You can now book to stay inside this Indian royal family's 300-year-old palace. Your host? A dapper, polo-playing 21-year old Maharajah.
And yes, it comes with a rather hefty price tag.
Home to Jaipur’s Royal Family, the 300-year-old City Palace of Jaipur will become accessible to ‘outside guests’ via Airbnb from November 23, 2019. Now – thanks for His Highness Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh becoming the first King to host on Airbnb – you can book to stay at its opulent Gudliya Suite.
One of India’s most iconic buildings, the palace has, until now, only even been guest to royals and special guests. The suite will allow guests to have private access to their own lounge, kitchen, spacious bathroom and private, indoor swimming pool.
Your host, modern-era royal His Highness Maharajah, Padmanabh Singh, succeeded his grandfather in 2011 as the Maharaja of a land his ancestors have ruled for nearly a thousand years.
“ I am thrilled that my family and I are partnering with Airbnb to bring the splendour of Rajasthan to life for travelers from around the world. My own travels with Airbnb have made me feel very welcome in new cities and cultures, and I am happy that the experience of quintessential Indian hospitality will be shared with others,” His Highness said.
Built in 1727, the strcuture demonstrates 18th-Century Rajput architecture with its ornate embellishments, intricate carvings, airy spaces and large chandeliers. Notable visitors have included Prince Charles and Jackie Kennedy, among others.
Naturally, you’ll be looked after by a private butler, who can arrange excursions and shopping tours for you. Authentic Rajasthani meals can be enjoyed on your terrace, served with a view of the surrounding Aravalli hills and forts, while afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the company of the resident peacocks who live in the Palace’s gardens.
Proceeds from each booking will go to the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at supporting rural women and artisans in Rajasthan. So how much does it cost to stay the night? A pricey $11,662.25 (USD $8,000)
For the remainder of 2019, the Gudliya Suite will be available to book on select nights at a special inaugural offer of $1,448.97 ($1,000 USD) per night, with Airbnb paying the balance amount for each booking as a contribution to the Foundation. From 1 January, prices will return to the full fare.
To make a booking, guests can visit airbnb.com/CityPalaceJaipur.
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