Narendra Bhawan Bikaner – An Ideal Haveli

Narendra Bhawan, which was built in 1969, was acquired in 2005 by hotelier Manvendra Singh Shekhawat and the project started in 2008. Today, it is an independent design hotel rich in history. Over the years, Narendra Bhawan has grown organically and is today a snapshot of the life led by its original owner who was deeply influenced by the arts and loved travel.

By all accounts, Narendra Singh, the last reigning Maharaja of Bikaner, was an interesting man. Born a year before India gained independence, he led a charmed life with frequent trips abroad as he grew from a westernized young prince to a military man.

Make no mistake—this is not your usual haveli-turned-hotel so common to Rajasthan. Instead, the owners, the MRS Group, have tastefully built upon the original townhouse, seamlessly adding three floors with a stone jali facade.

There are eclectic design touches everywhere—Bombay art deco motifs, Bikaner terrazzo floors, vintage carpets, plush benches upholstered in Prussian blue velvet with horse-limb legs—the level of period detailing is astonishing. The Pearls & Chiffon Restaurant (its name a homage to the sartorial style of the Royals) is a mix of Indian royalty and Victorian decor with rich fabrics, gold pendant lamps, and floral wallpaper. The erstwhile haveli’s terrace has been transformed into Diwali Chowk, a central courtyard with clusters of flowering trees, perfect for sipping a cup of coffee or lounging with a book.

If you happen to be in Bikaner, this is just the place to be at.