Feel Like Royalty!
Rajasthan is synonymous with luxurious hospitality, and what better way to experience than a stay at Amanbagh Resort in Alwar.
About an easy four-hour drive from New Delhi amidst the rugged Aravalli Hills lies a garden oasis. With its lush green lawns, Amanbagh is a luxurious resort situated in the quaint village of Ajabgarh in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. Built in red sandstone and spread over a sprawling area of 47 acres, the property is the former hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Alwar. Its 37 suites in four different categories, with their tasteful interiors, especially appeal to the discerning traveller. Opened in 2005, the property has been elegantly designed with a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture by Late Ed Tuttle.
A verdant oasis
Amanbagh is a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and tranquillity. The venue includes two common swimming pools, alfresco as well as interior dining spaces, bar, treetop library and roof terrace. Every evening, vibrant live Rajasthani folk music plays in the courtyard while guests enjoy drinks and dinner, amidst brightly lit diyas in the dark. This makes it easy to understand why it is a popular destination for travellers. The property has its own Ayurvedic garden that produces organic vegetables and herbs, and banquet spaces booked by groups and families from time to time. The guests can enjoy a mix of Ayurvedic cuisine, local recipes and the delectable Rajasthani thali with ingredients sourced from the organic garden. The place offers private dining options and cooking demonstrations on request. The farm-to-table concept apart, the resort follows other sustainable practices, such as composting and hydrophonic farming methods and has adopted a local government school in the area
Indulge yourself in activities such as nature walks outside the premises, daily group morning yoga and evening meditation sessions and a detailed consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor. Or spoil yourself silly at the spa by treating yourself to the signature Maharani or Maharaja Massage, which combines Swedish and deeptissue techniques using rose and geranium oil. Camel and horseback rides on a rare Marwari breed within the property are also available for guests. For shoppers, the boutique at the resort sells local jewellery, fabrics, artefacts and exclusive products.
A traveller’s paradise
Ajabgarh is home to the 17th century Ajabgarh Fort built by Ajab Singh Rajawat. The 16th century Bhangarh Fort, which is believed to be haunted, is a mere stone’s throw away from the property. What draws many tourists to Alwar is the Sariska Tiger Reserve, which is definitely worth vising while one is here. Somsagar Lake, which lies about three kilometres from the resort, is a pleasant picnic spot. Then there is Pratapgarh Fort, perched 30 km away. Neelkanth is a small hill town nearby, with a number of ancient temples with intricate carvings. For those looking to take souvenirs back home, Gola Ka Bas is a tiny village close by, which is well known for its marble statue work.
Amanbagh organises an interesting excursion called the Cow Dust Tour, wherein one gets to experience the village life in Ajabgarh while seated in an open jeep. The tour takes place in the evening hours when cows are led home along the dusty road and the sunset refracts through the dust. During the tour, one gets to see young rural children waving out excitedly and men and women busy at work. Then there is the cattle grazing, people drinking water from manual hand pumps and others lounging on the charpoys. A visit to one of the homes can be arranged to stop by to meet the families.
Alll in all, Amanbagh offers an eclectic and memorable experience that truly embodies Rajasthan’s inimitable Padharo Mhare Des spirit.
