Udaipur's Historic Opera House Transforms into a Vibrant Backpacking Hostel

Travel is synonymous with creating memories and memories can only be created in places that are worth remembering. In this modern age of fast paced lifestyles and brutalist hotels, The Hosteller brings to you a backpacking experience that is one for the photo books. A century old theatre brought to life, The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur is India’s first ever Opera House turned backpacker hostel.

A Glimpse into the past of Opera in Rajasthan

When discussing the consumption of opera in Rajasthan, a state known for its rich tapestry of traditions and culture, it's vital to approach the topic from an indigenous perspective. Rajasthan, with its vibrant history of maharajas and royal courts, has always had a deep-rooted association with music, which is not to be confused with the Western form of Opera. The royals of Rajasthan have been patrons of various art forms for centuries, with music and dance being integral to their courtly life. The traditional music of Rajasthan, often accompanied by dance, consists of complex rhythms and melodies, mirroring the state's diverse topography and rich history. While not opera in the European sense, these performances often had elements of storytelling, drama, and theatricality that are fundamental characteristics of operas.

The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur is India's first ever Opera House turned backpacker hostel

Instruments like the sarangi, rawanhatta, kamaycha, morchang, and ektara were central to these musical renditions. These instruments, coupled with the powerful voices of the Manganiyars and Langas, communities of hereditary professional musicians, captivated audiences and earned the patronage of the royals. With colonisation and the subsequent mingling of the Indian elite with European nobility, Western classical music, including opera, found an audience in India. The royals, with their penchant for luxury and refined tastes, were exposed to these art forms during their travels or through British guests. Some maharajas even sent their heirs to Europe for education, where they would inevitably have been exposed to Western arts.

Witness the Manganiyars, a community located in the desert of Rajasthan, as they perform music (Picture Source: Make My Trip)

There is overwhelming evidence to suggest that an indigenous form of opera was performed regularly in Rajasthani courts and the royals' exposure to it is undeniable. Over time, this appreciation for opera led to its incorporation into the larger soundscape of the Indian elite. Even today the ‘Gavri’ tradition of Mewar in southern Rajasthan incorporates music, song, dance, storytelling, emotion and can definitely be classified as a type of opera. And stellar buildings like the famous Bhawani Natyashala in Jhalawar remind us of the glorious opera days of Rajasthan.

A Little More About The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur

Located in the heart of the City of Lakes, The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur is a unique backpacker hostel that brings together the best of Rajasthani culture, contemporary architecture and our award winning A+ hospitality. Once upon a time, this very space was a bustling opera house and theatre for the royals of Rajasthan, frequented by kings and princes alike. An absolute haven for art lovers, this hostel is designed in a way that mixes industrial, art deco and traditional themes. Flush with luxurious common areas, stepping into The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur is a feeling like no other.

The staircase leading to the cafe sitting area resembles the grand entrance of an Opera House

On the ground floor, the hostel has a large enclosed restaurant with tall ceilings and opulent jewel toned sofas. Imperial staircases hug this level and lead to a double mezzanine seating space with vintage leather and wood furniture. This is surrounded on three sides by a blue toned al-fresco cafe that serves up the most delicious treats. This open air cafe is accompanied by a pizzeria with an authentic wood fire oven for the most cheesy and smokey ‘zzas. There is also an expansive pool on this floor, complete with a wading section and shaded by lush green plants. Another outdoor wicker cane seating area surrounds this, making the ground floor fully capable to accommodate more than 300 people. This ginormous common area is highly versatile and can function as a co-working area, an event space, a club, a posh restaurant, a cafe and a seminar space.

These vibrant areas are complimented by classic The Hosteller private rooms and dorms.

And if you are looking for some down time with your squad, you can always head to the billiards room for an exciting round of games. These vibrant areas are complemented by classic The Hosteller private rooms and dorms, mixing comfort, cause and charm. And if all this wasn’t enough, there is also a grand foyer, multiple spill out areas, plenty of parking and some really fantastic murals. An ultra premium backpacker hostel with polished interiors, a tropical touch, a host of endless amenities and friendly staff to cater to your needs; The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur is going to become your to-go stay, when in this romantic city.

How To Reach The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur?

Situated very accessibly, The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur is just a stone’s throw away from the prominent Jagdish Temple and Vintage and Classic Cars Museum. The heart of Udaipur, dotted with markets and monuments, is merely a 15-minute walk from the hostel.

From the airport: The hostel in Udaipur is around 30-35 minutes drive from Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur. You can hire a taxi, an auto, or just book an Uber, Ola or Rapido as per your convenience.

From the railway station: Merely a 10 minute drive from the main Udaipur railway station (UDZ), this is one of the most convenient ways to reach the city. You can hire a taxi, an auto or book an Uber, Ola or Rapido from here to the hostel.

From the bus station: Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates regular buses to Udaipur from major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and more. Buses reach the Udaipur City Bus Depot. From there, you can again hire taxis, autos or pre-paid services like Uber, Ola and Rapido.

Why The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur?

Elevating the very notion of backpacking accommodations, The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur calls you with its royal yet welcoming embrace. A tapestry of refined interiors, historical charm, and limitless modern amenities awaits your arrival. Allow The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur to become your sanctuary, as you set out to explore the city's romance, intrigue, and history.

The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur is just a stones thrown away from the city centre

Transporting you back in time, this once vibrant opera house and regal theatre, still retain the historic essence of the place. The hostel building is more than 100 years old, and was once graced by the presence of the Rajput Rajasthan's kings and princes. As you step into The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur, you'll be greeted by an unparalleled sensation of the past and the present merging into one for you. A feeling like no other.

Located in the heart of the romantic City of Lakes, The Hosteller brings to you a backpacking experience like no other. India’s very first Royal Opera House turned backpacker hostel.

Transporting you back in time, this once vibrant opera house and regal theatre, still retain the historic essence of the place. Allow The Hosteller Artist House Udaipur to become your sanctuary, as you set out to explore the city's mystique, intrigue, and history.

This once vibrant Opera house still retains the historical essence of the place

The hostel opens its doors on the 1st of September, 2023 for travellers from all over the world. Pre-bookings are now open. Special thanks to Inde Hotels and Resorts and Shashi Razdan.

Click here to book your regal Udaipur getaway!