Laxmi Vilas Palace
Agra

Laxmi Vilas Palace is the perfect place for a luxury modern stay in Bharatpur. With sprawling gardens, lovely courtyards and period décor, it is an acquired taste but delightfully records its heritage culture within individually styled rooms.

This heritage hotel’s history as a palace, built in 1857, is a fine combination of Rajput and Mughal architecture and for a hundred years has held royal weddings and events, until its transformation into hotel in 1994. It is still a place of Royal Residence for stays by the Royal Family Raja Raghunath Singhji. All rooms are en-suite with all the modern amenities combined with polished antique furniture. We recommend the Royal Suites which have the biggest rooms and have lovely views over the lush green gardens.

Laxmi Vilas Palace promises grand courtyard dining, with both continental and local cuisine, all made from organic and locally sourced produce, thus supporting their local community. Their speciality is their home-made cottage cheese from the dairy which comes highly recommended. For those looking for relaxation, book the spa in advance for a cocoon style sanctuary, and unwind with their highly skilled therapists. There is also a large outdoor swimming pool with pretty surroundings, a great spot to sit and relax.

Laxmi Vilas Palace, just an hour away from Agra, is situated within easy reach of points of interest such as the Laxman Mandir temples and Deeg Palace, which is famous for its stunning gardens. Bharatpur, often referred to as the Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan, is also well known for its extensive variety of resident and migratory bird species and is home to Keoladeo National Park, a celebrated bird sanctuary. During the winter months the park plays host to thousands of native and migratory birds, and over 230 species are known to have made the park their home.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson