The visit to the Taj Rambagh Palace, one of India’s most iconic heritage hotels, provided a deep and immersive understanding of luxury hospitality operations.
This experience offered an extensive view into the workings of a luxury heritage hotel, from guest engagement and personalised services to culinary experiences and wellness activities. The two-day structured visit was meticulously planned to ensure that every aspect of luxury hotel management was explored, offering a blend of operational insights, cultural immersion, and high-end hospitality experiences.
The visit was made even more insightful through interactions with the Heads of Departments (HODs), a property tour that revealed the palace’s majestic legacy, participation in unique hospitality activities, and indulgence in the finest dining experiences. Every moment at Taj Rambagh Palace was a lesson in the art of luxury service, emphasising the meticulous attention to detail and guest personalisation that define the brand’s ethos.
Day 1: Exploring Hotel Operations and Royal Hospitality
Meetings with Department Heads (HODs)
The visit began with an insightful meeting with Mr Ashok Rathod, Cluster Head of Rajasthan, along with the Heads of Departments (HODs) representing key operational areas of the hotel. These discussions covered essential aspects of hotel management, such as front office operations, housekeeping, food and beverage services, sales and marketing, and revenue management.
Each department head provided valuable insights:
- Ms Garima Patet – Learning & Development Manager, orchestrated the itinerary, ensuring an educational yet luxurious experience.
- Mr Pradip Kumar – F&B Director, emphasised the importance of maintaining consistency in the three P’s – People, Process, and Product – and how emotions are the foundation of service excellence.
- Chef Abhishek Gharg – Executive Chef Sawai Man Mahal elaborated on the Spanish culinary influence that inspired the creation of La Mesa and La Teresa, two distinguished restaurants at the property.
- Mr Nimish Mathur – Front Office Head, explained the significance of guestpersonalisation through diverse welcome experiences and introduced the Tata Neu Program, a digital initiative to enhance guest loyalty.
- Mr Islam Chaudary – Area head of Rajasthan Sales & Marketing and Director of Sales & Marketing Rambagh Palace, and Mr Vishwajit Singh Shekawat – Area Head of Revenue – Jaipur & Ajmer and Director of Revenue Jai Mahal Palace, discussed the decision-making processes based on the competitive set (comp set), some strategies they use, the software that come in process and the importance of demand forecasting in maximizing occupancy and revenue.
- Mr Hemant Sharma – F& B Manager Sawai Man Mahal enlightened the importance of customer experience and how they do a lot of things differently which makes them stand apart from their comp sets.
- Ms Asha Sidhu – Hotel Manager Sawai Man Mahal had a conversation with us about what luxury is about and the key elements of it. She also explained to us how the details and every need of a guest are taken care of and how important it is to retain a customer.
- Mr Arihant Chauhan – Assistant Director of F&B Operations, had a wonderful session with us explaining the dining etiquette of a formal and informal setting. He also spoke about the royalty of the restaurant, Suvarna Mahal, and about the operations side of the F&B department.
The insights gained from these interactions provided a holistic view of the operational challenges, innovations, and strategies that sustain luxury hospitality at the Taj Rambagh Palace.
Culinary Experience: Spanish Cuisine Lunch (La Mesa & La Teresa)
Following the departmental discussions, we were treated to a specially curated Spanish cuisine lunch. This experience was both gastronomically delightful and educational, offering a deep dive into Spanish culinary traditions. We explored the origins of classic Spanish dishes, their unique ingredients, and the intricate cooking techniques employed to preserve authenticity.
Luxury hotels like the Taj Rambagh Palace cater to an international clientele, making it imperative for hospitality professionals to have a strong grasp of global cuisines. The lunch session also highlighted the importance of food presentation and service techniques that enhance fine dining experiences.
Property Tour: Sawai Man Mahal
One of the most breathtaking moments of the visit was the guided tour of Sawai Man Mahal, a historically rich and architecturally stunning section of the Rambagh Palace. This tour provided insights into the blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural influences, showcasing the palace’s intricate carvings, opulent décor, and expansive courtyards.
