The booming beats of the nagada reverberated, announcing our arrival as our car pulled to a stop at the large courtyard driveway. A raja’s welcome, we’re told, as we are escorted down marble corridors replete with hand-carved stone columns, influences of the Mughals and Rajputs—architecture that can only be described as palatial. The crisp, clean evening air, and the melodious maands accompanied by the traditional sarangi, transport us to the age of emperors. As we make our way through the massive wooden doors of the arched gateway of the Rang Mahal, down the open passageway into the palace courtyard past the Char Baagh, and beyond the grand hall of the reception area or the Darbar Mahal, an area where nobles waited for an audience with their king and queen, one thing was certain—we felt like royalty, and our palace was the Fairmont, Jaipur.
After our customary traditional welcome with the tika, the traditional Rajasthani safa, and the shower of rose petals, we were shown to our room—a spacious 550 sq ft Aravali hills-facing deluxe room inspired by traditional diyas that were used during the Mughal era. Pristine white sheets on a tasteful timber Mughal-style four-poster bed, complete with goose feather pillows and mattress; white wooden bed tables, a work desk equipped with a high-speed internet LAN, exquisite wooden furniture, a low Mughal-style day bed, and a spacious bathroom with a heavy wooden door, running hot and cold water, and a maharaja-sized granite hamaam (bathtub) to comfortably fit two. Since we arrived a little past supper, it meant an in-room dinner before we turned in for the night.
REFINED ELEGANCE
The next morning, after a delicious, multicuisine breakfast ranging from south Indian to continental at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, Zoya, we were taken on a tour. We met our liaison at the Darbar Mahal, and there began our journey through the hotel’s rich history and heritage. It is said that the Mughals were known for their love of beauty and refinement and encouraged the finest craftsmen to create masterpieces rivalled by no other. It is this influence that resonates throughout, in the form of the intricate frescos in hues of blue, gold, and red, adorning the walls, while hand-painted murals outlined the vaulted ceilings.
Two storeys up—a hallmark of the hotel, the Gold floor—offers guests access to an exclusive lounge, butler service, private check-in and check-out, and a wide range of bespoke services. The floor even has a private terrace, allowing guests to indulge in delicious snacks over intimate conversations, all against the breathtaking beauty of the Aravalli hills. A sneak peek into one of the Gold rooms, adorned in indigo and gold, a king-size four-poster and a maharajasize hamaam strewn with roses only served to enhance that opulent factor. The hotel’s gym and spa are equipped with all the modern facilities and cater to a guest’s every need. There is a guftugu (conversation) area for those enjoying a leisurely afternoon by the pool. The property is complemented with an array of dining options like the charming Anjum, where you can savour an exciting range of authentic teas and coffees with a local twist. There is the elegant library bar Aza, for a quiet evening of aperitifs and signature cocktails, and Zarin, the hotel’s signature restaurant serving royal cuisines of India, allowing diners to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey, reminiscent of the regal Indian kitchens of yore. With a mix of high and lounge seating, the Cigar Diwan, is a classic smoking room, the perfect after-dinner space.
Next, we’re escorted through the imposing darwazas from the fort of Jaisalmer that stand guard at exclusive 90,000 sq ft convention grounds. We are taken to the colossal convention centre which is ideal for various launch parties, gala dinners, or grand weddings. It houses a grand ballroom, a marvelously-crafted staircase, two small ballrooms, and five meeting rooms. The Grand Ballroom is adorned with a hand-painted decorative ceiling, and there’s intricate jali work on the walls. The ballroom opens to lush lawns overlooking the traditional Saheliyon Ki Bari (garden of maids), and the imposing façade of the hotel. There’s no doubt that old world charm and luxury meets modern-day amenities at this princely abode on this majestic 8.7-acres property.
OUR TAKEAWAY
Gleaming under the watchful eyes of the Aravalli hills, away from the hustle of the city, the Fairmont Jaipur is a luxurious living palace that gracefully combines the glories of the past with modern day comforts. The 245 guest rooms comprising seven imperial suites are bespoke residences that exude classic heritage influences.
Source: This interview was gathered from the Femina magazine, all the images used belong to Femina magazine, if you want to read more from insides you can also purchase their physical copy if any store is opened during this lockdown or we recommend you to buy a digital copy from there website.
ALSO READ:
* AMITABH BACHCHAN, RAJINIKANTH, AND PRIYANKA CHOPRA STARRER FAMILY IS ALL ABOUT SELF-ISOLATION
* DUE TO LOCKDOWN, THE AIR GOT SO CLEAN, HIMACHAL MOUNTAINS APPEARED
* SUNNY LEONE'S LIVE CHAT IN LOCKDOWN, KISSES FANS THROUGH VIDEO
📣 (Make sure you don't miss new updates from us. Click here to stay updated)