The Points South Point of View – India is a vast continent, we think it is better not to attempt covering both the North and South unless you have abundant time. In the North the landscape and the climate are both more harsh, with arid plains and rocky outcrops. The food is very different to the South, with rich meat curries and tandoori cooked dishes. The tourist trail is over established, especially in Rajasthan, with tour busses ferrying weary tourists around the “must see ” sights on hectic schedules, however it is still possible to enjoy the less discovered by staying in the smaller restored palaces, where the owners insight can often lead to special places. It is often said that doing three places well in Rajasthan can be far more rewarding than six places in haste, as the scale of the magnificent forts and palaces and the distances between them can be overwhelming in the harsh desert heat.
Pushkar Camel Fair- This annual event is held at Pushkar, hundreds of herdsmen and farmers bring their livestock to the town. Camels, cows and horses are brought and sold by the men sitting on their haunches discussing the price over tea and a pipe, this spectacle offers visitors a chance to witness a scene unchanged for centuries. In the town of Pushkar (with over five hundred temples) a carnival atmosphere pervades as thousands of pilgrims arrive for the Kartik Purmina religious festival, which coincides with the camel fair. Tented camps are erected for the many visitors; we recommend a camp on the outside of the town. For a truly memorable experience a hot air balloon ride can be taken over the fair at dusk or dawn. Accommodation is simple, with meals taken in a communal dining tent.
 | Dev Shree - Dev Shree is a small boutique hotel, recently built in a Mughal style, on the edge of the lake, with the Gokul fort in the distance. With wide verandahs, a central courtyard and pool. All the rooms overlook the gardens where peacocks stroll. The property embodies the best of Mughal hospitality. Cookery lessons and yoga. A local train journey can be taken from nearby to Deogarh, through the Aravalli hills - this takes about 2 hours, and is well worth it. |
 | Samode Palace - The spectacular Samode Palace was meticulously restored and renovated as a first class hotel and opened in 1987. Located an hours' drive from Jaipur in the Aravalli hills, this stunning palace was built 450 years ago for the rulers of Samode. Considered to be one of the finest examples of Rajput-Mughal palace architecture, the palace is spread over many levels. From the moment you drive up the ramparts and enter the gates you will be transported to another world. Meals are served in the courtyard or the formal dining room, and there is a terraced garden and rooftop infinity pool. |
 | Chambal Safari Lodge - A very rural location only 1 1/2 hours from Agra. The main house was once used by the Singh family when attending the cattle fair at Bhubaneswar. The spacious cottages are located around the charming gardens. Early morning boat safaris are taken on the river Chambal, and there is a resident naturalist to take you bird watching. There are also trips to the nearby temples at Bhubaneswar overlooking the river Yamuna, and camel safaris to a nearby fort. |
 | Chanoud Garh - A 300 year old palace, originally gifted to Thakur Anoop Singh for his valour and bravery by the Maharajah of Mewar. In 2013 the palace was extensively restored and converted for guests to stay. The vast rooms encapsulate intricate traditional features and modern amenities. This area of Rajasthan is very rural and a village walk if fascinating, visiting the local school and temples. Trips to the nearby lakes and cookery demonstrations. |
 | Fort Begu - On the edge of the village, Fort Begu is a 16th Century fort and small Palace arranged around courtyards and gardens. Part of the palace remains in ruins and contains fascinating murals. The main part of the property has four atmospheric bed rooms, a dining room and sitting room. Temples and step well in the village. Evening drinks at old summer palace, taken by jeep. |
 | The Serai, Jaisalmer - Located in the Thar desert on 100 acres of indigenous desert land. The 21 luxury tents are superbly appointed. The Sujan spa and stunning pool help to create an atmosphere of indulged relaxation. The food is prepared with organic ingredients. This is an outstanding property offering the perfect location for complete relaxation, or as a base to explore the ancient fortified town of Jaisalmer (60ks) and the local countryside on a camel safari. The Serai is also a perfect place to break the journey between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. |
