RAAS Jodhpur – Hotel Review

Rajasthan, India’s desert state of palaces and fortresses, doesn’t lack for romantic stays. But few hotels match the whimsical drama of RAAS Jodhpur with its 40 rooms and suites, cabana-lined pool and Mughal-styled restaurants framed by the famed Blue City and the towering, 564-year-old Mehrangarh Fort.

Where is RAAS Jodhpur?

RAAS Jodhpur sits in the heart of Jodhpur’s Old City, a 1.5-hour flight from New Delhi. From the airport it’s a 20- to 25-minute drive to the hotel.

What’s near RAAS Jodhpur?

The Stepwell Square beside RAAS Jodhpur is lined with designer silversmiths, homewares, cosmetics and more, offering a relatively genteel introduction to the walled city. For a more immersive Indian experience, walk to Clock Tower Market, a timeless bazaar rich in textiles, handicrafts and jewellery. The hotel’s small fleet of blue tuk-tuks are ideal for touring narrow city streets and viewing its colourful murals. Hotel-booked experiences include private soirées at the fort and visits to the 372-room Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, former home to Jodhpur’s royals.

Room types

Most accommodation is in the modern three-storey annexe with two floors screened by hand-carved sandstone and one mimicking the Cubist forms of the blue city. The three Heritage Suites in the restored haveli combine decorative arches and columns with modern flourishes such as green zig-zag-tiled floors and platform beds. There is also one Stepwell Suite overlooking the 18th-century baths and, of course, the fort. With a kitchenette and cave-like kids’ retreat, it’s the only practical option for families.

Restaurants and bars

All-day dining is at Baradari, either in the carved and curtained interior rooms or at poolside tables. Alfresco dinners on Darikhana’s elevated terrace capture theatrical views of the illuminated fort. Menus accommodate most tastes, with North Indian specialities (don’t miss the dahi kebabs, sesame-crusted yoghurt patties) alongside Western and even Thai dishes – the som tam is deservedly popular. Produce comes from the hotel’s own organic garden and local growers. RAAS also operates neighbouring Stepwell Café, a charming spot for evening cocktails and snacks above the candle-lit niches of the ancient monument.

Sustainability

RAAS has cut its water usage by about 85 per cent through the use of aerators and other measures, as well as harvesting rainwater and recycling wastewater for gardens. The hotel grows its own vegetables and grains and sources mostly organic produce from local growers. Retaining the existing 18th-century architecture and sourcing 70 per cent of building materials from the city and surrounds minimised construction waste. RAAS also restored the historic stepwell next door, a three-year project to revive an old-city treasure that’s become a cultural hub and favourite swimming spot for locals.

Travel for work

RAAS Jodhpur is a palace for pleasure, not work – but if duty calls, there’s reliable and fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces in the rooms. Darikhana’s air-conditioned section above the stables makes an impressive setting for business meetings.

Spa and pool

The hotel’s large infinity pool shimmers below the restaurant terrace. Canopied sun lounges provide shaded comfort; waitstaff in blue Nehru jackets bring refreshments. The four-room spa offers atmospheric carved-stone surrounds for massages and other treatments based on Ayurvedic and Tibetan rituals. Products are cruelty- and chemical-free and feature Indian ingredients such as tuberose and sandalwood.

What you need to know

The hotel’s four Garden Rooms lack fort views but with 45 square metres of mod-Mughal finishes and myriad vantage points elsewhere on the property, they’re a canny option for entry-level access to the RAAS wonderland.

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