Raffles Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Raffles Jaipur, designed to showcase Rajasthani craftsmanship.  

Bringing the brand’s service and glamour to a vibrant destination in India, the property has been envisioned by Randolph Grey Design as a modern-day recreation of a palace.  

Carved from pure white marble, the retreat has been handcrafted by skilled artisans, blending the age-old traditions and techniques of Mughal and Rajputana architecture. 50 guestrooms and suites are each unique in layout and décor, all with an expansive balcony complete with an outdoor soaking tub or plunge pool. Design details within accomodation include painted corniced ceilings and golden murals, as well as furniture with camel bone inlay, locally-sourced artifacts and carpets woven in Jaipur. 

Upon arrival, a Shikar tent alludes to royal Mughal expeditions, while hand-carved sandstone columns in the hotel’s courtyard, each inspired by different eras of Rajasthani architecture, allude to the region’s 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 in the Mughal court.  

Inspired by the primarily plant-based culinary tradition of the Zenana, food at Arkaa, the hotel’s specialty restaurant, uses local ingredients sourced from nearby micro-farms. Libations at Writers Bar feature freshly-ground spices and herbs sourced from the hotel’s garden, including the Jaipur Sling, a localised take on the famed Singapore Sling. With views of the rolling Aravalli Hills, rooftop bar Sehara serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an emphasis on Italian specialties.

The property is home to a 620m² spa, with treatment rooms and mineral pools, as well as a fitness studio. A rooftop pool meanwhile offers an opportunity to relax against a backdrop of city vistas.  

“We are incredibly excited to welcome guests to Raffles Jaipur, the brand’s second property in India,” says Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts. “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 likeminded vision and commitment to luxury, helping us bring this extraordinary hotel to life.”