Heritage Hotels in Jaipur and Tourism in Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the largest state of India, is known for its grandeur, royalty, courage, and high spirits all over the country. The heat exuded from the sand dunes of this land add a strong intensity and flavor in every single thing that grows over this land be it kingdom, ruler, empire, tradition, ritual, or aking. The intensity, courage, and pride carried by people of this state make them stand completely apart from people of other places. Rajasthanis lead a very colorful, vibrant, and traditional life. They are well connected to their roots and carry their history and heritage with all pride. The land of Rajasthan is full of historical sites and monuments. The capital of this state - Jaipur is one of the biggest hotspot of tourism in Rajasthan.

 Jaipur is chiefly known for its royal charm and number of cultural and historical sites. Also known as the Pink city of India this city is full of historical spots like Amber fort, HawaMahal, Ramniwas Garden, JantarMantar, Albert Hall Museum, Nahargarh Fort, Birla temple, GovindDevji temple and Jaigarh palace. Apart from all these places, there are several heritage hotels in Jaipur that cater all needs and desires of their guests in a very royal way. Staying in these hotels is one of the major attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. They provide their guests with an opportunity to live like kings and queens amidst all royal comfort and convenience in a royal Rajasthani style. Most of the heritage hotels in Jaipur are those royal palaces that were adobes of royal families in previous centuries. Ram Baghpalace, Jai Mahal palace, Diggi Palace, Saba Haveli, Raj Palace, are some of the biggest heritage hotels in Jaipur. It doesn’t matter whether you had a chance to live in a heritage hotel in Jaipur or not, every time you visit this city these places will tempt to you count your options for choosing one of these for a royal stay.

And you can definitely choose one for you as these heritage hotels in Jaipur cater all kind of customers. There are hotels for V.V.I.Ps, celebrities and there are hotels for normal middle class customers who cannot afford to pay so high. Some of the best in-budget hotels are Mandwahaveli, Shahar palace, Saba haveli, Sabsisarhaveli, and a few others. These heritage sites were once used as guest houses or for clubbing or other purposes by royal families. Some of them also belong to a few Rajput heads, royal army’s chiefs, and other royal courtesans. Along with being in-budget these hotels are best in providing Royal hospitality to their guests and serving all their purposes of travel and tourism in Rajasthan. Hotel Shahar palace for example is owned by Colonel Virendra Singh who is a descendant of KachawaPichnotRajputs that ruled Amer in 16th century AD. The Shahar Palace was once their residence in Jaipur and is now a converted heritage hotel. This hotel is known for providing some of the finest accommodation within royal surroundings. The allure of these heritage hotels in Jaipur and other royal cities of Rajasthan can hardly be overlooked by anyone who steps on this land. So, next time whenever you pack your bags for Rajasthan, do see to choose the heritage site through which you would like to experience the royal grandeur of Rajasthan.

Source :- http://goarticles.com/article/Heritage-Hotels-in-Jaipur-and-Tourism-in-Rajasthan/7946615/

Review: Shahar Palace Hotel, Jaipur

While I was searching for a budget accommodation in Jaipur, I came across Shahar Palace on the internet. After comparing few other hotels, I zeroed in on Shahar Palace and called them to check if they’ ve rooms available. I got a reply in affirmative and I told I’ll arrive by late evening.

 There were couple of key reasons why I chose Shahar Palace.

·         First was the price- starting at Rs 875 per night (as per their website, but I was charged Rs 1500, more about it at the end)

·         Second, this place was very close (1.5 kms, walk-able) to Jaipur Railway Station. I had a 6 AM train (Jaipur-Delhi double decker), hence staying close to Railway station would save me the trouble of hunting for an auto at 5 AM in the morning (as well as the cost)

·         3^rd reason was that this hotel is being run by a retired army personnel and his family (Colonel Virendra Singh, Retired). Felt such place will be more homely than a commercialized hotel

·         Campus photos shown on the website were good. It had a small garden around it

·         The website said “We have parking space for Caravans”.  I hoped I might be able to spot a caravan in the campus and get to take a close look (there were none though)

I arrived at Jaipur by 8 PM and reached the guest house. This post is a quick review of the Shahar Palace hotel in Jaipur, Rajastan.