 | Rohet Garh - A leading Heritage hotel opened in 1990, Rohet Garh is situated in a restored fort that has been the family home for four centuries. Skilfully re-designed and restored with 34 rooms, each one different and furnished in a traditional Mewar style. Lovely gardens, with abundant birdlife and a courtyard pool. Experience a Rohet safari through the surrounding countryside and villages - a complete cultural experience. Rohet Garh is also home to one of the finest stables of Mewari horses in India - riding holidays are a speciality, and they have built the Wilderness camp for overnight stays in the countryside. |
 | Mihir Garh - Situated in the countryside about 20 minutes' drive from Rohet. The stunning fort was recently built in a traditional style, with a fabulous interior. The individual rooms are beautifully finished, some with a private pool and terrace. The elliptical pool overlooks the surrounding countryside. Riding safaris are available from here. The Fort is a member of Relais en Chateaux. |
 | Deogarh Mahal - Deogarh Mahal is a fascinating palace built in 1670 on the edge of the village of Deogarh. Built around the main courtyard with a network of staircases leading to smaller courtyards. The elegant rooms are decorated with inlaid mirror work, peacock stained glass windows and lovely antique furniture. The family still live at Deogarh and the palace contains some fascinating memorabilia. Roof top restaurant, pool, Ayurvedic spa, Jeep safaris, and collection of vintage cars. |
| Dungarpur | |
 | Udai Bilas Palace – Udai Bilas Palace is situated on the banks of Lake Gaibsagar. This small palace is still occupied by the family. The spacious rooms each have their own character and have large marble bathrooms. Exotic hunting trophies line the walls of the Africa room. Everyone comes together to dine in the marble dining room. Delightful gardens and pool overlooking the lake. |
| Nimaj | |
 | Chhatra Sagar – The camp is situated in an outstanding location overlooking a 100-year-old reservoir, home to many species of birds. Chhatra Sagar consists of 13 traditional Rajasthani tents set on the wall of the dam; each one is beautifully decorated with en-suite bathrooms and a sitting area overlooking the reservoir. A very relaxing place, with no wifi or TV. There is no pool, just peace and a stunning view. |
| Bhilwara | |
 | Shahpura Bagh – Shahpura personifies the type of property I try to find for my customers. This lovely 19th Century palace is still home to the Singh family, and is in a great location, surrounded by lovely countryside and lakes, with ten rooms decorated in a traditional style. Meals are taken with the hospitable family who will entertain you with stories of royal life pre-Independence, lovely terraces, gardens and pool. Built as a summer residence for the rulers of Shahpura, from here you can visit the nearby dam their farm, and old fort where evening drinks are held. |
 | Khem Villas – Established in 1989 when the grassland was planted with indigenous trees and waterholes created to encourage birds and wildlife. This delightful resort offers accommodation in cottages and tents, organic food is served and there is a pool. Walks can be arranged in to the nearby forest, a short drive to the Tiger reserve. |
 | Tiger Den Resort – A family run property set in the Aravalli valley, five minutes from the entrance to the park. The cottages are traditionally decorated and set in the grounds; there is a pool and library and shop with a tailor. Food is served buffet style in the restaurant. |
 | The Oberoi Vanyavilas - Set at the foot of the hills 7 kms from Sawai Madhopur (nearest town and station), Vanyavilas has been superbly built in the style of a royal hunting lodge. The accommodation, tented, is scattered amidst the beautiful grounds extending to 20 acres with mango orchards. The luxury tents have a/c, wooden floors and proper bathrooms. There is a spa, a lovely pool and an excellent restaurant. I was greeted by the two resident elephants. Vanyavilas is part of the exclusive Oberoi group. |
| Karauli | |
 | Bhanwar Vilas Palace – Bhanwar Vilas was built in 1938 for the Maharajah of Karauli. The family still live here. Much of the original Art Deco furnishings and fascinating memorabilia is still in use. There is a dairy farm and garage full of vintage cars. Nearby is the superb 600-year-old Karauli Palace - this has been recently featured in U.K. Interiors magazine. |
| Bhainsrorgarh near Kota | |
 | Bhainsrorgarh Fort – Bhainsrorgarh Fort is an impregnable fort, inhabited from at least the 2nd century. Dramatically positioned on a 200ft ridge above the Chambal river and built in 1741 for Rawat Lal Singh, his descendants still run the property. Bhainsrorgarh fort has now been converted into a luxury heritage hotel run by the erstwhile royal family. The fort has been beautifully restored with courtyard gardens and a rooftop terrace for dining. A boat trip can be taken on the Chambal river to see the wildlife, also nearby are the 9th Century Baroli temples. |
