Travel Guides & Articles
Fairmont Udaipur Palace debuts as majestic new landmark in India

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, a luxury brand within Accor, in partnership with Keystone Resorts, has officially opened the Fairmont Udaipur Palace, a stunning architectural marvel nestled in the ancient Aravali Hills of Udaipur. With its stone-carved façade, serene surroundings, and expansive 18-acre estate, the palace-style resort is designed as a haven for modern royalty, blending regal grandeur with immersive cultural and wellness experiences.
Boasting 327 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, the palace also features seven unique event venues, eight culinary destinations, and a 12,000 sq. ft. wellness sanctuary, all inspired by Rajasthan’s artistic heritage and natural beauty. Rooted in the traditional architectural style of Mewar’s historic fortresses, Fairmont Udaipur Palace rises above rock and marble with stepwells, domes, and chhatris that reflect the spirit of Rajasthan.
“The opening of Fairmont Udaipur Palace marks a defining moment in Fairmont’s journey in India, a tribute to the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Udaipur, one of India’s most iconic and romantic destinations. Known as the City of Lakes, this destination has long captured the imagination of travellers with its regal heritage, architectural splendour and serene landscape. This new palace reflects Fairmont’s commitment to honouring the spirit of each location we enter, blending global luxury with deep local resonance. We are proud to bring the Fairmont experience to Udaipur and to be part of the city’s enduring legacy as a jewel in India’s cultural crown,” said Omer Acar, Chief Executive Officer, Raffles and Fairmont Hotels and Resorts.
Rooted in the distinct architectural style of Mewar’s great fortresses, Fairmont Udaipur Palace rises above rock and marble, chattris and courtyards, stepwells and terraces as a masterpiece sculpted to celebrate design, culture and the natural flora and fauna of the destination. Guests enter through the grand Raj Dwar, a dramatic fortress gateway flanked by cannons, setting the tone for a grand arrival into the palace.
From the soaring dome and royal chandelier of the Palace Lobby with the enchanting virgin hills in the backdrop and breathtaking valley views to the shaded elegance of Panther Patio, the palace unfurls like a story etched in time, through intricately layered pavilions, gardens, colonnades and terraces that reflect the property’s design ethos that blends the region’s traditional craftmanship with contemporary style. The palace honours the primal forces through its three interconnected wings: Surya Mahal, the Sun Palace, bathed in golden morning light; Chandra Mahal, the Moon Palace, cool and contemplative and Agni Mahal, the Fire Palace, where glowing torch-lined corridors and flickering hearths evoke the power and presence of eternal flame.
With a blend of handcrafted detail with sweeping views of the forested hillsides and sun-drenched courtyards, every space is steeped in comfort, beauty, and contemplative charm, a living tribute to nature, memory, and timeless design. At the heart of Fairmont Udaipur Palace is the majestic leopard, symbolizing resilience, grace, and quiet ambition. Depicted in regal sculptures and works of art, it celebrates the spirit of the wild with silent poise and power. The vibrant world of Rajasthani arts and crafts comes alive through the skilled hands of local artisans from villages supported by Fairmont Udaipur Palace. Every detail is a tribute to India’s living heritage, from embroidered artworks, each a labour of love by village craftsmen, to shimmering deep blue panels lining the corridors and courtyards. These intricately adorned panels showcase Thikri work, a traditional Rajasthani mirror inlay craft, etched with motifs that reflect the region’s natural beauty and royal legacy.
“Our endeavour was never just to build a hotel; it was to craft a world. Udaipur has always been a jewel of India, and with Fairmont Udaipur Palace, we wanted to create a destination within a destination, where every guest feels like a modern Maharaja or Maharani. This palace isn’t just built in stone and marble, but in stories, craftsmanship, and soul. From the hand-carved jharokhas to the grandeur of our architecture, every detail is a tribute to India’s royal heritage and Rajasthan’s timeless artistry. But beyond aesthetics, this project holds deeper meaning. Tourism has always been close to my heart, and Fairmont Udaipur Palace is my way of giving back to the city, to the state, and to the spirit of Indian hospitality. We wanted to give Udaipur that global edge, a world-class hotel where people from around the world come not just to stay, but to celebrate, to unwind, and to feel the true soul of Rajasthan. It’s our homage to heritage, our tribute to tradition, and our promise to India’s future in luxury tourism,” said Somesh Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of ROCKWOOD Hotels & Keystone.
Guests can choose from Fairmont Rooms, Signature Rooms with plunge pools, Luxury Rooms with garden or courtyard views, and an array of suites including the Fairmont Suite, Maharani Suite and the Maharana Suite, each offering elevated privacy, bespoke interiors, and personal outdoor sanctuaries. The palace also features a collection of specialty suites, including the Rajputana Suite, the Regal Mewar Suite, and the showstopping Jewel of Udaipur Suite with pool and terrace. At the pinnacle of luxury are the Royal Maharaja and Royal Maharani Suites, each featuring private pools, expansive terraces and bespoke detailing fit for modern royalty.
