Rating: Deluxe
The elegant Jehan Numa Palace is a classic white colonial building, once home to the Begums of Bhopal, the state's rulers. It's set on Shamla Hill above the city, in gardens full of colourful flowers, scented blooms and lush lawns.
Interiors are light and inviting. The lounge is traditionally furnished and walls are hung with family portraits creating a homely feel. There are four restaurants and two bars to choose from, each with its own ambience and style, offering a wide range of eating and drinking options.
Guest rooms blend modern comforts with old world elegance. All have air conditioning, LCD TV, tea and coffee facilities, minibar, safe, high-speed and WiFi internet access and safe. Each has an en-suite bathroom with a large bathtub and range of complimentary toiletries. Suites have their own courtyards.
Leisure facilities include a large outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa. There are several courtyards for peaceful relaxation and, walking through the grounds, you may come across thoroughbred horses being put through their paces.
Open: Jehan Numa Palace is open all year.
Location: Jehan Numa Palace is on Shamla Hill on the outskirts of Bhopal, the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh. It's 15 kms from the airport and 10 kms from the train station.
Rooms: There are 100 guest rooms, including 6 suites. All are air conditioned and have en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Rooms feature flat-screen TV, high speed wired and WiFi internet access, minibar, tea and coffee maker and safe. All rooms have views of courtyards or gardens. Suites have balconies and private courtyards. There is 24-hour room service.
Activities: Bhopal has a strong culture and interesting heritage. While at Jehan Numa Palace you can visit its 3 museums to learn about the region's history. The hotel can arrange a guided tour of the old city to visit all the main sites. Other places of interest include the local market or chowk, and Bhopal Lake, ideal for walking and boat rides. Further afield, about 50 kms from the hotel, you can visit Sanchi Stupas, a Buddhist monastery dating back to the 3rd century BC, and Bhimbetka Caves with their ancient cave paintings and stunning rock formations.
Facilities: There are several lounges, terraces and courtyards where you can sit and relax. The hotel's 4 restaurants offer plenty of dining options: Shahnama serves a selection of cuisines, La Kuchina specialises in Italian and Mediterranean fare, Under the Mango Tree is an outdoor barbecue restaurant, and Cafechino is a relaxed cafe selling snacks and drinks. There are 2 well-stocked bars. The hotel is set in fine gardens and has a 25 metre outdoor swimming pool. Other facilities include a spa, salon and fitness centre with exercise machines and a steam room and sauna.
Dining: Meals are eaten at separate tables in the venue of your choice.
Children: Children of all ages are welcome.
Health: We recommend malaria prophylactics for travel to India.
Communication: There is free WiFi internet access.