RAAS Jodhpur
Jodhpur

RAAS is one of Ampersand's  Top 10 Boutique Hotels and Top 10 Hotels in Rajasthan.

RAAS Jodhpur is an awesome little hotel designed to reflect the buzzing character of the old Blue City of Jodhpur, combining modern blue and rose sandstone blocks within an aged haveli. Brothers Nikhilendra and Dhananajaya Singh transformed what was once a family residence into Jodhpur’s first (and, in our opinion, finest) boutique hotel, comprising the four original 18th century havelis plus three more buildings which they constructed. It is one of India’s coolest heritage conversions, maintaining the character of the old haveli while creating a fresh, stylish retreat for guests to truly relax and absorb the surroundings. Another jaw-dropping hotel by RAAS, complementing their incredible sister hotel, RAAS Devigarh in Delwar, RAAS Jodhpur is perfect for a grittier and more authentic taste of Jodhpur.

The hotel is set within the atmospheric confines of Jodhpur's colourful walled city and situated right at the foot of the mighty 15th century Mehrangarh Fort. It is the only luxury hotel based in the old town and the views of the fort looming above are simply spectacular – wonderfully clear and detailed by day and magnificently lit up at night. The old town of Jodhpur is buzzing and frenetic and gives a great sense of Indian city life; street vendors selling chai, tuk-tuks and mopeds whizzing around, and a constant hubbub of noise. Immediately beyond the confines of RAAS are a scattering of chic boutique shops and cafes, attracted by the hotel’s smart crowd and just next to the hotel is the old stepwell, beautifully revived and restored by RAAS, now providing a cool hangout spot for visitors and residents alike. Strolling through the exciting hustle and bustle of the old town and walking through RAAS' giant fortress-like gateway, is like entering a blissfully peaceful, hidden oasis.

RAAS Jodhpur’s 40 rooms offer sheer indulgence and world class luxury; the Duplex and Stepwell suites have fort views, some rooms have balconies and some have terraces. The interiors are sleek and understated, with bedrooms decked out with shiny black terrazzo floors, creamy white walls, splashes of Jodhpur blue and custom-made rosewood furniture. The Luxury and Garden rooms are more contemporary and less heritage, with white fluffy duvets, clean sleek lines and modern furniture. The heritage suites, located around the inner courtyard gardens, are built in the old haveli building. The suites are a maze of low ceilings and interweaving rooms, making you feel as if you have gone back hundreds of years without having to sacrifice any creature comforts. The fort-facing duplex suite lets you enjoy views of the fort from your bed.

At the centre of the hotel there is a lovely big turquoise swimming pool with curtained loungers, patchwork lawn-and-paving courtyard garden, a waterfall-backed reception and open-sided lounge alcoves. Handsome Rajput architecture is adorned with contemporary intricate architectural carvings and dramatic stone jaalis (lattice). By day, these rose sandstone buildings are bathed in soft rays and, come dusk, the courtyard is delicately lit up with hundreds of little lights.

RAAS Jodhpur also has a dedicated spa and a boutique shop, a trendy rooftop bar with unbeatable views of the fort, and the shady Baradari fine dining restaurant, plus a second restaurant, Darikhana, which is also open to non-guests. A fleet of funky customised Tuk Tuks are on hand to ferry guests to and from Jodhpur’s monuments; spend a morning zip lining around Mehrangarh Fort and an afternoon exploring the city's tempting baazars, accompanied by your private guide. 

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