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    • Design

    If exquisite artistry gives you goosebumps, India’s first Raffles hotel in Udaipur may prove irresistible

    AUG 2, 2021 | By Kashish Kaushal
    Each room at the Raffles, Udaipur is emotive of opulent comfort. Escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, the strategic location is a enthralling, natural escapade; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    101 luxurious rooms, suites and signature suites equip this property to host awe-inspiring events and celebrations, Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Twilight skies painted in romantic hues of pink, purple and blue are just some of the perks of breathtaking, picturesque location of Raffles, Udaipur; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Plunge pools, private gardens and uninterrupted lake views elevate the experience of Raffles Udaipur; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    The presidential suite at the Raffles, Udaipur is a rare and extraordinary experience. In line with Raffles philosophy to reflect the cultural and natural heritage of its location, the palatial suite embodies the rich and vibrant history of the city; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Unwind and refresh in the state of the art powder rooms and bathrooms while enjoying intricate art that paints a fantastical Udaipur; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Artisanal and classic cocktails with a side of sumptuous caviar will keep you company on your discreet and serene retreats at the writers bars; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    A quaint writer’s bar, seeped in a rustic, old school charm is the perfect getaway for bibliophiles and writers alike; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Emulating the royalty of the Rajput palaces, the grand lobby features art from local master artisans and handcrafted furniture; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Complete with a exquisite living and dining room, the presidential suite at the Raffles, Udaipur is the epitome of elegance and regal heritage; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Each room at Raffles, Udaipur has a stunning, uninterrupted view of the magnificent Udai Sagar Lake; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    Royal influences and a colour palette reminiscent of the city of Udaipur grace the Flamingo Signature Room at Raffles, Udaipur; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    A twenty minute, scenic drive from the airport, the property is located on a 21 acre private island set in the middle of infamous Udai Sagar lake; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    An architectural marvel, the design blends Rajasthani heritage and Mughal architecture, and is peppered with contemporary, western sensibilities that promise a memorable stay; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur
    One of the Flamingo Signature Suites overlooks a lush garden and the Udai Sagar Lake . A private butler available during all times of the day give guests a personalised, seamless service; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur

    The beguiling Raffles Udaipur sets a new standard in luxury accommodation in Udaipur, and it’s not just the hotel’s design and multiple amenities that are impressive. Unfurling on August 2, 2021, India’s first Raffles hotel presents a never seen before outlook on the city famed across the world for its lakes. 

    Set in the midst of the pristine Udai Sagar lake, the 21-acre private island is a nature lover’s paradise with its breathtaking country estate, ornamental gardens and panoramic views of the surrounding lake, hills, and a 400-year-old temple. With this new addition, Raffles Hotels and Resorts continues to mesmerise travellers with unforgettable experiences and service. It is a part of Accor, the world’s leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. 

    “Whether you are looking for a rare place of extraordinary discovery or a romantic getaway with captivating sunsets, Raffles Udaipur is the ideal choice,” says Abhishek Sharma, General Manager. 

    Beat the summer heat by taking a relaxing dip in one of the many pools on the property; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur

    Speaking about the opening, Puneet Dhawan, ‎Senior Vice President of Operations – India and South Asia, Accor, mentions, “India is a strategic market with long-term growth potential for Accor and it’s an exciting time for us as we present the iconic Raffles brand to the Venice of the East. Discerning travellers will now be able to experience the bespoke and immersive hospitality that is quintessentially Raffles. We look forward to warmly welcoming our guests and allowing them to discover what we have created, a confluence of Raffles’ global ethos and local Indian sensitivities.” 

    Upon arrival, the guests are escorted via a scenic 20-minute drive from the airport, followed by a boat ride in the company of migratory feathered friends. Weaving ingenious western cultural references with Rajasthan’s royal heritage and elements of Mughal architecture, 101 luxurious rooms, suites and signature suites constitute this edifice. With uninterrupted lake views, private gardens, balconies, plunge pools and an east-west design aesthetic, the guestrooms are every connoisseur’s dream.

    Under culinary director Prasad Metrani, Raffles Udaipur is a food aficionado’s heaven with fresh, new flavours to relish every day. The Sawai Kitchen—an Indian specialty restaurant, Harvest—an interactive farm-to-table dining experience, Rasoi—the cookery school along with the Raffles Patisserie are all meticulously crafted alfresco dining experiences, framed by the stunning hills that surround the lake.

    The iconic Writers Bar and Long Bar, a hallmark of the Raffles brand designed with European wood and leather, with engravings by local artisans, serve as the perfect places to socialise.  From a celestial cruise under the moon, guided farm tours, to a well equipped spa and fitness centre—the hotel prioritises both emotional and physical well-being of the guests through various authentic treatments and personalised programmes.

    Handcrafted furniture with European wood and leather details adorn the suites. The place aims to promote both emotional and physical well-being and the many facilities ensure a comfortable time; Photographs courtesy Raffles Udaipur

    This island location can also transform into a memorable setting for special events and celebrations. The Grand Ballroom of 9,000 sq ft, including pre-function area, multiple outdoor gathering areas and an on-site temple, is set to make landmark moments simply unforgettable. The exclusive inaugural package— A Royal Escape features Raffles high tea, morning yoga with the in-house master and sunset cocktail hour. Revel in the lush green landscapes with the in-house naturalist and the enchanting views of the Udai Sagar Lake. 

    Modern day travellers are frequently in search of picturesque, ravishing and insta-worthy bed and breakfast interiors. There is nothing more exciting than staying in a hotel that far exceeds expectations, capturing the wow factor from the get go, and the Raffles Udaipur ticks all the boxes.