Hotel Review of The New Raffles Udaipur in Rajasthan, India - AFAR

"A palatial Rajasthani-rooted retreat set on a 21-acre private island in Udai Sagar Lake, offering 360-degree lake views and arrival via a boat dock and zero-emissions electric launch with a traditional “khamma ghani” greeting. Grand architecture and interiors feature large-scale columns, 16-foot hand-painted murals, a muted palette that frames the surrounding water and hills, and manicured gardens that attract some 30 bird species; amenities include a 3,500-volume library, chandeliered Ayurveda-inspired spa that uses handcrafted local oil blends, and 101 spacious rooms and suites—twelve rooms and six suites include private plunge pools and cabanas—finished with black-and-white marble inlays and hand-painted bathroom murals. Dining is a highlight: a lakeside restaurant serves meals under the stars with live music and Rajasthani dancers and regional heirloom dishes such as masaledaar bharwan kachhe tamatar and dhungaar murg h; there is also a 12-seat chef’s table (Rasoi), a farm-to-table restaurant sourcing from the island’s organic farm, a patisserie, a Writer’s Bar that hosts afternoon high tea, and a Long Bar offering custom cocktails, small plates, and cigars; the breakfast spread includes pyaaz kachori and a rotating selection from across India (Punjab, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu), sometimes accompanied by a live wooden flute. Service is discreet and highly personalized—each guest has a dedicated butler, private check-in/out is available, and staff (25% from the local area) anticipate guest preferences and add thoughtful touches for families. The recently built property is fully wheelchair accessible with a fully equipped accessible room, and it pursues sustainability through an on-site water bottling plant, a hydroponic garden that supplies the kitchen, zero-emissions transport, upcycled cocktail garnishes, and efforts to eliminate single-use plastics." - Sarika Bansal