Latest news with #Mewar
Zawya
4 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Fairmont grows in India with Udaipur Palace opening
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of Accor, has announced the opening of Fairmont Udaipur Palace, a palace located on the ancient Aravali Hills in Udaipur. The 18-acre estate is designed for modern royalty, offering 327 rooms and suites, seven distinct event venues, eight dining concepts, a transformative wellness sanctuary, and layered experiences built on Rajasthan's poetic legacy of timeless art, craft, and hospitality. Rooted in Mewar's great fortresses, Fairmont Udaipur Palace rises above rock and marble, chattris and courtyards, stepwells, and terraces to celebrate design, culture, and the natural flora and fauna of the destination. Guests enter through the grand Raj Dwar, a dramatic fortress gateway flanked by cannons. The palace unfurls like a story etched in time, with intricately layered pavilions, gardens, colonnades, and terraces that reflect the property's design ethos that blends the region's traditional craftmanship with contemporary style. It honors the primal forces through its three interconnected wings: Surya Mahal, the Sun Palace, Chandra Mahal, the Moon Palace, and Agni Mahal, the Fire Palace. Every space is steeped in comfort, beauty, and contemplative charm, a living tribute to nature, memory, and timeless design. At the heart of Fairmont Udaipur Palace is the majestic leopard, symbolising resilience, grace, and quiet ambition. The vibrant world of Rajasthani arts and crafts comes alive through the skilled hands of local artisans from villages supported by Fairmont Udaipur Palace. Guests can choose from Fairmont Rooms, Signature Rooms with plunge pools, Luxury Rooms with garden or courtyard views, and an array of suites including the Fairmont Suite, Maharani Suite, and Maharana Suite. The palace also features a collection of specialty suites, including the Rajputana Suite, the Regal Mewar Suite, and the Jewel of Udaipur Suite with pool and terrace. The Fairmont Udaipur Palace offers a range of culinary destinations, each designed to complement its architectural and cultural soul. Bahaar, an all-day dining venue, serves globally focused, locally sourced soul food, while Dahaad, an opulent palace bar, echoes Rajasthan's wild symphony with a thikri sculpture of a leopard. Dastaan, a lounge celebrating storytelling, offers thoughtful conversations surrounded by curated coffee table books, artful sculptures, and candles. Sitara, a sunset-facing space above the palace gardens, offers cosmic cocktails and skygazing rituals. Zaika pays homage to bold Indian culinary traditions through a deeply layered menu of comfort classics and regional specialties. The property's signature restaurants, Celeste, an avant-garde Asian bistro, and The Alchemist, will open in the coming months, adding new dimensions to the palace's evolving culinary journey. With over 1,40,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor celebration spaces, the palace is built for occasions that are worthy of being etched in the memory. The Imperial Ballroom, Mehfil, Ivory Pool and Garden, Jashn Bagh and Noor Bagh, Chand Baori, Dialogue Rooms, and Terraces offer elevated, panoramic settings ideal for private dinners, cocktail hours, and quiet reflection. The Fairmont Spa & Salon and Fairmont Fit Gym provide wellness treatments that enliven the skin, restore tired muscles, and soothe the spirit. Signature massage rituals, rooted in energy meridians, aromatherapy, and natural movement, are designed not only for recovery but also revelation, integrating the use of bespoke oils under the brand. For recreation beyond the palace, guests can explore Rendezvous, a vibrant activity zone featuring mini golf, pickleball, paddle ball, ziplining, and a dedicated kids' play area. The palace also offers a private helipad for seamless access and a spectacular arrival that sets the tone for an unforgettable stay. 'The opening of Fairmont Udaipur Palace marks a defining moment in Fairmont's journey in India—a tribute to the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Udaipur, one of India's most iconic and romantic destinations. Known as the City of Lakes, this destination has long captured the imagination of travelers with its regal heritage, architectural splendor and serene landscape. This new palace reflects Fairmont's commitment to honoring the spirit of each location we enter, blending global luxury with deep local resonance. We are proud to bring the Fairmont experience to Udaipur and to be part of the city's enduring legacy as a jewel in India's cultural crown.'—Omer Acar, Chief Executive Officer, Raffles & Fairmont Hotels & Resorts 'Our endeavour was never just to build a hotel—it was to craft a world. Udaipur has always been a jewel of India, and with Fairmont Udaipur Palace, we wanted to create a destination within a destination—where every guest feels like a modern Maharaja or Maharani. This palace isn't just built in stone and marble, but in stories, craftsmanship, and soul. From the hand-carved jharokhas to the grandeur of our architecture, every detail is a tribute to India's royal heritage and Rajasthan's timeless artistry. But beyond aesthetics, this project holds deeper meaning. Tourism has always been close to my heart, and Fairmont Udaipur Palace is my way of giving back—to the city, to the state, and to the spirit of Indian hospitality. We wanted to give Udaipur that global edge—a world-class hotel where people from around the world come not just to stay, but to celebrate, to unwind, and to feel the true soul of Rajasthan. It's our homage to heritage, our tribute to tradition, and our promise to India's future in luxury tourism.' — Somesh Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of ROCKWOOD Hotels & Keystone 'At Fairmont Udaipur Palace, our vision was to create more than a hotel — a living palace that stirs emotion, celebrates culture and offers experiences that linger in memory. Every element has been crafted with intention and care. As we open our doors, our focus is on shaping a destination where luxury is not just seen or felt, but deeply remembered.'— Vishrut Gupta, General Manager, Fairmont Udaipur Palace. -TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Trade Arabia
4 days ago
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Fairmont grows in India with Udaipur Palace opening
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of Accor, has announced the opening of Fairmont Udaipur Palace, a palace located on the ancient Aravali Hills in Udaipur. The 18-acre estate is designed for modern royalty, offering 327 rooms and suites, seven distinct event venues, eight dining concepts, a transformative wellness sanctuary, and layered experiences built on Rajasthan's poetic legacy of timeless art, craft, and hospitality. Rooted in Mewar's great fortresses, Fairmont Udaipur Palace rises above rock and marble, chattris and courtyards, stepwells, and terraces to celebrate design, culture, and the natural flora and fauna of the destination. Guests enter through the grand Raj Dwar, a dramatic fortress gateway flanked by cannons. The palace unfurls like a story etched in time, with intricately layered pavilions, gardens, colonnades, and terraces that reflect the property's design ethos that blends the region's traditional craftmanship with contemporary style. It honors the primal forces through its three interconnected wings: Surya Mahal, the Sun Palace, Chandra Mahal, the Moon Palace, and Agni Mahal, the Fire Palace. Every space is steeped in comfort, beauty, and contemplative charm, a living tribute to nature, memory, and timeless design. At the heart of Fairmont Udaipur Palace is the majestic leopard, symbolising resilience, grace, and quiet ambition. The vibrant world of Rajasthani arts and crafts comes alive through the skilled hands of local artisans from villages supported by Fairmont Udaipur Palace. Guests can choose from Fairmont Rooms, Signature Rooms with plunge pools, Luxury Rooms with garden or courtyard views, and an array of suites including the Fairmont Suite, Maharani Suite, and Maharana Suite. The palace also features a collection of specialty suites, including the Rajputana Suite, the Regal Mewar Suite, and the Jewel of Udaipur Suite with pool and terrace. The Fairmont Udaipur Palace offers a range of culinary destinations, each designed to complement its architectural and cultural soul. Bahaar, an all-day dining venue, serves globally focused, locally sourced soul food, while Dahaad, an opulent palace bar, echoes Rajasthan's wild symphony with a thikri sculpture of a leopard. Dastaan, a lounge celebrating storytelling, offers thoughtful conversations surrounded by curated coffee table books, artful sculptures, and candles. Sitara, a sunset-facing space above the palace gardens, offers cosmic cocktails and skygazing rituals. Zaika pays homage to bold Indian culinary traditions through a deeply layered menu of comfort classics and regional specialties. The property's signature restaurants, Celeste, an avant-garde Asian bistro, and The Alchemist, will open in the coming months, adding new dimensions to the palace's evolving culinary journey. With over 1,40,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor celebration spaces, the palace is built for occasions that are worthy of being etched in the memory. The Imperial Ballroom, Mehfil, Ivory Pool and Garden, Jashn Bagh and Noor Bagh, Chand Baori, Dialogue Rooms, and Terraces offer elevated, panoramic settings ideal for private dinners, cocktail hours, and quiet reflection. The Fairmont Spa & Salon and Fairmont Fit Gym provide wellness treatments that enliven the skin, restore tired muscles, and soothe the spirit. Signature massage rituals, rooted in energy meridians, aromatherapy, and natural movement, are designed not only for recovery but also revelation, integrating the use of bespoke oils under the brand. For recreation beyond the palace, guests can explore Rendezvous, a vibrant activity zone featuring mini golf, pickleball, paddle ball, ziplining, and a dedicated kids' play area. The palace also offers a private helipad for seamless access and a spectacular arrival that sets the tone for an unforgettable stay. 