ITUATED on the banks of picturesque Lake Pichola, Udaipur, in the heart of the princely desert state of Rajasthan, is a serene palace – adorned with graceful ochre cupolas and filigreed archways – that rise with delicate assuredness above the morning mists. This is the heart of India’s legend and lore. No less grand or striking than its hoary peers, this modern edifice, The Oberoi Udaivilas, is a sanctuary for discerning travellers seeking to dip their feet into history without abandoning 21st century luxury, including Wi-Fi and in-room Broadband.

With a youthful stride in this land of mind-boggling antiquity, tigers, camels and burning sand dunes, Udaivilas – conjured by designers as an honest replica of royal tradition – is one of the best Rajasthan palace hotels. This is no idle boast. Breezy pavilions beneath cool, soaring domes, lead to geometric waterways and fountains that in turn lead on to private courtyards and manicured gardens.

With views of the City Palace – itself just a short boat ride away – a pampering Oberoi Spa, swimming pool, yoga, and a raft of ascetic or less taxing meditations, this is a supreme retreat. Showered with accolades, Udaivilas is not just among the top Indian luxury resorts, it defines class with cuisine and service that set new benchmarks.

Rooms and suites are spacious and welcoming of light, with traditional furniture, marble inlay, Rajasthani motifs and stand-alone bathtubs, married with mod-cons like LCD television, DVD player and Internet. Butlers are perpetually on call. Opt for a Premier Room or go whole hog with the 2,650sq ft Kohinoor Suite that enjoys its own large pool, fireplaces, courtyards and fountains.

Not just a hedonist haven, the resort is well equipped to run small meetings and corporate conferences, just 45 minutes by plane from New Delhi. Later take your pick of Ayurveda, scrubs, massage, and beauty treatments. It’s easy to feel like royalty here.