after a few days in delhi, we escaped to jaipur, and had a marvelous three day visit at this unique property. having stayed in just about all the top deluxe hotels everywhere, such as the oriental in bangkok, the peninsula in hong kong, the grand hotel in stockholm (i only mention them since i often get the impression that some people writing reviews about deluxe hotels really don't have a clue as to what to expect and what not to expect) etc., i can honestly say that you can't find a better example of a truly deluxe, historic property than the rambagh palace. the history of the place alone is worth the visit, and everything is perfectly maintained and polished without losing any of the historic flavor. we had an outstanding suite, very large and comfortable . the staff could not be better trained or more helpful. you start at the airport with their own airport representative, your driver, and your personal butler waiting for you. the butler inquires as to your interests, offers different services without being pushy, and he or his colleague can be found anytime night and day for anything youi might need. since you really can't wander around trying restaurants, we ate at the hotel exclusively, and the food and service were outstanding. obviously the prices are in line with the category of the property. on our second day the head chef came out and asked if we were happy with everything, and offered to make any special dish that we might like. jaipur is also a great change from delhi, not nearly as much begging or street hassles, and generally very friendly people. the amber fort above the city is a great place to see, although not in great condition. but it's a very exotic city, with elephants, camels and oxen all to be seen along the streets. i could not recommend this hotel more highly, and we are experienced travelers who recognize both good and not so good. i think any visit to northern india should include jaipur, and of course this hotel. if staying there be sure to buy the book "memories of a princess" which is the history of the princess who married the majarajah around 1940 and lived there for decades.

Just had only a marvellous dinner with a group of tourist, spending their time onboard a well appointed train. The reception by this hotel with elefants and horses was beautifull. The hotel is a typical Taj Hotel building, just like in Mumbai. We only spend here a few hours, but what I have seen was very good, also the rooms we spotted for a few moments. Beautifull gardens, big walking areas with marmer, inside garden with water amendments.

This hotel truly makes you feel like royalty. Everything was perfect. The staff was very, very, very, attentive and helpful. The breakfast buffet had interesting exotic fruits that I must find here. The rooms were well appointed to the level of being palatial. Even late at night the grounds were peaceful and lit in such a way that I almost felt I was in a fairytale. This place is a "must return to hotel" in my book!

I didn't stay at the rambagh palace, but did manage to spend a few hours at the hotel one evening having drinks and dinner. From my brief time there, I have the following comments:

1. The hotel appears to provide a true 5 star experience

2. The hotel itself, the rooms, the grounds, etc. are all immaculate and well maintained.

3. The service is amazing. I couldn't believe it when the cleaning staff bowed everytime I walked by!

4. The hotel is not cheap. A meal there will cost you about 5-10X more than you will pay anywhere else. But the ambience DEFINITELY makes it worthwhile!

5. There is an astrologer who provides palm reading, etc. right by the hotel restaurant. He is very reasonably priced considering the hotel surroundings (only Rs. 300... I even tipped him b/c it was such a good rate considering the con artists who proclaim to do the same thing in the main city area). He has 30 years experience and spends a considerable amount of time telling you what you want to know. My friend tried one of the astrologers who was listed in the lonely planet, and he was a complete rip off compared to the man at the Rambagh.

Even if you can't afford to stay at this place, I would definintely recommended going for a meal or a drink.