Arq at Pichola Debuts with a Fresh Take on Indulgence and Exclusivity

The sheer rises, and the electronic curtains open. I’m greeted by the sight of grey rain falling in sheets, creating embroidery-like patterns on the private pool in front of me. The circular ripples are echoed on Lake Pichola in the background, where the grey of the sky and the water seem just shades apart. Comfortably ensconced indoors, I remain unconcerned by the whistling wind and the sudden downpour.

I’m indoors in my private villa, one of three that make up Arq at Pichola, the luxury getaway within the grounds of The Leela Palace Udaipur. Each villa is named after the lotus flower and is luxuriously appointed, showcasing the finest of Indian craft and design. Whether it’s thikri work on the walls or lapis lazuli inlaid into the bathroom flooring, the details are sumptuous. The bathroom features a stone tub hewn from a single block, and it’s both imposing and architectural. The best part, you’ll find that your personal butler is ready and willing to draw a bath whenever you need.

This man Friday does everything—from planning meals (would you prefer to nosh by the pool, in-room, or at one of the hotel’s restaurants?) to arranging day trips, experiences, and even spa appointments.

Ours suggested a drive up to Sajjangarh Palace, known for its panoramic views of the city after the monsoon downpour, but I chose to stay cocooned in the comfort of our villa. The wood-panelled room felt warm and inviting, replete with a coffee machine and Netflix, perfect for whiling away the hours as the rain gently poured outside.

For guests at Arq at Pichola, the experience begins the moment they land In Udaipur, as they are whisked away in a chauffeured BMW. The car drops them at the hotel’s private jetty, where an electric boat awaits. Soundlessly, it glides across the lake to the hotel, where guests are welcomed with a shower of rose petals. The indulgence continues at the villa, with a bottle of bubbly popped open and a soothing foot massage that ensures all worldly worries are left behind as their stay begins.

As one of the few properties on Udaipur’s famed Lake Pichola, its location and views are truly worth savouring. The villas have already won over the Bollywood and boardroom set, and it’s easy to see why. Our room, Utpala, featured an elevated deck overlooking the water, with a cosy reading nook just below it.

Spend the day lingering in the pool, complete with a Jacuzzi, or ask the hotel to arrange an evening with a local potter. The property is also working to support traditional crafts like lac-making, with a bangle maker on hand to demonstrate the intricate process and showcase how the region’s signature bangles are made
While meals can, and should be had in-room (I snacked on pakoras in the rain and enjoyed a floating breakfast one morning), make time to visit Sheesh Mahal for dinner, where a candle-lit thali showcases Rajasthani ingredients and dishes in one very filling meal. The junglee maas and dal-baati-churma were standouts during our meal. If the weather allows, ask the butler to set up an evening barbecue or mixology session for an intimate night out.

The Leela Spa, which consists of five treatment rooms, should also be on your itinerary. Guests can choose their preferred Breathe Aromatherapy oil for the massage that ranges from a firm Swedish style to a more relaxing treatment. After my hour-long massage, I emerged feeling deeply relaxed, with muscles that felt reset and noticeably more pliable.

A stay at one of the villas, combines the best of what The Leela has to offer, such as its Aujasya wellness programme that offers healthy eating options, alongside the privacy and plushness of this distinctive offering. In your room, a complimentary, well-stocked bar ensures that you don’t have to step out when it’s time for your evening tipple. However, as your butler will remind you, villa guests are invited to a cocktail hour between 4 and 6pm. So, while you can certainly mix your own drink, it’s far more enjoyable to leave it to the experts – especially since you’re on holiday.