Noor Mahal. Discover India’s Lavish First Autograph Collection Hotel By Marriott International.

Bindu Gopal Rao Discovers the new Noor Mahal in Karnal, Designed To Be A Modern-Day Palace Where History Whispers From All Corners.

Located equidistant from two major cities, Delhi and Chandigarh, Noor Mahal is well connected to several other important cities and towns, including Panipat, Ambala, and Ludhiana as well. Built by Colonel Manbeer Choudhary, an ex-serviceman, the hotel is modelled on the lines of an Indian palace and is owned by him with his wife Binny and son Roop Pratap Singh.

The property has now been reimagined as India’s First Autograph Collection Hotel and promises the signature ‘Exactly like Nothing Else’ experience. With 176 guestrooms and suites, including Raja Niwas and Khwabgah regal penthouses that come with private terraces and butler services, the property is on the historic Grand Trunk Road. The property is also home to one of the most extensive collections of Indian art and artefacts (more on that later).

The Setting

The ride from Delhi airport to Karnal and Noor Mahal took me close to three hours, and when I finally arrived at the historic Grand Trunk Road, I got my first glimpse of the property’s striking facade. With lattice work, large domes, ornamental arches, layered textures and an expansive spatial design, the driveway is decked out with flowers and candles, as I am here to see the property become India’s first Autograph Collection hotel by Marriott International.

Being on the historic Grand Trunk Road, which is known for its cultural richness, craftsmanship, and traditions, the grandeur multiples several notches as you enter the property. A beautiful ornate chandelier is the centre of attraction in the sprawling lobby that is dotted with all kinds of artefacts that draw from Indian arts and crafts.

I am handed a ‘Noor Mahal Passport’ when I check in, which is a unique experiential booklet designed to encourage guests to explore various facets of the palace – culinary, cultural, and experiential. “Guests can collect stamps as they participate in different activities across the property, making their stay more engaging and memorable,” says Mahesh Singh Jasrotia, General Manager, Autograph Collection – Marriott International.

The Rooms

The property has 176 guestrooms and suites done up with classical Indian aesthetics and contemporary comforts. From rich traditional textiles, bespoke furnishings, and handpicked accessories and artworks, each room is designed to feel deeply personal. The Raja Nivas Pent House is the most elevated, expansive, private room here while the Khwabgah Royal Suite has two bedrooms, living and dining spaces, a private bar, butler service, and a terrace that opens the stay to the sky.

The Presidential Suite has two bedrooms, a living room, a bar, and a pantry, composed for gathering, entertaining, or quiet retreat. There are 10 Executive Heritage Suites that also have access to the executive floor privileges. Apart from this, there are 11 Heritage Suites that have a bedroom and elegant living room where palace character meets quiet comfort. The 22 Executive Club Royal Rooms offer an elevated experience with executive lounge access and a more private sense of stay. The 21 Executive Club Rooms offer contemporary comfort with executive floor privileges for guests who value ease, privacy, and attentiveness. There are also 31 Club Royal Rooms and 78 Club Rooms that are available for guests.

I stayed in the sixth-floor Executive Club Royal room that was done up in pastel hues and furnished with ornate carved furniture, with a separate study, large cupboards, and an attached bathroom that has a bathtub and organic toiletries. A bowl of soaked almonds is kept on the bedside table each night as well.

The Dining

The hotel takes its food and beverage programme seriously, and there are four distinct outposts that are a nod to culinary traditions. The Frontier Mail is the signature restaurant that serves North-Western frontier cuisine. The dishes here doff their hat to slow-cooked techniques, recipes from royal kitchens and historic trade routes. The all-day diner Colonel Saab is where an elaborate buffet breakfast is served each morning.

This restaurant also offers a selection of Indian classics, rich regional flavours, and continental and international dishes. The Polo Bar serves classic and contemporary cocktails with an ambience inspired by polo culture. And for a spot of dessert, check out The Cake Factory’s handcrafted dessert creations.

When here, do not miss some of the signature dishes. The Laal Maas, a fiery Rajasthani mutton curry made with potent Mathania red chillies, garlic, and yoghurt, and the Murg Noor E Nawab, a tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy gravy, work best with the assorted Indian breads. The Paneer Sultani has soft cottage cheese cubes simmered in a luxurious, mildly spiced royal sauce. The Noorani Kofta-e-Khaas has delicate koftas in a velvety, fragrant gravy enriched with nuts and cream, and the Makhani-e-Khaas is a dish made with slow-cooked black lentils in a creamy, buttery tomato base.

Do try the Zafrani Mewa Pulao, a fragrant basmati rice dish cooked with saffron and rich dried fruits. End your meal with Nawabi Shahi Tukda, a crispy fried bread soaked in saffron syrup, topped with rich rabri and nuts, and the Papita Halwa-e-Mehfil, a luscious papaya dessert slow-cooked with ghee and sugar that tastes divine.

Do More

When you are here, you must sign up for the Heritage Walk experience, which is available for all in-house guests, offering a deeper connection to the palace’s story, architecture, and cultural richness. Conducted at scheduled times daily, allowing guests to connect more deeply with the palace’s legacy, the walk features 30 unique touchpoints.

Some of the key highlights include the Bofors Gun Shell from Kargil, a symbol of pride and tribute to the nation, and the Tree of Life, representing growth, continuity, and timeless heritage.

The ‘Family Tree of Ownership’ showcases the legacy and lineage behind Noor Mahal, while the ‘Wall of Karnal’ celebrates the historical significance of the region. There is also an in-house spa for some rest and relaxation as well as a swimming pool.

“Noor Mahal Palace offers a rare blend of royal heritage and contemporary luxury, where every experience is thoughtfully curated to create timeless memories. As part of the Autograph Collection, we promise not just a stay but a story worth discovering,” says Jasrotia.