The Johri

 Time Out says

When the Lal Haveli was built in 1871, it’s unlikely that anybody imagined it would one day house guests drinking craft cocktails in the lounge. The Johri has taken the historic building (once used as a pivotal centre for India’s Independence Movement)  and turned it into a place of such bejewelled opulence that it’s quickly dominated the hotel scene in Jaipur. This is no small feat, given the lavishness of Rajput hospitality is known by folks far and wide. 

Why stay at The Johri?

There’s something about the hotel that makes it the most meaningful of all things: genuine. The architecture, while decadent and reminiscent of Rajput, Mughal, and neoclassical elements, doesn’t feel contrived or out of place in the middle of the bustling Johri Bazaar. Designer Naina Shah seems to have imbued the place with the soul of the city – with additions like bone-inlay detailing and hand painted murals, the restoration of the old haveli has been done full justice. 

Another plus is the location. It’s an interesting choice to place a luxury hotel inside the thick of a bazaar. While some may be initially taken aback by how busy the winding marketplace is, I’d say it adds to the old-world charm. One step out of the hotel and you’re immediately in Old Jaipur, with the City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar within walking distance. The market itself is a delight, and is lined with some of the city’s best gem shops and textile houses. Some will be pricey given the prime location, but it’s nothing a smart haggle can’t fix. 

What are the rooms like?

Each of the five suites is named after a gemstone or precious metal: Manak (ruby), Neelam (sapphire), Moti (pearl), Panna (emerald) and Sona (gold). The decor’s rich, but restrained. A sort of lived-in luxury charm. 

Manak, for instance, is decked out in dusty rose with candy cane details. Neelam’s got pale blue walls and black-white columns they only unearthed during the restoration process, plus a cushioned vintage swing. Moti’s done up in ivory and comes with a private verandah. Sona features warm amber tones and ornate cornices, and Panna’s walls are packed with pastoral frescoes. 

Where to eat?

The vegetarian restaurant at The Johri has earned its stripes: back-to-back Condé Nast Traveller Top Restaurant Awards (2023 and 2024) and a spot on the World's 50 Best Discovery List. I say that because while hardcore carnivores will most definitely turn their noses up, you’ve got to have trust in the awards – the food is JUST that good. 

The menu is seasonal and draws inspiration from Jaipur’s walled city. Local ingredients are cooked in a way that’s nothing like your usual North Indian fare. Curries are spiced, but surprisingly light. Seasonal vegetables shine in every dish – don’t miss the palak (spinach) chaat or the nihari, which swaps out mutton for jackfruit. Cocktails deserve equal billing, and are all made by an in-house mixologist who usually, if he’s free, will sit down with you to understand your palate before mixing up something bespoke. 

By late afternoon, the Pukhraj Lounge becomes the star. High tea service is a big deal here. The lounge itself is done up in hand painted murals of Rajasthan’s flora and fauna. By evening, it transitions to a cocktail bar serving house favourites. For a hotel with just five suites, the food and bevvie game punches well above its weight. 

What are the facilities like?

It’s a small hotel. You won’t find a gym or pool here. What you will find, though, is a very-well done massage, lots of quiet personal time, and top-notch personalised service.

Closest transport: Nearest airport is Jaipur Airport, 12 kms away.

Book now: Via The Johri's website