Checkin: The owner greeted us upon arrival and completed check-in formalities quickly. I offered to pay an advance and asked how much they’re going to charge me. Military uncle asked me if his son has quoted any number. I said “No, we didn't take about rent, I only checked if you have rooms available. I’ve seen the rent on your website”. “Ok, I’ll check with my son” was the reply. The owner walked me to the room and explained the facilities.

About the room: I was offered a corner room, which was small in size but good enough for one person. The building is a bit old and so are the electrical. The water heater was starting to get rusted and power sockets were lose. My room didn't have any dedicated balcony, but once I step out, I could use common balcony. No heaters were available in the room to warm its occupants. No TV, No dressing mirror/table/cup board. It had only bare minimum furniture to keep my bag on or to sit. If you’re particular about these, either opt for next class or rooms or confirm in advance that you’ll get these facilities. Only one power socket was working properly. I didn't initially mind these short falls, considering I’ll be paying just around 900 Rs per day (only to be charged Rs 1500 per day in the end, details later) 

About the location and ambiance: Apart from occasional disturbance from speeding train, the location is away from city traffic and is quite silent. Shahar palace campus has a small garden, in which one case easily spot 3-5 kind of birds. The garden is good for spending a relaxed evening. A small stage is also available, useful for parties etc

Hospitality: Was good. Both colonel and his wife were very friendly, they spend good time with guests talking to them, providing information and entertainment. Doesn't usually happen in a hotel.

Security: There was no security guard at the entrance and the gate was left unlocked whole night. On my first day, at about 6.30 AM I left for a morning walk (went to central park). Not a single person was awake and gates were not locked (To be noted: the community has another gate near the main road, but was unguarded whenever I passed by). I opened the gate and went for a walk. On Day 2 I had to check out at 5 AM next day, I was told to settle the amount post dinner and leave early morning alone, as no one will be willing to compromise their sleep at that time in the day. May be it is a safe location with near zero theft risk, but I feel locking the gate and or having a chowkidar to be around (even if he spends most of the night sleeping instead of patrolling) would constitute basic security.

Checkout: As the internet published tariff was Rs 875 per night for single occupancy in the standard room, I was expecting a bill of around 2000 Rs for 2 days, rent + food included. However, I was charged Rs 1500 per night, under the pretext of Jaipur literary festival. I felt cheated. I wouldn’t have complained if the same was communicated during check-in. I would have fought back, argued or negotiated a bit, but respecting the old man for his hospitality and army background, I silently paid additional 1250 rupees (Rs 3000 for 2 nights, instead of Rs 1750 as per website). Not many good accommodation options are available for under 1500 Rs per day in Jaipur- even if I was informed of the hike during check-in, not sure if I would have opted out. 

The hotel had good number of international tourists.

Food: Tea/Coffee costs Rs 50, other items priced in similar ratio. No complementary breakfast. I had a veg thali on Day 1, 2 Aloo parathas on day 2 and asked for curd rice on Day 2 dinner and bill amount was Rs 400+. Made by hired cooks, taste was fine, no complaints. No other restaurants anywhere nearby in 1.5 km radius, except road side tea shops.

Another fact I learnt later was that all big shots of Jaipur stay very close to this place-civil lines. Chief Minister's residence, Governor's residence are all just about a km or two from Shahar Palace in Civil lines.

The under construction metro also passes nearby. A fuel station, a Hanuman temple, 2 ATMs are nearby. A CCD outlet seem to be under construction.

