Built in 1821 as the official residence of the British Resident Political Officer of Rajputan, and occupied in 1958 by His Highness Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II of Jaipur, the Raj Mahal is a palace that regular folk, like you and I, can stay in if we’d like to feel like royalty. As we approached the entry porte cochere, the first thing I noticed was the 1950’s Ford Thunderbird with the “Jaipur” personalized license plates. The vehicle was custom made for the royal family and only driven by the men. (After witnessing the chaotic driving style in India, I can appreciate the skill it must have taken to keep this car in pristine condition.)
Exploring the 14 guest suites at the palace was like sampling the best treats in a French bakery. The Queen Elizabeth II Suite, built for Her Highness and the Duke of Edinburgh for their state visit in 1961; The Kennedy Suite, where First Lady Jackie stayed for three months in 1962; and the hotel’s grandest accommodation, The Maharaja Royal Apartment were among the most stunning. The suites and apartments had guest rooms, offices, and dining rooms. Our gang got a personalized tour.
Although Christmas isn’t typically celebrated in India, the Raj Mahal had a gorgeous Christmas tree in their lobby. It was clear that guests of all religions were made to feel welcome, and were definitely treated to “royal” service. What is inside the gifts?
One of the things I particularly liked about the Raj Mahal is their mission to help clean India. They are committed to eradicating litter, to efficient waste disposal, and to planting fast growing trees. After visiting India, I felt this was something that was sorely needed.
Conservation Measures at Raj Mahal
Life as a royal at the Raj Mahal Hotel Palace comes complete with a cashmere shop on the premises Kashmir Loom so you can feel luxurious as well. I learned that the Indian hand embroidery on a cashmere shawl is like a meditation for the seamstress, and can take years to complete. Scott purchased a scarf and I purchased a shawl. They are both gorgeous and so soft! (I am wearing mine in the tea party photo.) A little bit of “Royal” India to bring home with us.
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