Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Location

This 250-year-old summer palace is brimming with marble pillars, ornate glasswork and intricate paintings, seeming to float on the still blue waters of Lake Pichola. It’s worth a stay for the views alone, framed by the City Palace, the rolling Magra hills and the imposing Aravalli mountains. From the moment you’re greeted with a shower of rose petals, it’s clear that this is one of India’s most iconic hotels, famed for its sense of romance that’s played a starring role in everything from James Bond flicks to The Jewel in the Crown. Of course, you’ll also have the colourful temples, lakeside palaces and bustling waterfront of Udaipur on your watery doorstep, reached by a relaxed boat trip.

Accommodation

Across 66 rooms and 17 suites, this is an orchestration of simplicity, elegance and attention to detail. Expect white marble throughout along with richly patterned fabrics and intricately carved ceilings. Upgrade to a Palace Room for the finest in royal Indian décor or look to a suite for the true Maharaja’s experience. You’ll be treated to delicate frescoes, decorative wall niches and even antique wooden fans, with the Grand Presidential Suite offering the last word in opulence. Whatever you choose, you’ll be treated to panoramic lake views and a dedicated 24-hour butler service. There’s also a host of services including complimentary fresh fruit, newspapers and a veritable menu of luxury toiletries.

Dining

Dining at the Lake Palace is, as you’d expect, nothing short of superb. You’ll have the choice of four restaurants; decide between royal Indian cuisine in marble-coated Neel Kamal, European classics on rooftop Bhairo, informal favourites at relaxed Jharokha and fine vintages at Amrit Sagar. It’s all accompanied by those gorgeous lake views, backdropped by Udaipur’s colourful tumble of historic buildings. For something extra special, enquire about the variety of personalised dining experiences, with tailored menus served in such unique locations as terrace hideaways, royal boats and even laketop floats.

Facilities

Although the Jacuzzi, steam baths and sauna of the fully equipped fitness centre stand out, it’s the services on offer that will make your lake stay so special. The wide selection of massages and treatments at the Jiva Spa are particularly evocative, as are the cultural shows, astrologer sessions and heritage walk. On the latter, your expert guide will shed some light on the palace’s 18th century past, entertaining you with anecdotes of the kings and princes who called it home.