Jaipur remains one of Rajasthan’s most popular destinations all year round. What we also love about it is that it has many beautiful heritage hotels, which is like being in a time machine. But we also welcome more additions to its portfolio because they always come with their own brand of delights and unique assets for holidaymakers to share.

A recent addition to the Old Quarter’s heritage-drenched landscape has been the lovely 290-year-old haveli Padmaa, restored and repurposed to accommodate Jaipur’s discerning visitors. Straddling the hidden Churkon ka Raasta, at an intersection at Chaura Rasta in the historic confines of the Walled City, the 15-key Padmaa lures you with its shiny new offerings as an all-suite boutique hotel, at the luxury end of the market.

Rewind to Jaipur’s olden days with a leisurely sojourn in the Old City. If stones could speak this beautiful property would recount tales of its colourful past where its inhabitants enjoyed grandstand views of the lavish regal processions that passed along this passage through the Old Town, now a bustling hub of activity. The Padmaa offers direct access to one of the Pink City’s most culturally vibrant hotspots; the rhymes and rhythms of life here resonate with a seamless fusion of past and present in the most delightful way.

Yet, strangely enough the Padmaa is a sanctuary of peace and serenity, steeped in a symphony of grace and beauty, despite the hustle and bustle beyond its centuries-old wooden door with its solid metal knockers and an iron chain lock. 

The Shah family has opened this much-loved home with care and caution with an aim to open a small window to Jaipur’s rich heritage and culture in the finest way. The property takes its name from Padma Shah Devi, a grandmother of no mean standing when it comes to shaping her legacy with immense strength, grace and dignity. Beauty and elegance are the hallmarks of Padmaa, reflecting the family’s commercial enterprise— Jaipur’s renowned heritage jewellery house— Umrao Jewels located in the famous Narain Niwas Palace heritage hotel.

The haveli dates back to 1735, when Shri Seva Ram Ji, like other merchants and artisans, were invited by Sawai Jai Singh II to inhabit the new capital of the rulers of Amer back in 1727. Seven generations of Shahs have left their mark in a vibrant legacy that has been joyfully kept alive by its present-day custodians.

Designed like the Old Jaipur in the Navgarh (nine-planet) scheme the Padmaa’s restoration involved bringing back the original grid pattern, which was kind of lost under changes wrought by generations of Shahs over time.

A great deal of thought has gone into curating the experiences that guests will come to enjoy at the Padmaa, a gem of a find. With the excellent support of the modern amenities and professional services on board it pulls out all the stops to ensure you have a memorable stay in the embrace of the quaint charm of this heritage haven.

The 15 elegant suites are a paradise of peace and quiet. You can enjoy gourmet meals in the two restaurants located in the triple arched veranda at either end of the main courtyard. The courtyard itself is a great open space to hang out and shoot the breeze. On starry nights steep yourself in the charms of a heritage home, where whispers of the past are carried by balmy breezes. Soak up the magic of a full moon night at Chandni, the miniature courtyard, where the family would sleep under the stars. You will discover many aspects of Jaipuri decorative architectural elements like jaalis, todis etc embedded in the courtyards. 

While family recipes make a fine play in the authentic Rajasthani meals of your choice, the two bars at the Padmaa, will keep you in high spirits. The terrace bar is lovely for enjoying leisurely sundowners while thrilling to brilliant sunsets.

The rooftop spa is another alluring spot for a sunset massage that will perk up all your senses. You can chill through the day by the pool here or enjoy poolside morning yoga in privacy, as the city below awakens to a new day.

The Padmaa, holds the promise of a fulfilling chill-out holiday amidst Jaipur’s much vaunted heritage delights. What’s lovely is that this secret haven of great charm and pleasure is a great base for forays to the city’s iconic landmarks and bazaars, many of which are within easy walking distance.