devi garh udaipur: rajasthan

This enormous palace was constructed originally in 1742 but has undergone many additions (and even deconstruction) by the various owners since. In 1960 the place was abandoned and spent much of the next 30 years being looted for its believed treasure and in 1984 the current owners purchased it with the purpose of a full and sympathetic restoration program. On December 31^st 1999, the resort had its grand opening and has never looked back, adding another 20 rooms and suites since then, a spa, swimming pool and a Presidential Suite.

 

While the exterior of the palace is authentically renovated to its original state, the interiors are very contemporary but suit the property as well. Marble is heavily evident everywhere and the clean lines and white linens are a testament to the owners ethos that they are as much designers as hoteliers and providers of fine hospitality.  The result is a beautiful blend of old and new and a place that exudes charm on every level.

 

Rooms:

 

There are 4 room types:

 

Garden Suites –  c. 55m2

Palace Suites – c. 75m2

Aravai Suites –  c. 80m2

Presidential Suite – 135m2

 

All the rooms are different in shape and slightly in size, even within the same room category but this is hardly surprising in a palace this old and the differences are give different options for different tastes.

 

The décor is very design lead, but extremely tasteful and overall, the colours are white/ cream marble with crisp white linens. It is not stark though with splashes of colour, either in the cushions, a fresco on the wall or within a lampshade or bed stead backing. Each room is different and that is part of the delight.

 

Many of the rooms have 2 or 3 separate areas, especially the Aravali Suites and some also have balconies. The Presidential Suite has its own rooftop Jacuzzi and private swimming pool.

 

The Garden Suites have huge verandas and while the interior is not as big as the others, the veranda more than makes up for it.

 

Whichever room you choose, we guarantee you will not be disappointed but we highly recommend the Palace and Aravali Suites as they are normally based on higher floors with the better views.

 

 

Dining:-

 

There is one main restaurant at Devi Garh, again beautifully presented, and the Asian and Continental food is sensational.  Al fresco dining is available in season with lovely views overlooking the hills.

 

The bar is  another feast for the eyes with its silver plated chairs peppered with reds, golds and greys. They serve excellent finger food along with a huge array of drinks.

 

There are also various points in and around the resort for great private dining, including in your room if in a Palace or Aravai Suite.

 

Other:-

 

L’’Occitane Spa

Large swimming pool

Local excursions including:

Camel riding

Elephant riding

Trekking

Cycling

Pool room

 

Devi Garh would be included as part of a 10 day + tour of Rajasthan with a private driver. Approximate cost using heritage properites in other areas would be £ 3,500 per person including flights from the UK and requisite entrance fees and guide/ vehicle costs.