Taj Nadesar Palace

Taj Nadesar Palace was first constructed in 1782 to provide a residence for officers and other important officials of the British East India Company. Over a century later, Maharaja Prabhu Narain Singh of Benares acquired the mansion in 1889 and converted it into a residential palace. He named the estate the Nadesar Palace, after the goddess Nadesari, whose temple is right next to the property. Under the Narayan dynasty, the palace hosted esteemed guests, including fellow royalty King George V and Queen Mary.

The estate was acquired by the Taj Hotels Group in 2000, and after restoration and modernization, it opened as a luxury boutique hotel. Aside from the Taj Nadesar Palace, they also own and manage the Taj Ganges in Varanasi.

Since it was built by the British during the 18th century, the palace bears Neoclassical architecture. Western design features such as portico terraces and balconies are found throughout the estate, as well as the use of marble as a primary material. Travelers and guests will be impressed by the verdant orchards and landscaped gardens throughout the hotel property.

Along with the extensive exterior restoration work, the Taj Hotels Group also made sure that interior spaces are as resplendent during the time of the Maharajas. They decorated the guestrooms and shared areas with antiques and period furniture, as well as photos, paintings, and murals.

The Dining Area

Savor the incredible flavors of royal recipes at Taj Nadesar Palace's dining area. Featuring a menu of diverse dishes, from Indian to international, you're sure to find your favorites as well as interesting discoveries. Mix and match to your heart's content, trying out combinations like a murgh malai tikka alongside a focaccia sandwich.

Opening hours: 7 am - 11 pm

Baradari Experience

A private dining experience at the marble baradari pavilion. Dine on delicious Varanasi cuisine while folk dancers, singers, and musicians provide the evening's entertainment.

Outdoor Brunch

Enjoy a relaxing picnic at the palace gardens with your friends and family. Book an outdoor brunch and bask in a slow, relaxing day while nibbling on morning platters covered in fruits, bread, cheese, and many familiar charcuterie items.

Varanasi's history spans several millennia, dating further past 3000 BCE. Throughout the centuries, the city has been a religious center for many beliefs and schools of thought. The Ganges River is deeply tied to Hinduism and its many sects, with many ghats - special stairs built over the ages - leading down to the sacred waters.

Among the multitude of gods in Hinduism, Lord Shiva could be considered the patron of this city. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the grandest temples dedicated to him, featuring a golden spire that represents his divine flame called jyotirlinga.

Buddhism also found its early footing here. It was in the village of Sarnath that Gautama Buddha held his first sermon, and from there, his students and adherents spread his wisdom.

As guests may not be out on tours and excursions every day, they can instead relax during their downtime with treatments and therapies at J Wellness Center, the hotel's signature spa. Those with a special occasion to celebrate can book a Baradari Experience dinner at the palace's marble baradari pavilion. While dining, they will be entertained by folk music accompanying Kathak singers and dancers.