subject: The Royal Palaces of India [print this page] The Royal Palaces of India The Royal Palaces of India
Once they were the homes of India's royal families and their courts, now the Palaces we have selected for this very special tour are restored to their former glory and a truly fantastic experience awaits. The Ellison Roberts Royal Palaces of India itinerary is a unique cultural heritage tour through Mogul and Rajput history in the former Princely States of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan. Not only will you enjoy an unprecedented opportunity to take pleasure in the most luxurious accommodation, you will also see the incredible architectural and cultural treasures of India with the help and assistance of the very best expert guides.
With an official population of 18 million Mumbai is the most populous city in India and the second most populous in the world. Mumbai, which changed its name from Bombay in 1996, is a potpourri of Maharashtrian, Gujarati, Parsi and Islamic elements, a city where extremes of wealth and poverty exist side by side. On arrival, you will check-in at your hotel, the Taj Mahal Palace. Located in south Mumbai, with sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace is the grande-dame of Indian hotels. It is the most elegant, famous and beloved hotel in the city, and guests have included presidents, kings, maharajas and celebrity couples such as John and Yoko.
Hyderabad is the capital and the most populous city of Andhra Pradesh. It is known as the City of Pearls and the City of Nizams. In many senses, Hyderabad, high on the Deccan Plateau, is the meeting ground between North and South India. The city has a culture that is distinct from the rest of Andhra Pradesh, showing Islamic influences and a courtly presence imparted from its period as the capital of the Nizamate. This is more evident in the old city. Recently Hyderabad's culture and attitudes have taken a turn towards modernity'. However, it is good to keep in mind that the city is still a deeply conservative place and to dress appropriately, especially in the old city On arrival, you will check in at your hotel, Falaknuma Palace.
On arrival in Jaipur, you will be met by the Ellison Robert's representative who will assist and transfer you to your hotel, Rambagh Palace, a living legend of Rajputana history. Symmetrical design, airy verandas, and front lawns dotted with peacocks a destination spread over 47 tranquil acres of verdant, ornamental gardens; Rambagh Palace is a masterful amalgamation of Rajput and Mughal architecture with astonishing interiors. The palace was lovingly built by the Maharajas of Jaipur. Once the residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and his queen, Maharani Gayatri Devi. Gracious hospitality, stepped in tradition, completes the royal lifestyle experience & evokes the splendour of Royal India at its best.
Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace is the last of the great Palaces of India and one of the largest residences in the world. Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of the present Maharaja of Jodhpur, this golden-yellow sandstone monument was conceived on the grandest possible scale, in the fashionable Art Deco style of that time. After 15 years in construction, the 347-room palace was finally completed in 1943, and has served as the principal residence of the Jodhpur royal family ever since.
On arrival in Udaipur, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, The Lake Palace. Built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II. Set against the backdrop of the Aravalli Mountains Lake Palace spreads across a four-acre island. Royal Butlers, descendents of the original Palace retainers, look after all your comforts and ensure that you are treated like Royalty.
