Arq at Pichola: Redefining Ultra-Luxury Experiences in India

The Leela has unveiled Arq at Pichola, a groundbreaking collection of ultra-luxury villas set along the tranquil shores of Lake Pichola. Offering an unparalleled blend of contemporary elegance and rich Indian heritage, Arq redefines luxury for the discerning elite, promising an intimate escape crafted through bespoke experiences and meticulous design
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Aleks Bond

Luxury Travel Editor at The Executive Magazine

The Leela, renowned for its commitment to elevating the concept of luxury, has once again set a new benchmark with the unveiling of Arq at Pichola. This exclusive collection of ultra-luxury villa spaces, nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Pichola, offers a sanctuary for the discerning elite, blending contemporary opulence with a deep respect for India’s cultural heritage.

Each villa is designed with meticulous attention to detail, creating an atmosphere of refined indulgence. Brass-inlaid wooden floors, intricate Thikri artwork, and rare lapis stones form the foundation of this sensory journey, allowing guests to experience the tactile beauty of Indian craftsmanship. This fusion of modern luxury and traditional Indian design sets the villas apart, offering an unparalleled private haven of tranquillity and exclusivity.

Ranked as the fourth-best hotel in India in 2024, The Leela Palace Udaipur has long been a symbol of grandeur and hospitality. However, with the introduction of Arq at Pichola, it has elevated its offerings to unprecedented levels of personalised service. Dubbed a “Palace within a Palace,” Arq is designed to meet the desires of those who seek more than traditional luxury. Guests can indulge in bespoke experiences, from private culinary journeys that explore regional and international flavours to immersive artistic endeavours. These tailored experiences are curated to provide not just a stay, but a deeply personal and meaningful retreat.

“The launch at The Leela Palace Udaipur represents our vision of reimagining luxury for the most discerning travellers,” said Shweta Jain, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at The Leela. “This is not just another destination—it’s an ongoing journey into the essence of true luxury. Every detail has been crafted to offer a personal exploration of beauty, creativity, and indulgence.”

The official unveiling was a highly anticipated event, hosted by Princess Gauravi Kumari on October 14, 2024. The event attracted a select group of invitees from the film and creative industries, including prominent figures such as Huma Qureshi, Diana Penty, and Shakun Batra. Princess Gauravi Kumari, who was recently named The Leela’s newest icon of Indian luxury, expressed her deep pride in presenting this exclusive space. She remarked, “This unveiling marks a personal milestone for me, as I embrace my journey as an icon of Indian luxury alongside The Leela. It is a privilege to introduce Arq at Pichola—a space that honours Indian heritage while inviting the global elite into a refined escape.”

The event was further elevated by the presence of renowned designer Rahul Mishra, whose couture collections are celebrated for their narrative-driven craftsmanship. Mishra showcased his Aura collection, which, much like the spaces within Arq, is defined by personalisation and an unwavering dedication to detail. “This unveiling was a rare convergence of two worlds where creativity meets refinement,” Mishra commented. “The philosophy behind Arq resonates deeply with my design ethos—it is about crafting experiences that are tailored, intimate, and meaningful.”

The introduction of Arq at Pichola in Udaipur is only the beginning. This ultra-luxury concept is set to expand across The Leela’s portfolio, with more Arq spaces expected to be unveiled in the near future. As these developments unfold, Arq by The Leela promises to redefine the essence of modern luxury—offering an intimate yet expansive experience through elevated design, hyper-personalised service, and bespoke programming. It positions itself as a leader in the evolving landscape of high-end travel, where the focus is on delivering deeply personal and transformative experiences.

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