A Timeless Heritage Experience

Set against the scenic backdrop of Nainital's tranquil hills, The Palace Belvedere is a jewel of Raj-era elegance wrapped in colonial charm. Though geographically located in Nainital, Uttarakhand, its roots trace back to the royal family of Awagarh in Rajasthan. Originally the summer retreat for the Rajas of Awagarh, this heritage hotel embodies aristocratic legacy and regal opulence that spans generations.

Walking into the hotel is like stepping into a bygone era. The moment you pass through the wrought-iron gates, you’re greeted by lush gardens and the commanding view of a mansion styled in a blend of European and Rajputana architecture. Indoors, every corner of The Palace Belvedere whispers stories from a glorious past. Antique furnishings, oil paintings of kings and queens, ornate chandeliers, and Burmese teak woodwork fill the space with old-world charm. Each of the 20 rooms is uniquely designed to reflect vintage luxury with four-poster beds, period furniture, and intricately carved wooden ceilings.

For travelers seeking a stay that offers more than just a place to sleep, The Palace Belvedere delivers an experience—an immersion into the aristocracy of 19th-century India. Whether you're sipping morning tea in the verandah overlooking the misty hills or curled up with a book in the royal reading room, the feeling of living a Maharaja's life is ever-present.

Unlike many luxury hotels, The Palace Belvedere doesn't try to modernize its charm. Instead, it preserves and honors its heritage, which is exactly what makes it special. The attentive staff, dressed in traditional uniforms, add to the authenticity. With every corner steeped in history, The Palace Belvedere is not just a stay—it’s a storybook come alive.

Every room at The Palace Belvedere offers a unique blend of heritage design and modern comfort, making each stay a memorable experience. There are 20 tastefully restored rooms in total, all maintaining a strong sense of history while incorporating the conveniences expected by today’s travelers. Think vintage four-poster beds, floral upholstery, royal drapes, and antique desks—but with 24/7 hot water, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Each room has been preserved to reflect its original character, with handpicked furniture sourced from palaces across Rajasthan. You’ll find hardwood floors, stained glass windows, and private balconies in some rooms offering sweeping views of the Nainital Valley. The natural light pouring through colonial-style bay windows adds warmth and tranquility to the living spaces.

Guests can choose from several categories of rooms—standard, deluxe, and suites. The suites, once occupied by visiting royals and dignitaries, offer more space, heritage décor, and added luxuries such as private sitting areas and fireplaces.

The bathrooms too retain a vintage aesthetic while offering modern fittings. Clean, spacious, and well-stocked with amenities, they add to the overall comfort of the stay.

One of the standout features of the hotel is its hospitality. The staff, many of whom have worked at the property for decades, go out of their way to ensure guests feel like royalty. Room service is prompt, laundry services are available, and personalized touches like morning tea service, turn-down service, and help with itinerary planning make your stay worry-free.

For guests who want a quieter, more meaningful travel experience steeped in heritage, the Palace Belvedere offers a charming retreat. It’s the kind of hotel where you don’t just rest—you reflect, rejuvenate, and relive a bit of history.

Dining at The Palace Belvedere is an extension of its luxurious hospitality. The in-house restaurant is not just a dining hall—it’s a regal affair. Think dark wood furniture, embroidered linen tablecloths, candle-lit dinners, and the aroma of spices wafting through the air. The ambiance is intimate, quiet, and graceful—an experience reminiscent of royal feasts.

The menu is a delightful blend of traditional Indian dishes, Continental favorites, and regional Kumaoni cuisine, providing a multi-sensory culinary journey. The chefs use fresh local produce and age-old recipes to serve hearty and flavorful dishes. Must-try items include Rajasthani Laal Maas, creamy butter chicken, Kumaoni Aloo Ke Gutke, and melt-in-the-mouth paneer tikka. For those who crave something familiar, pasta, soups, and continental mains are also available.

Breakfast typically features a wide variety of choices—parathas, fresh fruit, poha, toast, eggs-to-order, and regional chutneys—served in a room flooded with natural light from tall colonial windows. Lunch and dinner can be à la carte or arranged as a set menu, depending on your preferences.

The dining staff offer impeccable service—polite, unobtrusive, and knowledgeable about the food and ingredients. Guests can also request for meals to be served in the garden or private balconies, making the experience even more personal and memorable.

Don’t miss their tea service in the late afternoon—a tradition at the property. Served with snacks like pakoras, samosas, and biscuits, it is best enjoyed on the veranda as you take in the sights and sounds of Nainital.

In essence, dining at The Palace Belvedere isn’t just about the food—it’s about savoring a regal atmosphere, where every meal is a tribute to hospitality, heritage, and harmony.

Address:
The Palace Belvedere, Awagarh Estate, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002, India

Visitor Info:

• Check-In: 1:00 PM

• Check-Out: 11:00 AM

• Pet Policy: Not pet-friendly

• Parking: Free on-site parking

• Best Time to Visit: March–June & September–November

• Accessibility: Elderly-friendly but limited wheelchair access

The Palace Belvedere is also an excellent base to explore the serene beauty and lively attractions of Nainital. Within walking distance, you can visit:

• Naini Lake – Enjoy a boat ride or simply walk around the lakefront promenade.

• Naina Devi Temple – A sacred Shakti Peetha with spiritual and historical importance.

• The Mall Road – A bustling stretch of cafes, shops, and street vendors.

• Snow View Point – Accessible via cable car or a trek; offers panoramic Himalayan views.

• Tiffin Top – Also known as Dorothy’s Seat, this is a great picnic spot with a colonial backstory.

• Nainital Zoo – Great for families, home to endangered Himalayan species.