25 Best Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan for a Royal Stay

Rajasthan is a place where the past seems so near. The morning is spent strolling through an ancient fort, lunch is in a former king’s courtyard and the night is spent in a palace once belonging to a reigning family. The true charm of the best heritage hotels in Rajasthan. They are not just meant to be “historic” looking. In many instances the history is embedded within the walls.

It’s also quite diverse. Some have marble corridors, old portraits and large lawns, and are lavish palace hotels in Rajasthan. Others are smaller havelis nestled in old neighbourhoods, or renovated forts out of the way of the tourist route. Some of them are now one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Rajasthan, and some are memorable for just being simple and personal.

Each of these 25 stays has a story to tell, and slightly different. What makes heritage hotels in Rajasthan particularly interesting is the sheer variety, with each region bringing its own architecture, royal history and landscape into the stay. 

Heritage Hotels in Jaipur: Palaces, Havelis and Royal Residences

There is a lot of royal history in Jaipur but it is different to be within the city of kings than to be just a visitor. Among the most popular heritage hotels in Rajasthan are the large former palaces as well as the small old havelis nestled behind the busy streets. 

1. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

The Rambagh Palace is more than just a building; it is a story of lives lived. It was constructed in 1835 and was originally a garden house, and later was used as a hunting lodge, a guest house and eventually as the residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and Maharani Gayatri Devi.

The scale is still a royal size. The palace is more than just a hotel, it’s a living piece of the history of Jaipur, with its long lawns, carved stone screens, marble details and imposing interiors. 

Nearby attractions: Albert Hall Museum, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal and the old-city bazaars.

2. Samode Haveli, Jaipur

Samode Haveli is much more intimate however. The courtyards and arches of its painted walls and leafy corners feel more like the old family home than a formal palace.

It is this that makes it work. The haveli is relaxed and at the same time, not far from the city after spending a day in the crowded markets and monuments of Jaipur. 

Nearby attractions: Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Johari Bazaar and Amber Fort.

3. Rajmahal Palace RAAS, Jaipur

Rajmahal Palace is not a big palace by any means. The royal residence, constructed in 1729, features bold interiors, patterned wallpapers and Indian Art Deco features.

Its guest list is no less fascinating. There are several suites named after prominent guests such as Queen Elizabeth II, Jackie Kennedy and Lord Mountbatten. 

Nearby attractions: Albert Hall Museum, City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Jaipur’s old-city markets.

4. Samode Palace, Samode

Samode Palace is out of the city hustle and bustle of Jaipur and that’s its beauty. The environment is more relaxed, the flow is gentler and the place is an attraction.

On the inside there are frescoes, mirrorwork, courtyards and richly decorated halls galore. It’s a place where an impromptu afternoon can easily go by.

Nearby attractions: Samode village, Samode Bagh and Amber Fort.

5. Narain Niwas Palace, Jaipur

The Narain Niwas Palace is not as serious as most of the royal palaces in Jaipur. The gardens help to create the atmosphere and the architecture maintains a clear link with old Jaipur.

This is an alternative luxury hotel when compared to newer 5-star hotels in Rajasthan. The character is derived from the context, the context’s history and the sense of being in a place that has changed over time. 

Nearby attractions: Albert Hall Museum, Birla Mandir, Hawa Mahal, City Palace and Bapu Bazaar.

Palace Hotels in Udaipur: Heritage by the Lakes

Udaipur has always been at its best when it comes to drama. Lakes stand next to the city of Pichola, aged havelis are in front of the lake and beyond the city are the Aravallis. For romantic luxury stays in Rajasthan, few destinations offer a setting quite like this.

6. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Taj Lake Palace is among those hotels which seem unattainable when viewed from the shore. The white-marble facade seems to be floating on the surface of Lake Pichola, so the trip to the property is part and parcel of the experience.

There’s also a movie tie-in. Subsequently, the palace was used in the 1983 James Bond film Octopussy, which adds more pop-culture than the palace could ever have dreamed of. 

Nearby attractions: City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Gangaur Ghat, Bagore Ki Haveli and the old lanes around Lake Pichola.

7. RAAS Devigarh, Delwara

If you don’t require to be in the heart of Udaipur, then RAAS Devigarh is the best option for you. The palace is located in the village of Delwara where the traffic and the busy waterfront roads are replaced by the views of the villages and the Aravalli landscape.

