A Luxury Boutique Hotel - Dileep Kothi
Dileep Kothi, Jaipur is the private residence of the former Royal family of Barli, turned luxury boutique hotel in the city's chic C Scheme neighbourhood. It's one of the most unique travel experiences Jaipur can offer, giving you a glimpse of the royal culture, heritage and legacy with the family still living in part of the property. As you pass through the noble gates and step onto the property, you'll be immediately struck by the grandeur of Dileep Kothi's stately white pillars and magnificent architecture, which sets the tone for an unforgettable stay.
Last month, my mum and I had the pleasure of staying at Dileep Kothi and spending four unforgettable nights exploring the property, the surrounding area, and learning about the history of the Royal family of Barli. From the warm hospitality of the staff to the luxurious amenities, I was impressed with every aspect of the hotel. In this post, I'll provide an honest review of my experience at Dileep Kothi and why I highly recommend it to anyone planning a trip to Jaipur.
Location of Dileep Kothi
Nestled in the heart of the affluent C Scheme area, Dileep Kothi offers an experience that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Jaipur. The neighbourhood is dotted with opulent residences, upscale boutiques, and impeccably maintained streets, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking an authentic glimpse into the city's lifestyle. C Scheme is also home to many major companies, attracting a diverse mix of locals who are always eager to welcome visitors. The hotel's strategic location places all the popular tourist attractions such as City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal just a short ten-minute drive away, making it the perfect base for exploring the city. A two-minute walk from the hotel leads to the main road, where an abundance of autos and taxis are available. For me, the best part of staying at Dileep Kothi was getting a taste of what it's like to live in Jaipur, from leisurely evening walks through streets lined with vibrant bougainvillaea to hassle-free shopping experiences and indulging in the hip coffee scene in C Scheme.
Rooms at Dileep Kothi
Dileep Kothi is a hotel that takes luxury to new heights, with unwavering attention to even the smallest details. From the exquisite artwork adorning the walls to the plush linens on the beds, every element has been thoughtfully curated to provide guests with an unparalleled experience. The property boasts six distinct rooms, each with its own character and style that promises to enchant you. The spacious rooms are appointed with lavish four-poster beds, large windows that flood the space with natural light, and breathtaking views of the neighborhood. Our room was an oasis, with French doors opening directly onto a balcony where we enjoyed evening chai and endless conversations amidst the soothing sounds of the call to prayer and the sweet melodies of the neighbourhood birds.
Breakfast at Dileep Kothi
Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast experience at the hotel's magnificent dining room, where you can relish delicious homemade dishes and engage in delightful conversations with fellow guests and the warm-hearted family, all while seated at the sprawling dining table. Savour the assortment of fresh juices, breads, and fruit plates, and let the courteous staff pamper you with an array of breakfast options, from classic eggs to authentic Indian delicacies like uttapam. The regal decor lends an air of sophistication to the room, with a drawing room adjoining it, providing the perfect ambience to enjoy a cup of chai or immerse yourself in a good book.
Dileep Kothi's Royal Family of Barli
Staying with royalty is an experience like no other. As soon as I arrived at Dileep Kothi, I was greeted by Baisaraj Satkriti Kumari of Gunawati (Marwar), daughter-in-law to Thakur Umaid Singh Ji Karansar, the current heir and eldest member of the erstwhile royal family of Karansar. Despite fulfilling his royal duties to the royal family of Jaipur and the Maharaja of Jaipur, HH Sawai Padmanabham Singh Ji, Thakur Umaid Singh Ji Karansar still took the time to make us feel welcome and at home. Satkriti went above and beyond to ensure our every need was met, making herself available to us at any time of the day or night. This level of hospitality made us truly feel like part of the family.
I will always remember the evening I asked Satkriti about the prayer times at a nearby Hindu temple. Without hesitation, she immediately called her father-in-law, Thakur Umaid Singh Ji Karansar, who personally gave me his advice on my visit. It was a touching example of the family's graciousness and hospitality, which transcends class and status.
If you're seeking a luxurious escape in the heart of the countryside then Fort Barli, the second property owned by the family in the Ajmer district might be for you. The stunning Heritage Hotel, once a fort, has been lovingly restored and refurnished to retain its original character and charm, providing guests with a truly authentic experience.
The People at Dileep Kothi
The warmth and hospitality at Dileep Kothi extended beyond just the royal family and into the entire staff. I hesitate to even use the term "staff," as they became more like dear friends during our stay. Their friendly demeanour, attentiveness, and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure our every need was met truly made our stay unforgettable. They took the time to get to know us personally, and it was evident they genuinely cared about making our stay as enjoyable as possible.
Final Thoughts
For a luxurious and unforgettable stay in Jaipur, I highly recommend Dileep Kothi. The hotel's beautiful rooms and space offer the perfect retreat after a long day of exploring, providing a cosy and welcoming home away from home. With its prime location and exceptional staff, Dileep Kothi is the perfect choice for anyone looking to experience the best of boutique hotels. Their dedication to excellence truly sets Dileep Kothi apart and I can't wait to return to experience their hospitality once again.
