WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace (An ITC Hotel)

A royal splurge amidst nature’s bounty, the WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace near Hampi transports you to a bygone era of magnificent heritage, brilliant architecture, grandeur, and style. An experience that ensures you take back happy memories and a slice of royalty with you when you check out.

Welcome to a Paradise Tucked Amidst Nature

The lush green environs of the sprawling Shivavilas Palace, situated in a picturesque valley in Sandur, an erstwhile Princely state near Hampi welcomes guests amidst the sing-song of birds, serene calm and instantly comforts the weary traveller. This magnificent edifice is embellished by four cupolas and consists of 12 suites and rooms where classic luxury synthesizes with contemporary amenities. It’s a treat to the eyes everywhere, be it the beautiful wall hangings tracing the ancient Lambani art or old black and white photographs of the Royal Family showcasing a period of excellence and extravaganza. Feast your eyes on the vintage furniture, curios and collection of cars or simply walk through the period library leafing through the pages of history. Later, enjoy the cool breeze by the blue water of the swimming pool reflecting the glorious past.

Live Like Kings and Queens At The Royal Suites

While at the palace, a stay at the Royal suites is highly recommended. The Maharani suite sits on the first floor of the palace. This classic room with intricately carved wooden artefacts with a separate dressing room where the queen herself used to dress up with the help of her aides once upon a time is a completely lavish indulgence. Soak yourself in a relaxing and luxurious bath in the spacious en-suite bathroom of Her Highness and wash away all your tiredness. Leaf through that unfinished book you have been meaning to complete, or enjoy the sun and shade at the large private balcony of the suite, surrounded by melodious songs of birds that flock around this sanctuary.

The Maharaja Suite with similar opulence opens to a huge separate balcony overlooking the main gateway of the palace. A perfect private sit-out to spend the evening and watch the sun change colours and spreading its crimson magic hues over the Shivavilas Palace, making it look even grander.

Shivavilas Palace; A Gastronomical Delight

The huge 25-seater dining hall of the palace which once served the royal family and their guests continues its legacy even today. You can choose from an array of layouts with an exotic selection of different local cuisines, special dishes and a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. Some of the dishes are recipes passed on from the royal kitchen itself. One can also opt for different packages for breakfast lunch or dinner combos.

Royalty at its Best Near the W.H.O World Heritage Site Of Hampi

If you are planning a trip to the world famous UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hampi—the ancient capital of the Vijayanagara Empire of the 14^th century by the mighty Tungabhadra river—then a luxurious experience of staying at the WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace of the ITC Group will have you enjoy a taste of both worlds. Spend the say exploring the monolithic stone carvings and well laid out city ruins to transport yourself to a majestic escape. A 45-minute drive would get you to the Shivavilas Palace where you can immerse yourself in the stories of valour and pride, explore the comforts of a different world altogether and retire for the day in style.

Read more: Places to visit in Hampi

Activities to Indulge in While at the Palace

Apart from enjoying the luxury of the Palace, there are a variety of fun activities that one can choose from while here:

Nature Walks
One can enjoy the green vegetation in and around the valley and explore any of the nature trails in the vicinity.
Day Trip to Hampi
A perfect way to explore the monolithic ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage sites at Hampi is to pack your special lunch, and head out for the day. Come back to the Palace by the evening and enjoy your special cup of tea or coffee sitting in the courtyard or your private balcony.
Treks and Runs
There are various trails for running and trekking in the Sandur valley, surrounded by an impressive range of hills and forest streams. The few-kilometre-long uphill to the 8^th century Kumaraswamy Temple near Sandur is a fascinating experience in itself.
Cycling Trips
If you are an adventure lover or are looking to enjoy the outdoors, you can go for cycling trips in and around the Shivavilas Palace at Santur. Peddle in tandem, fill up your lungs with oxygen and simply enjoy the natural beauty and royal luxury at its best.

Before packing your memories at the end of your stay at the magnificent WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace, don’t forget to click some lovely pictures to capture the architectural brilliance of the place.