The Rise of the Luxury Boutique Hotel Traveler in Jaipur: How New Havelis are Changing the Scene
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, has long been a favourite among travellers for its majestic palaces, forts, and vibrant culture. I am lucky enough to have been traveling there for over 20 years and I have lost count of how many places I have stayed. I am not going to lie there have been some quite revolting experiences and some that will be etched in my memory for years to come (more on my favourites later) I have noticed over the last few years, a new trend has emerged: the rise of luxury boutique hotels, particularly in the form of restored and privately owned havelis. These small, personalised haveli hotels are offering a fresh and intimate alternative to the traditional large-scale resorts, catering to the growing demand for unique, high-end experiences. I do think so much of this has been driven by the rise in instagram travel influencer documentation but let’s not just click and run (many do I am sad to share). Let’s explore how these new havelis are changing the hospitality landscape in Jaipur and I want to recommend some of the best options for a stay that offers a glimpse into the city’s regal history. I am not a travel agent but I do travel a lot to India and whilst I love a 5 star as much as everyone else I would urge you to try one of these to experience a more personal Jaipur experience.
OK firstly, what is a Haveli?
A haveli, traditionally a mansion or large house with open courtyards and intricate architectural detailing, is one of the most iconic elements of Rajasthan’s heritage. The only thing I can compare to would be beautiful Arabic Riads. These structures, often grand yet homely, typically belong to wealthy merchants or aristocrats and are characterised by ornate windows, elaborate frescoes, and carvings. The new wave of boutique hotels in Jaipur is centered around the restoration and reinvention of these beautiful havelis into exclusive guest houses that blend modern luxury with historical charm. I spoke with the general manager at a new boutique Haveli opening and he did share that many of these historic buildings are being torn down so the more we support this special places the more we can preserve the history.
The Rise of Boutique Hotels in Jaipur
As travelers increasingly seek more personalised, off-the-beaten-path experiences, boutique hotels have surged in popularity. This trend is being fueled by an influx of well-heeled international tourists and a growing middle class in India. These guests are moving away from standard hotel chains and are eager to stay in places that offer a more authentic and immersive experience of Rajasthan’s history and culture.
Privately owned havelis are stepping in to provide just that. These small, intimate properties are run by families or individuals with deep ties to the city, who have restored these historic homes to their former glory while incorporating luxury and modern amenities. The charm of staying in these havelis lies not just in their aesthetic appeal but also in the personal stories of the owners, many of whom have transformed family estates into thriving boutique hotels.
Samode Haveli – Heritage with a Royal Touch 
EVERYONE in Jaipur knows about the Samode Haveli and its was the first place I stayed in Jaipur, it was magical and I saw a ghost…. I also swam in their pool (this is one of the big draws) For me they put Havelis on the map and are fabulous choice.
Dating back to the 18th century, Samode Haveli is a prime example of a heritage property transformed into a luxury boutique hotel. The royal family of Samode has meticulously restored the haveli to reflect its majestic past, blending elements of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The property’s lush gardens, ornate rooms, and regal interiors provide an exclusive experience. The hotel offers a unique blend of royal hospitality and modern luxury.
https://samode.com/samode-haveli-living-spaces/
The Johri
The Kasliwal family has been dazzling Jaipur’s maharajahs for centuries, thanks to their iconic Gem Palace (if you didn’t know Jaipur is also famous for its gemstones and Jewelery) . But their talents go beyond jewelry with the opening of the Johri. To give this 19th-century mansion a fresh, modern look, Siddharth Kasliwal and Abhishek Honawar (the duo behind the trendy 28 Kothi which I also recommend but it is not an old Haveli) teamed up with Naina Shah, a New York-based couture embroiderer with a knack for interiors. She worked with local artisans to create custom furniture and crockery, while also tracking down vintage finds and adding vibrant splashes of paint. From its chic vegetarian restaurant to its lush, members-only bar and rooftop terrace with a stunning city view, the Johri proves you don’t need gems to shine. There are only 5 suites, it’s in the heart of the old city and has a beautiful restaurant too that draws in locals and tourists. This Haveli has been such a success that it is now being blueprinted and has inspired many more to open their Havelis to tourists.
http://www.thejohrijaipur.com/
The Padmaa Jaipur
The Padmaa Jaipur, a 289-year-old haveli located in Jaipur's walled city, has recently opened as a boutique hotel. This is my most recent discovery that inspired me to write the blog post.
Originally established as a jewelry "gaddi" in the bustling Chaura Rasta, it evolved into a cherished family sanctuary over seven generations. The haveli is named in honor of Shrimati Padmaa Devi Shah, affectionately known as Amma, whose vision transformed the space into a home filled with warmth and tradition. The renovation was undertaken by her descendants, including her granddaughter, Diya Kumari, a prominent member of the former royal family and current Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan. The family collaborated with Studio Navèe to preserve the haveli's heritage while introducing contemporary comforts, resulting in a seamless blend of tradition and modernity. I love the soft feminine touches it is a very soft gentle, calm space. The design touches are exquisite a real fusion of old and new.
I dined there the food was stunning and freshly made traditional Rajasthani fare with a light touch. They have a bar which will no doubt become a Jaipur hot spot. I sadly could not stay this time as it was full ( there are only 15 rooms)
Why the Haveli Trend is Catching On
What sets these boutique haveli hotels apart from traditional accommodations is the personalised touch. The owners often greet their guests and provide them with a deeper understanding of the history behind the haveli, making the stay feel more like visiting an old friend’s ancestral home rather than staying at an impersonal hotel. Many of these properties are also located in quieter, residential neighborhoods, providing a respite from the tourist crowds that fill the main city areas. The ambiance is warm, welcoming, and distinctly local, providing an authentic experience of Jaipur.
Additionally, these havelis often offer curated experiences, such as private tours, cooking classes, and cultural performances. This growing niche of luxury boutique hotels is reshaping Jaipur’s tourism landscape, making it an even more desirable destination for high-end travelers seeking history, luxury, and authenticity.
Conclusion
The rise of luxury boutique havelis in Jaipur represents a shift in the way travellers approach luxury accommodations. More and more, discerning guests are choosing to stay in these historically significant properties that offer a blend of old-world charm and modern comforts. The passion of the owners to preserve their family heritage while offering contemporary services has created a vibrant and dynamic hospitality scene in Jaipur. For those seeking an unforgettable stay, these new havelis provide a unique and intimate way to experience the pink city’s regal allure. This list is my no means exhaustive just a snap shot of some of my favourite spots in Jaipur. I cannot tell you how many collections have been inspired by the artwork or beautiful interiors of some of these incredible places. I also find as a designer having a beautiful environment is so conducive to my creative output.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply in search of a luxurious and personal stay, Jaipur’s new boutique havelis are a perfect choice.
Click here to see our latest collections which have been inspired by the art and design of Jaipur
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