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The Palaces of RajasthanThe Colorful Cities of IndiaBy Donna YuenThe Rajputs (a powerful Hindu caste) occupied the once many states of Rajasthan until 1947, when British rule ended in India. Until then they lived like kings and their palaces and legacies are strewn throughout the now united state of Rajasthan. The subsequent generations of Rajputs have proven to be shrewd businessmen, and many of their palaces have since been converted to luxury palace hotels. Want to feel like a Maharajas or Maharani? Then a palace hotel is the place to stay when you visit Rajasthan.
In contrast, the Ratanada Polo Palace located in Jodphur will provide the exceptional service expected in a luxury hotel. The large immaculate rooms enable the visitor to travel in comfort and cleanliness, which is often a rare experience in India. The hotel is decorated with the photographs of many of the rich and famous, and British Royalty who have frequented this palace. Princess Diana and Prince Charles are captured on film during their visit, in addition to Queen Elizabeth. Following in the footsteps of the British Royalty, the staff has perfected providing royal treatment to their guests, while they dine in one of the numerous restaurants or during a swim in the alluring pool. Leave the palace to wander the inviting streets of the old city. The blue wash on the houses creates a visual masterpiece for the visitor. Women walk by in vibrantly colored saris showcased against the brilliant blue tone of the old city.
One morning, I crawled out from under my sheer mosquito net to discover that after the excellent care and attention I had received, I was healthy once again, and it was time to move on. In the predawn glow, we climbed the stairs to the rooftop for the last time. As we sat in the large wicker chairs mesmerized by the sunrise, I looked around me to enjoy the beautiful vistas one more time. The enormous fort to the south, the endless desert sands to the north, and the Jain temples perched atop sunset point to the west. Whether you are visiting the pink city of Jaipur, the blue city of Jodhpur or the golden city of Jaisalmer, India is a country rich in color and culture; and the palaces of Rajasthan, mere jewels for the modern Maharaja. Donna Yuen Images by Donna Yuen |
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The Bissau palace in the capital of Jaipur
is truly a heritage hotel, the authentic décor will make you feel as if you
have just stepped into your own little kingdom. The rooms are decorated with
antique furniture, and weapons used before the days of independence.
However, the most prominent feature is the owner’s hospitality. You may be
invited to join him for a cool drink on the terrace, or a banquet dinner in
one of the private dining halls. Regardless, you will leave having tasted
the rich history of India. Nestled in the vibrant city of
Jaipur, the palace is located nearby to one of the gates entering the old
walled quarter of the pink city. Traditionally, pink is the color of
hospitality ; and with Jaipur being the capital of the state, the pink hue
is both welcoming and unique.
Hopefully you are also fortunate enough to make it to
the northwestern border of India, to the city of Jaisalmer. It is a golden
city intricately carved from sandstone. The Narayan Niwas Palace located on
the northern edge of town was actually a travelers’ inn 350 years ago, when
the caravans used to travel across the desert sands. Since its restoration
35 years ago, the hotel now caters to weary travelers searching for a modern
desert experience. The ornate hand carved
façade of the hotel is truly palatial, even the watering hole has been
converted to an opulent deep blue pool. Like many travelers in India, I had
the misfortune to become ill. Fortunately I was a guest at this palace,
which has a doctor on site. I spent four days bedridden in the simple but
comfortable room, being waited upon hand and foot. From formal room service
to efficient laundry service, the kind staff addressed all of my needs for
comfort. 
Occasionally, I would summon all of my energy to climb
the stairs to the rooftop terrace. I would watch the sunrise ascend like a
fireball, awakening the golden town of Jaisalmer for yet another day. In
addition to the breathtaking views of the city from the rooftop, the palace
offers authentic Indian entertainment nightly and daily tours into the
desert.