7 Palaces Converted to Art Hotels That You Should Visit In 2026 in India

In 2026, the intersection of royal heritage and contemporary curation has birthed a new travel category: the Palace Art Hotel. No longer just relics of the past, these former royal residences have been reimagined as living galleries where priceless antiques sit alongside bold modern installations.

If you are looking to immerse yourself in India’s regal history while surrounded by world-class artistry, these seven palaces are the definitive stays for the year ahead.

7 Palaces Converted to Art Hotels

1. Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner

Once the residence of the last reigning Maharaja of Bikaner, Narendra Singhji, this palace is a masterful "un-hotel." Its design is an eclectic narrative of the Maharaja's life, blending Art Deco sensibilities with traditional Rajasthani craft.

• The Art Highlight: The "Mad Hatter’s" vibe of the drawing-room and the meticulously curated library. Every corner feels like a curated set, featuring Portuguese tiles, velvet upholstery, and avant-garde installations that tell a story of global travels.

• Why 2026: Its curated "Bikaner State of Mind" experiences are setting a new standard for hyper-local art tourism.

2. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Known as the "Mirror of the Sky," this scorpion-shaped palace was the home of the Nizam of Hyderabad, once the world’s richest man. It is a museum in its own right, housing one of the most significant private collections of Venetian chandeliers, rare manuscripts, and European art in Asia.

• The Art Highlight: The dining hall, featuring a 101-seat table and walls adorned with hand-painted frescoes and portraits of royal dignitaries.

• Why 2026: The palace recently expanded its "Heritage Art Walk," offering deep dives into the conservation of its 19th-century oil paintings.

3. The Belgadia Palace, Odisha

This Victorian-era palace in Mayurbhanj is run by the royal family themselves, who have turned their home into a hub for sustainable art and tribal heritage.

• The Art Highlight: Tribal & Deco Fusion. You’ll find a mix of dark wood Victorian furniture and local Dhokra (metal) art. They even host "Artists in Residence" where you can watch creators at work.

• Why 2026: Odisha is the "new frontier" for off-the-beaten-path travel in 2026. This palace is the ultimate home base for people who love eco-friendly art and local culture.

4. RAAS Devigarh, Delwara

Housed in an 18th-century palace in the Aravalli Hills, Devigarh is the pioneer of the "Modern Palace" movement. While the exterior is rugged and traditional, the interior is a high-design temple of white marble and semi-precious stones.

• The Art Highlight: The minimalist use of traditional motifs. Look for the "Lapis Lazuli" suite or the "Gold" room, where ancient materials are used in sleek, contemporary geometries.

• Why 2026: Devigarh continues to host rotating artist-in-residence programs, making it a dynamic hub for contemporary Indian creators.

5. The Johri, Jaipur

Located in the heart of the iconic Jewellers’ Bazaar, this 19th-century haveli (mini-palace) has been reimagined as a boutique art sanctuary.

• The Art Highlight: Hand-Painted Murals. Every room is inspired by a gemstone (like Ruby or Emerald) and features stunning, bespoke wall art that brings Rajasthan’s nature and myths to life.

• Why 2026: Small, boutique "Heritage Sanctuaries" are the big travel hit for 2026. The Johri offers an intimate, artistic escape right in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle.

6. BrijRama Palace, Varanasi

Perched on the edge of the Ganges, this 19th-century palace is one of the oldest structures on the Darbhanga Ghat. Getting there requires a boat ride, and once inside, you are greeted by a rare blend of Tudor and Maratha architecture.

• The Art Highlight: The palace features exquisite Maratha-style murals and hand-crafted silk brocades from Varanasi’s own weaving clusters, turning the rooms into a showcase of local textile art.

• Why 2026: As Varanasi undergoes a cultural renaissance, BrijRama offers the most sophisticated "Art of the Ghats" tours in the city.

7. Ahilya Fort, Maheshwar

Perched high above the Narmada River, this fort-palace was the home of the philosopher-queen Ahilyabai Holkar. It is the ultimate destination for "textile art."

• The Art Highlight: The Art of the Loom. The palace is home to the REHWA Society, where you can watch weavers create world-famous Maheshwari sarees. The architectural symmetry of the fort’s stone carvings is also a visual treat.

• Why 2026: In 2026, Madhya Pradesh is celebrating a massive cultural revival centered around the legacy of Queen Ahilyabai. It’s the perfect year to witness this "living heritage" in action.

Final Words

Choosing to stay in a palace art hotel is more than just a vacation; it’s like stepping into a living storybook. These unique escapes offer you the best of both worlds—the grand history of India’s kings and the creative pulse of modern artists. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a beautiful, quiet corner to relax in, these seven palaces promise an unforgettable experience for 2026. Pack your bags and get ready to be inspired!