Samode Haveli is arranged around two courtyards which act as the focal points of the hotel, effervescing the scent of pomegranate and lime trees with a maze of narrow, and at times, steep staircases and corridors which lead to 39 charming rooms and suites decorated in a historical Rajput style. Many of these have retained their original decor with beautiful frescoes, antique furniture and pillars inlaid with marble. Some also have original photographs from the mid 20th century showing cheetahs on racing days, big game hunts and elephants in all their finest regalia. This is a charming secluded bolthole, but still retains the vibrant city vibe.
Ideally located, guests can leave the confines of the hotel and find themselves immediately in the hustle and bustle of Jaipur city life, and just a ten-minute walk away from iconic sights such as the City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds. The spa, fitness centre and large swimming pool set in spacious gardens, conveniently offer a perfect respite after a long day sightseeing and unlike many larger hotels, Samode Haveli has also placed a ban on tour groups, helping to ensure guests’ stays are peaceful and undisturbed by those around them.
For foodies and gastronomic enthusiasts this hotel remains a highlight of Jaipur, drawing non-residents from across the city to eat in its historic dining hall and courtyard. The cuisine on offer is a mixture of traditional Rajasthani fare and international dishes, which are complimented by the hotel’s superb wine collection; service meanwhile is top-notch and rivals that at the larger multinational hotel chains.
There is a lift, but the age and architecture of the building means that it is slightly like a rabbit-warren with many narrow steps and low doorways, so therefore it may not suit those who are not very firm on their feet.
Samode Palace - The samode Palace is located near the samode village at a distance of 40 km, to the north of Jaipur. It is built of sandstone at the foot of the Aravalli range of hills with a fortress like setting. The interiors of the palace display a fusion of Mughal and Rajasthani art and architecture. The Samode palace which belongs to the Rawals of Samode is about 400 years old and has been converted into a comfortable hotel run by the family. Dewan-i- khas is a major attraction of samode palace. Fort of Sheograrh– The Fort of Sheogarh is very close to Jaipur, at a distance of 6 kms. This is where the people of Samode barricaded themselves in times of war. It is an austere building built on traditional lines. It has an elegant painted dining room and an airy passage and a unique ambiance of the historic juxtaposed against a contemporary setting. Samode Bagh, Mahar kalan or garden, built in the 16th century in Mughal style is just at a distance of 4 kms away from Jaipur. This Bagh is enclosed by a 15 feet high wall and is spread over an area of 20 acres and also have 44 sandbanks coloured tents with air-conditioning to accommodate visitors.