The interior of the buildings are surprisingly clean and modern. The setting is still the historic architecture but the design does not attempt to recreate the past. 

Nearby attractions: Delwara village, Eklingji Temple, Nagda and the surrounding Aravalli countryside.

8. Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur

The one thing that is a huge boon to Fateh Prakash Palace is its location. It’s located in Udaipur’s City Palace complex, and the historic centre of the city feels like an extension of the hotel.

The setting enhances with views of the lake and traditional interiors; but the best part of it is that you can step out and find some of the most renowned sights in Udaipur all around. 

Nearby attractions: City Palace Museum, Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Bagore Ki Haveli and Gangaur Ghat.

9. Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur

Over the years Shiv Niwas Palace has hosted a stellar list of visitors such as Queen Elizabeth II, Jacqueline Kennedy, the Shah of Iran and the King of Nepal.

No less is its film history. It’s not a very familiar place, but Octopussy used Shiv Niwas Palace as James Bond’s hotel. 

Nearby attractions: City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Lake Pichola, Bagore Ki Haveli and Ambrai Ghat.

10. Amet Haveli, Udaipur

The smaller and less ceremonious, Amet Haveli, is one of Udaipur’s better known palaces. That’s in its favor.

The property has a lot of the charm due to the waterside and the opposite side of the lake Pichola starts glowing during the sunset. The space has a cosy feel to it, not large. 

Nearby attractions: Ambrai Ghat, City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Gangaur Ghat and Bagore Ki Haveli.

Luxury Heritage Hotels in Jodhpur

Jodhpur has a more rugged and raw charm compared to Jaipur and Udaipur. The blue painted houses are below Mehrangarh Fort and not far beyond the city is the desert landscape. Its luxury hotels in Rajasthan are no different—some are grand and monumental, others are more discreet and once-homes. 

11. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Umaid Bhawan Palace cannot be overlooked. The sandstone landmark, which rises over Chittar Hill, is still partially the home of the royal family of Jodhpur and another part of it is a hotel.

The interior is not all traditional, either. The style is very distinct from the older Rajput houses and can be seen all over the palace, in Art Deco style.

The venue also had a big moment in 2018 as Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas used it for their wedding celebrations. 

Nearby attractions: Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, Clock Tower and Sardar Market.

12. Ajit Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Ajit Bhawan Palace exudes royal grandeur without being stuffy. The spaces are warm with courtyards, traditional furniture and Rajasthani details, rather than being too formal.

It is the only thing that distinguishes it from most palace hotels: a private collection of classic and vintage cars, which is a reflection of the royal family’s great fascination with cars. 

Nearby attractions: Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada and the Clock Tower market.

13. RAAS Jodhpur

It’s all about where RAAS Jodhpur is. The fort of Mehrangarh is situated right behind the property which changes its skyline throughout the day.

The hotel has been integrated into historic buildings, but also incorporated modern extensions, so that it does not feel like it is entirely from another time period. 

Nearby attractions: Mehrangarh Fort, Toorji Ka Jhalra, Jaswant Thada, Clock Tower and Sardar Market.

14. WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake Palace, Jodhpur

Bal Samand is a less crowded place than the hotels in central Jodhpur. The lake and gardens add a more subdued, green feel to the property.

That’s a fine balance to the hectic days in the Blue City. The morning can be spent in forts and the evening in markets. 

Nearby attractions: Balsamand Lake, Mandore Gardens, Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada.

15. Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur

Ratan Vilas feels more at home at an old house than a royal showpiece. It has a slower, more personal feel when used in verandahs, gardens or traditional interiors.

It is one of the heritage hotels in Rajasthan that’s ideal for those looking for a warm and characterful place to stay rather than a show-stopper grand hotel. 

Nearby attractions: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada and Sardar Market.

Heritage Hotels in Jaisalmer and the Thar Desert

Jaisalmer has a set of colours of its own. The fort is made of golden sandstone, as is the haveli and even the ordinary streets of the town and the palace hotels in Rajasthan are instantly recognisable. 

16. WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace, Jaisalmer

Mandir Palace is a perfect blend of the old city of Jaisalmer. The stone carvings and other traditional elements look perfectly at ease among the golden buildings surrounding them.

There are also noteworthy Badal Mahal and Tazia Tower. The architecture of these buildings is a blend of traditional and cultural influences, reflecting the city’s rich history and its unique architectural heritage. 

