Staying in Rajasthan's heritage hotels: forts, palaces and havelis

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

Rajasthan is famous for its heritage hotels, where you can sleep in a former palace, fort or merchant's haveli. For many travellers, this is the highlight of the trip.

Types of heritage hotels

• Palaces: former royal residences, some still partly lived in by royal families. Udaipur and Jodhpur have some of the most famous.
• Forts: hilltop or desert forts converted into hotels, with ramparts and views.
• Havelis: traditional mansions with courtyards, frescoes and carved balconies, especially in Jaisalmer, Jaipur and Shekhawati.
• Rural estates: smaller properties in villages, offering a quieter stay.

What to expect

• Rooms that differ in size and style, as buildings are historic.
• Courtyards, terraces and gardens.
• Cultural evenings with folk music and dance.
• Traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
• Sometimes stairs and uneven floors; ask about accessibility.

Budget options

Heritage hotels range from grand palaces to modest family-run havelis. Even one or two nights in a heritage property can transform a trip.

Combining heritage and modern hotels

Many travellers stay in comfortable modern hotels in Jaipur, then choose a heritage hotel in Udaipur or Jaisalmer.

Booking tips

• Book early for October to March.
• Ask for specific rooms; views vary greatly.
• Check whether the property has a pool, especially in warmer months.

See Rajasthan in 10 days: the royal circuit and our Luxury holidays page.

Beyond Rajasthan

Heritage stays exist elsewhere too: colonial bungalows in the Nilgiris and Kerala's tea country, Chettinad mansions in Tamil Nadu, Portuguese villas in Goa and houseboats in Kashmir. They add character to a trip in the same way.