Udaipur, often referred to as the City of Lakes, is a dream destination for many travelers seeking a blend of royal heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled luxury. My recent 3-day trip to Udaipur turned out to be nothing short of magical, as I had the opportunity to stay at three of the city’s most iconic and opulent properties: Raffles Udaipur, Taj Lake Palace, and ITC Ekaaya. The total value of these stays was ₹3.5 Lakhs, but I secured them for free using credit card points and loyalty program upgrades. Here’s an overview of the incredible experiences I had at each property and what made them truly special.
Day 1: Raffles Udaipur – A Haven of Serenity
Nestled on its own private island in the Udai Sagar Lake, Raffles Udaipur is the epitome of tranquility and grandeur. For a detailed hotel review, check here.
The warm welcome set the tone for a memorable stay. The property’s interiors seamlessly blend contemporary luxury with traditional Rajasthani elements, offering a sense of calm and refinement. My stay was enhanced by an incredible upgrade to a private pool villa, which offered stunning lake views and unmatched privacy.
One of the highlights of Raffles Udaipur is its culinary excellence. Dinner at their signature restaurant was an unforgettable experience, with every dish crafted to perfection. The level of service was impeccable, ensuring that every need was met with a smile.
Another unforgettable experience at Raffles was the morning trek to the 400-year-old Sukheshwar Mahadev Temple. Located near Udai Sagar Lake, the trek was a serene 30-40 minute journey to an ancient hilltop shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The property arranged everything, including a car, guide, and snacks, making it a peaceful and blissful start to my birthday celebrations.
Day 2: Taj Lake Palace – Living the Royal Dream
The Taj Lake Palace is not just a hotel; it’s an icon of luxury and history. For a detailed hotel review, check here.
The property’s ornate interiors and regal ambiance make you feel like royalty. I was fortunate to be upgraded to the Khush Mahal (Maharani Suite), a majestic suite that exudes charm and opulence. The suite’s intricate decor, stunning lake views, and plush amenities made it a stay to remember. The four-poster bed and the gold-leafed interiors added an extra layer of grandeur to the experience.
During my stay, I explored the beautiful courtyards, enjoyed a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, and indulged in a royal dining experience. I also experienced the warmth of Taj’s legendary service through little gestures, like the handwritten welcome note and the specially curated desserts in my suite. The staff went above and beyond to make my stay truly extraordinary.
Day 3: ITC Ekaaya Udaipur – A Luxurious Retreat
ITC Ekaaya, part of ITC’s Mementos collection, is a secluded paradise that combines luxury with personalized service. For a detailed hotel review, check here.
My stay was made extraordinary with an upgrade to a private villa with a personal butler, a 3-level upgrade from the base room. The villa, worth ₹50,000-60,000 per night, offered an expansive living space, elegant interiors, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. ITC Ekaaya’s emphasis on responsible luxury was evident in every detail, from the eco-friendly amenities to the sustainable practices integrated into the property.
One of the standout features of ITC Ekaaya is its culinary offerings. From authentic Rajasthani delicacies to global cuisines, every meal was a celebration of flavors. The lavish breakfast spread, served with stunning views of the Aravallis, was a perfect way to start the day. The property’s focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness added an extra layer of appreciation to my stay.
Exploring Udaipur and Beyond
While the properties themselves were destinations, I also took time to explore Udaipur’s rich cultural heritage. From the grandeur of City Palace to the vibrant streets of the old city, every moment was a feast for the senses.
The distance between Raffles and Taj, & Taj to ITC, is within an hour, so the travel wasn’t too hectic. Plus, we also got early check-in at Raffles around 11-12 PM and a late checkout at ITC around 4 PM, which helped to maximize our time at each property.
That said, I completely agree with the point about staying a minimum of 2 days in a single property to truly enjoy it. In our case, we also had to travel to Nathdwara after ITC, so our days were short.
How I Made It Possible
You might be wondering how I managed to stay at these dream properties, each worth a fortune, without spending a single rupee. The secret lies in the strategic use of credit card points, loyalty rewards programs, and polite email requests. Here’s a glimpse into how I did it:
