Jodhpur's Crown Jewel: Umaid Bhawan Palace's Enduring Magic

Jodhpur's Crown Jewel: Umaid Bhawan Palace's Enduring Magic

By Author

Published on January 8, 2024

Picture a golden fortress rising from the desert sands, a majestic blend of Rajput grandeur and Art Deco elegance. This is Umaid Bhawan Palace, a Jodhpur jewel that has captivated royalty, celebrities, and travelers alike – including pop sensation Dua Lipa who recently graced its hallowed halls.

Dua Lipa's recent stay at Umaid Bhawan wasn't just a celebrity sighting, it was a testament to the palace's enduring allure. The singer had taken to her Instagram with a few pictures from her stay, including her waking up in a room with a stunning backdrop of hand drawn paintings of Radha Krishna with intricate designing details. 

Imagine waking up in a spacious suite fit for a queen, bathed in the warm glow of the desert sun. Picture exploring the palace grounds on horseback, the wind whipping through your hair as you marvel at the panoramic views. Or, savor a candlelit dinner in the majestic Durbar Hall, where crystal chandeliers and gilded mirrors reflect the dancing flames.

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Beyond the imposing gates, a world of opulent luxury unfolds. Soaring arches adorned with intricate carvings, courtyards bathed in sunlight, and lush gardens whispering secrets of a bygone era – every corner of Umaid Bhawan tells a story. As you ascend the grand staircase, a chandelier shimmering like a constellation above, you can almost hear the echoes of Maharajas and Maharaniis who once called this opulent abode their home.

But Umaid Bhawan's magic extends beyond its celebrity appeal. It's a living museum, showcasing Jodhpur's rich heritage through its architecture, art, and artifacts. Wander through the Maharaja's Gallery, where portraits of regal ancestors gaze down from gilded frames. Explore the Marwar Gallery, a treasure trove of textiles, jewels, and weapons that whisper tales of Rajput valor. Or, lose yourself in the museum's archives, filled with handwritten manuscripts and photographs that bring history to life.

Beyond the grandeur, Umaid Bhawan offers a haven for the soul. Unwind in the Jiva Spa, where ancient Indian therapies soothe your body and mind. Take a dip in the infinity pool, overlooking the sprawling desert landscape as the sun dips below the horizon. Or, simply curl up with a good book in a secluded corner of the gardens, letting the serenity of the place wash over you.

Umaid Bhawan Palace is more than just a luxurious hotel; it's an experience. It's a chance to step back in time, to feel the weight of history on your shoulders, and to bask in the opulence of a bygone era. It's a place where Dua Lipa found a slice of Indian royalty, and where you too can discover your own inner Maharani or Maharaja.

Pack your bags, dust off your most regal hat, and book your stay at Umaid Bhawan Palace. Let the deserts whisper their secrets, let the palace unfold its stories, and let yourself be swept away by the magic of Jodhpur's crown jewel.


Hospitality with a Heart: How The LaLiT is Building Inclusion and Skilling in India

Hospitality with a Heart: How The LaLiT is Building Inclusion and Skilling in India

By Author

Published on May 21, 2026

The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group is continuing to strengthen its position beyond traditional hospitality operations by building a strong ecosystem focused on inclusion, skilling, and community development across India.

At the core of its approach is a “hospitality with a heart” philosophy that prioritises dignity, inclusion, and opportunity creation, positioning the group as one of the key private-sector contributors to socially inclusive hospitality practices in the country.

The group has reportedly impacted more than one million lives and directly supported over 300,000 individuals through initiatives spanning education, healthcare, employment, and skill development.

A key focus area has been inclusive employment, with the group emerging as one of India’s largest private-sector employers of transgender individuals, currently employing over 250 transgender professionals across various roles. It has also conducted multiple LGBTQIA+ job fairs reaching over 10,000 jobseekers and facilitating more than 1,500 job placements.

Hotel Association of India in partnership with The LaLiT Suri Hospitality School is working to bridge the gap between hospitality education and industry requirements, focusing on practical training, communication skills, and operational readiness for future professionals.

The skilling ecosystem also includes programmes such as PrideKraft and Emerging Queer Leaders in Hospitality, which have collectively trained thousands of LGBTQIA+ individuals and supported vocational development, creative workshops, and employment linkages. Additionally, scholarships have been extended to students from LGBTQIA+, differently-abled, and neurodivergent communities.

Beyond employment, the group has developed destination-led skilling initiatives in regions such as Khajuraho, Bekal, Mangar, and Goa, aimed at creating local employment opportunities within tourism ecosystems and reducing migration-driven workforce displacement.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group also repurposed hotel infrastructure to support healthcare workers, including accommodation support, meal distribution, PPE assistance, and vaccination-related aid.

Through these initiatives, The LaLiT continues to position itself as a hospitality brand focused not only on luxury experiences but also on long-term social impact, community empowerment, and inclusive growth within India’s hospitality sector.


The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group & Special Olympics Bharat Honour Mothers of Athletes

The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group & Special Olympics Bharat Honour Mothers of Athletes

By Hariharan U

Published on May 14, 2026

The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, in collaboration with Special Olympics Bharat, hosted a heartfelt Mother’s Day evening at The LaLiT New Delhi to honour the mothers of Special Olympics athletes for their unwavering support, resilience, and love.

The event brought together mothers of athletes, celebrating their silent strength and the pivotal role they play in shaping their children’s journeys in sports and life. The evening was designed as a tribute to their dedication, sacrifice, and constant encouragement that continues to inspire athletic achievement and personal growth.

The gathering saw the presence of Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director of The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, along with Mallika Nadda and other dignitaries, who personally interacted with and felicitated the mothers for their inspiring journeys.

The evening concluded with an intimate high tea at The LaLiT New Delhi, where guests shared personal stories, experiences, and moments of emotional connection. The setting reflected the brand’s continued emphasis on meaningful hospitality experiences rooted in empathy and human connection.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jyotsna Suri said that a mother’s love has the power to transform lives, and that the event was a celebration of women whose strength and belief help their children overcome challenges and achieve success. She added that hospitality, at its core, is about creating meaningful human connections, and the group was honoured to recognise such inspiring women.

The initiative reflects the shared commitment of The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group and Special Olympics Bharat toward inclusion, empathy, and celebrating individuals who play a crucial role in shaping extraordinary journeys behind the scenes.

For more information, visit The LaLiT Hotels


Avakaya Mixing Ceremonies Take Centre Stage in Visakhapatnam

Avakaya Mixing Ceremonies Take Centre Stage in Visakhapatnam

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 7, 2026

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach and The Bheemili Resort, part of the Accor portfolio, marked the arrival of mango season with special Avakaya Mixing Ceremonies held over the weekend on 2nd and 3rd May. The events brought to life one of Andhra Pradesh’s most loved culinary traditions, offering guests a closer connection to local culture.

Rooted in nostalgia and a strong sense of community, the ceremonies were designed as interactive experiences where guests could understand and take part in the traditional preparation of Avakaya. By blending storytelling with hands-on participation, the initiative created a meaningful way to showcase Andhra’s culinary heritage.

At The Bheemili Resort, the celebration on 2nd May unfolded in a calm coastal setting. Guests were invited to take part in the process of mixing freshly cut raw mangoes with spices and gingelly oil, guided by culinary experts. The session offered a deeper appreciation of the effort and skill behind this iconic pickle. The experience was complemented by a selection of regional dishes and refreshing seasonal beverages, adding to the relaxed and culturally rich atmosphere.

The celebration continued on 3rd May at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, where guests and food enthusiasts came together for an engaging evening. Set against a scenic seaside backdrop, the event captured the spirit of togetherness, with participants sharing stories and traditions linked to Avakaya preparation. The evening was further enhanced with summer-inspired welcome drinks and a curated spread of regional specialities that reflected the diversity of Andhra cuisine.

Sharing her thoughts on the initiative, Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager said, “At Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach and The Bheemili Resort Managed by Accor, we are committed to creating meaningful guest experiences that celebrate the cultural essence of each destination. The Avakaya Mixing Ceremonies at the properties are a tribute to Andhra’s rich culinary heritage, offering guests an opportunity to engage with local traditions in an authentic and memorable way.”

Across both properties, the ceremonies reflected a strong focus on celebrating local culture through immersive experiences. Each event was carefully curated to highlight Andhra’s culinary roots while giving guests a chance to connect with traditions in a memorable and engaging way.

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