The luxurious Raffles Jaipur has officially opened as a majestic retreat in one of India’s most vibrant destinations.
If you’ve long looked for an excuse to visit India’s mesmerising region of Rajasthan, it has finally arrived. Located a short drive away from the main attractions of the fabled ‘Pink City’ and encircled by the ancient Aravalli Hills, the sublime new Raffles Jaipur is a modern-day re-creation of a palace, paying homage to the regal art of living.
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Hand carved from pure white marble, Raffles Jaipur showcases the finest of Rajasthani craftsmanship. Each element within the reimagined palace retreat has been exquisitely handcrafted by skilled artisans, blending the age-old traditions and techniques of Mughal and Rajputana architecture.
Creating a highly intimate experience, the hotel features just 50 guestrooms and suites, each unique in layout and décor, and all appointed with an expansive balcony offering an outdoor soaking tub or plunge pool. Intricate details grace every corner of the hotel’s accommodations, including painted corniced ceilings, golden murals, furniture featuring camel bone inlay, locally sourced artifacts, and carpets woven in Jaipur.
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Raffles Jaipur inspires and invites guests to connect with the local culture at every corner. Upon arrival, a Shikar tent evokes memories of Royal Mughal expeditions, and the hand-carved sandstone columns in the hotel’s courtyard, each carved from different eras of Rajasthani architecture, gives a peek into the glorious past. Opulent Mughal furnishing and patterned marble floors adorn a spacious grand hall, from which a hidden, mirrored door guides guests to a light filled atrium, reminiscent of the design of women’s quarters of the Mughal court.
As guests explore the different spaces, the hotel’s signature scent of neroli, orange blossom, and saffron fills the air. Raffles Jaipur also features the brand’s legendary Butler Service, with dedicated butlers ready to meet guests’ every need, from curating bespoke experiences to providing heartfelt care. Unique to Raffles Jaipur, butlers will provide guests with curated healing rituals traditional to Rajasthani culture, including botanical infused bathing, health elixirs made from local spices, and specially developed plant-based ointments.
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Raffles Jaipur is also set to become a culinary destination for the region, with dining experiences that offer a modern interpretation of local gastronomy. Inspired by the primarily plant-based culinary tradition of the Zenana, or women’s quarters of the Mughal court, the dishes at Arkaa, the hotel’s specialty restaurant, celebrate the essence of the progressive north Indian region using local ingredients sourced from nearby micro-farms.
Libations at the hotel’s Writers Bar feature freshly ground spices and herbs sourced from the hotel’s garden, including the Jaipur Sling. This localised take on the famed Singapore Sling, which was created at Raffles Singapore in 1915, features orange liqueur, local herbal liqueur once used by royalty, pineapple juice, lime and bitters and Indian dry gin, a combination that celebrates the pink hue for which Jaipur is known and showcases the flavour notes of the sherbets of the grand palaces of Rajasthan.
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In addition, traditional afternoon tea is served in Safir, bringing guests on a journey that celebrates diverse flavours through original creations. With stunning views of the rolling Aravalli Hills, rooftop bar Sehara serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an emphasis on Italian specialties.
After a day of exploration, head for the serene 620-sqm spa, which features indulgent treatment rooms and mineral pools, in addition to a state-of-the-art fitness studio. A rooftop pool offers an opportunity to relax against a backdrop of stunning city vistas.
Continuing in the traditional legacy of the queen’s palace of the Mughal court, Raffles Jaipur will treat guests to moments of pure enchantment through a rich calendar of events and experiences, drawing guests deeper into the local heritage and culture. This includes exclusive dining experiences, masterclasses with local artisans, and private concerts. Later this year, the hotel will unveil an Artisan Trail, where participants can connect with skilled local artisans and creators, exploring their crafts and stories.
