The havelis of Rajasthan are large mansions where the extended family of the owner lived. Many were built by royalty, but most were and are owned by rich merchants who became wealthy through trade. The architecture is essentially Moghul and the buildings are arranged around courtyards, typically one for men and an inner courtyard for women. The paintings on the walls of the havelis in Mandawar and in hte Shekawatty regons of Rajasthan are rightly famous and worth a visit. The few remaining havelis in Jaipur have long lost their pictures, but the Samode Haveli is a wonderful example of a royal mansion.
Situated very close to the Pink City there is no better place to explore that sights and bazaars of Jaipur, although it is best to take a car or rickshaw and retain the driver, as the area is confusing and the immediate surroundings lack charm. The hotel itself boasts an elephant ramp, built in the 1940's for a wedding, and which leads to the first courtyard. Most of the rooms are arranged round the courtyards and windows face inwards, away from the city and the sun.
Meals can be taken in the courtyard outside the restaurant, although this is worth braving even in hot weather. When we were there the weather was very hot, 45 degrees, and the large durbar hall was unaffected by the air-conditioning! However, it is sumptuously painted and the windows look over the garden, a green oasis in dusty Jaipur. The food, as in all Samode hotels, is excellent and reasonably priced. The open lounge is an excellent place to relax with afternoon tea, and there are thoughtfully-provided digests of international news available along with a free internet connection.The pool is large, well-serviced and very clean with ample loungers and shady nooks.
Situated very close to the Pink City there is no better place to explore that sights and bazaars of Jaipur, although it is best to take a car or rickshaw and retain the driver, as the area is confusing and the immediate surroundings lack charm. The hotel itself boasts an elephant ramp, built in the 1940's for a wedding, and which leads to the first courtyard. Most of the rooms are arranged round the courtyards and windows face inwards, away from the city and the sun.
Meals can be taken in the courtyard outside the restaurant, although this is worth braving even in hot weather. When we were there the weather was very hot, 45 degrees, and the large durbar hall was unaffected by the air-conditioning! However, it is sumptuously painted and the windows look over the garden, a green oasis in dusty Jaipur. The food, as in all Samode hotels, is excellent and reasonably priced. The open lounge is an excellent place to relax with afternoon tea, and there are thoughtfully-provided digests of international news available along with a free internet connection.The pool is large, well-serviced and very clean with ample loungers and shady nooks.
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