Rambagh Palace

Rambagh Palace

Built in 1835 as a modest garden house for the wet nurse of Prince Ram Singh II, the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur evolved from a hunting lodge into the luxurious residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and Maharani Gayatri Devi. It was converted into one of India’s first luxury heritage hotels by the Taj Group in 1957, now renowned as the "Jewel of Jaipur" and a top-ranked global hotel. 

Key Historical Phases

• 1835 (Origins): Originally built as a garden house for Kesar Badaran, the wet nurse of Prince Ram Singh II.
• 1887 (Hunting Lodge): Converted into a royal hunting lodge by Maharaja Thakur Sawai Madho Singh.
• Early 20th Century (Palace Residence): Expanded into a palace by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob and became the principal residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II in 1922.
• 1957 (Hotel Transformation): Due to rising maintenance costs, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II converted the palace into a luxury hotel, managed by the Taj Group. 

Architectural and Royal Significance

• Design: The palace features extensive hand-carved marble latticework, sandstone balustrades, and elaborate Mughal Gardens.
• Renovations: It has undergone multiple expansions, incorporating European furniture, Belgian cut glass, and luxurious fittings.
• Royal Legacy: Famous residents included Maharani Gayatri Devi and the palace has hosted notable guests like Lord Mountbatten and Prince Charles. 

Rambagh Palace Today

• Management: Operated by Taj Hotels (Indian Hotels Company Limited).
• Recognition: Ranked as a top luxury hotel in the world by the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards.
• Experience: Features the Polo Bar, dining at Suvarna Mahal, and the Steam restaurant inside a restored train car.