India’s many forts have been converted into hotels, offering travellers an opportunity to relive the bygone era in luxurious comfort as well as providing an ideal backdrop for conferences and weddings
Fort Barli Ajmer, Rajasthan
Situated in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, Fort Barli boasts of 340 years of heritage and royalty. The 16th generation welcomes guests to the fort that is drenched in the hues and history of the bygone era. The rooms have been restored to maximise the ‘in-room’ experience where each room has its own distinctive character. They have a homely feel which is perfect for the guests who value privacy and unobtrusive service. The place reflects the age-old culture and traditions of that era, offering an incredible journey to the majestic Rajputana. You don’t feel less than a royal as a guest of the hotel.
Guests are escorted personally around the fort to introduce them to Rajput art and architecture. There are several activities for the guests to indulge in at the hotel itself. There is a sit down ‘Royal Dinner’ in traditional style, where guests are seated in an old fresco room which depicts age old paintings on the wall with just candles around. The dinner is served on a silver platter with Indian delicacies. The outside pool is the perfect place to unwind or relax right after an ayurvedic massage.
One of the big hits at Fort Barli is the bullock cart safari where guests are made to sit on a comfortable bullock cart and seep in the village to explore rural life from close quarters. It includes village sightseeing, viewing its colourful markets, visit to age old cenotaphs (memorial of its rulers) with fresco paintings depicting mythology, viewing pottery manufacture, visiting ongoing village school, exploring a rural house and interacting with the local people. It is one of the best ways to experience the regional culture of the country.
How to reach: The nearest airport is in Jaipur, about 180 km away and the nearest railhead is Bijaynagar, just eight km away. The closest city to Fort Barli by road is Ajmer (65 km).
Fort Jadhavgadh Pune, Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s only fort hotel, Fort Jadhavgadh, takes guests on a journey through the 300 years of history and grandiose of the Maratha regime. The fort resort has 57 rooms comprising of three suites, 38 rooms of various types, 12 royal tents and four Neem cottages spread across the fort’s three wings – making it an ideal destination near Mumbai. The interiors are a mix of old world charm and contemporary luxuries. The place offers distinctive dining experiences from casual all-day-dining, barbeques, to ethnic fine dining and al fresco options to select from. There are some fun activities and performances to keep guests entertained throughout their stay. The property has one-of-a-kind Aai Museum that will take you back to the bygone era with its collection of exquisite artifacts. Leisure travellers can rejuvenate and relax at the idyllic pool side spa. There is also a martial arts show, bullock cart riding and ghazal nights, held at the hotel on a regular basis. There are more than 30 varieties of birds which migrate to the hotel’s farmlands throughout the year, so guests can indulge in bird watching. Guests can also trek to adjoining mountains for wild animals and deer spotting.
The fort, with its heritage value and royal history, is an ideal place to host weddings. The breathtaking views of the Sahayadri mountain range can provide a perfect backdrop for a heritage royal wedding. The sprawling lawns can accommodate around 3,000 people and there is also a banquet hall offering indoor space for small gatherings. The rooftop poolside dining facility can also be provided on request. The 300-year-old Ganesha temple within the fort is used for conducting wedding rituals. The accommodation facility is well suited for outdoor conferences and corporate meetings.
How to reach: The fort is about 30 km from Pune International airport, which is a 50 minutes drive away. The Pune railway station is situated 27 km from the fort which is about 45 minutes drive away. One can also take a drop at Mumbai airport and enjoy the three hour drive to to the fort.
Fort Rajwada Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Jaisalmer is known for holding a special place in the heart of tourists due to its grandeur and beauty. Fort Rajwada is situated in Jaisalmer, in the heart of the Thar Desert, representing the history of the ‘Golden city’ and the hospitality of its people. It offers an unparallel opportunity to experience the way of life of the Rajputana royalty. Guests can imagine awakening in the lap of luxury that the Rajasthan royalty is well known for. This is the best way to discover the history of the city, enjoy the tranquility of the desert or embark on a desert adventure.
