While Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, may not be high on most tourist’s lists, possibly because little is written about the cultural and historical offerings here, Rajmahal Palace Hotel is worth a visit.

Finding the hotel of India and it’s Indian restaurant is a little odd. The hotel hides behind several other buildings (housing retail shops and offices) which may or may not have been part of the original residence. Ask a local for directions. They’ll direct you to the town center where after a short walk from the main market, then up a flight of stairs, signs direct eager tourists toward the heritage hotel.

The main staircase leads down into a large courtyard set with tables under large Victorian style lamp posts all wrapped in a manicured garden. Cobble pathways remain to mark the way. Diners have 3 seating choices: Outside in the courtyard, just inside in the bar area or downstairs in the main dining hall. With the temperatures lingering around 85º I chose the outside courtyard.

The menu is very extensive offering veg and non-veg Indian food items along with a tandoor. The dinner crowd was an hour away so service was very prompt. Portions are very large, and I mean large. We ordered two dishes with cheese naan, garlic naan and roti. Two people could easily leave full with just one dish and no naan. With tip the total cost was Rs 323.

Today, Rajmahal Palace is a government run hotel that once was the residence of the Mandi Kings. Built in the colonial style, the manor has been tastefully maintained throughout. Before dinner wander through the various corridors leading from the outside dining area. You’ll find arms and portraits hung on perfectly painted walls in-between striking pieces of ornate furniture. The light fixtures in the lower floor hallways were worth a picture themselves.

Rajmahal was an unexpected find not just for a delicious meal under the sky but also a quick history in Himachali heritage properties. If you find yourself in Mandi, plan a stop or overnight stay. With extremely reasonable room tariffs, Rajmahal is an affordable luxury hotel for any tour of India.