Raffles Hotels & Resorts maintains its dedication to Rajasthan’s cultural heritage through its ongoing support of the Rajasthan Polo Club which sponsors the Raffles Sirmour Cup. The prestigious tournament which will take place from 9 February to 15 February 2026 will feature top polo athletes and dedicated fans together with worldwide officials who will showcase the traditional horseback riding customs of Rajasthan. Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur which are luxury resorts located in central Rajasthan will function as co-sponsors for 2026 to demonstrate their commitment to protecting the cultural heritage of this majestic area.
Raffles’ unwavering support for the Raffles Sirmour Cup not only enhances its cultural reputation but also strengthens its role as a key contributor to the luxury tourism scene in Rajasthan. With its vast legacy, Raffles Jaipur, nestled amidst the Pink City’s storied palaces and forts has long attracted a discerning clientele. Guests keen on experiencing polo’s elegance have made their way to Jaipur, not just for the sport but for the luxury and history that Raffles offers. The sponsorship of this tournament perfectly aligns with Raffles’ philosophy of creating immersive, heritage-led experiences for travellers.
The Rajasthan Polo Club, the proud custodian of Rajasthan’s polo tradition, stands as one of the most prestigious venues in the equestrian world. Founded under the patronage of the Royal Family of Jaipur, the club is a symbol of the region’s regal heritage. Over the years, the Club has hosted some of the world’s most influential figures, including Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II, and former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The Sirmour Cup tournament, which has been a cornerstone of the Jaipur Polo Season, has seen international polo champions compete in the heart of Rajasthan.
Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur have become synonymous with luxury tourism, attracting guests who seek a deep connection with the region’s history and culture. The hotels are known for offering bespoke services that cater to the elite, with guests often attending cultural events like the Raffles Sirmour Cup to combine their passion for luxury with authentic Rajasthan experiences. The strategic sponsorship reflects a growing interest among high-net-worth travellers in not only staying in luxury properties but in actively engaging with local traditions, like the timeless sport of polo.
According to Rajat Sethi, Cluster General Manager of Raffles and Fairmont Jaipur, the Jaipur Polo Season is one of the city’s defining winter traditions and the Raffles Sirmour Cup occupies a special place in the calendar. He added that this sponsorship is an opportunity to deepen our role as a cultural partner by connecting guests with Jaipur’s heritage. This sentiment reflects how the sponsorship enhances the brand’s positioning among luxury travellers looking to experience not just opulent stays, but cultural immersion.
The addition of Raffles Udaipur to the sponsorship mix is a testament to the brand’s growing presence in Rajasthan. The serene lake city of Udaipur, known for its palatial architecture and historic significance, is home to a property that celebrates the rich cultural history of the region. Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager of Raffles Udaipur, commented that the brand’s philosophy is rooted in thoughtful hospitality that honours India’s rich cultural heritage.
Through its sponsorship of the Raffles Sirmour Cup, the hotel seeks to amplify its commitment to preserving tradition while offering guests the chance to witness Rajasthan’s equestrian pride. Bindra believes this tournament is more than just a sporting event, it’s a bridge to experiential tourism that connects people to Rajasthan’s royal past and cultural present.
As Raffles continues to strengthen its position as a premier luxury hotel brand in India, the support for events like the Raffles Sirmour Cup only enhances its appeal to guests who are passionate about sports like polo. For many international tourists, attending polo matches in Rajasthan is a dream come true, and Raffles provides the perfect gateway to this luxury. With a focus on sustainable tourism and cultural tourism, Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur are attracting affluent travellers who seek to connect deeply with the heritage and traditions of the destinations they visit.
In fact, many guests who choose to stay at Raffles properties are not just looking for a high-end place to stay; they are looking for an authentic experience, something that ties them to the land, its people, and its traditions. Polo enthusiasts, in particular, are drawn to the sport’s rich history and the opportunity to participate in high-profile events like the Sirmour Cup, which further elevates their travel experience.
The Raffles Sirmour Cup sponsorship demonstrates the brand’s dedication to safeguarding Rajasthan’s cultural heritage while providing exceptional visitor experiences. Through their ongoing luxury services at Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur, the two establishments drive India’s future development of cultural tourism. The Sirmour Cup functions as a traditional sports award which helps advance Rajasthan’s polo heritage through its ongoing partnership with Raffles that maintains this active traditional heritage for future generations. Raffles provides guests with luxury accommodations and cultural experiences and exceptional sports facilities to enhance Rajasthan’s reputation as a worldwide luxury tourist destination.
Image Credit: Raffles Hotels Resorts Jaipur Rajasthan