The fort offers a blend of modern and classical experiences for the guest, be it pool side barbeque or rooftop sunset bar. Inspired by the soothing shades of sandstone and the cultural splendour of the erstwhile kings, the place promises a good dose of luxury matched with a majestic experience. The fort also offers activities like city tours and desert safaris for guests. It still has over 1,600 inhabitants living for the past six centuries.
Expert guides conduct the tour of the city and the fort to show guests the city in a way they might not have seen it before. Guests can also enjoy the camel ride in the Thar desert, followed by an overnight stay in tents for an unforgettable desert experience.
The property can host several events like weddings, conferences and corporate meetings. The beautiful yet carefully planned banquet hall, conference rooms, lawns and open spaces are the perfect choice for almost all kinds of events. The kitchen staff is experienced in handling large occasions such as weddings and group tours, without compromising on the experience of the guests.
The fort also has a dedicated kids play zone and billiards room for families to keep themselves busy.
How to reach: Fort Rajwada is located right off the Pokran-Jaisalmer-Barmer Highway (NH-15). It is 3.5 km from Jaisalmer railway station. The nearest operational airport is in Jodhpur which is around four hours 30 minutes by car.
Khirasara Palace Rajkot, Gujarat
The Khirasara Palace stands majestically on top of a hill, redefining the rich heritage and culture of the glorious past of Kathiawar. It provides a 360 degree view of the breath taking ambience at different times of the day. The fort has born the brunt of centuries and now stands in its fullest splendour and glory. Situated 14 km away from the bustling city of Rajkot, experience serenity, peace and clean fresh breeze, whilst being surrounded by the rich heritage, history and royal comfort within this grand monumental property.
The accommodation facilities include 25 suites in four categories. They are well equipped with modern facilities like Wi-Fi access, mini-bar, tea- coffee amenities, etc, and also represent the glory and grandeur of its magnificent past. The palace is a pristine example of the Kathiawar culture, traditions and 450 years of royalty. The seven acre property is a perfect destination for royal weddings. It is elegantly decorated and lit up as folk performers, dancers and musicians along with a smart wedding band and vintage cars enter with the guests. The hotel also offers special wedding packages for the guests to have a taste of the royal Indian heritage.
There are four restaurant and cafes where guests can indulge in good food and also sit back to take in the breathtaking views. The Jal Vihar is a pool side cafe, while Deep Mahal offers special candle light dinners. You can always enjoy a relaxing day by the pool at the hotel or head out for a day trip to Rajkot. The city is just an hour away from the hotel. It is famous for its gold and silver jewellery that you can buy from Bangdi Bazaar or Soni Bazaar. You can also visit other interesting destinations like the Jubilee Garden, Rashtriya Shala, Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary and Mahatma Gandhi High School.
How to reach: The palace is well connected to Rajkot city, about 17 km by Kalawad road. Rajkot is further connected by daily flights from Mumbai and Delhi and there are several rail routes that lead here. There is also a good network of private and state run buses to all cities and places of tourist interest.
Mihir Garh Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Rising from the golden sands of Marwar, Mihir Garh is known as ‘The Fort of the Sun’. Built in 2009 AD, it is an indulgent initiative from the House of Rohet that offers legendary hospitality and diverse flavours of the land. It stands majestically to embrace the discerning travellers and offer them a taste of royalty.
The fort has been transformed into an exclusive nine suite boutique hotel where the luxurious rooms take guests through a journey of the old times. The suites have their own plunge pool and personal courtyard and have been built in such a way so as to fulfill each of the guest’s needs, be it for solitude or intimacy, for opulence or meditation upon the endless deserts. Guests can enjoy the exotic drinks from their personal mini bar on a sultry afternoon or indulge in an early morning al fresco breakfast. Culinary workshops and demonstrations are also held, so guests can learn to make the delicacies that they enjoy here.
The fort might be secluded from nearby villages, but offers a plethora of activities for guests. One of the unforgettable experiences to take back from your stay is picnicking like the royalty. A small spot by the small lakes or jheels is ideal for lunch.
The shikar dinners organised by the hotel take guests back to the days of the Raj when hunting was considered a sport. Guests can also enjoy the soft tunes of Rajasthani folk music and feast on a traditional Indian barbeque dinner in the hotel lawns.
