Radisson Blu Udaipur Palace Resort & Spa

The Radisson Blu Udaipur Palace Resort & Spa makes an impression from the start, with striking elephant sculptures and a water feature at the entrance, and green tropical gardens that encircle a stunning white facade. Guests are welcomed with a drink as they enter the expansive and opulent lobby, which is embellished with rich fabrics, chandeliers, and marble floors in an atrium-like hall. Overall, the upscale hotel gives off a vibe of elegant refinement, though it manages not to come off as overly stuffy or pretentious. However, some maintenance issues and visible wear are reported. It’s a popular spot for weddings, as well as honeymoons, but families often vacation here as well thanks to several kid-friendly offerings. Many rooms and common areas also offer stunning views of Fateh Sagar Lake. Guests who stay here tend to spend most of their time on-site, but there’s also plenty of sights within a short drive.

Travelers seeking a truly luxurious getaway should consider the Taj Lake Palace Udaipur, which occupies a gorgeous 18th-century whitewashed palace (you may recognize it from the James Bond flick, "Octopussy") in the center of Udaipur's Lake Pichola. The 66 rooms and 17 suites all have traditionally inspired regal Rajasthani furniture and beautiful lake views.

On the shores of Fateh Sagar Lake, the Radisson Blu Udaipur Palace Resort & Spa is set against truly gorgeous scenery, looking out over the expanse of water and lakeside hills. The resort is close to many top area sights: Sajjan Garh Palace overlooks the same lake and is a 20-minute drive away; It’s also known as Monsoon Palace because it was built by a maharana in 1184 for him to watch monsoon clouds from.

Travelers can drive about 20 minutes into central Udaipur, known as India’s “City of Lakes,” to take in the city’s romantic architecture, walk through the early 18th-century former royal garden Saheliyon Ki Bari, or check out one of many festivals.

It’s just an hour’s cab ride from Maharana Pratap Airport, a one-runway airport with connections to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Hyderabad, among other destinations, or a 20-minute cab from the city’s railway station. An airport shuttle from the hotel is also available upon request.

The hotel has a total of 245 elegant, vibrant rooms and suites – some of which have lovely views of Fateh Sagar Lake. Rooms largely feature old-fashioned wooden furniture, pops of color – think hot pink or orange – in accent walls and throw pillows, and some patterned elements such as rugs. Quality amenities consist of of tea- and coffee-making facilities, irons and ironing boards, air-conditioning, and safes, plus flat-screen satellite TV equipped with mirror casting for streaming shows. Business Class Rooms add minibars, robes and slippers, and a selection of magazines and newspapers. Suites (upgraded rooms also have robes and slippers).

Lower-category rooms measure 33 square meters (355 square feet) and have either two twin beds or a king bed. Bathrooms are equipped with showers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Suites come with separate living rooms and swish marble bathrooms housing showers and separate tubs.

There are two well-reviewed restaurants on-site: Neel Mahal serves excellent Indian and continental dishes, and it offers a lovely lantern-bedecked terrace with a roof draped in vines. The second dining option is Aravali, the property’s popular restaurant and grill that’s situated on the rooftop terrace with dramatic black-and-white tiling and an amazing view out over the lake. Aangan is the lobby bar, while H20 serves drinks by the pool. Breakfast buffets offer plenty of choices and it’s included in some rates.

The Radisson Blu Udaipur Palace Resort & Spa has an appealing two-tiered outdoor pool, however, there are a limited number of loungers and umbrellas along the bottom level. Grounds include lush gardens with running trails, mini-golf, and a tennis court, and there are a ping-pong table and barbecue facilities for an extra charge. At night, a nightclub and evening entertainment such as traditional folk songs, puppet shows, and folk dancing are offered.

A simple spa provides a range of treatments such as massages, as well as a sauna. The fitness center has a mix of cardio machines and strength-training equipment like free weights. Kids can hang out at the kids’ club or playground.

Radisson Blu Udaipur weddings are popular, thanks to a large ballroom and pretty lawn suitable for events and receptions. Corporate meetings and events can also be housted here.

Wi-Fi and parking are both free.