Rambagh Palace Welcomes US Vice President JD Vance in Jaipur

Jaipur is abuzz with high-profile presence as US Vice President JD Vance arrives in the city during his four-day India visit. After meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on Monday evening, he headed to Jaipur, where he checked into one of India's most luxurious hotels — Rambagh Palace.

Originally a royal residence, Rambagh Palace is now an elite heritage hotel managed by Taj Hotels. The cost of staying in the palace’s top suite for a single night is enough to buy a mid-range car — about ₹16 lakh per night for the Grand Presidential Suite.

Ten Luxury Suites Reserved for the US Delegation

JD Vance is accompanied by his wife and children. To accommodate the Vice President and his close entourage, ten luxury suites have been booked at the hotel. Sources reveal that preparations had begun as early as April 1, and from April 1 to 23, online bookings at the palace were suspended to ensure security and privacy.

Inside the Grand Presidential Suite

The suite allocated to JD Vance spans 1,798 square feet and offers a royal experience — a garden-facing bedroom, a private terrace, a grand lounge, a spacious gallery, and a bathroom featuring a jacuzzi. The suite has been specially decorated with family photographs and lavish flower arrangements. Even the food will be served on golden plates engraved with the names of Vance and his family members. A dedicated medical team, including a doctor and a nurse, will remain on standby 24/7.

A Palace with a Royal Past

Located just 8 kilometers from Jaipur city center on Bhawani Singh Road, Rambagh Palace began as a modest garden house in 1835, built for the nanny of Prince Ram Singh II. It was later transformed into a hunting lodge in 1887 under Maharaja Thakur Sawai Madho Singh.

In the early 20th century, the palace underwent a majestic transformation under architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob. Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II made it his official residence in 1931, adding numerous royal suites. After the princely state era ended, the palace was turned into a luxury hotel, preserving its regal charm.

Dining Like Royalty

One of its renowned dining spaces, Swarn Mahal, serves authentic Indian cuisine. The interiors boast carved marble jaalis, sandstone railings, and lush Mughal-style gardens. Over the years, the palace has hosted many dignitaries, celebrities, and world leaders.

Open to Public With Restrictions

While the palace is a luxury hotel, it also allows visitors to explore parts of it. Public access is permitted daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, not all sections are open to general tourists.

Tourists can explore gardens, main halls, and some common areas by purchasing an entry ticket — ₹700 for Indian nationals and ₹1,500 for foreign tourists. Children under 5 years get free entry, and discounts are available for students and senior citizens.