Fairmont, Jaipur—An architecturally stunning hotel with an ode to Rajputana living

From a jet-setting international clientele to locals in search of a royal escape, multi-hyphenated guests from around the world find themselves gravitating towards the Grand Ballroom—an expansive courtroom-style living space with eclectic energy that suffuses the hotel as an ode to the Rajputana way of living. Though you could find it irresistible to make your way to the many vantage points, the 8,361 square meters of meeting space is an ideal launchpad to learn about Fairmont’s imperial values and services. The dramatic Darwazas from the fort of Jaisalmer enclosing the 90,000 sq. ft. ground leaves an impression, as does the heart-warming welcome with folk tunes and music.

The only property of Fairmont’s global chain of luxury hotels in India, this upscale stay was inspired by the architectural build of royal Mughal palaces. And so began a tradition of bringing together Rajputana hospitality and elegant amenities to create one of the country’s most timeless properties, where meticulous detail that pays homage to Jaipur is paramount. While the grandeur of Fairmont makes it unique, architect Clive Gray’s affinity for intricate, elegant design steals the show. The quadrilateral garden layout or Charbagh with frangipani trees, a Rang Mahal preceding the lobby and furniture embellished with camel bone are all prime examples.

Almost all of the 245 unashamedly-regal rooms—including their exclusive Fairmont Gold rooms and suites—overlook the Aravali hills. The best viewpoint from which you can enjoy the Jaipur sun peeking across the mountain curvature during dawn and dusk is from the balcony of the Terrace-view suite. This private porch offers views from the Aravalli hills to local religious sites, as well as a glimpse into day-to-day life in the capital. The marble-clad bathroom with a corner tub is pure luxury. Making the suite experience more immersive, you have access to Le Labo’s fine bathing essentials and a Detox bath setup you can request in your room.

Next door to the Great Ballroom, Zoya entices with its Mughal tent-style dining, Rajasthani home-cooking and wood-fired pizza ovens that would tempt you to go for the Italian menu. A team of chefs and gourmet experts invites guests into authentic Rajasthani, Indian and Mediterranian gastronomy dictated by prominent flavours ranging from Laal mans to Bruschetta. Zarin, the most imperial of all restaurants, gives the impression of a sacred space for elitists but invites everyone in for the meal of a lifetime. The menu showcases the one and only Rajasthani thali—a coming together of several native dishes prepared in true stately fashion—that is served in gold cutlery to reflect the rich heritage of the dynasties of the past.

Tucked away from the central building, the intimate ambience of Fairmont Jaipur’s resident Ruhab spa is a fairytale palace retreat. Small-scale but thoughtful massage rooms feel inviting rather than isolating and the sunrays scattering through the lobby curtains make you want to curl up on their lounge for a drink to plan your glow up. Although this is modern, there is a strong ancient healing influence here, with authentic one-of-a-kind holistic treatments and therapy tailored to your Zodiac sign. Don’t miss the stimulating Cinnamon and Vanilla Body Polish along with a body scrub. We recommend a dip into their outdoor pool before rotating between the massage room and the sauna.

It’s not only the much-awaited inauguration of a fitness facility to combine forces with Ruhab Spa that has put this Jaipur enclave on the hotlist. Just minutes away is the popular structure of Amer Fort built by Raja Man Singh. The tranquil Hathi Gaon is another adventure-centric neighbour. For a glimpse of royalty, a walk along the Man Sagar lake offers an opportunity to observe traditional cultures.

With a capacity to host over 1,000 guests and luxuriant hospitality that celebrates Jaipur’s unique cosmopolitan identity, Fairmont Jaipur feels like entering a hillside fortification, one where you can explore history and future at the same time.

For more information, visit fairmont.com/jaipur