Imagine walking in the same corridors where Maharajas have walked; to sit on the sofa that has graced the highness; to sleep in the same room and on the same beds that have rested those whom history celebrates… In short, picture soaking in the aura of a Maharaja and living like royalty. That can soon be a reality, as the Gudliya Suite at the City Palace, Jaipur will now become accessible to outside guests, thanks to Airbnb. By Kumar Shree
The 300-year-old City Palace of Jaipur has witnessed an elegant and opulent history, which continues to float in the air of Rajasthan’s capital city. The home to a down-to-earth modern Royal, Maharaja Padmanabh Singh is truly one of the most iconic buildings in the substantial history of India. The landmark establishment has played host to the who’s who of the bygone era (such as Princess Diana) and to a selected few, modern-day stalwarts of the world (like Oprah Winfrey and Bill Clinton, among others). Now, it is all set to host you. Maharaja Padmanabh Singh has become the first Maharaja to offer a stay at his palace on Airbnb. His initiative is aimed at supporting women empowerment initiatives of the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation.
The luxurious Gudliya Suite, located within one of the private sections of the City Palace, Jaipur can be booked on Airbnb from November 23, 2019, onwards. The suite has its own lounge, kitchen, luxurious bathroom and an indoor, private swimming pool. The guests will also have a dedicated butler and guide at their service. The guests can experience a curated, inspiring journey reflecting the rich historic, cultural, and artistic heritage of the land, complete with guided museum tours, excursions, and shopping. Add to that an authentic Rajasthani meal on the terrace with a view of the Aravalli hills and afternoon tea with the peacocks in the Palace’s gardens. Now, that’s what you can call a royal life!
“I am thrilled that my family and I are partnering with Airbnb to bring the splendour of Rajasthan to life for travellers from around the world. 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,” stated His Highness Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh.
The value from each booking of the Gudliya Suite will be diverted towards the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, a nonprofit working for the upliftment of the rural women and artisans in Rajasthan. The Gudliya Suite priced at USD 8,000 per night will be available at an inaugural amount of USD 1,000 for select nights, where the balance amount will come from Airbnb as a contribution to the foundation. From January 1, 2020, the amount of USD 8,000 will be applicable throughout.
The Gudliya Suite will be available for stays starting November 23. To make a booking, guests can visit airbnb.com/CityPalaceJaipur.
Related: Airbnb Partners With PDKF To Empower The Women Of Rural Rajasthan
