THE FACTS ABOUT UMAID BHAWAN PALACE

India

The only 20th-century palace, it took 3,000 artisans, hand-chiselling sandstone blocks, 14 years to create this magnificent Neoclassical edifice as part of a famine relief project. The present Maharajah has private apartments here and helps keep the place in superb condition. There are 98 double rooms and suites, and a subterranean swimming hall. The bar is a riot of trophies and tusks, and the Art Deco royal suites are outrageously opulent. Good food, great service and lots to do. ROOMS Doubles cost between £126-£514 a night CONTACT 00 91 291 510 101; fax: 510 100 WHO TO BOOK WITH It is often difficult to book rooms direct. A more reliable (and generally cheaper) solution is to book through a reputable agent. The following arrange tailor-made itineraries: Western & Oriental (020 7313 6600); Worldwide Journeys (020 7381 8638); Cox & Kings (020 7873 5000); Greaves Tours (020 7487 9111); Abercrombie & Kent (020 7730 9600); Steppes East (01285 651 010)