I was recently invited by MakeMyTrip (MMT) blogs to write about a luxury hotel experience in India. After some thought, I decided to write about the wonderful Fateh Prakash Palace in Udaipur. Read the story below and also on the MMT page here.
“Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar would like you to attend the annual Maharana Mewar Foundation annual awards at Udaipur.” This is how my invite to be in Udaipur came in and I decided to make my maiden sojourn to the destination that is on everyone’s travel wish list.
Taking two flights from Bangalore I felt slightly jaded but my welcome with a bouquet of fresh flowers and a luxury car that took me right upto the gate of my destination – Fateh Prakash Palace perked me up. As I climb down a short flight of stairs I am amazed by paintings in vivid colours that dotted the side walls. A welcome drink, a jasmine garland and another bouquet of fresh flowers I know this will be an experience to savour. Walking into the myriad corridors, I check out the interiors that are grandiose yet classy. Well this is the place where once the Maharanas of Mewar held court and the interiors still reflect a regal charm. This palace was constructed during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh, one of the greatest Maharanas of Mewar who ruled from 1884 to 1930 and was used as exclusive venue for royal functions. Today of course it has been meticulously preserved and upgraded for discerning guests.
Room Story
As I reach my room, I first notice a small area that is like an area that enhances the privacy of the rest of space. There are also ornate curtains that lead me to my exquisite bedroom. The walls are done up with original miniature paintings, replica paintings and period furniture from the royal storerooms soon have me enveloped in a velvety luxury. But wait there is more. Opposite my bedroom is a little space that I can reach climbing up a few steps to reach my very own study and the wood table and chair makes me want to start writing immediately. And on my left is an elevated arched window which has seating providing stunning views of the lake. A narrow corridor from here leads me to arguably the finest secret spot in the room which is a spacious seating place with comfortable seating that directly overlooks the lake! There are 21 Dovecote Rooms and 44 Dovecote Premier Suites here and my room is like a mini palace in itself. And waiting for me is a personal letter that welcomes me to the hotel!
Amenities
Apart from in room dining which I must admit is great, you must eat The Sunset Terrace rightfully rated among the top restaurants of India, which is outside the hotel and overlooks the lake giving you a ring side view of the most famous landmark palaces of the city. The open-to-sky restaurant offers delectable food, light eats and meals and is a perfect way to start you day over a scrumptious breakfast! The Durbar Hall Sabhagaar here has historical significance as Lord Minto, the Viceroy of India, laid its foundation stone in 1909! While I enjoyed all of this, the best part of this stay was when I spotted a pair of grey hornbill’s right outside my room as I sipped my morning tea in the comfort of my room that left the birder in me thrilled. Well luxury is also about the small things that matter and make you happy! Do you agree?
Fact File
Address: Fateh Prakash Palace, The City Palace, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan.
Telephone: +91 294 2528016–19, Fax: 91 294 2528006. Email: crs@hrhhotels.com Web: http://www.hrhhotels.com/Grand_heritage/Fateh_Prakash_Palace/index.aspx