The palace also presents a refined selection of culinary destinations, each envisioned as an immersive extension of its elemental architecture and cultural soul. Bahaar, the all-day dining venue, offers globally focused, locally sourced soul food, celebrating the comfort of regional Indian flavors alongside global inspirations. Dahaad, an opulent palace bar — named after a powerful roar — echoes the wild symphony of Rajasthan, centered around a thikri sculpture of a leopard, a motif of the region’s folklore. Dastaan is a lounge celebrating the art of storytelling. Its name, meaning narrating stories, sets the tone for thoughtful conversations, surrounded by curated coffee table books, artful sculptures and the warm glow of candles. Sitara, a sunset-facing space perched high above the palace gardens, offers cosmic cocktails and sky gazing rituals reimagined as an experience of taste and time. Zaika pays homage to bold Indian culinary traditions through a deeply layered menu of comfort classics and regional specialties, served with modern finesse. Finally, the Ivory Pool Bar offers a tranquil sunken retreat, surrounded by water and forest, where daylight bites and sundowner sips unfold in breezy rhythm.
Following the debut of the property’s signature restaurants, Celeste, an avant-garde Asian bistro, and The Alchemist, a Mediterranean live-kitchen concept inspired by seasonal produce and nostalgic warmth, will open in the coming months, adding new dimension to the palace’s evolving culinary journey.
With over 1,40,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor celebration spaces, Fairmont Udaipur Palace is built for occasions that are worthy of being etched in memory. At its heart is Jewel, one of the largest ballrooms, featuring crystal chandeliers, hand-tufted carpets and a sunlit glass façade that opens into panoramic terraces, colonnades with valley views and the ceremonial gardens of Jashn Bagh. Another unique highlight is the palace’s dedicated events pool—a stunning, secluded backdrop for poolside soirées, or sunset cocktails.
Additional event venues include:
The Imperial Ballroom – A glittering Art Deco-inspired venue with mirror-clad walls and elegant detailing, ideal for intimate celebrations and refined soirées.
Mehfil – The ceremonial heart of the palace, lined with over 550 intricately hand-carved marble columns and cascading chhatris, designed as an open-air courtyard for regal gatherings, musical evenings, and traditional performances.
Ivory Pool and Garden– Nestled amidst natural rock formations, this open-air venue is crafted for live performances, rituals, or cultural storytelling under the stars with a dedicated pool and a jacuzzi.
Jashn Bagh and Noor Bagh – Expansive, immaculately landscaped lawns set against the palace façade, perfect for grand weddings, receptions, and royal celebrations.
Chand Baori – A dramatic stepwell replica inspired by Rajasthan’s ancient architectural marvels, serving as a stunning, multi-tiered amphitheater for ceremonies and evening spectacles.
Dialogue Rooms – Seven bespoke meeting and event spaces, designed for executive retreats, strategy sessions, and creative workshops.
Terraces – Infinity, Jungle, Sajjangarh, and Sunset Terraces offer elevated, panoramic settings ideal for private dinners, cocktail hours, and quiet reflection, each with a unique vantage point over the surrounding landscape.
At the Fairmont Spa & Salon and Fairmont Fit Gym, wellness is not a pause from life — it is a return to the natural rhythm of life. Spanning 12,000 sq. ft., this sanctuary draws inspiration from the sun’s journey — rising, illuminating, restoring — and invites guests to begin their own cycle of renewal. Treatments here are crafted to enliven the skin, restore tired muscles, and soothe the spirit, blending time-honored traditions with cutting-edge therapies.
Signature massage rituals — rooted in energy meridians, aromatherapy, and natural movement — are designed not only for recovery, but revelation, integrating the use of bespoke oils under the brand.
For recreation beyond the palace, guests can explore Rendezvous — a vibrant activity zone designed to delight guests of all ages, featuring mini golf, pickleball, paddle ball, ziplining, and a dedicated kids’ play area. For those arriving in style, the palace also offers a private helipad, ensuring seamless access and a spectacular arrival that sets the tone for an unforgettable stay.
“At Fairmont Udaipur Palace, our vision was to create more than a hotel, a living palace that stirs emotion, celebrates culture and offers experiences that linger in memory. Every element has been crafted with intention and care. As we open our doors, our focus is on shaping a destination where luxury is not just seen or felt, but deeply remembered,” said Vishrut Gupta, General Manager, Fairmont Udaipur Palace.
Travel Guides & Articles
10 rare Indian animals and where they are found

Snow leopard
The elusive snow leopard, often called the “ghost of the mountains,” are found in places like Hemis National Park in Ladakh, Nanda Devi National Park in Uttarakhand, and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. A small, scattered population is also found in the higher reaches of Arunachal and Sikkim.