What I liked at Shahar Palace

·         Homely feeling when owner and his wife sit with guests and having general conversation

·         Their pet dog

·         Overall ambiance of the campus

·         Closeness to Railway station

What I didn't like:

·         Instead of charging me extra during check out in the excuse of literary fest, they could have either updated their website with correct rate/note or told me about actual rent during check-in. They weren't running full anyway and I was a last minute customer and room would have been empty if I’d gone anywhere. A little more transparency would have won 100% satisfaction. Next time, I need to double confirm rent during check-in.

·         Food price could have been made a bit more affordable

·         Little more furniture/accessories in the room would have been nice

·         No security, gates unlocked all through the night. Not much help/service available early morning hours

·   No complementary breakfast

Do I recommend this place? I do, because it is cheap, decent and has good ambiance  But just take precautions to ensure what you're getting and what you'll be paying is  up to your satisfaction.

Visit their website for details: http://www.shaharpalace.com/, do double confirm the rates and don't assume anything. If you're expecting something (may be free breakfast or a TV in a room etc, get confirmation before hand)

  Source :- http://www.enidhi.net/2013/01/review-shahar-palace-hotel-jaipur.html

Hotels in Jaipur: A blend of the best

Tourism is one of India's most treasured activities and it has been well supported by its assorted mix of different tourist destinations and infrastructure to support such heavy tourism. Hotels in Jaipur are the gems as well as pillars of its tourism. The rich heritage and intriguing landscape of Jaipur attracts many tourists from world over. Many tourists visit Rajasthan to enrich their travel experiences and Jaipur being the capital of the state with its own glorious history tops the travel itinerary. The hotels in Jaipur make their stay delightful and pleasant.  A large number of hotels are located in the city of Jaipur owing to its huge tourism and different needs of travelers.

The hotels of the city have well adapted to the different needs of the visitors. Some travelers are ready to go an extra mile and stay in magnificent heritage hotels while many prefer to find comfortable lodging in budget hotels. The room tariff in Jaipur ranges from high to low depending on what one is looking for and has the best to offer to every guest. Hotels are spread all over the city evenly and one can easily choose the location depending on the travel itinerary, city tour programs and personal ease.

The best hotels in Jaipur offer world-class facilities ensuring a relaxing and truly delightful stay. The best hotels of the city offer pick up drop in luxury cars, state-of-the-art technology, wifi- internet, authentic mutli- cuisine menu, excellent service, city tour arrangements, shopping assistance, visit to best doctors if needed and good hygiene among many other facilities.

In addition to heritage and 5 or seven star hotels there is a good mix of budget hotels in Jaipur that can ensure good quality stay. The budget hotels are known to deliver value for money and have good hygiene and quality standards. Many foreign and Indian tourists prefer budget hotels as they offer many good facilities at competitive rates.

It's very important to choose the hotels wisely as it can make or break your stay. Almost all hotels in Jaipur have their own websites or are listed on travel portals where they can be booked easily. The rich heritage and culture of Rajasthan can be witnessed from close quarters by choosing the right hotel in which the city of Jaipur never runs out of choices.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/hotels-in-jaipur-a-blend-of-the-best-6689274.html

Hotel Shahar Palace

Shahar Palace is owned by the formal royal family of Shahar, Colonel Virendra Singh (retd) and his wife Nalini. The Palace now welcomes guests from all over the world. 

The Hotel provides some of the finest accommodation in Jaipur, with a host of comforts and services in a truly regal ambiance.

It’s exterior design and gardens all reflect the spirit of Rajasthan and its royal traditions. In addition, the Shahar Palace has all of the amenities, facilities and levels of comfort you would expect from a royal hotel and maintains the meticulous standards required by travel and tour operators worldwide.

All modern facilities are incorporated in the well planned hotel . Be it the international traveler, corporate executive or pleasure traveler – each individual guest is well taken care of and pampered at Shahar Palace,  hotels in jaipur.

