#BloggerContest:A Royal Retreat at the Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur

“Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar would like you to attend the annual Maharana Mewar Foundation annual awards at Udaipur.”

This is how my invite to be in Udaipur came in and I decided to make my maiden sojourn to the destination that is on everyone’s travel wish list.

Taking two flights from Bengaluru I felt slightly jaded. However, my welcome with a bouquet of fresh flowers and a luxury car that took me right upto the gate of my abode for the next few days – the Fateh Prakash Palace, perked me up. I was amazed by paintings in vivid colours that dotted the side walls of the stairways. As soon as I entered, I was greeted with a welcome drink, a jasmine garland and another bouquet of beautiful flowers. At this moment, I knew this was going to be an experience to savour. Walking into the myriad corridors, I checked out the grand yet classy interiors. Well, this was where the Maharanas of Mewar once held court and the interiors still reflected a regal charm. This palace was constructed during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh, one of the greatest Maharanas of Mewar, who ruled from 1884 to 1930. Used as an exclusive venue for royal gatherings back then, the palace has been meticulously preserved and upgraded for discerning guests of today.

The Room Story

As I reached my room, I noticed a small private area and ornate curtains that led me to my bedroom. The walls were done up with exquisite miniature paintings, replicas of paintings by famous artists and period furniture from the royal storerooms dotted the room. And there’s more! Right opposite my bedroom was a tiny space that one could reach by climbing a few steps. That was the study, and the wood table and chair made me want to start writing immediately. On the left of the room was an elevated arched window which had a royal seating arrangement offering stunning lake views. A narrow corridor from here led me to the finest secret spot in the room – a spacious enclosure with comfortable seating that overlooked the lake! While the palace hotel is known to have 21 Dovecote Rooms and 44 Dovecote Premier Suites, my room seemed like a mini palace itself.

To top it all, I got a personal letter that welcomed me to the hotel in the most hospitable way!

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Amenities for your Comfort

Apart from in-room dining, which I must admit was great, I recommend everyone to dine at The Sunset Terrace, rated among the top restaurants of India. This restaurants is located just outside the hotel and overlooks the lake and other famous landmark palaces of the city. The open-air restaurant offers delectable food, and is the perfect place to start you day over a scrumptious breakfast.

The Durbar Hall Sabhagaar at the Fateh Prakash Palace has immense historical significance as Lord Minto, the Viceroy of India, laid its foundation stone in 1909. While I enjoyed all of this, the best part of my stay was when I spotted a pair of grey hornbills right outside my room as I sipped my morning tea. Well, luxury is also about the small things that matter and make you happy. Wouldn’t you agree?

Address: Fateh Prakash Palace, The City Palace Complex, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan

Book your stay at Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur!

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