Fodor's Expert Review Samode Haveli

Hidden amid the lanes of the Pink City, this stately and rambling heritage hotel preserves its Rajasthani character and harbors a few surprises, including elegant gardens and a beautiful open-air pool with pool-side bar. Built for a prime minister of the royal court in the mid-19th century and arranged around two courtyards, it contains some original frescoes.Walk up the elephant ramp entrance, built to accommodate the pachyderm-riding guests at a Samode clan wedding, and you are arriving at a royal manor built in the popular Indo-Saracenic style of the time. Rooms are spacious and opulent, including the luxurious quarters of the local Rajput himself. Low arches and mazelike corridors add to the character. The deluxe suites, priced a little higher are elegant, with long bathrooms. Camel and elephant rides can be arranged.