Maharaja’s palace now for rent
A MAHARAJA has posted a part of his historic home in India for rent on Airbnb. For around US$8,000 (RM33,600) a night you’ll be able to sample a royal lifestyle in the confines of a 300-year-old palace in Jaipur.
The Maharaja’s listing promises guests “an inspiring journey into the rich history, cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Jaipur’s royal family” during their stay in the City Palace’s Gudliya Suite.
The services of a butler and guide – who will offer “curated city experiences including shopping tours, guided walks through local museums and other excursions” – are included in the daily rate.
This is the first time the palace has been made available to paying guests. Previous (non-paying) visitors have included former United States president Bill Clinton, Britain’s Princess Diana and former US first lady, Jackie Kennedy.
The palace was built in 1727 by the Maharaja who founded the city of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh II. It’s said to exemplify “the best of 18th century Rajput architecture with and other architectural influences of later periods.”
A night in the palace includes the chance to enjoy local cuisine and the “amazing view of the surrounding Aravalli hills.” The palace is close to the centre of Jaipur, which was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site earlier this year. The Airbnb listing describes it as a “contemporary city” which beautifully “blends heritage architecture, epic food traditions and colourful local culture.”
The Gudliya Suite is now available to book via the home-sharing app until January. All money raised will go to the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, a charity that supports women and artisans in Rajasthan’s rural districts. – dpa