On a recent trip to Jaipur, we made a point to visit the incredible Villa Palladio. Located just east of the city centre near the Kanota Dam, you are transported the moment you pass the gates of the long driveway into this dream-like oasis. While we weren’t able to stay at the Villa on this trip, we were treated to a full tour of the hotel and the grounds.

Luckily we were able to visit a few guestrooms and see their charming pink interiors. If India is a feast for the senses, Villa Palladio is a visual delight. Harnessing the traditional Indian architecture and in a nod to Jaipur’s title as the Pink City, each room is an explosion of rose colours. Comfortable beds are all adjacent to spa-like bathrooms.

The lovely restaurant and terrace encompass the main floor of the villa and are fed by the hotel’s own organic kitchen garden. We were treated to a delicious rose soda made in house while we toured the gardens on the way to the pool. Along the way we visited the meditation room, its own structure adjacent to the main house offers a respite for yoga and calm during your busy Indian tour. The pool embraces the pink aesthetic of the hotel as well, with lovely loungers and striped awnings.

In addition to the restful amenities, guests can walk the local trails of the Rajasthani countryside surrounding the hotel or if they wish, the hotel’s stables offer horses ready to take you on a ride.

While a short drive outside of the city, the Villa Palladio is a calm respite from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Its definitely worth the visit at least for lunch.