Raffles Udaipur, India’s first Raffles hotel, is all set to open in Udaipur on August 2. The uber luxury hotel situated in a 21-acre private island set in the middle of the serene Udai Sagar lake is an architectural marvel with 101 guest rooms and suites.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the expansive property is reminiscent of a magnificent country estate, with beautifully manicured, ornamental gardens and panoramic views of the surrounding hills, tranquil lake and a 400-year-old temple. The access to the hotel is via a scenic 20-minute drive from the airport, followed by a calming boat ride in the Udai Sagar lake.

A piece of architectural brilliance, the hotel interweaves western cultural references with Rajasthan’s royal heritage and elements of Mughal architecture. Guestrooms have uninterrupted lake views, private gardens, balconies, plunge pools and an east-west design aesthetic with murals, handcrafted furniture and other crafts by local artisans.

On the F&B side, the hotel has an Indian specialty restaurant in Sawai Kitchen, which will serve the guests the lost recipes from the region’s royal households, reinvented for modern tastes. Harvest, set to open in October, will offer an interactive farm-to-table dining experience with produce foraged from the estate farm, spotlighting the region’s food traditions; while culinary enthusiasts can enjoy a co-cooking experience at Rasoi, the cookery school. The Raffles Patisserie offers freshly baked breads, classic French desserts, signature Raffles pastries and more.

For a sophisticated and discreet experience, guests can linger over intimate conversations at The Writers Bar. In contrast, the iconic Long Bar, a hallmark of the Raffles brand designed with European wood and leather, with engravings by local artisans, is a perfect place to socialise.

The Raffles Spa, a space full of natural light with an embroidered canopy to encourage a sense of nurturing, offers a private escape, with authentic treatments and personalised programmes that prioritise both emotional and physical well-being. The fitness centre is well-equipped for an invigorating work-out and the swimming pool invites guests to take a languorous dip while enjoying a beautiful sunset.

“Whether you are looking for a rare place of extraordinary discovery or a romantic getaway with captivating sunsets, Raffles Udaipur is the ideal choice,” said Abhishek Sharma, General Manager. “With breath-taking views of the lake from every room, the chance for long, leisurely, romantic walks around our magnificent gardens, and experiences like stargazing and full moon rituals, we are a sanctuary for travellers on a quest for peace and rejuvenation.”

Guests can also choose the island location as a memorable setting for special events and celebrations. The Grand Ballroom of 9,000 sq ft, including pre-function area, multiple outdoor gathering areas and an on-site temple, is set to make landmark moments simply unforgettable.