6 of Rajasthan’s most Instagrammable hotels

A land of warrior clans and vibrant folk traditions, thriving bazaars and incredible architecture, Rajasthan is among India’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Generations of maharajas have ruled this region, their rich royal legacy preserved in the grand haveli mansions, magnificent palaces and imposing forts that dot the dazzling Thar Desert. 

With scalloped arches and soaring domes, carved pillars and intricate mosaic patterns, lavish living quarters and an unmatched tradition of hospitality, these royal residences, forts and palaces are now some of the most dramatic hotels in the world. Filled with pastel colours straight out of a Wes Anderson set, Rajasthan’s best hotels are a visual treat, and any of these dreamy digs are picture perfect for the ‘gram.  

1. Samode Haveli, Jaipur 

Tucked away in the busy lanes of Jaipur’s Old City stands a traditional haveli, or mansion, that was once the home of the rulers of Samode. This luxurious property is over 200 years old – a lavish Indo-Saracenic-style residence where living quarters are arranged around leafy courtyards filled with flowering trees and waterways. This was among Jaipur’s first havelis to be turned into a boutique hotel, where visitors can experience a slice of royal living as they inhabit the former living quarters of Rajasthan royalty in the pink city. Samode Haveli is a design spectacle, and every corner lends itself to dramatic photos. Rooms are filled with striking tilework, arches and antique four-poster beds. Elaborate hand-painted murals from the 18th century cover the walls of the sitting room.  At dusk, the pool, lined with pavilions, is illuminated by candlelight – a dreamy setting for a romantic holiday photoshoot. 

2. Amanbagh, Ajabgarh 

In the arid desertscape of Rajasthan, Amanbagh  is a vision in pink stone. Set against the rugged backdrop of the Aravalli Hills, this garden oasis two hours away from Jaipur is awash with shades of pale rose. With sandstone façades and gleaming pink marble floors, domed roofs and intricate lattice work, the architecture harkens back to the Mughal era. Private pools sparkle against the desert sun while gardens overflow with flowering trees. There are also colonnaded walkways and lantern-lit paths, stairways open to the sky and striking archways – all of which make for stunning imagery. When it comes to making magical holiday photos, this modern-day palace setting is hard to beat.  

3. The Leela Palace, Udaipur 

Set around the serene Lake Pichola, green and peaceful Udaipur is a departure from the arid, buzzing cities of Rajasthan. The luxurious Leela Palace hotel sits on the waterfront, capitalising on one of the city’s most tranquil locations. The art-filled property is an ode to local Mewari crafts, brimming with exquisite stone-inlay mirrors and carved marble sculptures. The best views are after sundown, at the al fresco Sheesh Mahal restaurant which abuts the lake. City lights dance on the water, and chessboard-tiled floors offer a striking contrast to the golden candlelight that illuminates the space, in a truly made-for-Instagram setting. 

4. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur  

Towering above the Blue City, the home of Jodhpur’s erstwhile royal family is an imposing sight on Chittar Hill. Umaid Bhawan Palace is among the largest private residences in the world, formerly home to Maharaja Gaj Singh and his family. Touted as one of the most dramatic and visually inspiring palaces in India, it features a soaring 105-foot dome and vaulted banquet halls, an opulent Durbar Hall, as well as gleaming granite and marble floors, oozing withArt Deco splendour. Umaid Bhawan is part museum and part hotel, managed by the Taj group. Travellers to Jodhpur can live like royalty in this grand golden sandstone palace that dates back to 1943. Between interiors dressed in Burmese teak and gardens where peacocks roam free, there’s no shortage of photo-worthy spots in this lavish abode.  

5. Raas Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur

In 1729, the royal family of Jaipur built the Art Deco-style Rajmahal Palace in shades of rose and honey. For many years, this opulent palace was the home of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh and Maharani Gayatri Devi. Now, the palace-turned-hotel’s chic contemporary aesthetic complements its traditional architecture. Pastel-patterned walls and bold chequered tiles. A sparkling pool juxtaposed against a dusty pink façade. A generous spread of velvets and antiques throughout the space. The Rajmahal Palace is truly an Instagram-worthy hotel, and it’s no surprise that everyone from the Kennedys to Queen Elizabeth II chose to stay here.  

6. Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner

Bikaner may be somewhat off the beaten tourist path, but the luxurious hotel Narendra Bhawan puts the region’s heritage front and centre, making it well worth a visit. Built as the home of the last reigning Maharaja of Bikaner, Narendra Singhji, this palatial abode is a striking ode to Rajput architecture, as well as to the Maharaja’s love for life’s many luxuries. Behind the red sandstone façade lie pearl curtains and lush velvets, modern terrazzo floors and vibrant Art Deco accents reminiscent of Bombay in the 1930s. Collectibles from the Maharaja’s life fill the space, and with breezy courtyards, lavish interiors and an infinity pool overlooking the Old City, Narendra Bhawan is a design-lover’s paradise.