The LaLit Grand Palace Srinagar

Fabulous location, we were welcomed very warmly and the car was valet parked which was important as it was cold and raining. We were offered a warm drink and a comfortable place to sit whilst the formalities of check in were completed. We didn’t even have time to finish our drink before we were offered an upgraded room at no extra cost. WOW! The room was spacious, beautifully dressed and we were shown our own private balcony with the most spectacular view and this was also very nicely furnished. Everything was as we’d hoped and expected, because the hotel is EXPENSIVE, but we received exactly what we paid for. All the staff were attentive, friendly and helpful. Unfortunately the Pandemic has affected everyone and this hotel has had to do it’s best to survive these difficult times. The facilities in the Spa have been cut back to save costs but when we went to use it the place was warmed and treatments were enhanced to ensure we were more than satisfied. Luxury is expensive and we really enjoyed the pampering!!! All I can say is that this hotel and the treatment of their guests is everything you would expect for the price you have to pay. If wehad unlimited money we would stay only here when we visit Kashmir, which I do often to visit family. Even when we do visit family here we often visit the hotel, just to enjoy the gardens and admire the building and the ambience. Although we may not spend one penny on these visits the treatment by the staff has always been the same as we experienced on this visit. One word to describe this hotel FABULOUS.

Nestled at the foothills of the Zabarwan mountains that rise close to the shimmering eastern expanse of Dal Lake, The Lalit Grand Palace in Srinagar embodies the grandeur and mystique of Kashmir’s regal heritage—a timeless retreat where the echoes of royalty still linger. This palace, where natural beauty meets historical opulence, was constructed in 1910 by Maharaja Pratap Singh. Known then as Gulab Bhavan, it served as the royal residence for Maharaja Hari Singh. Spread over 50 acres of exquisitely landscaped gardens, the stately property retains its imperial charm and glory and feels like an oasis of tranquility and splendor. Even as autumn begins to tint the lawns in shades of gold and brown, the vast gardens, filled with fountains and flower beds, remain breathtakingly beautiful. Rows of apple and other fruit trees flank the path from the grand entrance to the main palace. One feels instantly transported to an era of royal elegance, from the surrounding greenery to the architecture, with every detail exuding sophistication. A charming horse-drawn carriage was always waiting by the entrance. The palace itself is a tribute to Kashmir's rich cultural heritage. The lobby, with its ceiling crafted in the intricate Khatamband style—a geometric marvel created without nails is a sight to behold. This traditional Persian-inspired, rare, and meticulously done woodwork speaks volumes about the region's artistry. Such details, found only in a few places like heritage houseboats, envelop us in the legacy of Kashmiri craftsmanship. Central to this heritage is the iconic Chinar tree in the palace courtyard, a silent witness to history. Under its wide, majestic canopy, Mahatma Gandhi met with Maharaja Hari Singh and Maharani Tara Devi in August 1947, when India was on the cusp of independence. This tree, whose leaves shift from deep green in summer to rich shades of amber, crimson, and gold in autumn, symbolizes resilience and beauty—qualities that Kashmir itself embodies. Dining under its branches brings an unparalleled sense of serenity and timelessness. The impeccable service throughout our stay added to the hotel’s charm. A standout in this regard was Mr. Pinto, the front desk manager, whose attentive presence enhanced our every interaction. When I mentioned, almost as an aside, that I had faced breathing issues in Gulmarg, which led to the cancellation of my fully paid reservation in Pahalgam, Mr. Pinto went above and beyond. Without my asking, he took it upon himself to call the Pine & Peak Hotel in Pahalgam, explaining my situation with remarkable empathy. To my surprise, he managed to secure a credit note for my canceled booking—an unanticipated kindness that left a lasting impression. Such thoughtful gestures transform a stay from enjoyable to unforgettable. The entire staff at The Lalit deserves commendation. The valets, front office team, and security personnel were courteous and efficient. The gardeners worked tirelessly to maintain the gr