Nearby attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake and the old market.

17. Nachana Haveli, Jaisalmer

Nachana Haveli is definitely a local. It has the feel of a place that a traveller would dream about to have in Jaisalmer, with the presence of carved details, enclosed courtyards and golden stone.

It’s also smaller than many desert resorts, which makes it feel more personal and connected to the old city. 

Nearby attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake, Salim Singh Ki Haveli and local bazaars.

18. Fort Rajwada, Jaisalmer

Fort Rajwada is bigger, more picturesque and more resort oriented. It’s inspired by the fort architecture of Rajasthan, and the property provides the size you’d expect with a full-service stay.

It is ideal for travellers who are interested in booking 5-star hotels in Rajasthan with a strong local identity. 

Nearby attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, Patwon Ki Haveli and desert excursion routes towards the dunes.

Fort Hotels in Rajasthan and Lesser-Known Royal Stays

Most of the discussion focuses on the largest cities, but there are some of the best places to stay out of the way. Several fort hotels in Rajasthan are found in smaller towns where the property itself becomes the main attraction.

19. Neemrana Fort-Palace, Neemrana

Neemrana’s appeal lies as much in its restoration as its history. The fort had decayed over time, but was slowly rejuvenated and declared a heritage site.

It’s now a site that resembles a small village, rather than a single hotel, with rows of old stone walls, terraces and graduated floors. It is also conveniently situated between Delhi and Jaipur, making it suitable for shorter breaks. 

Nearby attractions: Neemrana Baori and the surrounding Aravalli landscape.

20. WelcomHotel by ITC Hotels, Fort & Dunes Khimsar

At Khimsar, the desert comes to the stay. The property has a very different feel to city based palace hotels with fort architecture, open skies and dunes nearby.

It’s a place where the environment is as important as the building. 

Nearby attractions: Khimsar village, desert landscapes and Nagaur.

21. Fort Barli, Barli

Fort Barli is quite away from the hilly circuit of Rajasthan. The village atmosphere slows things down and there’s much less of a hurry to run from monument to monument.

That is the reason that it is one of the less common luxury stays in Rajasthan. 

Nearby attractions: Barli village, local countryside and rural experiences around the region.

22. Sardargarh Heritage Hotel, Rajsamand

Sardargarh is a success due to its environment. The fort is dramatic but the countryside of the Mewar maintains a tranquil ambiance.

It’s especially ideal for visitors who desire to experience the features of old fashion buildings yet do not wish to reside in the heart of a large tourist city.

Nearby attractions: Rajsamand region, rural landscapes, Nathdwara and the wider Mewar countryside.

23. Laxmi Niwas Palace, Bharatpur

Bharatpur is more famous for its birds than it is for its palaces, so it’s interesting to have Laxmi Niwas included.

A stay here naturally goes with an early morning visit to Keoladeo National Park as visitors can enjoy wildlife and royal architecture in the one trip. 

Nearby attractions: Keoladeo National Park, Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur Palace and Museum.

24. Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner

Narendra Bhawan isn’t just a typical palace hotel. It is designed with the interior spaces inspired by the life and taste of the last Maharaja of Bikaner, making it feel personal, instead of generically royal.

This makes it one of the more unique homes on this list. 

Nearby attractions: Junagarh Fort, Rampuria Havelis, Old Bikaner and the National Research Centre on Camel.

25. Deogarh Mahal, Deogarh

The Deogarh Mahal is not in the forefront of the cities of Rajasthan, which is one of the things that makes it so great.

The stay is surrounded by a smaller town, hills, countryside, all of which give it a sense of place which is hard to get in a busy city. It is ideal for those who are willing to take it easy while traveling. 

Nearby attractions: Deogarh town, Anjana Fort and the surrounding lakes, hills and rural landscapes.

How to Choose Between Heritage, Palace and 5-Star Hotels in Rajasthan

This can have a number of different meanings for “Heritage”. Even amongst the heritage hotels in Rajasthan, one night at a hotel may be a grand marble hotel with formal service, and another may feel more like a couple of nights in a family old home.

For the travellers seeking scale and ceremony, a choice can be between Rambagh Palace, Taj Lake Palace and Umaid Bhawan Palace. For something smaller, go for Samode Haveli, Amet Haveli and Ratan Vilas. The forts, landscapes and slower destinations of Neemrana, Khimsar, Barli and Sardargarh take center stage.

