Umaid Bhawan Palace

Umaid Bhawan Palace rises above Jodhpur's Blue City in golden sandstone, set in 26 acres of gardens. Built in the 20th century, it ranks among the world's largest private homes, and it is still a working royal residence, with the family living in their own wing. Part of it is now a hotel of 71 rooms and suites.

Jodhpur sits in the Thar Desert, and Mehrangarh Fort, the 15th-century citadel on a rocky hilltop, is one of the sights close by. The wedding spaces are clearly set out, from the 1,858 square metre Baradari lawn to two banquet halls and a small Fountain Courtyard.

The Baradari handles the big moments, with 1,500 at a standing reception, 400 seated for dinner and 200 theatre style. Marwar Hall and Rathore Hall are each 298 square metres and take 150 for a reception or 100 for a sit-down dinner. The Fountain Courtyard seats 64 and holds 75 standing, which suits a welcome dinner or a smaller ceremony.

The palace's Timeless Weddings team handles the full run of events, including haldi, mehendi and sangeet, as well as vow renewals and photo and film shoots. Ask the team about ceremony options, decor, music and the finish time.

Stay on site in 71 rooms and suites, made up of 26 rooms and 45 suites. Pillars serves a multi-cuisine menu and Risala is the Indian restaurant, with the Trophy Bar for drinks. J Wellness Circle runs the spa, and the pools include a heated pool, an indoor pool and the underground Zodiac pool.

Between events, guests can take a palace tour or a heritage walk, play badminton or squash, and head into town for Mehrangarh Fort, the Clock Tower and Sardar Market, and the stepwell at Toorji ka Jhalra. Jodhpur Airport is about 15 minutes by car. Larger parties should ask the team about nearby hotels.