Umaid Bhawan PalaceJodhpur, India

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 private residences in the world – set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens. Designed by renowned Edwardian architect Henry Lanchester, the palace is a blend of eastern and western architectural influences. Its majestic 105 – foot high cupola is influenced by the Renaissance, while the towers draw inspiration from Rajput tradition. The lavish interiors with gilt furniture and elegant artwork follow the Art Deco style, complemented by the exotic murals by the self-exiled Polish artist Stefan Norblin.

In 1997, the palace was converted into a luxury hotel, and is now managed by TAJ. With this, the TAJ extends its grand luxury palace experience to the city of Jodhpur.

Umaid Bhawan Palace is a destination by itself – with its own private museum, two restaurants and a bar, a majestic neo-classical ballroom, a smoking room, a well-stocked library, and a choice of lounges. An indoor subterranean pool, an outdoor pool, unique marbled squash courts, tennis courts, and a holistic JIva spa provide rejuvenation for body, mind and soul.