As you enter the gates of the Royal Orchid Metropole hotel situated in the heart of Mysore city, you are instantly transported into a world full of charm, style and understated grandeur. Originally built as the guest house of the Maharaja of Mysore, this 97-year-old building has been beautifully transformed into a heritage hotel and is a famous landmark in the city of palaces.
Location, Décor and Ambience
Royal Orchid Metropole is centrally located at just a kilometre away from the railway station and is at a convenient distance from all the hotspots of the city including the palace and zoological gardens. The historical building done up in hues of brown, white and yellow is a reflection of class and elegance.
Antique décor elements like rose wood furniture, brass artefacts and ingenious lighting attract your attention as you enter the reception. The efficient and courteous nature of the staff complement the check in experience.
Passing through the corridor, you notice that the entire place is planned around the central courtyard which has an attractive brick red tiled flooring.
The white pillars, wooden stairs, tiled roofs and stately arches lend the perfect ‘country home’ vibe to the place. I personally have a thing for yellow walls and I loved the way it blended with the wooden doors and windows here so well.
Ornate wall pieces, fresh flower arrangements and aristocratic pieces of furniture complete the regal look. The fact that the underlying metal framework of one of the wooden staircases has been built by the renowned Dorman, Long and Co. speaks volumes of the rich legacy and historical value of the building.
Lung spaces
The best part of the hotel ambience according to me is the abundant greenery in the form of trees, palms, potted plants and indoor plants all around the property. There is plenty of uncompromised open space and every nook and corner has plants thrown in to give the place a refreshing feel.
Even the courtyard has a fair share of trees making it eco-friendly. The impeccably maintained lawn is yet another green area. Special care is taken to maintain the greenery and there is a focus on eco-friendly practices like rain water harvesting which is commendable.
Rooms and Facilities
There are three categories of rooms that are done up tastefully and are high on functional and aesthetic value. In line with the theme of the hotel, all 30 rooms are majestic coupled with modern sophistication. All rooms are fitted with modern amenities like electronic safe, tea/coffee maker, mini bar and Wifi.
The maharaja suite is the most opulent of them all with resplendent décor and a whopping 1200 sqft of living space. Overlooking the pool, the room has a huge attached balcony with multiple seating options. A stay here ensure that you feel truly special and pampered like a king!
The heritage room is equally impressive with 550 square feet of living space and an attached balcony while the royal room has 325 sqft of living space apart from the balcony.
The hotel has a fully equipped fitness centre and a swimming pool.
Food and Dining
The hotel has multiple dining options with a fine dining outlet the Tiger Trail, the alfresco dining outlet Shikari, a snazzy bar Skan'del and a cozy coffee shop aptly named High Tea. A buffet is served for both breakfast and lunch which offers a multicuisine sumptuous spread.
If you are lover of native specialities do not miss out on the famous Mysore masala dosa and filter coffee at breakfast. The fare at the lunch buffet was equally delectable!
The outdoor dining at Shikari amidst the greenery in the courtyard offers a relaxing experience where you can unwind over a delicious meal.
Apart from the food that is high on taste and extremely palatable what stands out is the service of the staff who are always ready to ‘serve’ you with a smile. They ensure that you not only enjoy your meal but also have a great experience in the true sense of the term. Executive Chef Totan Sen himself is extremely hands on and often curates personalized menus based on the season and preference of the guests. Specialized meals are created for large gatherings and groups.
A unique experience
There are several factors that make a stay in the Royal Orchid Metropole quite like none other. Plenty of old world charm, amazing décor, luxuriousness that is subtle and immaculate service are just a few.
Though it is right in the middle of the city, the greenery and quaint atmosphere inside makes it seems as if it is far removed from all the urban chaos and hustle bustle. A perfectly sized hotel, it is not only one of the best in the city for tourists but also for corporate events, weddings and get togethers.
For more details, visit their website here. You can also like their Facebook page or call +91 80 4127 6667 for reservations.