Travel Guides & Articles
Delhi Metro QR Tickets Are Now Available On ixigo Via ONDC; Seamless Booking Experience Ahead

One of India’s leading travel platforms, ixigo Trains, is making travel easy for Delhiites. The company has partnered with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to launch Delhi Metro ticketing on the ixigo Trains app. With this new feature, passengers can book QR-based metro tickets directly through the app and make payments in-app. Scroll down for more details.
ixigo Trains Launches Delhi Metro QR Tickets
ixigo Trains has launches Delhi Metro ticketing services on its platform. With this launch, the app will become a one-stop solution to book trains, buses, flights, hotels, and metro. First-time users booking Delhi Metro tickets on the ixigo Trains app between 9-11 AM will receive 100% cashback up to ₹50 in ixigo money. On this, Dr. Vikas Kumar, Managing Director of DMRC, said that they aim to make travel convenient. The new launch will offer flexibility and encourage digital ticketing.
Mr. Dinesh Kumar Kotha, CEO of ixigo Trains & Confirmtkt, added, “Our aim at ixigo is to be the most customer-friendly travel platform. Millions of Indians already use ixigo for trains, buses, and flights. By adding Delhi Metro ticketing, commuters can enjoy a seamless last-mile travel experience, save time, avoid queues, and plan complete journeys on a single app. This partnership with DMRC and ONDC supports our vision of a connected travel ecosystem, encouraging digital-first commuting habits.”
Also Read: Delhi May Lower Legal Age For Drinking Beer To 21; Here’s The Age Limit In Other Metro Cities
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Network
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) operates on nearly 400 km of network. It is India’s largest and busiest metro system. In August 2025, it recorded its highest-ever single-day ridership of over 81 lakh journeys. The new ticketing feature on the ixigo app is part of efforts to strengthen the travel ecosystem and make daily commuting easier.
Since 2013, ixigo Trains has introduced various features for train travellers, including Travel Guarantee for waitlisted tickets, real-time train status with delay updates, predictions for waitlist, and more. It would be interesting to see how Delhi commuters will use this new feature for booking metro tickets.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments below!
Also Read: From Paris To Delhi And Mumbai: Ladurée Brings Its Iconic Chocolate Fondant Cake To India
Cover Image Courtesy: Flickr
First Published: September 12, 2025 5:41 PM
Travel Guides & Articles
Money blog: The way we travel will soon start changing – here’s what you need to know | Money News

In exactly a month, some Britons will be required to scan their passport and have their fingerprints and photograph taken to enter European countries.
The European Union is rolling out its new entry-exit scheme, known as EES, but it will be a while until it is fully operational.
It’s being introduced to replace passport stamping for all non-EU citizens, helping countries to make sure visitors aren’t breaking the 90-day visa-free travel rule and strengthen their border control.
Here’s what you need to know…
12 October 2025
EU countries will start introducing EES for UK and non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay.
This will require some visitors to register at the border by scanning their passport and completing “biometric checks” – these are having fingerprints and a photograph taken.
Some people visiting the Schengen area, which includes 29 countries, will be required to complete the biometric checks, to start with.
This is because countries have six months to phase in the new system to minimise any disruption.
ABTA, the UK’s largest travel association, says at least one border point in each country should operate the new system by 12 October.
You can see the full list of the countries introducing the system below…
Once you’ve completed this registration process, you’ll only need to scan your passport and provide either fingerprints or a photograph to enter or exit any of the listed countries.
Children under 12 will not be fingerprinted, but they will be photographed under the new rules.
You don’t have to do anything before travelling, but you should be prepared for longer queues at the border.
The UK government says the checks should only take one to two minutes for each person, but they may lead to longer waiting times at border control.
11 December
By this point, 10% of border points in each country should be operating the new system.
All travellers entering the country at these points should be using the EES.
January 2026
At this stage, half of border crossing points in each country should have the system up and running.
But only a third of passengers will need to use it, the European Commission has said.
10 April 2026
The way we travel now will come to an end, and all border points in participating countries will need to have the system running.
Passports will not be stamped or checked manually from this date.
Using the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel from the UK to travel?
In most cases, the EES checks will happen when you arrive in the country you are visiting.
But, if you are heading abroad using the Port of Dover, the Eurotunnel at Folkestone or the Eurostar at St Pancras International in London, you will complete the checks before you leave the UK.
The government has provided funding to support the change in infrastructure, but has warned that travellers will need to leave more time for their journey.
A spokesperson said: “While we have done everything we can to ensure the required infrastructure is in place, anyone who is planning a trip to the European mainland once these checks are introduced will still need to allow more time for their journey as the new EU systems bed in.”
What happens to your data?
The European Commission says the data being collected when you use the EES is…
- The information listed in your travel document(s) (eg full name, date of birth, etc.)
- Date and place of each entry and exit
- Facial image and fingerprints
- Whether you were refused entry
This data will be stored in the system and cannot be transferred to third parties – except in specific cases, which you can read about here.
Your data will be used by countries for several reasons including, identifying travellers who aren’t allowed to enter, find those using fake identities and help prevent and investigate serious crimes.
If you refuse to provide your biometric data, you will be denied entry.
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