Raffles Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Raffles Jaipur, a majestic retreat in the ‘Pink City’. Located a short drive away from the main attractions of the city and encircled by the ancient Aravalli Hills, the new Raffles Jaipur is a modern-day re-creation of a palace, paying homage to the regal art of living.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome guests to Raffles Jaipur, the brand’s second property in India. At Raffles, we look for world-renowned destinations rich with history, beauty, and culture, which is what led us to grow our presence in Rajasthan – whose ancient heritage of forts and palaces continues to inspire and capture the imagination of international travellers. We thank Ratan Kant Sharma and our partners at Triton Hotels and Resorts for sharing a like minded vision and commitment to luxury, helping us bring this extraordinary hotel to life,” said Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts.
Raffles Jaipur showcases the finest of Rajasthani craftsmanship. Each element within the reimagined palace retreat has been exquisitely handcrafted by skilled artisans, blending the age-old traditions and techniques of Mughal and Rajputana architecture. Creating a highly intimate experience, the hotel features 50 guestrooms and suites, each unique in layout and décor, and all appointed with an expansive balcony offering an outdoor soaking tub or plunge pool. Intricate details grace every corner of the hotel’s accommodations, including painted corniced ceilings, golden murals, furniture featuring camel bone inlay, locally sourced artifacts, and carpets woven in Jaipur.
Raffles Jaipur inspires and invites guests to connect with the local culture at every corner. Upon arrival, a Shikar tent evokes memories of Royal Mughal expeditions, and the hand-carved sandstone columns in the hotel’s courtyard, each carved from different eras of Rajasthani architecture, gives a peek into the glorious past. Opulent Mughal furnishing and patterned marble floors adorn a spacious grand hall, from which a hidden, mirrored door guides guests to a light filled atrium, reminiscent of the design of women’s quarters of the Mughal court.
“Every element of Raffles Jaipur has been thoughtfully considered, from the architecture and design to the culinary offerings and wellness experiences. We hope to inspire our guests to immerse themselves in the local Rajasthani culture, while inviting locals to experience their home through a lens that is distinct to Raffles,” said Binny Sebastian, General Manager of Raffles Jaipur.
Raffles Jaipur is also set to become a culinary destination, with dining experiences that offer a modern interpretation of local gastronomy. Inspired by the primarily plant-based culinary tradition of the Zenana, or women’s quarters of the Mughal court, the dishes at Arkaa, the hotel’s specialty restaurant, celebrate the essence of the Progressive North Indian region using local ingredients sourced from nearby micro-farms. Libations at the hotel’s Writers Bar feature freshly ground spices and herbs sourced from the hotel’s garden, including the Jaipur Sling. This localised take on the famed Singapore Sling, which was created at Raffles Singapore in 1915, features orange liqueur, local herbal liqueur once used by royalty, pineapple juice, lime & bitters and Indian dry gin, a combination that celebrates the pink hue for which Jaipur is known and showcases the flavour notes of the sherbets of the grand palaces of Rajasthan. Traditional afternoon tea is served in Safir, bringing guests on a journey that celebrates diverse flavours through original creations. With stunning views of the rolling Aravalli Hills, rooftop bar Sehara serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an emphasis on Italian specialties.
Guests can also enjoy a serene 620 square-metre spa featuring indulgent treatment rooms and mineral pools, in addition to a state-of-the-art fitness studio. A rooftop pool offers an opportunity to relax against a backdrop of stunning city vistas. Continuing in the traditional legacy of the queen’s palace of the Mughal court, Raffles Jaipur will treat guests to moments of pure enchantment through a rich calendar of events and experiences, drawing guests deeper into the local heritage and culture. This includes exclusive dining experiences, masterclasses with local artisans, and private concerts. Later this year, the hotel will unveil an Artisan Trail, where participants can connect with skilled local artisans and creators, exploring their crafts and stories.
