June 6, 2023

Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, India, was recently named the number 1 hotel in the world, according to Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Hotels ranking for 2023.

Tripadvisor noted the “incredible extravagance” of a compound dubbed the “Jewel of Jaipur”.

“This jewel in the crown of the Taj offers 78 stunningly restored grand luxury rooms and suites in Jaipur, the chambers of the erstwhile Maharaja,” according to the hotel’s website.

“The palace retains its elaborate splendour, extravagantly decorated with hand-carved marble ‘jalis’ or lattice work, sandstone balustrades, domes and ‘chattris’ or cenotaphs, and extensive Mughal gardens.”

Those staying at the palace are invited to enjoy a “royal Indian feast” at the hotel’s Suvarna Mahal restaurant, located in the palace’s former ballroom, built in the 18th-century French style. It is one of many restaurants on the palace grounds.


The hotel at night.
The palace started in 1835 when a garden house was built. Upstairs, the hotel at night.
Taj Hotels

A look inside one of the hotel's suites.
A look inside one of the hotel’s suites.
Taj Hotels

In 1887 the garden house was turned into a small royal hunting lodge.  Above, one of the hotel's dining rooms.
In 1887 the garden house was turned into a small royal hunting lodge. Above, one of the hotel’s dining rooms.
Taj Hotels

When booking their stay at the larger-than-life hotel, guests are presented with several options.

The most basic experience costs travelers $357, and includes “a four-poster bed or twin beds, walk-in closets, and a spacious bathroom that will help you sink into the regal experience” overlooking a garden or courtyard.

Those wanting a more historic experience are expected to shell out nearly $520 for one of the palace’s “historical suites,” which feature “Rajasthani artwork and sheer fabrics and have been recently renovated.” These suites have a cozy atmosphere with marble or wooden floors.”

For the full royal experience and to sleep in the former personal chambers of the Maharaja of Jaipur, guests must be prepared to shell out $991 for the occasion.


One of the hotel's bathrooms.
One of the hotel’s bathrooms.
Taj Hotels

The grounds were transformed in the early 20th century with additions and extensions.  According to the Tourism for India website, it became the residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II.
The grounds were transformed in the early 20th century with additions and extensions. According to the Tourism for India website, it became the residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II.
LightRocket via Getty Images

Some of the dishes are served in one of the hotel's restaurants.
Some of the dishes are served in one of the hotel’s restaurants.
Taj Hotels

Also available is the grand royal suite and grand presidential suite starting at $1,850 and $3,772 respectively.

The hotel also features several wellness options, including the J Wellness Circle, which allows guests to “harmonize body and mind with yoga and meditation.”

Guests are also invited to view the “sophisticated” polo bar which displays “the trophies and memorabilia of the Jaipur polo team”.

Over the years, Rambagh Palace has played host to several famous people, including King Charles III, Lord Louis Mountbatten and Jacqueline Kennedy.


"This jewel in the crown of the Taj offers 78 stunningly restored grand luxury rooms and suites in Jaipur, the chambers of the erstwhile Maharaja," according to the hotel website.
“This jewel in the crown of the Taj offers 78 stunningly restored grand luxury rooms and suites in Jaipur, the chambers of the erstwhile Maharaja,” according to the hotel’s website.
Taj Hotels

One of the luxury rooms of the hotel.
One of the luxury rooms of the hotel.
Taj Hotels

The swimming pool of the hotel.
The swimming pool of the hotel.
Taj Hotels

According to previous guests, it is royally good to stay in the palace.

“The experience was very nice,” says TripAdvisor user Apurva2501. “The atmosphere is too good and the food was also tasty, it tasted like home-cooked food and Mr. Kishan’s service is also very good.”

“This is the kind of place where you dream big and pamper yourself like no other,” said one traveler.

“One of the most phenomenal places to be for great dining and so on, Rambagh has never disappointed for anything. Whether it concerns accommodation, dining, comfort, luxury”, a third user agrees.

Recently, TripAdvisor also unveiled its list of top beaches around the world, with the US taking three spots in the site’s top 25.