There was a time when royalty lived in palaces perched on hills, where morning light spilled over stone courtyards, and every doorway opened into a dream. Rajasthan, with all its majesty, has always echoed those stories. But every once in a while, a place blurs the line between past and present—and Aurika in Udaipur does just that.

Gone are the days when only kings lived with grandeur. Aurika brings that forgotten opulence into reach, and somehow, does it without pretense. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a royal experience, rebuilt for the traveler of today who still believes in magic.

As we approached the property, it was clear this wasn’t a typical resort on a hill. This was something else. Constructed in a succession of three regal structures, Aurika is carved into the hillside like a palace born from the mountains. Each building flows into the next, with corridors and courtyards that invite you to slow down and look closer. Every arch, every stone, every lantern-lit path feels intentional, as if you’ve stepped into a story still being written.

The rooms are palatial—not in an exaggerated way, but in that quiet, awe-inspiring way that royalty must have once lived. Plush interiors, soaring ceilings, and a bathroom that honestly deserves its own mention. It felt like a spa, a sanctuary, and a personal retreat all at once. And then, the balcony—the view stretched endlessly, the city of Udaipur lying below like a painted canvas. It’s hard to describe what it feels like to wake up and drink your morning tea above the rooftops of Rajasthan. You don’t just see the sunrise—you feel it.

Aurika’s hospitality is the kind that doesn’t announce itself loudly, but is always there before you need it. Every gesture—from the welcoming smiles to the turn-down service—is rooted in warmth. And the food? Let’s just say the breakfast buffet alone could convince you to extend your stay. Rich, comforting, and full of both local and global touches, it was a meal I looked forward to, not rushed through.

But perhaps what makes Aurika truly unique is the way it encourages you to explore. The property is so vast, so layered, that they’ve added a treasure hunt for guests—a playful, yet purposeful invitation to uncover its secrets. It’s a small touch, but it brings out the wonder in everyone. You’re not just staying here—you’re part of the palace’s unfolding tale.

And then there’s the pool. I’ve seen many, but none like this. Surrounded by stone walls and sky, it feels like a sacred, serene courtyard carved into the earth and open to the heavens. It’s not just a place to swim—it’s a place to breathe.

My trip was short. But some experiences stretch beyond time. Aurika didn’t just give me a stay—it gave me a glimpse into a life of grace, detail, and timeless beauty.

Udaipur is known as the city of lakes and palaces. And now, in its folds, is a new chapter of royalty—one that welcomes everyone with open doors, misty mornings, and a thousand stories waiting in its halls.