The tour highlighted the importance of heritage conservation in luxury hospitality. By integrating history into modern guest experiences, Taj Hotels successfully creates a unique luxury heritage experience, setting it apart from contemporary luxury brands.
Our stay at the Sawai Man Mahal was exquisite. We stayed at the palace room, and it was beautiful. The staff took care of our every need and provided us with all the help.
Royal Dining Experience at Suvarna Mahal
The day concluded with an opulent royal-style dinner at Suvarna Mahal, the signature fine-dining restaurant at Rambagh Palace. Known for its authentic Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine, Suvarna Mahal provides a regal setting for a luxurious culinary experience.
During this session, we learned about:
- Fine dining etiquette, including cutlery usage, table manners, and the presentation of gourmet dishes.
- The role of storytelling in menu presentation adding emotional and cultural depth to the dining experience.
- The significance of exquisite service which ensures that every guest enjoys a seamless and memorable meal.
The night’s experience was a testament to the meticulous planning and execution required to maintain the highest standards in luxury dining.
Day 2: Wellness, Mixology, and High Tea
Morning Yoga Session at the Wellness Center
The second day began with a rejuvenating yoga session at the Wellness Center. Conducted by experienced practitioners, the session emphasised the growing role of wellness tourism in luxury hospitality.
This experience provided valuable insights into:
- How luxury hotels integrate yoga, spa therapies, and wellness programs to enhance guest relaxation.
- The increasing global demand for holistic wellness offerings in high-end accommodations.
- The significance of mental and physical well-being for hospitality professionals working in demanding environments.
Tour of the Wellness Center
Following the yoga session, we explored the Wellness Center, which features a range of Ayurvedic therapies, aromatherapy, and luxury spa treatments. The ambience, design, and wellness offerings demonstrated how traditional Indian healing practices are seamlessly blended with modern luxury.
Cocktail-Making Session at the Polo Bar
The next activity was an interactive cocktail-making session at the Polo Bar, a historic lounge within the Rambagh Palace. Led by expert mixologists, this session covered:
- The art of mixology and the skillful balance of flavours.
- Signature cocktail creations highlighting the creativity behind luxury beverage services.
- The role of bar services in elevating guest experiences, emphasising personalised recommendations and presentation techniques.
High Tea Experience
The final activity of our visit was a high tea session, a hallmark of luxury hospitality. Served in an elegant setting, the high tea included a curated selection of premium teas, gourmet pastries, and delicate sandwiches. This experience highlighted:
- The etiquette of high tea a tradition that reflects refinement and sophistication.
- The role of meticulous presentation and ambience in crafting a luxurious experience.
- How attention to detail transforms an ordinary tea service into an unforgettable guest experience.
The visit concluded with a formal check-out process, reinforcing the importance of a seamless departure experience. Just as the arrival sets the first impression, the check-out process ensures that the final impression remains as memorable as the entire stay.
The Taj Experience: The IHCL Legacy
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), the parent company of the Taj Hotels, is an embodiment of Indian luxury and hospitality excellence. With over 100 properties across the globe, Taj Hotels is known for its heritage conservation, sustainable practices, and exceptional service standards.
IHCL’s portfolio includes:
- Taj Hotels – Iconic luxury hotels, palaces, and resorts
- Vivanta – Stylish upscale hotels designed for modern travelers
- SeleQtions – A curated collection of unique hotels offering distinct experiences
- Ginger – A brand focused on budget-conscious yet high-quality stays
The Taj brand continues to redefine global luxury with a commitment to excellence, innovation, and cultural authenticity. From royal palaces like Rambagh Palace to modern city hotels, the Taj experience is synonymous with timeless luxury and impeccable hospitality.
This visit to the Taj Rambagh Palace was an enriching journey through the world of luxury hospitality. The experiences and learnings gained from the interactions, culinary delights, and wellness activities will remain invaluable for understanding the nuances of this prestigious industry.
About the Author
Austin Calvin is a student of the Hospitality Business Leadership (HBL) program at SP Jain School of Global Management.
