Royal Heritage Haveli

Royal Heritage Haveli was built in the 18th century as a hunting lodge for the then maharajah. Though inhabited for many years by his descendants, the family renovated the haveli and its estate into a boutique hotel around a decade ago, and it's a leafy oasis within the frenetic streets of Jaipur. The grand pale pink buildings are arranged around courtyards full of lush hedges, pretty flower beds, and a manicured croquet lawn. Guests relax on the lawns beside soothing fountains, near the pool, or in the shade of one of the many leafy trees. Popular with Europeans, the hotel also draws travelers from across the globe, especially those looking for a hotel with a rich and fascinating history. 

Royal Heritage Haveli is located to the west of the city in the largely residential neighborhood of Khatipura. There are restaurants and shops within a few minutes' walk, but the city's top attractions and shopping destinations are clustered around the old town, which is about a 30-minute drive from the property. This is where most of the city's iconic pink buildings are located . The beautiful Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and many historic buildings are also found there, plus top shopping spots like Johri Bazar and MI Road. Lively Gaurev Tower is also about half an hour away by car, for shopping, dining and entertainment. It's about a 40-minute car trip to Jaipur's international airport. Attractions farther afield include Amer Palace, which is about 40 minutes to an hour away by car. 

The 15 suites are beautifully decorated, in keeping with the hotel's rich history and style. They have intricate painted details, marble floors, and traditional dark wood furniture. Each suite is individually styled, with colors ranging from warm reds and yellows to cool purples and lilacs. Entry-level Junior Suites include small sitting areas, while full-size Suites have separate living rooms and bedrooms. Royal Suites are full of elegant arches and marble pillars, with pretty frescoes covering walls and ceilings. Standard features across all rooms include minibars, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, balconies, and electric kettles. Royal Suites add dining tables and lounge chairs. Room service is available and Wi-Fi is free. Bathrooms are large and the attention to detail is high, with pretty traditional tiling and antique-style fittings. They include huge showers, free-standing sinks, hairdryers, and organic bath products. Royal Suites add double shower cubicles. 

Features are relatively numerous for a boutique-size property, and the hotel is in the planning stages of adding a gym -- so check ahead to see if that's happened. The restaurant at the Royal Heritage Haveli uses fresh vegetables from their own gardens, and offers a delicious menu of traditional local curries and international dishes for lunch and dinner. There's a well-received buffet breakfast spread that's included in room rates, served on the pretty terrace. On chilly evenings, atmospheric fires are lit in the center of the circular tables. The bar has an intimate style plus a great cocktail menu that's popular with guests. The charming outdoor pool has plenty of loungers that are shaded by Frangipani trees. There's a simple spa providing a range of relaxing treatments, plus a croquet lawn. Wi-Fi is free throughout.