There is something instantly alluring about Jodhpur. Known as ‘the blue city’ because of the numerous azure painted houses, it is a colourful maze of cobbled alleys and stall-lined streets. In this city I can’t imagine staying anywhere other than RAAS Jodhpur, a beautifully authentic, historic property at the foot of the famous Mehrangarh Fort. Here, within the walls of the old city, you will be immersed in the real Rajasthan, woken in the morning by the call to prayer and relaxing after lunch in the shadows of the city’s sites.
RAAS is Jodhpur’s first boutique hotel, opening in 2009 after three years of intensive renovating and building work. The property once belonged to a local noble family before it was taken over by the hotel group. The RAAS owners have kept the four old buildings intact and built three new modern structures which complement the style of the original design. Red sand stone unites the old and new, and adds a comforting warmth to the place. Almost all the rooms offer views of the magnificent Fort, which is equally impressive come day or night.
There are 39 rooms across 4 categories. We were very at home in room 134, a duplex suite with beautiful balcony views. Downstairs, the bedroom and living space was divinely luxurious, decorated in simple pale hues with vintage furniture and minimalist detailing. The marble white bathroom was fresh and indulgent, equipped with a walk-in rain shower and KAMA Ayurvedic toiletries from south India. Upstairs a more decorative living area and decadent bathtub was the perfect place to unwind with a book. Though I loved our room, for a particularly atmospheric stay I would recommend booking one of the heritage suites housed within the original buildings.
I was disappointed to not find many exciting eateries in the city of Jodhpur, so though I wouldn’t usually recommend staying inside the hotel for mealtimes, in this city RAAS’ fine food selection is definitely the best you will find. Enjoy rich and indulgent Indian cuisine or opt for International fare in the hotel’s only restaurant. The company have recently acquired the next door 800 year old step well, a truly magnificent heritage site which took months to clean. Enjoy the daunting views from above whilst devoured an assortment of Indian delicacies in the new Stepwell cafe. I was in great admiration of the chef’s fresh and vibrant creations, from addictively tasty Sev Puri (a Mumbai snack) to Aromatic Aloo Gobi Adraki (cauliflower and potato curry).
After lying by the stunning pool for the afternoon I took the opportunity to try the idyllic Ila spa, the first location for the beauty brand in India. Housed in the sacred historic building the spa feels instantly calm and reflective. The signature RAAS treatment is a brilliant massage which uses different techniques to sooth and rejuvenate the body. My therapist, Sonam, had magical healing hands and used hot stones and Argon oil to release uncomfortable knots and relieve tired muscles. After a day exploring the dusty town of Jodhpur there is nothing more refreshing than a trip to this heavenly spa.
The approachable staff are happy to help organise day trips or tour guides to help you get the most out of this unique destination. Before you leave the hotel don’t forget to take a ride in their very own sky-blue tuk tuk. A knowledgeable guide will take you on a whirlwind 45-minute tour of the city, which is complimentary with your stay.
This romantic hideaway offers a retreat within the chaotic but captivating city of Jodhpur. RAAS celebrate the local heritage of the place whilst offering a luxurious place to escape from it all. With the recent takeover of Devi Garh in Udaipur and plans to open a winter property in the Himalayas, it seems to be just the beginning for the RAAS brand.
More information and book a stay at RAAS Jodhpur here.