Reviewed by
Cathy Teesdale
RAAS Jodhpur is the superb restoration creation of Rajput man-about-town Nikhilendra Singh and umpteen architects. Designed to reflect the unique character of the city, it combines modern blue and rose sandstone blocks with an ancient haveli. Jaali-slashed shutters dapple geometric light across 40 elegant bedrooms and suites and bathrooms, furniture is custom-made rosewood, and all the mod cons are in place.
Sitting in a big sunbowl beneath Jodhpur's 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, RAAS showcases exquisite craftsmanship and gorgeous detail throughout. There's a lovely big turquoise swimming pool with curtained loungers, a patchwork lawn-and-paving courtyard garden, waterfall-backed reception and a dedicated spa. When hunger strikes, choose from the shady Baradari fine dining restaurant, the informal yet spectacularly located Stepwell Cafe, or the Darikhana restaurant, which has its own street entrance and welcomes non-guests. Add excellent unobtrusive service and you'll not dream of staying anywhere else in Jodhpur.
Sitting in a big sunbowl beneath Jodhpur's 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, RAAS showcases exquisite craftsmanship and gorgeous detail throughout. There's a lovely big turquoise swimming pool with curtained loungers, a patchwork lawn-and-paving courtyard garden, waterfall-backed reception and a dedicated spa. When hunger strikes, choose from the shady Baradari fine dining restaurant, the informal yet spectacularly located Stepwell Cafe, or the Darikhana restaurant, which has its own street entrance and welcomes non-guests. Add excellent unobtrusive service and you'll not dream of staying anywhere else in Jodhpur.
Highs
- The proximity to, and stunning views of, Jodhpur's deservedly famous Mehrangarh Fort; you're right in the walled city
- The life-saving refreshment from a dip in the beautiful infinity swimming pool and dedicated spa
- The mesmerising play of geometrically-patterned light in rooms and corridors, a modernist take on the dappled rays falling through the jaalis of old havelis
- A beautiful bubble from which to dip your toes into the city
- Surprisingly affordable for such a knockout creation; family-friendly
Lows
- It can be a tad noisy (especially the call to prayer) but they offer earplugs and you are in the center of an Indian city, so it's to be expected
- Heritage Suites lack fort views but compensate with lavish historic decor
- Garden Rooms also lack views - they have outdoor space but the high walls felt a bit too enclosed for us
- Book early - it’s popular
Best time to go
RAAS is open throughout the year, though May and June will be just too hot for many westerners at 45-47C, particularly given the open sunbowl location and lack of tree-shade in the garden. The monsoon happens here from (roughly) mid-July to mid-August, making the surrounding areas wonderfully green and weather 'very pleasant'. October to mid-April is their peak season.
Our top tips
Do take their guided and complimentary Jodhpur city tour as they'll show you hidden corners you'd be unlikely to find on your own. And know that walking unguided up to the Fort is not nearly as straightforward as it looks!
Like the look of this hotel? Combine it with a stay at their sister property RAAS Devigarh.
Like the look of this hotel? Combine it with a stay at their sister property RAAS Devigarh.