'The opening of Fairmont Udaipur Palace marks a defining moment in Fairmont's journey in India—a tribute to the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Udaipur, one of India's most iconic and romantic destinations. Known as the City of Lakes, this destination has long captured the imagination of travelers with its regal heritage, architectural splendor and serene landscape. This new palace reflects Fairmont's commitment to honoring the spirit of each location we enter, blending global luxury with deep local resonance. We are proud to bring the Fairmont experience to Udaipur and to be part of the city's enduring legacy as a jewel in India's cultural crown.'—Omer Acar, Chief Executive Officer, Raffles & Fairmont Hotels & Resorts 'Our endeavour was never just to build a hotel—it was to craft a world. Udaipur has always been a jewel of India, and with Fairmont Udaipur Palace, we wanted to create a destination within a destination—where every guest feels like a modern Maharaja or Maharani. This palace isn't just built in stone and marble, but in stories, craftsmanship, and soul. From the hand-carved jharokhas to the grandeur of our architecture, every detail is a tribute to India's royal heritage and Rajasthan's timeless artistry. But beyond aesthetics, this project holds deeper meaning. Tourism has always been close to my heart, and Fairmont Udaipur Palace is my way of giving back—to the city, to the state, and to the spirit of Indian hospitality. We wanted to give Udaipur that global edge—a world-class hotel where people from around the world come not just to stay, but to celebrate, to unwind, and to feel the true soul of Rajasthan. It's our homage to heritage, our tribute to tradition, and our promise to India's future in luxury tourism.' — Somesh Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of ROCKWOOD Hotels & Keystone 'At Fairmont Udaipur Palace, our vision was to create more than a hotel — a living palace that stirs emotion, celebrates culture and offers experiences that linger in memory. Every element has been crafted with intention and care. As we open our doors, our focus is on shaping a destination where luxury is not just seen or felt, but deeply remembered.'— Vishrut Gupta, General Manager, Fairmont Udaipur Palace. -TradeArabia News Service
Time of India
06-07-2025
- Time of India
5 destinations to make the Udaipur–Kumbhalgarh–Mount Abu trip epic
If you thought Rajasthan was only about golden sands and camels, the Udaipur–Kumbhalgarh–Mount Abu circuit is here to change your mind, with serene lakes, misty hills, and forts with walls so long than you could have imagined. This route offers a mix of royalty, wilderness, and mountain air that feels like a mini-vacation within a vacation. Here are five must-visit stops that make this circuit one for the bucket list. City Palace, Udaipur Considering Udaipur is your starting point of journey, the City Palace is the perfect first chapter. Built over 400 years by various Mewar rulers, it's not just a palace, it's a sprawling complex of balconies, courtyards, and corridors that overlook Lake Pichola. The museum inside gives a glimpse of royal life, but honestly, you'll be too busy snapping pictures from every mosaic window. Sunset from the palace terrace is pure cinematic magic. Lake Pichola Well, you are in Udaipur, and Lake Pichola is that one place that you can't just ignore. Hop on a boat ride and glide past the iconic Lake Palace and Jag Mandir, both floating in the middle of the lake like dream sequences. Whether you're here for the photo ops or just want to channel your inner Maharana, it's a ride worth taking. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Try to catch the golden hour, when the sun sets and the water turns into a sight that you won't forget for the longest time. Read more: Top 5 African safari parks and what makes each wildly unique Kumbhalgarh Fort After that, Kumbhalgarh should be in your travel itinerary, as it's more than just a fort. It's a fortress that will change your perspective of visiting forts. With walls stretching over 38 km (second-longest in the world, this 15th-century marvel is perched dramatically over the Aravalli hills. Besides its sheer size, Kumbhalgarh is famous as the birthplace of the legendary Maharana Pratap. Walk the ramparts, peek into ancient temples, and don't miss the evening light-and-sound show that makes history feel like theatre. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary If you are the adventure kind, and love to spot wildlife, step into the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. You won't regret it for sure. Spread across rugged terrain, it's home to leopards, sloth bears, antelope, and a surprising number of birds. You can take a jeep safari or go trekking with a local guide for a deeper forest fix. Dilwara Temples, Mount Abu Finally, cool down in Mount Abu, which is famed as Rajasthan's only hill station. The standout here? The Dilwara Jain Temples, a complex of five temples that might just be the most beautifully carved stonework you'll ever see. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the intricate marble carvings are so fine they seem almost impossible. Read more: Top unmissable stops on the Guwahati–Shillong–Cherrapunji road trip This circuit offers a slice of everything: history, architecture, nature, and a little mountain mist. So whether you're a culture vulture, a nature lover, or someone who just needs a break from city chaos — the Udaipur–Kumbhalgarh–Mount Abu trail might just be the trip you didn't know you needed.
