Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India - Explore & Book

"Picture, if you can, how a playboy prince in a far-flung corner of Rajasthan would decorate the interiors of his palace. Struggling? Thankfully, designer Ayush Kasiwal and host Karan Singh have done it for you. Their vividly re-imagined abode of the late Maharaja Narendra Singh – polymath, card player, dog lover extraordinaire – brings his enigmatic character back to life. You'll find an eclectic mix of ‘Indian déco’ and curios collected from his world travels, whilst elaborate gilded mirrors and old family portraits adorn the intensely chromatic walls. The centrepiece is a royal red baby grand piano, with Edith Piaf’s memorable maxim “Non, je ne regrette rien” inscribed in gold lettering. Familiar jazz tunes fill the foyer, setting the tone for what’s to come. Despite the grand exterior, the atmosphere is surprisingly homely, thanks in no small measure to your convivial host, Karan. 82 bedrooms embody the spirit of the erstwhile Maharaja – Rajput furnishings, terrazzo floors, luxe velvet armchairs – and are simultaneously opulent and comforting. Dining is an experience in itself, with elaborate Indian and Western dishes served at the hotel's restaurant Pearls & Chiffon (the sartorial choice of every Indian maharani). A short drive from town, the hotel organises expertly led tours of Bikaner's famed havelis (mansions), as well as private museum visits, camel or jeep safaris, and candlelit sundowner picnics by a lakeside oasis. Highs Remarkable value for the opulent experiencePacked to the rafters with objets d’art, it's reminiscent of an enormous antiques warehouse We loved the rooftop pool with its Portuguese tiles and shaded sun loungersHonesty bars, sweet bowls, and proper tea- and coffee-making facilities keep it homely; beds are phenomenally comfortableBikaner, Rajasthan's 'Red City', is a less touristy alternative to Jaisalmer, but with the same desert outpost feel Lows As with all luxury hotels, there's a hefty 28% tax - but it's still great valueThere's little to do around the hotel itself, but they will arrange a car for you at the drop of a hatThe hotel is in a residential area and looks out over the townThe hotel occasionally hosts weddings, which can be noisy affairs; ask when booking if they have any planned" - Meg Lambert