If its magnificent palaces, forts, and mausoleums are anything to show, it’s that India loves its luxury. The difference is that this opulence is much more accessible today, even if you’re not nobility.

Nestled at the foot of the Aravalli range just outside of the city, the Leela Palace Jaipur is one such place, offering palatial stays in luxurious private villas and suites. Spanning nine acres, the resort feels like a real palace, with its gorgeous Mughal and Rajasthani-inspired architecture, featuring details such as intricate jaalis and silver-trimmed chhatris.

The Villa

My Royal Villa accommodation, which had its own little courtyard, came complete with a plunge pool and daybed. It was late by the time I arrived, so I skipped the dip, instead unwinding for a bit underneath the canopy.

Despite the villa’s high walls for privacy, the compound doesn’t feel confined, thanks to clever design and landscaping. Next to the pool, the walls are adorned with Rajput paintings, bearing the distinctive two-dimensional style popular in medieval times.

Stepping inside, the bedroom was decked out in pleasing hues of coral, reflecting Jaipur’s dominant colour schemes of pink and orange. Venetian glass mirrors and tasteful lamp shades flanked the bed, while the floor featured tufted carpets with lovely floral patterns on them. A chandelier-style lamp hung from one corner of the room, adding a touch of grandeur.

The living area had a velvet red couch with intricately embroidered throw pillows, flat screen TV, and a wooden cupboard with geometric motifs inlaid with mother of pearl. The marble bathroom was extremely spacious too, with a walk-in closet and a modern-looking bathtub.

I appreciated the warm welcome from the Leela team as upon arriving to my room, there was a platter of exquisitely crafted chocolates and sweet treats sitting on the coffee table. I absolutely adore the elephant-shaped piece, which was dusted with a sprinkling of gold powder. The pink confection was an obvious nod to the Hawa Mahal.

The villa also had butler service – although I didn’t utilise this since I wanted for nothing: everything was already well taken care of.

Feast Fit for a King

The Leela Palace Jaipur has several dining establishments, but one not to be missed is the hotel’s fine dining restaurant Jamavar (formerly the Mohan Mahal). Modelled after the renowned Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) at Amber Fort, the interiors sparkle with candlelight reflected on the 350,000 hand-cut Thikri mirrors and 18-carat gold leafwork.

The menu is inspired by recipes from old Indian royalty, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The Royal Feast set starts with appetisers of Palak Patta Chaat (savoury spinach crisps), Jheenga Sultani (jumbo prawns marinated with spiced yoghurt), and succulent Murgh Banjara Tikka (chicken in chili, garlic, and yoghurt), before moving on to a choice of hearty main courses, the likes of Dhungar Maas (smoked lamb), Alleppey Fish Curry, and Palak Mangodi Ki Subzi (sundried lentil dumplings).

Customary carb-led sides like Masala Baati (whole wheat bread), Churma (ground wheat with ghee, sugar, and nuts)< and Jeera Pyaz Ka Kuska (cumin and onion flavoured rice) complete the meal. End on a sweet note with traditional desserts like Badam Halwa (roasted almond and dry fruits) and Ghewar, a Jodhpur specialty of honeycomb disk flavoured with condensed milk and nuts.

We weren’t able to try The Leela Jaipur’s other dining establishments on this stay due to time constraints, but they look equally enticing. There’s the all-day dining restaurant Aravalli Dining Room (where breakfast is served each morning), the classy poolside Jharokha Bar, and the alfresco style Amber Terrace, which affords stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

In my opinion, The Leela Jaipur is one of the city’s finest five-star hotels, offering an unforgettable stay for travellers who enjoy a touch of luxury and indulgence. Its exquisite design often makes you feel as though you’re staying in a real palace, while the wide range of activities and dining options ensures there’s always something to enjoy. Personally, if I were booking a stay here, I’d be perfectly happy just staying in and soaking it all in.

Reasons to stay:

• Spacious, regal villas with private plunge pools and daybeds, 24/7 butler service
• Beautiful interiors and architecture inspired by Mughal and Rajasthani culture and history
• Diverse food choices. Dining at Jamavar is as close as you can get to experiencing the real Palace of Mirrors
• Wellness options including spas and sunrise or sunset yoga sessions

Location:

The hotel is a 20-minute drive from Amber Fort, and about half an hour from the city, making it a tranquil escape from Jaipur’s hustle and bustle.

Website: https://www.theleela.com/the-leela-palace-jaipur

PS: My stay at The Leela Palace Jaipur was part of a press trip and the stay was complimentary. Views here are my own.