Udaipur, also fondly known as “City of Lakes,” holds a breathtaking blend of romance, heritage, and natural beauty. Enveloped by the Aravalli Hills and the lakes, this city in Rajasthan has been loved by both royalty, as well as travellers alike. Its palaces and havelis have stories of regal grandeur hidden in their walls, while its world-class hotels let you experience that splendour first-hand. From majestic lakefront palaces to opulent hilltop resorts, Udaipur redefines luxury with charm and authenticity. Whether you seek tranquillity, culture, or indulgence, these exceptional hotels offer an immersive escape into Rajasthan’s royal heart and timeless elegance.
Outlook Luxe has picked 8 of the best luxurious properties in the city for its readers
Taj Fateh Prakash Palace
Built at the turn of the 20th century by Maharana Fateh Singh of Mewar to host royal guests, Taj Fateh Prakash Palace is a resplendent symbol of Udaipur’s regal heritage and a true Living Legacy of Taj. Gracefully poised on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, it offers majestic views of the lake and the Aravalli hills. Part of the City Palace complex, this architectural gem reflects the enduring legacy of the House of Mewar. Meticulously restored, its marble corridors, ornate Durbar halls, and intimate jharokhas echo tales of royal splendour. Adorned with Mewari heirlooms, crystal chandeliers, and antique furnishings, the palace evokes the grace of a bygone era while embracing the warmth of Taj hospitality. From grand banquets to serene lakeside moments, every experience here blends timeless grandeur with modern comfort — a living testament to Mewar’s heritage, where history and luxury exist in perfect harmony.
Raffles Udaipur
Set amidst the tranquil waters of Udai Sagar Lake, Raffles Udaipur is a luxurious island sanctuary that evokes the charm of a grand country estate. With 101 elegant rooms and suites offering panoramic lake views and unforgettable sunsets, the hotel creates an atmosphere of romance and serenity. Each dining experience is thoughtfully curated, blending global sophistication with local inspiration to deliver exceptional gastronomy. Guests can stroll through landscaped gardens, unwind by the lake, or simply soak in the peaceful ambience that defines this private retreat. Seamlessly merging classic European and Indian aesthetics with modern elegance, Raffles Udaipur embodies timeless luxury and refined comfort. True to the legendary Raffles spirit, the service is discreet, gracious, and deeply personal — transforming every stay into an experience of emotional indulgence and rejuvenation. Here, heritage and hospitality unite to offer an extraordinary escape in the heart of Rajasthan’s royal landscape.
The Oberoi Udaivilas
Spread across 50 acres on the tranquil banks of Lake Pichola, The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur is a masterpiece of architecture and elegance that evokes the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past. Once the hunting grounds of the Maharana of Udaipur, this purpose-built palace hotel captures timeless romance through its domes, courtyards, and bougainvillaea-draped arches. Designed to resemble a centuries-old palace, it offers panoramic views of the lake, palaces, and distant Aravalli hills. Inside, intricate Rajasthani craftsmanship shines through — from a dome gilded with 18-carat gold leaf to another lined with glowing glass mosaics illuminated by candlelight each evening. The retreat features 90 luxurious rooms, nine swimming pools, and lush courtyards, all enhanced by impeccable butler service. With its serene ambience, fine lakeside dining, manicured gardens, and classic Indian hospitality, The Oberoi Udaivilas delivers a regal yet contemporary experience that captures the spirit and splendour of Udaipur’s royal heritage.
Taj Lake Palace
Floating gracefully on Lake Pichola against the backdrop of the Aravalli Hills, Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur is celebrated as one of the world’s most romantic hotels. Built between 1743 and 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II as a royal summer retreat, this marble masterpiece—once known as Jag Niwas—embodies the timeless grandeur of Mewar. Restored to its original splendour, the palace features 65 luxurious rooms and 18 opulent suites, each offering mesmerizing lake and palace views. Accessible only by boat, it exudes exclusivity and serenity. The architecture blends Mughal and Mewari influences, adorned with courtyards, fountains, and jharokhas. The hotel’s acclaimed restaurants—Neel Kamal for Rajasthani cuisine and Bhairo for European delicacies—promise unforgettable dining, while Amrit Sagar offers refined cocktails. Guests can also indulge in royal rejuvenation at the J Wellness Circle Spa Boat. A cinematic icon and architectural marvel, Taj Lake Palace remains the epitome of regal romance and heritage.
Udaipur Marriott
Udaipur Marriott Hotel makes its debut in Udaipur with a 226-room property set against the scenic backdrop of the Aravalli Hills and overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake. The hotel blends the rich heritage of Rajasthan with contemporary design, offering guests sweeping views, high-end accommodations and modern amenities. The hotel beautifully fuses Mewar’s regal grandeur with contemporary elegance, creating an ambiance of refined luxury. Guests are greeted by exquisite artistry—hand-painted Pichwai motifs, graceful arches, ornate jharokhas, and delicately carved chajjas that echo Udaipur’s City Palace. At its centre, a sweeping staircase crowned with a dazzling chandelier stands as the hotel’s dramatic focal point, embodying the splendour and timeless charm of royal Rajasthan. Udaipur Marriott Hotel has recently introduced Ayana, a stunning rooftop restaurant that redefines dining amid the city’s lakes and the Aravalli Hills. Ayana’s menu celebrates India’s royal culinary heritage, showcasing delicacies from the Northwest Frontier and Rajasthan — from slow-cooked Haleem and Shikampuri Kebabs to fragrant Biryanis and traditional Laal Maas, Gatte ki Subzi, and Ker Sangri.
Sayaji Resorts & Spa Udaipur
Located just outside Udaipur and set against the Aravalli hills, Sayaji Resorts & Spa, Udaipur offers a peaceful, design-driven stay where modern comfort meets regional elegance. Guests are welcomed into rooms that emphasize expansive views, natural tones and subtle Rajasthani motifs, rather than ornate opulence. Service is consistently praised for its warmth and observant attention, making stays feel personal rather than staged. Dining carries a strong local identity with refined execution, while activities like horse-riding and high-tea at a hill-top spot extend the experience beyond the room. The property prioritises tranquility over city-centre bustle, making it a fitting choice for travellers who value space, nature and understated luxury amidst Udaipur’s heritage backdrop.
Aurika, Udaipur
Nestled in the picturesque Aravalli Hills, Aurika, Udaipur offers an extraordinary blend of Mewar’s regal grandeur and contemporary sophistication. This elegant sanctuary features 139 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites that embody Rajasthan’s royal spirit while ensuring modern comfort. Guests can savour global and local cuisines at Mirasa, unwind at Ariva – the bar, or rejuvenate at Araya – the spa. With a fitness centre, outdoor pool, library, and Rumpus Room, the hotel caters to both relaxation and recreation. Expansive banqueting venues, including a grand ballroom, courtyards, and terraces, make Aurika ideal for weddings, celebrations, and unforgettable gatherings.
The Leela Palace Udaipur
Perched gracefully on the banks of Lake Pichola, The Leela Palace Udaipur embodies the grandeur of Rajasthani architecture and the opulence of Mewar’s royal heritage. Designed with domed havelis, ornate jharokhas, and intricate craftsmanship, the palace evokes timeless romance and elegance. Guests arrive in style via a serene boat ride, welcomed with a shower of rose petals. Each lavish, lake-facing room offers regal interiors and personalized butler service, ensuring unmatched comfort. Blending art, culture, cuisine, and wellness, The Leela Palace curates bespoke experiences that celebrate Rajasthan’s rich traditions, offering guests a stay that’s both majestic and deeply immersive.
