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Samode Palace
Samode

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Samode Palace is one of Ampersand's Top Ten Hotels in Rajasthan and Top Ten Venues for a Wedding or Party

Samode Palace, located in the rugged Aravalli Hills, just a one-hour drive north of Jaipur, is nestled in the enchanting village of Samode. As one of the most renowned heritage palace properties in Rajasthan, it offers the ultimate in Indian royal luxury. An ideal setting for a fairy-tale wedding, romantic honeymoon, or an unforgettable cultural getaway, Samode Palace immerses guests in authentic Indian experiences, completely free from European influence, making it a perfect destination for those who appreciate historical architecture and grandeur.

This exquisite 18th-century palace was originally a 16th-century fort and was meticulously transformed by Rawal Berisal, the Rawal of Samode. A stunning example of Rajput-Mughal architecture, the palace boasts intricate frescoes and some of the finest mirror work in the state, especially in the breathtaking Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors). The Durbar Hall and the blue open sitting room are among the most magnificent spaces you'll encounter, brilliantly preserved to showcase the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past, yet without the stiffness of a museum.

Lovingly renovated by the descendants of the royal family, Samode Palace remains under the ownership and management of the same family. Their impeccable taste and dedication to preserving the palace’s charm have resulted in some of the most opulent rooms and suites found in any heritage hotel.

Each room at Samode Palace is unique, beautifully decorated with traditional Indian craftsmanship. The Royal Suites offer a more modern touch, featuring spacious layouts, flat-screen televisions and Nespresso coffee machines, providing the perfect balance of cultural heritage and modern luxury. It's important to note that, despite the recent addition of a lift, the building's age and architecture may not be ideal for guests with mobility challenges.

Guests can enjoy two beautiful swimming pools, including a rooftop pool exclusively for tailor-made guests, offering stunning views and the perfect setting for enjoying a champagne aperitif on a candlelit terrace. Meals are served in intimate courtyards or on the roof terrace under the stars, with the surrounding mountain views and the picturesque village of Samode providing a breathtaking backdrop. The palace, standing tall like a desert mirage, offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and the cobbled lanes of Samode village, which are ideal for leisurely strolls.

Samode village is renowned for its traditional crafts, including block printing, bangle making and gemstone crafting. Guests can easily step out of the palace gates to explore local shops and artisan workshops, such as miniature painting studios and cloth merchants. The village also features stunning havelis, chattris and ancient water wells, which can be admired during village walks.

For nature lovers, birdwatching walks are available, and for the adventurous, camel safaris and horseback riding through the desert dunes can be arranged. Additionally, hot-air balloon rides offer a unique perspective of the vast desert landscape. For those looking to explore nearby attractions, Jaipur’s famous Hanuman Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is just an hour and a half away by car.

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Client Testimonials

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
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Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
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I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
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Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
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- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India

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