India is synonymous with royalty and opulence. The country is home to iconic palaces, vintage castles, and centuries-old havelis. You do not need to be a royal prince or royal princess to live in these castles as there are tons of hotels present in India at the moment that were castles before but turned into grand hotels now. If you wish to spend some magnificent days in such castles-turned-hotels and homestays, here are some recommendations for you.
Oldest Indian Castles Turned Into Homestays
1. Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur
Nestled in the capital of Rajasthan, Rambagh Palace is an old castle that was turned into this stunning palace hotel in 1957. This 47-acre property was built in 1835 for the queen’s handmaiden. The guest rooms and suites look divine with elegant intricacies and royal designs. Witness Rajput’s heritage and traditions here. With no second thoughts, Rambagh Palace Hotel is indeed Jaipur’s one of the prettiest castles.
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Also read: 5 Perks Of Staying In Homestays Over Luxury Hotels
2. Gogunda Palace, Udaipur
Udaipur’s Gogunda Palace dates back to the 16th century and was the palace of Maharana Pratap. The property is humongous with the Aravalli Range as the backdrop. Experience luxury and witness royalty in this hotel with a rich history. The designs and intricacies dated centuries back are still very prominent in the architecture and structure of the palace.
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3. Jehan Numa Palace, Bhopal
Nestled in Shymala Hills, Jehan Numa Palace looks like an absolute sight to behold with the perfect blend of Greek architecture with British heritage and Renaissance. To experience modernity and rich historical heritage at the same time, Jehan Numa Palace is one of the most perfect castles in the country. Even today, this palace holds the aura of the Nawab Begums of Bhopal beautifully.
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Also read: 5 Stunning Castles In India That Are Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale
4. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
A listicle of Indian castles is incomplete without Jodhpur’s Umaid Bhawan Palace. Standing on 26 acres of land, the former Jodhpur royal family still lives in this stunning property. Highly influenced by the Renaissance and Rajput heritage, this palace is a paradise for every history aficionado.
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5. Samode Palace, Jaipur
Samode Palace in Jaipur is a 475-year-old property standing tall in the rugged Aravalli mountain ranges. One of the most stunning castles in India, this haveli-turned-hotel truly captures the traditional authenticity of Rajasthani royalty. Some of the most iconic beautifications to witness here are the gorgeous chandeliers, rooms with mural paintings, and hand-painted walls. Experience the perfect essence of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles in one place here.
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/ Umaid Bhawan Palace
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/ Gogunda Palace