The village safari is a cultural showcase of rural India in all its splendour. Guests can also pamper themselves with variety of treatments available at Mihir Garh’s Tulsi Spa or rejuvenate at the poolside while watching the endless desert.
How to reach: Mihir Garh is within driving distance from some of the important cities of Rajasthan; five km from Jodhpur, 345 km from Jaipur and Udaipur and 320 km from Jaisalmer. It is also just a one hour drive from the airport and the railway station.
Neemrana Fort Hotel Alwar, Rajasthan
One of the most popular weekend getaways from New Delhi, the Neemrana Fort Hotel, lies on the Delhi-Jaipur National Highway No 8. The 15th century heritage hotel has been built in a way that the seven palaces are spread over 14 layers, tiered into a hill including six acres of garden palace. The hanging gardens, swimming pools, ayurvedic spa and heritage rooms make it ideal for weekend getaways, weddings and conferences.
The rooms are well equipped and designed to keep the heritage of the place alive. There are in total three conference halls that a offer variety of interiors and terrace views. The fort hotel can also hold open air conferences overlooking the countryside, or royal weddings in its rustic gardens. The fort hotel has one of India’s oldest heritage spa resorts. The Neemrana hotel gym and spa is spread over 400 sq ft and comprises of contemporary gymnasium equipment, outdoor sunlight-spectrum yoga and meditation. There is an array of ayurvedic and international therapies. The place offers a great option for rejuvenation over the weekend, due to its close proximity to the city.
The efforts made to retain the old charm comes out beautifully in the comfort and experience that the place offers. On weekends , there are cultural performances organised by the Neemrana Music Foundation. For the traveller who would like to indulge in activities and not just relax there are camel rides, multimedia tours, vintage car rides and a zipping tour. Sprawled over 25 acres in the backdrop of Aravalli hills, the hotel is an ideal choice for film shootings. Within the fort many different architectural styles: Sultanate, Rajput, Mughal and Colonial offer ready-made sets.
How to reach: One can fly to Indira Gandhi International airport in New Delhi and then enjoy the three hour drive of about eight km. The nearest train station is Ajaraka, however there are no regular trains from major cities. Even though the destination Neemrana does not have a bus stand, one can take the nearest drop at Kosli.
RAAS Devigarh Udaipur, Rajasthan
Devigarh, a luxury resort nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan is a perfect destination to get a taste of old heritage and luxury. The fort was built in the 18th century and has been restored to bring the old culture to life in a modern way. The property has 39 suites and eight tents. There is huge emphasis on detailing and designing of the place for creating a comfortable environment for guests. Surrounded by lush green fields on three sides, the fort overlooks the village and nearby temples.
The heritage property also has a spa, outdoor pool and business centre. This combination makes the property an interesting choice for leisure holidays and corporate events. The resort’s restaurant is perfect to spend a relaxing night as you savour regional cuisine. Some Indian specialties are served alongside international favourites by the chefs. In-room dining is also available for guests who want to enjoy food in the comfort of their luxurious room. The spacious rooms are designed keeping the history of the place in mind. Location of the fort and facilities available transport guests to a different era, making their stay an unforgettable experience. Guests can explore the rich heritage of the fort as they walk through the alleys or spend a day in the library reading books. The walls are covered with old paintings and they lead through intricately carved archways.
Those who wish to explore the city can go on a day trip to Udaipur and embark on a journey of discovering the colourful facets of the city. The Durbal Hall along with other gardens and courtyards is ideal for conferences and seminars.
How to reach: The fort resort is a comfortable 45 minute drive from the city. Udaipur is well connected via air from Delhi and Mumbai. Local taxis are easily available at the airport for the hotel. The main railhead is Udaipur which is again a 30 minute drive from the hotel.
