The New Raffles Udaipur in Rajasthan: A Royal Retreat

The Dinogo Perspective

Renowned for its tranquil lakes, majestic palaces, ancient forts, and diverse cuisine, Udaipur is beautifully represented at Raffles Udaipur. This luxurious retreat offers a true sense of place, allowing guests to relax amid stunning 360-degree views of the lake.

Experience magnificent architecture and interiors featuring towering columns, 16-foot-tall hand-painted murals, and beautifully landscaped gardens that host 30 different bird species. Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the 3,500-volume library or treat yourself to a massage at the lavish spa, which utilizes hand-crafted local oil blends. Enjoy a cocktail inspired by the mesmerizing sunsets of Udaipur, and if you're traveling with a child, as I was, the attentive staff may delight them with a small goblet of chocolate milk.

Who is it Suitable For?

The Raffles Udaipur is sure to attract travelers who appreciate Rajasthani architecture, while its chandelier-adorned spa will entice luxury seekers with Ayurveda-inspired treatments. The guest rooms featuring private pools and cabanas are ideal for a romantic escape. Additionally, the property caters well to multigenerational families: I visited with my parents and toddler, all of whom enjoyed the expansive pool, outdoor spaces, and attentive service.

The Location

The property covers 21 acres on a private island situated in the heart of Udai Sagar Lake. Guests arrive at the boat dock, where staff warmly greet them with the traditional Rajasthani salutation “khamma ghani” and escort them to a zero-emissions electric boat.

The Rooms

The property’s soft color scheme highlights the vibrant hues of the surrounding lake and mountains, making them visible from every window. The 101 generous guest rooms and suites are adorned with black-and-white marble inlay cabinetry, hand-painted murals in the bathrooms, and Rajasthani artwork. Twelve guest rooms and six suites come equipped with private plunge pools.

The Food and Drink

Dining at Raffles Udaipur is an experience in itself. Enjoy a lakeside dinner under the stars at Sawai Kitchen, complemented by live music and traditional Rajasthani dancers. Pay close attention to the menu, which features dishes like masaledaar bharwan kachhe tamatar (spicy green tomatoes) and dhungaar murg (country chicken prepared with whole spices), offering insights into regional heirloom recipes. The hotel also boasts Rasoi, a 12-seat chef’s table; Harvest, a farm-to-table Indian restaurant featuring produce from the island’s organic farm; and Patisserie, an all-day dining venue with freshly baked pastries.

Don’t miss the Writer’s Bar in the hotel’s library, known for its afternoon high tea, or the charming Long Bar, which serves custom cocktails, small plates, and cigars. The bartender was especially enthusiastic about the cocktail garnishes his team creates by repurposing fruit peels and herb stems.

The breakfast buffet offers a culinary journey across India. In addition to traditional Rajasthani breakfast dishes like pyaaz kachori (onion fritters served with curry), guests can savor regional specialties from various states, including Punjab, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Occasionally, a live wooden flute player enhances the meal's ambiance.

Staff and Service

The service is both discreet and tailored; every guest is assigned a dedicated butler. Check-in and check-out procedures take place in private areas. The staff—25 percent of whom come from Udaipur and its surroundings—are encouraged to understand guest preferences and are always ready to recommend activities both on and off the property based on individual interests.

Accessibility

The hotel was built recently, allowing the architects to create grounds that are fully wheelchair accessible. One room is specially designed to accommodate guests with disabilities, featuring emergency call buttons, safety bars, and lowered bathroom fixtures.

Sustainability

Alongside the zero-emissions boat, the island features a water bottling facility that produces its own bottled water. The kitchen primarily sources its ingredients from the property’s hydroponic garden as well as local suppliers. Currently, the hotel is striving to eliminate single-use plastics from the guest experience. Although the state government has banned many plastics since July 2022, finding reliable alternatives remains a slow process.