Suryagarh

What we love: staying in a beautiful fortress on the edge of the desert.

The Suryagarh rises up out of the Thar Desert and is a truly imposing sight. Behind the fortress like walls , set against a desert backdrop, lies a boutique hotel combining the best of ancient and modern. Entering to the sound of babbling fountains, you cannot fail to feel you have arrived somewhere special. The 72 rooms are all spacious and the décor is a clever combination of white and cream with dashes of vibrant colours. To remind one of the caravan serais – which are the resting places the Thar Desert is known for – piles of cushions and throws are scattered on huge jute rugs. Bathrooms all have rainfall showers and most a jacuzzi bath. For families or guests travelling with friends the one and two bedroom Havelis offer privacy and private pools. The Suryagarh Suites have their own dining room and a private rooftop pool. When the desert heat becomes too much there is a fabulous indoor swimming pool. The Spa which offers traditional Indian treatments from top to toe also has a sauna and a rooftop pool. Therapy rooms have private hot tubs so it is easy to spend a few hours here. There are two restaurants. The Legend of Marwar specializing in the local cuisine which pays tribute to Jaisalmer’s history as a major trading route on the Silk Road. Nosh serves International food in a more relaxed setting. Have breakfast on the terrace and enjoy the company of peacocks and the hotel’s two rescue donkeys. The Suryagarh as a seemingly endless list of activities including desert dinners and sundowners.