India.com
16-06-2025
- India.com
Discover The Timeless Charm Of Udaipur's Unchanged Street After 50 Years
The City of Lakes in Udaipur, and it is a one-of-a-kind place that contains modern life fused with history and culture. It is recognized for its elegant palaces, calming lakes, and lively markets. Over the years, Udaipur has changed a lot, but there is one street in Udaipur that still possesses its old world charm despite the rampant urbanization. This street is known as Hathi Pol Bazaar and is called the 'soul of Udaipur.' Hathi Pol serves a deft reminder of the era gone by and evokes charm in every manner. 1.A Peek into History Hathi Pol Market is a Hathi Pol bazaar in Udaipur that brings with it the remains of the traditional Udaipur. It is a narrow but energetic street located close to Udaipur's famous City Palace. Hathi Pol in Hindi translates to 'Elephant Gate' and this name was given for a reason. The street was once a grand entry way through which elephants would march into the city. This stunning street encompasses all the rich components of Hathi Pol's history, from the Mewar dynasty until now. Unlike Hathi Pol's surroundings which have seen immense development, this area remains untouched, combining old architecture and culture with the modern world. Architecture: A Cultured Fusion The most eye-catching aspect of Hathi Pol Bazaar is the architectural features. The street contains many havelis that have old carvings, carved jharokhas, and large elaborate flaunting fronts. These havelas, which were home to noble families and rich traders in the past, now contain small shops, handicraft centers, and local businesses. It is constructed in the Rajputana architectural style and it emphasizes symmetry and craftsmanship, as well as local sandstone and marble quarried in the region. It can be truly said that Hathi Pol Bazaar is a living museum that has preserved its culture for centuries. Even in their dilapidated state, the buildings tell a story of elegance and past glory. The narrow lanes that can barely accommodate two cars on a side, are lined with businesses that are hundreds of years old. What makes the street more distinct is the fact that unlike the other parts of the city, there are no modern buildings and glass fronted shops, deepening the sense of history and atmosphere compared to the busy and modern markets. 3.A center for Traditional Crafts and Culture Hathi Pol Bazaar is not only an eyeful, but also a cultural center. The street is famous for traditional Rajasthani crafts such as miniature paintings, textile weaving, silver jewelry making, and leather works. Artisans and craftsmen have set up shop here for years and have continuously passed down their skills to each new generation. The shops boast vibrant colors and intricate design alongside the unmistakable scents of leather and raw dyes. Hathi Pol derives its name from sculptures of elephants that sit at the entrance of Hathi Pol Gate. It is known for several prominent shops, one of them being Sadhna, a cooperative society of Rajasthani craftsmen and artisans, which was set up in 1988. Sadhna's main focus is to enhance women power by facilitating local artisans to display their work. The shop equally features embroidered clothes and leather bags alongside home decorations made by the local craftsmen. Life of Hathi Pol Bazaar's Market What really distinguishes Hathi Pol Bazaar from the other streets is its juxtaposed rhythm of life. Although several years have gone by, the street continues to function on its own clock, completely indifferent to the fact that life is moving on at a much quicker pace. Like every other marketplace, the vendors here also put in their work and open their shops at the crack of dawn. With a symphony of rattling bangles, quarrels, and the rare honks of scooters, vendors at Hathi Pol Bazaar proudly showcase their products. Apart from being a wonder for shoppers, the street is also a food lover's paradise. Traditional Rajasthani foods such as dal baati churma, ghewar, and kachoris are beautifully crafted and served at small eateries and sweatshops. There are so many snacks that are freshly made, and the smell alone is so tempting that it's almost impossible to avoid. Of the many sweetshops Jagdish is the single most famous one and has gained fame and reputation over 70 years for their preserved mouth watering sweets. 5.A Living Legacy Featuring a historical deep-rooted market, Hathi Pol Bazaar reflects Udaipur's brilliant magnificence along with its intricate culture. Traditions were heavily interwoven in the lives of the people in the past, and Hathi Pol memorializes that phase of life. In today's world, when modernization is rapidly taking center stage, the vintage spirit of Udaipur is symbolized through Hathi Pol, which is a true testimonial of the city's ethos and charm. Whether a seasoned traveler or a novice, everyone enjoys a walk in Hathi Pol Bazaar as it stands as an epitome of nostalgia capturing the true spirit of Udaipur. Locals hold immense pride and affection for this place as it acts as a representation of their roots and stands as a cherished part of their life. Change is the only permanent thing in life, except for Hathi Pol the buzzing existence of Udaipur remains thrilled around the bazaar. The mere thought of it evokes warm feelings, and as Udaipur expands, we can only hope that it continues to remain Hathi Pol Bazaar – the city of lakes gem.
