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For years, Jaipur has captivated global audiences through Instagram-worthy images showcasing bold murals, intricate interiors, and meticulously curated boutique hotels that echo the grandeur of royalty. Following the era of palatial stays with sweeping staircases, a series of boutique hotels began to emerge within historic havelis—starting with Samode Haveli in Gangapole, then The Johri in 2020, and Rajan House, which opened last year. The latest addition, Padmaa, is a three-storey establishment located on the bustling Chaura Rasta, just 30 minutes from the airport. Its building, dating back to the early 18th century, reflects the rich architectural legacy of Jaipur.
Originally acquired by the Shah family in 1705, the haveli was initially designed to accommodate a ‘gaddi’—a jewellery workshop. Over time, it expanded to house successive generations of the family, with the seventh generation residing there until 2015.
The restoration of Padmaa was undertaken by Jaipur-based architect Gagan Sharma, noted for his expertise in heritage conservation and contextual design. The interiors, crafted by Vaishnavi Bazaz of Studio Navée, maintain the historic character of the property while introducing modern comforts. Signature elements such as undulating arches known as ‘mehraabs,’ chabutras (platforms for rest), fading façade frescoes, araish (lime plaster) walls, and terrazzo flooring have been preserved, reflecting the authentic charm of Jaipur’s havelis.
Upon entering, visitors encounter a curated collection of historical artifacts, including vintage bajubandh ghunghroos, paandan (beetle nut cases), gangajal sprinklers, jewellery boxes, and a dhuni diya once belonging to Padmaa Devi Shah, the haveli’s namesake. A lotus motif, sourced from an original artifact, inspired the hotel’s current logo. The open-to-sky chowk, lattice-work railings, small jharokhas, and intricately aligned arches transport guests to a bygone era.
The hotel welcomes guests with a chilled glass of aam panna, reflecting a commitment to culturally resonant hospitality. The on-site restaurant, formerly a gemstone lapidary, now serves as an all-day dining space with sage green interiors and Moroccan-inspired tile flooring. It offers primarily vegetarian fare, with select egg dishes available at breakfast.
Padmaa features 15 rooms, divided into nine luxury and six heritage accommodations, painted in soothing tones of green, blue, pink, and white. Each room balances historical charm with modern amenities, including Nespresso machines, reading nooks, vintage furnishings, stained-glass accents, and subtle references to traditional storage methods. Several suites are located in areas once occupied by the family, retaining the intimate character of a private residence.
A standout feature of Padmaa is its rooftop pool, offering panoramic views of Jaipur’s historic cityscape. Adjacent spa facilities provide comprehensive wellness experiences, while the open-air courtyard—referred to as a chandni—reflects the Shah family’s traditional dining setup.
Additional dining options include the Courtyard Bar, featuring a contemporary design palette with red and gold accents. The culinary offerings range from Rajasthani specialities such as gatta curry, kair sangri, bharwa tinda, and chakki ki sabzi to pan-Asian and Italian dishes. Signature north Indian dishes, including beetroot galouti kebabs, paneer tikka, dal tadka, and crisp garlic naan, have been highlighted by visitors. Desserts such as malai kulfi complete the dining experience.
Padmaa’s central location allows easy access to landmarks such as the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and City Palace. The hotel also offers curated experiences, including cultural walks, leopard safaris in Jhalana, and guided shopping excursions in the city’s markets. Visitors can explore Johari Bazaar for gemstones and jewellery or Bapu Bazaar for artisan crafts, juttis, and printed textiles. Nearby bazaars like Thathero Ka Rasta and Khejron Ka Rasta provide insights into ironsmithing and sculpting traditions. A hotel-operated pink e-rickshaw ensures convenient transport around the city, while indoor workshops on pottery and bangle-making bring Jaipur’s craft heritage directly to guests.
At sunrise, the haveli’s courtyard features floral arrangements of mogra and rose petals, enhancing the serene ambience. Guests may also request local delicacies such as hing kachoris from Puran Ji or samosas from Samrat Restaurant to complement their stay. The combination of heritage architecture, thoughtful restoration, and immersive cultural experiences positions Padmaa Jaipur as a distinguished addition to the city’s boutique hospitality scene.