Surajgarh Fort Shekhawati, Rajasthan
Situated in the town of Surajgarh in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, Surajgarh Fort hotel derives its name from the 18th century fortified palace Surajgarh which means ‘The Castle of The Sun’. The four acres property has been traditionally restored to give guests the experience of living like a Maharaja, retaining the fort’s original aesthetics and architecture. The fort is known for its architecture and frescoes in the palace. The town of Shekhawati where the fort is located, is popularly known as an open air art gallery. Though the fort hotel itself offers rustic locations, the nearby area boasts of many havelis. These havelis from the art-deco period dot the region and showcase a perfect example of how the society changed from the 18th to 19th century. There are regular walking and camel tours organised to these havelis. You can also enjoy horse riding in the fort and later feast on a picnic at the local Bawari (water tank). Blue bulls and many species of birds are sighted on the way. Barbeques and bonfires are also organised in the countryside around the Bawari for guests staying at the fort.
The fort can be used as a conference or wedding venue. It is well equipped with facilities for the guests to host theme parties, cultural shows and corporate events. The location gets transformed for themed weddings and other parties. Special Indian, continental and Rajasthani cuisines are prepared for the guests. Surajgarh is famous for Laak bangles and souvenirs, which are created by artisans in their small small shops right in front of the guest according to the colours and design preferred. Traditional silver ware and puppets are also available for souvenirs at some shops in the city. Nearby, Jhunjhunu district is also an interesting area for touristy discoveries.
How to reach: It can be reached by road via Delhi (200 km), Jaipur (215 km) and Bikaner (260 km). The nearest railhead is Surajgarh and the hotel provides pick/ drop services from here.
The Aodhi Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
Kumbhalgarh Fort was built in 1458 AD set amidst the massive ramparts and surrounded by hundreds of temples. Today, a part of the fort has been restored and transformed into a hotel boasting of Mewar’s legacy. Hidden by the trees, besides the hills crowned by the ruggedly majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, nestles The Aodhi, a sanctuary-resort where one can discover the rare heritage of the place. A stay at the hotel takes you through the secrets of the past centuries as you explore the nature trails, forts and temples.
Built by Rana Fateh Singh in the late 19th century, it has beautiful apartments painted with pastel-coloured murals. You can simply relax in the privacy of the balcony gazing at the blue skies and enjoy the luxurious service that the resort offers. One can relive the beautiful heritage that was a treasure only for the royals back then. There are larger than life experiences awaiting to be explored by the guests. For those who like to go around there is an array of old palaces within the fort. The Badal Mahal, the highest of all the palaces offers glorious views of the countryside from the fort itself.
For food lovers, the resort has three restaurants catering to different needs by the guests. At Aodhi, you can enjoy a lazy day at the pool or simply walk on the fort walls. There are many indoor games facilities available for families as well. Udaipur is 84 km away and one can make a day trip to buy some souvenirs and regional handicrafts. Adventure lovers can also go to Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary surrounding the fort. The Aodhi offers a one of a kind experience that gives its guests a taste of true royalty in the country.
How to reach: Kumbhalgarh is located at a distance of 84 km from Udaipur, 130 km from Mount Abu and 300 km from Ahmedabad. The nearest airport and railhead are situated in Udaipur.
WelcomHeritage Bassi Fort Bassi, Rajasthan
Everything, from the ornate gates, domes, arches and corridors of the palace reflect the grandeur of another era when valour, honour as well as ostentation were key aspects of royalty. Just five km away from the fort is the Bassi Wildlife Santuary offering a getaway with its gentle slopes and large water bodies. The sanctuary is known for its wild animals including panthers, wild boars, antelopes and mongooses.
There are many short excursion trips that one can take while staying at the fort hotel. The Chittorgarh Fort is just 24 km away on the Kota-Bundi-Chittorgarh-Udaipur road. This massive and legendary fort covers an immense area of 7000 acres on a 180 metres high hillock. Manal, which is known as the ‘Mini Khajuraho’ for its ancient and sculpted temples is about a day journey 70 km away. The large Bassi and Orai irrigation dams are located at a distance of six and eight km respectively from the palace. Located on a ridge overlooking the dams is one of the finest hunting lodges in Rajasthan which is about 8 km away. If one wants to see the interesting temples and culture of Bassi, the village is just a km away from the hotel. There are intricate sculptures, step wells, cenotaphs and handicraft shops for buying souvenirs.
How to reach: Udaipur airport is 64 km away, while the nearest railhead is Chittorgarh about 24 km away. By road it can be reached through Jaipur (340 km), Udaipur (125 km) and Ahmedabad (380 km).