This royal palace was first constructed by the Maharana in 1746. Built on four acres of rock in the center of a tranquil lake, it has been a retreat for the rich and powerful for hundreds of years. And James Bond, too. Yes, this hotel served as the location for Octopussy’s house in the classic film of the same name. Amazing.
Today, the Lake Palace is a hotel. Its Royal Butlers are actually descendants of the original butlers from the times of the Indian royal dynasty. So you get to order around your own bit of history. Weird. You can take luxurious boat trips out onto the lake, do yoga on the terrace, and relax in the stunning manicured gardens. The Spa is one of the best in India. And considering the vast majority of spa treatments originate from India – that’s saying something.
Your room is a completely unique piece of design, and you can even get smoking rooms. Not that I smoke anymore, but it’s nice to see hotels still catering to those fine rebels. You will certainly want to enjoy the views over the lake from your room—I am told the sunsets are quite spectacular.
Stylish arrival at the Lake Palace Hotel in a vintage car
The "floating hotel" on Lake Pichola
Pichola is an artificial lake built in 1362 by Pichu Banjara, a member of the Banjara tribe.
The only way to reach the hotel is by boat
The Taj Lake Palace Hotel sits on Lake Pichola like an island, offering 65 luxurious rooms and 18 grand suites.
The hotel is made of Ivory white marble
At Taj Lake Palace, you will see incredible details of 18th-century architecture and will also find many spots for taking photos.
Lake Palace Hotel in the James Bond movie, Octopussy
Roger Moore (aka James Bond) and Maud Adams are in the Lake Palace Hotel in the Octopussy movie © 1983 - MGM
Maud Adams in the James Bond (Octopussy) movie © 1983 - MGM
Roger Moore and the Octopussy girls © 1983 - MGM
Post Box No. 5, Lake Pichola Udaipur, 313001, India
