Support a good cause while you surrender to luxury and history (All photos: Airbnb)
Ever wondered what it is like to live in a splendid 300-year-old palace in the heart of Rajasthan, the northwestern Indian state famed for its grandiose forts, colourful festivals and art and cultural heritage? Stop wondering and start packing because now you can — at the City Palace of Jaipur, home to Jaipur’s royal family — and support a good cause while you surrender to luxury and history.
Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh of Jaipur is offering guests a stay at the Gudliya Suite in his palace on Airbnb, in support of the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, which works with rural women and artisans in Rajasthan.
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“My own travels with Airbnb have made me feel very welcome in new cities and cultures, and I am happy that the experience of quintessential Indian hospitality will be shared with others,” states 21-year-old Padmanabh Singh, who succeeded his grandfather in 2011 as monarch of a land his ancestors have ruled for almost 1,000 years.
The Gudliya Suite, located in a private section of City Palace, is used for the royals and their special guests. It has its own lounge, kitchen, luxurious bathroom and indoor swimming pool.
Built in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, founder of Jaipur city, the palace exemplifies the best of 18th century Rajput architecture with its ornate chambers and large and airy reception halls filled with crystal chandeliers, gilded wall decorations and intricate carvings.
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Besides the royal residence, the palace complex houses a large museum. A private butler and guide will see to the needs of guests, who can look forward to curated city experiences and tours, and authentic Rajasthani meals on a terrace that looks out to the Aravalli hills and forts overlooking the palace.
Bookings for the Gudliya Suite open on Nov 23, at a special inaugural offer of US$1,000 per night, with Airbnb paying the balance amount for each booking as a contribution to the foundation. From Jan 1, the suite will be available at the full rate of US$8,000.
Click here to make reservations.
