Set amid gardens and overlooking Lake Pichola, this luxury hotel is 2 km from both Jagdish Temple and the City Palace Museum. Fit for a maharaja, the newly coronated 'best hotel in the world' is a sprawling palatial resort in Western India. This sumptuous 50-acre Oberoi Udaivilas in Rajasthan beat stiff competition from around the world to be given the accolade in a recent magazine reader poll - for the second year running. Overlooking a fairy tale lake the opulent hotel combines modern conveniences within a historic and romantic setting. The hotel was judged by the readers of Travel + Leisure's in their annual awards for excellence in hospitality and travel.

Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group said: 'We are honoured that we have been able to play a small role in 'Make in India' by being the best hotel brand in the world and also having the best hotel in the world. 'The Brand 'Oberoi Hotels & Resorts' has received this recognition from among the 6.5 million readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. 'I dedicate this award to our guests and to all employees of The Oberoi Group. Our people are our biggest asset - they have worked passionately to ensure our guests receive warm, personalised and caring service.'

Guests arrive at the domed palace by private boat, and have the option of staying in one of nine Premier rooms with a semi-private pool and terrace, which offer views of wildlife such as peacocks and white-spotted deer. There is an 18th-century former palace on-site, Bada Mahal, which guests can explore at leisure before trying their hand at the many activities available such as culinary classes, yoga, camel rides, Henna lessons, art classes, lake cruises, sightseeing tours and luxury on-site spa treatments.