Udaipur is known as the Venice of the East. This charming lakeside destination is one of the lesser known Rajasthani cities, but is the perhaps the most beautiful I visited. There are plenty of five star hotels to choose from in Udaipur, but I highly recommend the regal Leela Palace, a luxurious abode which offers faultless service and the finest facilities.
We were collected in one of hotel’s white BMWs and dropped at the private jetty to get a boat across to the hotel. It is a charming way to reach the property, and a lovely opportunity to see the city from the water. Back on land we were greeted with cascading rose petals dropped from a balcony above us and serenaded with traditional Indian music.
To make our one night at The Leela Palace Udaipur particularly memorable the management team upgraded us to room 305, the Royal Suite. This magnificent apartment in the palace wing had ornate high dome ceilings, a glittering chandelier and impressive artwork depicting local royalty. After exploring the living room, I found the lavish bedroom with a giant four-poster bed topped with opulent silk cushions. The walk-in wardrobe and marble bathroom felt grown up and exciting to use, with numerous gadgets concealed within their clever design. Everything you could need can be found in the Royal Suite, including a spacious dining room and practical kitchen, and a butler is on hand to make sure your stay is perfect. Unfortunately in my short stay of just 24 hours I couldn’t spend as much time as I wanted to in this incredible suite, but I did have time to admire the beautiful details, craftsmanship and indulgent touches.
The hotel has 80 rooms in total offering spectacular lake and garden views. Thanks to the modern design all bedrooms are spacious and thoughtfully arranged. In the hotter months the plunge pool rooms and suites are particularly popular.
When you are not in your room, there are plenty of stunning communal spaces to enjoy. Each night the inner courtyard hosts live music and dancing, while artistic guests may wish to join the daily heritage tour of the hotel’s art and artefacts with the in-house historian.
Poolside lounging feels very extravagant thanks to the attentive staff who bring out fresh iced tea and cooling flannels. Casual food is available all day and is delivered in picnic hampers. I loved the falafel wrap, a welcome break from curry and spice.
Udaipur is beautiful during the day but at night it truly sparkles and the Leela Palace lakeside restaurant Sheesh Mahal is the ideal place to sit and appreciate your surroundings. It is only luxury hotel restaurant that also welcomes outside visitors, though with only a limited number of tables bookings are essential. It was wonderfully romantic when we sat and enjoyed a glass of local Sula wine and an epic Indian feast. The kitchen excel at regional Rejasthani dishes, most memorable was the spicy and creamy Hyderabadi Khatte Baingan (eggplant cooked with tomatoes and tamarind) and the assorted vegetarian kebab platter.
Breakfast can be enjoyed in your own room or downstairs in the main Dining Room where an abundant buffet is put on each morning. We opted for fresh waffles, exotic fruit and coffee, but if you are feeling brave, try some of the Indian delicacies.
Hidden in the foliage of the grounds is the serene ESPA Spa, a place for reflecting and relaxing. I was amazed at how my body responded to the two hour signature Ayurvedic treatment. This intensive massage treatment began with a brief consultation to determine my ‘dosha’ type before my therapist (Tashi) commenced with a foot ritual. She recognised both pitta and vatta tendencies and used specific oils and massage techniques to soothe and balance my body.
The next morning I returned to the spa for a private yoga class. This quiet and meditative class clears your mind before the day ahead and strengthens the core muscles.
Usually in a new city I am desperate to get out and explore, but the Leela Palace in Udaipur completely won me over. I just wanted to stay at this beautiful hotel and experience everything it has to offer. After a brief but beautiful stay I was sad to float back to reality on the mainland.
More information and book a stay at The Leela Palace Udaipur here.