A three-hour drive from Delhi, traversing through bustling industrial hubs and serene farmlands, leads you to the majestic Noor Mahal. Situated slightly off the main city, this grand establishment exudes the charm of a royal palace. Upon arrival, the impression of opulence is immediately reinforced by the expansive reception area that seems straight out of a regal fairytale.
A Majestic Entrance
The expansive walls are decorated with grand mirrors and large doors, while the seating areas, draped in rich fabrics, exude luxury. Traditional garlands and aarti mark your warm welcome. I was presented with a refreshing welcome drink before being escorted to your room. Just at the centre of the lobby, my attention was caught by a majestic, mesmerising, Swarovski chandelier. Mr. Arjun Verma, the General Manager, enlightens that this is one of the few Swarovski masterpieces available in India. The walls and dome have been beautified with extremely rare vegetable colour hand-paintings and intricate ‘tikdi’ work. At the end of the lobby, your eyes will be arrested by a life-size portrait of Maharaja Duleep Singh – the last king to own the famed Koh-i-Noor diamond – made with rare gemstones and 18-kt real gold. The Mahal, belonging to the lineage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, surely knows how to transport you to a different century.
Elegant Accommodations
Noor Mahal was established by retired Colonel Manbeer Singh Chaudhary, with the elegant interiors crafted under the meticulous eye of his wife, Binny. Today, the hotel is run by their son, Roop Pratap Choudhary, a second-generation hotelier. Spanning over 11 acres and set along the old course of the Yamuna River, the property features 125 keys and is surrounded by lush green fields.
My accommodation, the ‘Heritage Suites,’ is a testament to royal splendor. Located on the second floor, this room offers a magnificent blend of tradition and modernity. The opulent furniture and upholstery reflect the rich heritage of Indian royalty, while modern amenities ensure utmost comfort. The intricate wooden furniture and vintage accessories, many sourced from nearby areas and lovingly restored, create an ambiance of timeless elegance.
The suite boasts two spacious rooms, each equipped with luxurious bathrooms, two televisions, and study tables. A charming table with four chairs provides a cozy spot for tea, overlooking the natural beauty of the surroundings. From all the hotels I’ve stayed in, this room stands out for its ornate design and grandeur, leaving me both impressed and awestruck.
Dining Delights
Noor Mahal offers an array of dining options that cater to diverse tastes. The Brown Sugar, the all-day diner, serves an extensive buffet for breakfast and dinner (lunch buffets are available based on occupancy). Here, you can indulge in a generous spread of Indian and continental dishes. Adjacent to this is ‘The Cake Factory,’ an in-house deli offering freshly baked artisanal breads, cakes, pastries, pralines, truffles, and savory treats.
For those seeking a more refined experience, The Polo Bar provides a colonial-style ambiance with walls adorned with trophies and memorabilia. This bar specializes in signature cocktails inspired by the royal sport of polo and offers a selection of rare whiskies, single malts, cognacs, wines, liqueurs, and Cuban cigars. It’s also a perfect spot for a game of snooker.
However, my top recommendation is The Frontier Mail, the award-winning restaurant that pays homage to the legendary Frontier Mail train, which once journeyed between Bombay and Peshawar. The restaurant features a unique train setup and serves an exceptional menu inspired by the regions the train passed through. The food is masterfully crafted, well-spiced, and an absolute must-try during your visit to Karnal. The Frontier Mail operates for dinner, with lunch available on weekends.
Exceptional Service and Facilities
The hotel offers a wide range of activities for guests of all ages. The 13-meter-wide swimming pool provides a refreshing retreat, while the fully equipped gym satisfies fitness enthusiasts. The 7th Heaven spa offers a range of massages and treatments designed to elevate your relaxation experience.
Noor Mahal is also a renowned wedding destination, equipped with various allied services such as a photo studio, designer boutique,
souvenir store, and a well-appointed makeup studio managed by a renowned artist. The hotel features a comprehensive range of sports facilities, including lawn tennis, basketball, cricket, commando net, wall climbing, handball, badminton, and volleyball, as well as indoor games like table tennis, billiards, and board games. A dedicated children’s play area ensures younger guests are entertained.
Large banquet spaces and expansive lawns make Noor Mahal an ideal venue for weddings and corporate events. This blend of luxury, comfort, and comprehensive amenities ensures a perfect escape from the everyday hustle.
The Mahal has 16 banquets and party lawns, named Rani Bagh, Raja Bagh, Sheesh Mahal, Rang Mahal and so on, that have a different colour combination to it with different art forms enhancing the beauty of each convention centre. Not just that, it is also a one-stop-shop for all wedding requirements. From a wedding photographer, designer boutique, antique jewellery store to a souvenir house, all can be found on the premises. The mix of royal grandeur and the rich modern hospitality makes this beautiful palace a dream destination to take marriage vows for the “larger than life” wedding obsessed Indian crowd.
My royal stay was looked over by Mr. Shubham, a warm-hearted man who remained extremely attentive and courteous throughout the stay.
Final Thoughts
Noor Mahal in Karnal is more than just a hotel; it’s a regal retreat offering a harmonious blend of traditional elegance and modern convenience. With its grand accommodations, diverse dining options, exceptional service, and extensive facilities, it promises an unforgettable stay. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious getaway or a memorable event venue, Noor Mahal stands out as a premier destination that I highly recommend.