The Hindu
13-06-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Iconic clock towers of India
Clock towers gained prominence during the British colonial period, as mechanical clocks were difficult to source, according to a news report. These structures not only displayed the symbols of power and authority but also reflected a fusion of various architectural styles, ranging from Gothic to Mughal. Moreover, clock towers ensured that everyone, regardless of caste, creed, or gender, could check the time. Here are some of the most prominent and still fully functional clock towers in India. Ghantaghar in Udaipur Serving as Udaipur's first public clock-tower, this ghantaghar (also known as the clock-tower) is a historic landmark and a popular tourist attraction, built in 1887. A dispute between two communities led to both being fined ₹500. However, the Pradhan (president) intervened and suggested that instead of paying fines, a clock tower should be built as a symbol of peace and harmony. The tower also serves as a tribute to the Royal Family of Mewar. Trivia: Before its construction, people relied on jal ghadis (water clocks) to tell time. Hussainabad clock tower, Lucknow Located in the Hussainabad area of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, this 221-foot-tall clock tower stands as a marvel of British architecture, adorned with intricate and beautiful designs. It is believed that whenever an earthquake strikes the city, the top of the tower — a dome-shaped structure with a finial made of a golden ball and filled with mercury — rotates. This clock tower was built in the late 19th Century during the rule of Nawab Nasir-ud-Din Haider, the third Nawab of Awadh. Construction began in 1880 and was completed in 1881 to commemorate the arrival of Sir George Cooper, the Lieutenant Governor of the United Provinces of Avadh and Oudh. The tower beautifully blends Mughal and Victorian architectural styles. However, the clock stopped functioning in 1984. A major change occurred in 2010 when Paritosh Chauhan and Akhilesh Agarwal restored the clock, and the city once again heard its bells chime. Trivia: It is the tallest clock tower in the country and is inspired by London's Big Ben. Secunderabad clock tower Located in Secunderabad, this centuries-old clock-tower once served as a timekeeper for the city when personal watches were uncommon. This 120-foot-high clock tower was built around 1860 and commissioned by the British. Its construction was completed in 1896. It is said that the clock on the tower was donated by Dewan Bahadur Seth Lachmi Narayan Ramgopal, a businessman. Trivia: The clock tower was proposed for demolition in 2003 to make way for traffic but was ultimately renovated in 2006. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai Built between 1887 and 1888, this clock tower in Mumbai, originally known as Victoria Terminus in honour of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture blended with Indian traditional elements. Its design features towering turrets and pointed arches, making it a defining symbol of Mumbai as the 'Gothic City' and a key international mercantile port. A true pillar of timekeeping, the clock remains illuminated even at night, thanks to its front panel made of acrylic sheeting and five mercury light bulbs. Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens, this clock tower played a significant role in shaping Mumbai's architectural identity. Trivia: In 2004, the clock tower was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Royapettah Clock Tower, Chennai Standing tall amid the bustling traffic and sultry heat of Chennai is the Royapettah Clock Tower. Built in 1930 in the Art Deco style, it is one of four standalone clock towers in the city — the others are located in Mint, Doveton, and Pulianthope. Once a vital timekeeper for residents and commuters, it now stands as a nostalgic reminder of the city's colonial past and architectural heritage. For those who pause to notice, it offers a glimpse into an era when public clocks were a part of everyday life, not merely relics of history. Trivia: A century ago, it is said that British officers would fire cannonballs precisely at 8 p.m. to mark the time.
