journey of understanding Indian spices.
If coffee and tea are your interest then the resident Barista and tea sommelier will conduct a lovely session on the art of coffee making and tea steeping.
With unparalleled culinary experiences, the largest ballroom in the city, the Raffles Spa, The Writers Bar and Long Bar, you will have more to explore than you ever thought.
FACTBOX
Where: Village Teela Kheda, Post Matung, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Call:+91 294 277 9000
Wallet: Starting from INR45,000 plus taxes per night
Web: www.raffles.com
