As dusk descends over the shimmering Udai Sagar Lake, the island of Raffles Udaipur glows like a jewel in Rajasthan’s crown — its marble corridors bathed in the soft light of flickering diyas, its courtyards fragrant with marigolds and festive incense. This Diwali, the storied property transforms into a tableau of celebration — a place where time slows down, luxury takes on a soulful hue, and every moment feels dipped in gold.
Spread across a secluded 21-acre island, Raffles Udaipur offers a rare sense of space and serenity. The Aravalli Hills cradle the resort in a quiet embrace, while the lake mirrors the ever-changing moods of the sky. During the festive season, the property becomes a playground for the senses — a blend of curated wellness rituals, immersive cultural moments, and epicurean experiences that capture the spirit of Rajasthan.
Mornings here unfold in rhythm with nature: sunrise yoga by the water’s edge, followed by a leisurely breakfast overlooking the lake’s glassy expanse. Guests can retreat to the Raffles Spa for a bespoke therapy inspired by ancient Indian healing traditions, or embark on a butler-curated excursion through Udaipur’s palaces and markets, where the city’s regal past reveals itself in layers of color and craft.
Afternoons invite languor. Some choose to drift between the pool and the palm-fringed lawns; others linger over a traditional thali at Sawai Kitchen, where Rajasthani recipes meet global finesse. As twilight arrives, the mood shifts — high tea at The Writers Bar, live instrumental music echoing through the courtyards, and starlit dinners that bring the festive sparkle to life.
What sets Raffles apart, though, is its ability to make every festival feel intimate. Diwali comes alive through handcrafted rangolis, soft sitar melodies, and candlelit feasts that celebrate light in all its forms. Holi, meanwhile, bursts forth in a riot of petals and laughter — a joyful ode to renewal. Each experience is touched by the legendary Raffles warmth: attentive yet unobtrusive, personal yet grand.
Just beyond the main island lies Raffles Lakeshore Udaipur, the resort’s serene extension along the lake. Designed for reflection and romance, it offers elevated dining and tranquil views — the perfect coda to a day steeped in indulgence.
In a world that moves too quickly, Raffles Udaipur is an invitation to pause — to rediscover joy, connection, and the quiet luxury of being present. This Diwali, the resort doesn’t just celebrate a festival. It celebrates a way of life — luminous, layered, and utterly unforgettable.
