RAAS Devigarh

On the outskirts of Udaipur, this 18^th-century hilltop fort palace feels steeped in history and heritage, yet perfectly chic and romantic too.

• Private, tucked away dining venues and rooms such as the mirrored Sheesh Mahal
• The immersive cultural experiences, including visits to a nearby local village
• The impressive culinary offerings

When Devigarh opened its doors on December 31, 1999, it marked a new decade to come of storied properties across Rajasthan being renovated and restored into relaxing and authentic escapes. More than ten years on, the trendsetting 39-room property, all of them suites, still delivers on all accounts.

Walking around the property, there’s both a feeling of grandness and intimacy. Guests can wander and discover fragrant flower-filled courtyards, marbled terraces and jewel-encrusted corridors. The suites, for their part, are all slightly different based on the dimensions of the space, but many offer balconies or at least bay window alcoves overlooking the surrounding mountains and village. From the living area to the bathrooms, marble practically covers all surfaces, giving the room an overwhelming feeling of tranquility. Inlayed semi-precious stones, such as lapis lazuli, malachite or jasper, though add ample luxury and color, and pay homage to the region’s gem-cutting heritage. For those that want to truly feel like royalty, consider the two-bedroom Devigarh Complex, which has its own black marble pool.

The restaurant and open-air bar on property, which partly overlook the temperature-controlled pool, are also fantastically designed, blending the original palatial bones of the building with modern furnishings and décor. The menu features Indian dishes, such as the typical Rajasthan thali, where small portions of a variety of vegetables and breads are offered in small circular bowls, along with Western fare such as pastas. At the bar, cocktails often feature housemade juices such as pomegranate and jasmine syrup.

While the RAAS Devigarh has a serene setting, the property is best visited in addition to another in Udaipur, as they both offer different but worthwhile experiences. The property is a great stop for a quick countryside experience, and is easily combined with time in the city. Another bonus is the hotel's proximity to a small Indian village that is home to locals of many faiths including the Jain religion.

Set up more as a resort, Devigarh is an ideal fit for travelers and couples looking for respite and pampering during their trip, and the property can arrange horse/camel rides, birdwatching, star gazing. However, visitors looking to be out and about in Udaipur each day are best off staying in town to more easily access some of temples and attractions there.