SPEND A NIGHT AT THESE HIDDEN FORTS OF RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan is the land of royals. There are history, culture, and heritage spread across the dunes of Thar and some magnificent forts where you can spend a night or two. These forts are off the typical tourist trail and offer luxurious stays and world-class facilities in the middle of nowhere.

TIJARA FORT The 19th-century fort palace was abandoned for over a century but is now restored as a luxury retreat. Tijara fort is just a short drive from the city of Jaipur in the Alwar district. The staggering terrace gardens of the fort are at seven levels beckoning the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The fort overlooks the expansive fields surrounding it. The palace has 70 rooms, one restaurant, a swimming pool, and a spa.

KHIMSAR FORT While Aurangzeb was out on his conquests, the fort of Khimsar was his temporary residence. The 16th-century fort lies on the eastern edge of the Thar desert, between the district of Nagaur and Jodhpur. Situated in the middle of uninhabited land, the sheer magnificence of the structure rising above the dunes is awe-inspiring. As you stroll along the fort corridors, you will see gods and goddesses defaced by Aurangzeb carved in sandstone. The turrets, stables, and passageways echo the 500 year-old-stories of both glory and plunder. There are 68 luxuriously traditionally decorated rooms, equipped with all modern facilities such as air-conditioning, LCD television, and a minibar. In addition to this, most of the rooms have a private terrace or balcony. Begin your day by having breakfast at the fort Ramparts. Relax at the spa and pool. Have lunch at the terrace gazebo while basking in the winter sun. Visit the royal garage, home to a row of vintage cars and get cosy in the indoor restaurant for a candlelight dinner. The property also has glamping options in the dunes. It is a one-of-akind experience to stay in a desert oasis that offers fantastic views and stargazing opportunities.

ALILA FORT The 230-year-old fortress is an ultra-luxury property at a stone's throw distance from Jaipur. In the city of Bishangarh, the fort stands tall atop a granite hill with a 360-degree view of the surroundings. The newlybuilt modern fort has an old-world charm, its heritage and grandeur intact making it an excellent example of adaptive architecture. All 59 rooms have 22 different layouts with a big jharokha style window is common among them—multicuisine restaurants, outdoor grills, lounge, library, spa and swimming pool. A weekend spent in the fort is sure to keep you busy.

NEEMRANA FORT The once-abandoned 15th-century fort of Neemrana stands as an icon of luxury today. Neemrana Fort is one of the premier heritage hotels in Rajasthan. Situated between the JaipurDelhi highway, it attracts visitors from both cities looking for weekend escapes. The most prominent feature of the fort design is its many levels, with 72 rooms at 14 levels. You can spend an entire day just exploring and marvelling at the property's features and views. And once you get tired and want to relax, take a dip in the gorgeous swimming pool or have a rejuvenating massage at the fort's spa.

CASTLE MANDAWA The region of Shekhawati in Rajasthan is where the stories of the desert land are narrated in colours. Every nook and corner is adorned with frescos, wall art, and murals. Castle Mandawa is perhaps the best place to discover the legacy of Shekhawati art. Besides the painted walls and ceilings, the medieval turreted towers, palanquin roofs, cannons, and family portraits are all part of your stay at the castle. Spend a leisurely hour over in the colonial verandah or relax in the cosy comfort of the Diwankhana; there is much more to the court than just spending a day like royalty.

RAMATHRA FORT Is spending a lazy weekend in the company of wildlife your idea of a getaway? Head to Ramathra Fort in the district of Karauli, Rajasthan. Located between the Bharatpur Bird sanctuary and Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, the city dwellers gravitate to this fort to experience the best rural habitats amidst wildlife. Nothing surrounds the fort besides the lake and hills, and it has no disturbing urban influences. The rooms are spacious and have an unusual and old-fashioned vibe. The outdoor bathtub in the suite overlooking the valley is breathtaking. Apart from standard rooms, there are luxury tents where you can spend your day strolling through the untainted rural or watching water birds abound on the lake, which is also a rich feeding ground for the ducks, storks and cormorants.