The Oberoi Udaivilâs

Hotel details

From the moment you arrive – by boat – at Udaivilâs, you will be mesmerized.

The romance of India’s fairytale palaces was the inspiration for this sprawling complex that comprises open-air columns and corridors, archways and alcoves, colourful murals and golden domes. All this set within grounds dotted with pavilions, fountains and reflecting pools. If that weren’t Eden-like enough, the adjoining 20 acres house a protected wildlife sanctuary where deer, wild boar and peacock roam and are fed at sunset.

More than a decade of work went into the interiors, which replicate many of the ancient decorative arts of the region. A stunning example is the Candle Room, where the walls and ceiling dome are studded with hundreds of mercury glass pieces that reflect the light from burning tapers in the centre. Needless to say, this makes for a breathtaking sight at night.

The 87 rooms are spacious and elegantly-appointed, complemented by hand-knotted carpets, handcrafted furniture and Indian art. All come with private terraces, and most offer views of Lake Pichola and City Palace. The best are any of the Deluxe rooms, fronted by a semi-private moat-like swimming pool.

With two restaurants (a main dining room plus a dinner-only venue for gourmet North Indian and Rajasthani cuisines and nightly traditional entertainment) and a fabulous spa managed by Banyan Tree of Thailand, it will be hard to tear yourself away.

But you must, at least for an afternoon or two. The ruins, palaces, temples and forts of Udaipur are an experience you will never forget.