It is important to note that luxury and heritage are not the same thing, and there are modern facilities available to stay at 5-star hotels in Rajasthan. While a newer property might be more modern in terms of the facilities it provides, an old haveli or fort can provide a lot more character.

For the more ambitious traveler, there’s this list of the best luxury hotels in India, including palace hotels, resorts and nature-based options throughout the country.

The place to go is also important. The first timers find Jaipur easy. Udaipur is ideal for romantic getaway and lake views. However, Jodhpur is the old city and Mehrangarh Fort, and Jaisalmer is best suited for desert planning.

Travellers can also check out Solis Nature for luxury stays in Rajasthan in various destinations while they are making a route around the unique properties.

Best Time to Stay at Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan

Generally the cooler months are the best time to visit the Rajasthan. While visiting forts, markets and old neighbourhoods is more pleasant in the milder weather, popular palace hotels in Rajasthan are also more in demand during this time.

Many heritage hotels in Rajasthan also have courtyards, terraces, gardens and outdoor dining spaces that are far more enjoyable during the cooler months. 

It’s a lot hotter in the summer. It is better for slower journeys where the mornings and evenings are spent sightseeing and afternoon spent in the interior.

Monsoon is another side to the state. The Aravallis and Udai pur are green and become visible here and there, making the Rajasthan more soft looking than what travelers would like to see.

Weather can change significantly from region to region throughout the state, so it’s important to check the weather for the season before making a booking. 

Final Thoughts: Which Heritage Hotel in Rajasthan Should Be Chosen?

The best heritage hotels in Rajasthan are memorable in that the history is authentic. It may be a royal dwelling, an ancient fort, a family haveli or a palace which has taken a new lease of life.

The grandest of the palaces are Rambagh Palace, Taj Lake Palace and Umaid Bhawan Palace. Samode Haveli, Ratan Vilas and Amet Haveli are closer together. Neemrana, Khimsar, Fort Barli and Sardargarh are ideal for visitors seeking forts, less populated places, and reduced crowds.

The true enjoyment is in the variety of experiences that can be had from each stay. Rajasthan can provide you a palace one night, a haveli another night and even a fort a few days later without any repetition in the journey.

This is why it is important to live in these locations. The hotel is not just a place to stay between the sightseeing visits. At times, it’s the most fascinating part of the trip. 

FAQs

1. Which are the best heritage hotels in Rajasthan?

Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Samode Palace and Neemrana Fort-Palace are among the best-known heritage hotels in Rajasthan. The right choice depends on whether the trip calls for a grand palace, an intimate haveli or a restored fort. 

This Quora discussion on the top heritage hotels in Rajasthan also shares recommendations from travellers.

2. Are there affordable heritage hotels in Rajasthan?

Yes. A heritage stay does not always mean booking one of Rajasthan’s grandest royal palaces. Smaller havelis and heritage properties can offer plenty of character at relatively more accessible rates, although prices vary by season and room category. This Quora discussion on affordable heritage hotels in Rajasthan offers additional traveller suggestions.

3. Which are the best palace hotels in Rajasthan for a luxury stay?

Rambagh Palace, Taj Lake Palace and Umaid Bhawan Palace are standout palace hotels in Rajasthan for travellers looking for a grand royal experience. Rajmahal Palace RAAS and Fateh Prakash Palace are also worth considering, particularly for stays in Jaipur and Udaipur.

4. What is the best time to book heritage hotels in Rajasthan?

The cooler months are generally the most comfortable for exploring forts, markets and old cities. This is also a popular period for heritage hotels in Rajasthan, so well-known properties can see stronger demand. Summer is considerably hotter, while the monsoon brings greener scenery to Udaipur and parts of the Aravallis.

5. Which heritage hotels in Rajasthan are best for couples?

Taj Lake Palace and Amet Haveli are particularly appealing for couples because of their Lake Pichola settings, while RAAS Devigarh offers a quieter escape near the Aravallis. Samode Palace is another option for couples who would rather stay away from a busy city centre.

6. Which are the best fort hotels in Rajasthan?

Neemrana Fort-Palace, Fort Barli, Khimsar Fort and Sardargarh are good options for travellers searching for fort hotels in Rajasthan. Their appeal goes beyond historic architecture, with settings ranging from desert landscapes to small villages and the Mewar countryside.