Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has opened the Sawai Man Mahal in Jaipur in the state of Rajasthan, taking its total number of hotels to eight in the capital city, with two under development.

Inspired by the rich Rajputana heritage, the mahal consists of spacious 51 rooms, which open into private courtyards laced with greenery. It also includes outdoor pool, fitness centre and a Jiva Spa for rejuvenation.

The heritage palace pays tribute to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, the last ruler of the princely state of Jaipur and the first ambassador to Spain. The palace is set in the environs of the majestic Rambagh Palace.

Commenting on the opening of Sawai Man Mahal, Puneet Chhatwal — Indian Hotels Company Managing Director and CEO said: “We are delighted with the addition of Sawai Man Mahal to IHCL’s magnificent collection of royal palaces. IHCL is proud to have showcased India’s glorious past with some of the country’s most celebrated palaces that date back to the pre-independence era.

“This also marks a significant milestone of completing 50 years of managing the legendary “Jewel of Jaipur”, the Rambagh Palace. We remain grateful to Maharaj Jai Singh and Maharaj Vijit Singh for having reposed their trust in us and look forward to continuing this association to enhance the region’s tremendous tourism potential.”

The Sawai Man Mahal also features the 187-year-old Golden Gate, which is Rambagh Palace’s original gold gilded entrance in the lobby.

Maharani Mahal, the gold-accented ballroom, is the pièce de résistance of the palace. The mahal is designed to allow guests to celebrate events in the backdrop of the regal splendour of a bygone era.

The new royal palace also comprises silver themed Chandra Mahal and the lavish Sabha Niwas, which are suitable for intimate gatherings.

Maharaj Jai Singh and Maharaj Vijit Singh — Rambagh Palace Hotel Directors said: “Our family has shared a close relationship with IHCL since 1972. We have journeyed together for 50 years with IHCL managing the iconic Rambagh Palace, Jaipur.

“We went on to strengthen our bonds when they took over the management of both Ramgarh and Sawai Madhopur Lodges under IHCL-SeleQtions in 1988 and now the Sawai Man Mahal. IHCL is truly the custodians of Indian hospitality on the world stage.”

  IHCL, India, Indian Hotels Company, Jaipur, Maharaj Jai Singh, Maharaj Vijit Singh, Puneet Chhatwal, Rajasthan, Rambagh Palace Hotel