Taj Nadesar Palace

As the ten-room former residence of the Maharaja, the Taj Nadesar Palace is the go-to luxury hotel in Varanasi. Located on forty-three private acres just a twenty-minute drive away from the sacred River Ganges, it is a peaceful, intimate retreat.

• The expansive, peaceful grounds and orchards
• The property's deep royal history
• The intimate vibe and attentive staff

Originally built in 1835 as the Maharaja’s personal palace, the Taj Nadesar is named for the Goddess Nadesari, whose holy shrine sits in the front of the property. After being converted into a hotel, it has since hosted a star-studded guest list of royals and dignitaries.

Just a twenty-minute drive from the sacred River Ganges, Nadesar dominates the luxury hotel scene in Varanasi. It shares a private entrance with its larger sister property, the Taj Gateway, and is set amongst forty-three private acres of fields and orchards, and it offers an intimate experience with exceptional service.

The palace's ten rooms vary between three categories, and they are divided between two floors. The décor is old-fashioned and accented with original antiques and family heirlooms from the Maharaja’s collection, so guests should know that the rooms are not contemporary or sleek.

There is no formal sit-down restaurant on property; however, there is an outdoor and indoor seating area with Raj-style decor, where a full Indian and Western menu is served. Special private dinners can also be arranged in the Baridari, an original marble structure on the Maharani Lawn, and it can include rose-petal showers and a fireworks show.

After immersive, high-energy visits to Old Kashi and the Ganges, guests can retreat to the Taj Nadesar Palace to relax by the pool, tee off on the five-hole golf course, wander around the back gardens, or take a ride in the original royal carriage, which is driven by a member of the staff whose relatives have been taking care of the royal family for generations. Guests may also enjoy the Jiva Spa and its specially formulated “Abhisheka” treatment, which includes a signature treatment and bath that uses the five nectars of Shiva. There is also a yoga and meditation pavilion and a relaxation lounge.

Anyone traveling to Varanasi who is looking for the traditionally best property in the city with expansive grounds and excellent service. Those who would prefer to stay right on the river should consider the newly opened Brijrama Palace.