Memorable Small Places to Stay in Rajasthan

Vibrant Rajasthan, with its opulent palaces, grand forts, medieval bazaars and colourfully clad women is, for many, ‘India’. With its princely history and heritage buildings, Rajasthan has a thriving and well-developed hotel scene and over the years many beautiful small hotels have opened in this north Indian state. Mighty ancestral forts, colonial bungalows, desert hideaways and art deco palaces are just some of the unique and memorable Rajasthani bolt-holes and here are our favourites.

Surrounded by farmland and small villages, Chhatra Sagar is located in the heart of Rajasthan in a rural location to the east of Jodhpur. Comprising of a series of tents pitched on a dam overlooking a picturesque lake, Chhatra Sagar is one of India’s finest family-run small hotels. Tents are comfortable and beautifully appointed and the setting is magical with exceptional, uninterrupted views. Explore the farm and local temples to meet the villagers or enjoy a spot of birding from your veranda.

Few hotels in Rajasthan can better the spectacular location of Ranvas – a 33 room hotel positioned within the extraordinary Ahhichatragarh Fort in Nagaur, northern Rajasthan. Housed in a series of havelis originally built for the sixteen wives of the 18th century Maharaja Bakht Singh, the rooms are beautifully decorated and there is also a lovely swimming pool. Undoubtedly, however, what makes the hotels so special is its location in the heart of one of India’s most formidable fortresses.

This small boutique haveli hotel is one of Jaipur’s best kept secrets. Over 125 years old and still family owned, Dera Mandawa combines traditional Rajasthani style with modern facilities. The suites are spacious and thoughtfully appointed with antique furniture and en-suite bathrooms and the main courtyard is the perfect place to relax. Set in central Jaipur, the city’s markets are a stone’s throw away and it is an enjoyable 30 minute stroll to the stunning Hawa Mahal and City Palace complex.

Located in the village of Narlai midway between Udaipur and Jodhpur in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, Rawla Narlai is the perfect rural escape. Originally the home of a local village chieftain, this small 17th century former hunting lodge has been carefully renovated and restored. The simple but comfortable rooms, beautifully decorated with traditional fabrics and art work, overlook a central courtyard and there is also a welcoming pool – an ideal place to relax after exploring the bustling village streets.

Originally the summer residence of the rulers of Shahpura, the 30-acre estate was granted by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to the current family in 1630 AD for successful military campaigns against the Marathas and Afghans. Set between Jaipur and Udaipur, Shahpura Bagh offers elegant colonial-style accommodation, home-cooked Rajasthani food and an enticing swimming pool. The grounds are extensive, explore a nearby 17th century fort, ride a bike or visit the local town and temples.