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PICTURES: Indian royal lists property on Airbnb

A royal family in the Indian city of Jaipur has listed their home on the online rental platform A...
Jack Quann
Jack Quann

10.25 11 Nov 2019


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PICTURES: Indian royal lists p...

PICTURES: Indian royal lists property on Airbnb

Jack Quann
Jack Quann

10.25 11 Nov 2019


Share this article


A royal family in the Indian city of Jaipur has listed their home on the online rental platform Airbnb.

The 300-year-old City Palace of Jaipur has played host to numerous guests over the centuries.

From November 23rd, the Gudliya Suite at the City Palace will become accessible to outside guests.

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Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh will become the first Maharaja to offer a stay at his palace on Airbnb.

Jaipur The City Palace of Jaipur | Image: Supplied

He says this is in order to help support the women's empowerment initiatives of the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation.

21-year-old Padmanabh Singh succeeded his grandfather in 2011 as the Maharaja of a land his ancestors have ruled for nearly 1,000 years.

Steeped in history, and located in the heart of Jaipur, capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan, the palace is one of India's most iconic buildings.

Jaipur The City Palace of Jaipur | Image: Supplied

The Gudliya Suite, located within one of the private sections of a royal palace has, until now, been used for the royals and their special guests.

The suite includes its own lounge, kitchen, bathroom and private, indoor swimming pool.

Guests will be looked after by a private butler and guide, who will arrange curated city experiences including shopping tours, guided walks through local museums and other excursions.

Jaipur The City Palace of Jaipur | Image: Supplied

Authentic Rajasthani meals can be enjoyed on a terrace offering an amazing view of the surrounding Aravalli hills and forts overlooking the palace.

Built in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the palace exemplifies the best of 18th century Rajput architecture with and other architectural influences of later periods.

The interiors contain ornate chambers, large and airy reception halls, crystal chandeliers, gilded wall decorations, intricate carvings and in addition to the royal residence, the sprawling palace complex houses a large, internationally recognised museum.

Jaipur The City Palace of Jaipur | Image: Supplied

Notable visiting dignitaries have included Britain's Prince Charles, among others.

Padmanabh Singh says: "I am thrilled that my family and I are partnering with Airbnb to bring the splendour of Rajasthan to life for travelers 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."

Airbnb says the palace has never been available to be booked by outside guests before.

Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh will be your host | Image: Supplied

Proceeds from each booking will go to the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation - a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women in rural areas and artisans in Rajasthan.

The Gudliya Suite is priced at US$8,000 (€7,251) per night, but will be available to book on select nights at a special inaugural price of US$1,000 (€906) a night.


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