lake palace hotel, udaipur

"A dramatic setting on the Pichola lake makes this world renowned hotel, restored in 1972, an architectural gem"

The Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur is globally recognised for its elegant architecture and exquisite setting in the middle of the Pichola Lake. Few know that this five star hotel was originally the royal palace of the Maharaja of Mewar. Whilst converting into a centre of fine hospitality I.M. Kadri Architects had to ensure that the original Rajasthani architecture remained intact so that the palace still exuded its original charisma.

The old palace had beautiful indoor garden courtyards, which were retained by the architects. Lavish rooms were added around the courtyard, without transgressing the external periphery. The windows in the original rooms were adorned with exquisite stained glass panes. To maintain the beauty of the entire building and ensure that the personality of the new rooms blended seamlessly with the regal design of the rest of the palace, similar stain glass had to be procured and fitted in the new rooms. Today few can tell which portions are part of the original palace, and which, are additions.

Spread across a four-acre island, the Udaipur Lake Palace Hotel has all the contemporary comforts that allow for a royal welcome.