Keeping Rajasthani heritage alive
Having been able to preserve a royal background and a regal ambience, Ranbanka Palace finds itself ahead of most of the modern properties in Jodhpur, in showcasing the unique Rajasthani heritage to its guests.
Since the hotel became operational, Ranbanka Palace has catered to the leisure segment with more than 70 per cent of the business coming from foreign tourists travelling to Jodhpur. The experience of staying in an authentic royal palace is an attractive appeal not just for the foreigners but for the domestic travellers as well. Over the last few years, Ranbanka Palace has established itself as a wedding destination in India.
Sandeep Batra, General Manager, Ranbanka Palace says, “Over the last decade, the hospitality sector has seen a growth in terms of number of international brands which have entered India. This has resulted in an improvement in the standard of service and facilities available today not just in the luxury segments but in the mid-market segment as well as the budget segment. They have also brought with them international standards and technological expertise to upgrade the hotels to meet the requirements of the inbound traveller. The marketing and distribution reach of these brands have also helped bring in more tourists and business travellers to India.”
Jodhpur, as a destination, is growing not just in the leisure segment but also as a wedding destination. “The growth of industries and manufacturing units close to Jodhpur has also opened up opportunities for business travellers to visit Jodhpur. Looking at this growth, a number of hotels have opened up recently like the Fern Residency and Mango Hotels as well as smaller hotels. In the coming years, hotels like Lords Plaza and Fairfield Inn by Marriott are also expected to start operations. This competition will further enhance the standard of hotels that are available in Jodhpur and will benefit the consumers.”
He says that a healthy competition is important in ensuring that hotels constantly upgrade their facilities and services through regular refurbishment programmes as well as training programmes for their staff. “We have always believed in staying ahead of the competition by offering a unique product and service to our guests and ensuring that the royal experience we provide is truly memorable for our guests,” he says.
Jodhpur is a seasonal destination which results in fluctuating occupancies from April to September and October to March. The city average in the summer comes down to 25- 30 per cent occupancies while in the winter season it touches around 50- 60 per cent.
In terms of facilities for MICE, the property also has a large lawn which is its centerpiece.
“We have a conference hall which can accommodate up to 80 participants for small meetings, trainings and seminars. We also host a number of banquet functions in the lawn as well as the main courtyard for birthday parties, anniversary celebrations and other social get together. We have also organised product launches or displays for cars as well as press conferences for product launches,” he says.