 Source :- http://hotalshaharpalace.wordpress.com/

Welcome to Shahar Palace

Welcome to Shahar Palace, a verdant island of calm in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the Pink City, Jaipur. Owned by the formal royal family of Shahar, Colonel Virendra Singh (retd) and his wife Nalini, the palace now welcomes guests from all over the world.

Six rooms have been converted into guest rooms overlooking lush lawns. After spending the day exploring the city, you can come back and relax in an environment that is designed to please.
Shahar Palace is also fast becoming a favourite amongst tourists who are travelling in campers or caravans with ample parking space.

We have also been recommended by the Lonely Planet Guide to Rajasthan and a Japanese guide book.
Shahar Palace is located in Civil Lines and best hotel in jaipur,
one of the posh residential areas in Jaipur. Besides the grand residences of Rajasthan’s Chief Minister and Governor, the area is renowned for it’s peace and quiet.

All our rooms are either air-conditioned or air cooled and have attached bathrooms with running hot and cold water. We also have a restaurant that serves Indian, Rajasthani and Continental cuisine.
Rajasthan is famous for its folk arts and people flock here from all over the world to enjoy the dance, music and puppetry that is unique to the desert state.

We make your stay here more enjoyable with programmes every evening featuring the folk artists of the state. From traditional puppetry to dances like the Kaalbelia (the photo on the right), we help to create a magical atmosphere that will stay with you forever.

Check out: 12pm

*Camping Area
*Cable TV
*Internet Service
*Library
*Fax/Long Distance Calls
*Laundry
*Doctor on call
*More about our cultural programmes and entertainment

Source :- http://hotalshaharpalace.wordpress.com/

Best hotels in Jaipur

Located in the heart of Rajasthan, India, is its capital, the first planned city of India, i.e. JAIPUR. The city popularly known as pink city was constructed by the great Maharaja Sawai jai singh II in the year 1727.

Jaipur has fascinated people from all around the globe with her secularism and her culture. There are palaces, forts, museums , world trade park, historical monuments, places of religion, world class shopping malls and lot many things to visit in here.

As with the growing number of tourists, Hotels in Jaipur have maintained equilibrium with the places of accommodation.

As with the rise of tourism industry in Jaipur, there is a monotonic rise in the number of Hotels in Jaipur. In such an unending race every Hotel in Jaipur aspires to attract more and more number of tourists for their stay.

The question to ponder is how many hotels in Jaipur are really competent enough to survive among their fellow competitors and attract a decent traffic of tourists for them.

To be the best , they surely need to beat the rest by fulfilling a number of parameters that others can’t even define. Listing some of those parameters in the list , They now need to have excellent infrastructure, a larger space in terms of area, they should offer a highest degree of personal service. Elegance and style abound and rooms must be equipped with all the necessary amenities which can make any and every tourist feel home away from home or even a better experience. A valet parking and lastly concierge service which can round out the experience. The hotel which will follow all these parameters and more gets automatically entitled to the ‘best’ hotel in jaipur.

Hotel shahar palace offering a huge number of the modern services and facilities can surely be bestowed with title of “the finest accommodation in jaipur”. With the exceptional convenience and comfort hotel shahar palace has achieved an excellence in every facet of hospitality and is greatly known for its architecture, superb craftsmanship and exquisite ambience. With all its customs and hospitality , it stands a class apart among all other hotels in jaipur.

Be it the international traveler, a businessmen or a pleasure tourist, every guest at hotel shahar palace is pampered with great care.

Owned by the royal family of fort shahar , the hotel shahar palace welcomes tourists from all around the globe with its unique traditions blended with Rajasthani hospitality.

Hotel shahar palace has carved for itself a name in some of the best hotels in jaipur by following an endeavor to ensure that each and every single guest in here leaves with fond memories and a healthy desire to return. With its sui generis and emblematic services and hospitality hotel shahar palace is soon to become the best hotel in jaipur.