Fodor's Expert Review The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace

Sumptuous lawns and views, grand terraces, palace pomp, and an interesting range of activities for guests—horse dancing, bagpiper recitals, puppet shows, snooker—are the highlights of Laxmi Vilas, a former palace constructed in 1911. Located on a gentle hill facing Pichola's sister lake, the Fateh Sagar, it was built by the worthy Maharana Fateh Singh, who constructed many of the mahals in this town. He also built the Connaught Dam as a small welcoming present for Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, Queen Victoria's son who visited in 1889. Its rooms are large, many with lake views and window seats and attractively furnished in earthy colors with pretty wall screens. The hotel company has also undertaken social responsibility initiatives, including an employment program for acid-attack survivors and LGBT rights and awareness programs.