Located in northwest India, Rajasthan is home to a concentrated treasure trove of cultural landmarks, shaped by the legacies of Rajput warriors and Mughal emperors. Boasting awe-inspiring architecture evidenced in the opulent traditional forts, regal palaces and Hindu temples across the state, Rajasthan’s beauty, diversity and rich culture offer a spectacle few destinations can rival. The expansive desert landscapes and captivating nomadic cultures add to its allure. With its majestic forts resembling ancient sandcastles, pastel-hued cities, and vibrant swathes of scarlet, fuchsia, and marigold textiles, India’s largest state promises to awaken your wanderlust.
Here is our curated selection of the finest stays for an authentic Rajasthan experience as part of your trip to India —whether you seek a family adventure, a romantic retreat, or an unforgettable group escape to this quintessential Indian destination.
Best for Families: Shahpura Bagh
Formerly the summer residence of the Maharaja of Shahpura, this sprawling garden estate offers a tranquil retreat for families to explore the surrounding region. The current descendants of the ruling family still reside on this 45-acre property, which has a refined yet understated Rajasthani style combined with colonial grandeur. The family’s legacy focuses on sustainability since the royal state founder Rajadhiraj Nahar Singh mortgaged the family wealth to create the region’s first rainwater harvesting system. The tradition of supporting the local community continues to this day through education, medicine and the development of the region – you can experience this positive impact firsthand while visiting.
The working farm estate contains two villas and only nine luxury suites within the gardens and pastures abundant with Ashoka and Mango trees. The main house features light, spacious interiors. This includes a drawing room and a stately dining hall so there is ample room for family time, while the outdoor patio offers a lovely setting for al fresco meals beneath the shade of fruit trees.
The traditional estate is also a haven for nature enthusiasts, teeming with birds and encircled by tranquil lakes that you can stroll around. Children can enjoy exciting jeep safaris and a guided tour of the nearby farm or village, and parents can relax with a sunset cocktail at Dikhola Fort before a delightful dinner of traditional Rajasthani cuisine under the stars. Shahpura Bagh also serves as a restful rural midpoint break between the cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.
Interact with the local community at Shahpura Bagh.
Spot leopard in the Rajasthan countryside at SUJAN Jawai.
The Aalishan Suite at Mihir Garh.
Visit Udaipur with the glistening Lake Pichola.
Best for Wildlife & Wilderness: Sujan Jawai
Wildlife lovers will be enthralled by Sujan Jawai, one of Rajasthan’s most exclusive wilderness locations. Set within dramatic granite rock formations in the undulating landscape, this sophisticated safari camp is one of the best locations in the country for glimpsing leopards and a diverse array of wildlife. Take an early morning or afternoon safari accompanied by expert guides to track these elusive predators in the wild. Sujan Jawai is also one of the finest destinations in Rajasthan for hiking and cycling. You can explore the rural wilderness whilst learning about the region’s culture by walking across these magical landscapes with the Rabari people who have lived here for generations.
The tranquil property is deeply committed to conservation, both of the local ecosystem and its communities. You can engage in enriching experiences such as visiting local conservation projects, cycling or taking private wilderness drives to spot leopards and birds. After a day of exploration, indulge in yoga or unwind as you take in the spectacular sunset over Jawai Lake. The eco-friendly accommodation is thoughtfully designed, featuring ten luxurious tents and one Royal Tented Suite set within kopjes and caves, seamlessly blending into the wilderness.
Best for Equestrian Enthusiasts, History & Culture: Mihir Garh
The desert fort of Mihir Garh is the perfect base for equestrian enthusiasts visiting Jodhpur. Translating to ‘Sun Fortress,’ this luxurious hideaway’s owners are known for their passion for Marwari horses. With private paddocks and sweeping desert views, it is an excellent location for riding safaris on some of the country’s finest horses across the endless sandy plains.
Retreat after your riding adventures to beautifully appointed suites that evoke a blend of African and Rajasthani design elements crafted from natural materials. Unwind in the privacy of your terrace, soak in your heated plunge pool, or rejuvenate at the hotel’s intimate spa after a day spent roaming across the desert.
Mihir Garh offers you a plethora of activities – aside from the village safaris and equestrian programme – the area boasts a diverse array of wildlife and birds that you can observe from jeep drives. Other activities include lakeside royal picnics reminiscent of a bygone era and culinary workshops so that you can learn to make the traditional Rajasthani delicacies that you experience here. Mihir Garh is also an ideal base from which to explore Jodphur which boasts Mehrangarh – one of the most imposing forts in the state.
Best for Art & Culture: Deeppura Garh
The restoration of the exquisite 200-year-old fort Deeppura Garh has been a true labour of love. This palatial property close to Sikar in Shekhavati was recently restored to its former glory by visionary Italian owner Maria Grazia Baldani and the esteemed architectural designer Phillippe de Villegas. Shekhawati is world-renowned for its magnificent architecture, and one of the finest places in the country to explore nearby villages to see mural paintings that adorn the walls of buildings and havelis. Take a heritage or artisan walking tour and visit the homes of artists to become more deeply immersed in the local culture.
Once the residence of the last Maharaja of Sikar, Rao Raja Kalyan Singh Bahadur, the fort houses an extraordinary collection of rare murals that have been meticulously restored to reveal the rich artistry of a bygone era. These intricate works provide fascinating insights into the lives of past rulers and the artisans who immortalised their legacy.
Wellbeing & Rural Experiences: Amanbagh
To rejuvenate in the most scenic and pristine rural location in Rajasthan, the Aravalli Hills are the setting of the beautiful sanctuary of Amanbagh. This former hunting ground of Rajasthan’s royals near the ancient city of Bhangarh is a hidden wellness paradise where you can experience holistic rejuvenation amidst regal surroundings.
Amanbagh’s palatial pavilions and spacious refined suites feature tranquil terraces, courtyards and private pools overlooking the mountains, fruit trees and flowers in the verdant gardens. Become immersed in the historic surroundings with sunrise yoga surveying the hilltop views of the green landscape, and tour the organic vegetable garden within the grounds. Unwind in the sprawling Aman Spa, where the expert wellness team offer a range of holistic restorative treatments based on your preferences and wellness goals. The in-house Ayurvedic practitioner can also curate a personalised programme rooted in the learnings of this ancient healing philosophy. Soak in the beauty of Amanbagh’s exquisite gardens during private picnics or dinners lit up by the glow of candlelight.
If you do choose to venture beyond the serene oasis of Amanbagh, you can explore the temple town of Neelkanth. Amanbagh is also near Pratapgarh village where the impressive Pratapgarh Fort presides on a hill overlooking the surrounding rugged landscapes, dating back to the time of the first Maharaja of Alwar. For a taste of history, visit the national heritage site of Bhangarh where you’ll find remnants of palaces, temples and bazaars, or walk along the shores of Somsagar Lake before visiting the traditional Meena village of Kala Para.
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