by Udaipur – also known as the City of Lakes or the Venice of the East – is certainly one of the most alluring places in Rajasthan, India. The region is rich in royal history and famous for its opulent palaces and sprawling fortresses.
Located in the former hunting grounds of the city’s Maharana, the Oberoi Udaivilas is a synonym for limitless luxury and native Indian hospitality.
It’s no wonder this lakeside retreat embodies the splendor of a sprawling Rajasthani palace, with lavish interiors and pampering services to match (you can expect a rose petal greeting and pampered with elegant, personalized touches throughout your stay). has become a magnet for travelers seeking a quiet overnight stay in the heart of Udaipur.
Where?
Located on the banks of the tranquil Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Oberoi Udaivilas is a comfortable distance from the hustle and bustle of the city. Surrounded by 50 hectares of extensive gardens, the hotel feels more like a tropical resort than a city district – the old town (which you can see from the other side of the lake) can be reached in ten minutes by car, and it is 40 minutes to the airport and the flight takes one hour to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.
style
A network of checkered corridors stretches across the palace complex, leading to domed pavilions and winding colonnades, all decorated in soothing terracotta tones. Islamic influences native to this particular region of India are subtly incorporated into the architecture, with each courtyard tiled in perfectly symmetrical patterns and intricate archways facing the sun.
The bedrooms overlook tranquil gardens where peacocks strut proudly and chipmunks snuggle among the flora. Water sparkles everywhere, from the gurgling fountains to the hotel’s infinity pools.
Facilities
A mix of East-West therapies take center stage in the tranquil spa, where a huge chandelier hangs from the soaring, hand-painted dome. The tranquil treatment rooms offer revitalizing therapies ranging from hot stone massages to Indian sandalwood peels, leaving you feeling completely rejuvenated. There is also a fully equipped gym and an adults-only pool where you can relax. At the opposite end of the property there is another pool where the whole family can splash around.
Extracurricular
Start your day with a private yoga session before setting off to explore the city. A visit to Udaipur’s famous City Palace Museum should be first on the agenda: Still the magnificent residence of the city’s ruling Maharana and one of Rajasthan’s largest palace complexes, you can marvel at detailed mosaics, Rajput weaponry, and architecture that spans multiple cultures and generations.
Then stroll through the leafy gardens of Saheliyon Ki Bari – once the preserve of the queen and her ladies – before getting lost among the textile shops of the old town. Cooking classes with the chefs, henna painting and astrology workshops can be organized at Oberoi Udaivilas.
Food & Drink
For all-day dining, Suryamahal offers a global menu with a mix of Western and Indian classics. In the evening, enjoy traditional Rajasthani dishes at Chandni, where you feast on the candle-lit terrace with live music and dancers, then have a drink at the hotel’s colonial-style bar.
At breakfast the next morning, enjoy a selection of homemade pastries and tropical fruits washed down with piping hot chai. If you’re still hungry, the chefs will whip up any dish you desire, whether it’s freshly made dosa or a full fried dish.
Which room?
All of the hotel’s 87 rooms exude opulence, but the lavish suites overlooking Lake Pichola stand out, with semi-private pools and stunning sunrise views over the City Palace.
Interiors are a tasteful mix of Rajasthani details and colonial accents, from intricately carved four-poster beds and hand-painted frescoes to bathrooms shimmering in marble and gold. Upon arrival, expect Indian sweets and personalized gifts in typical Oberoi style.
Best for…
Adventurous travelers who love a luxurious retreat.
The details
Room prices per night start from £750. oberoihotels.com
