Heritage Stays

photographer’s delight.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Around the festival of Holi that generally falls during late February and mid-March.

STAY: The MP government sets up a camping village with Swiss tents near the festival venue.

GETTING THERE: About 250km by road from Indore.

While the camel fair at Pushkar in Rajasthan is quite wellknown, the one at Bikaner is equally exciting. One of the most interesting activities during the two-day festival is the camel fur cutting competition. The desert animal’s hair is artistically trimmed so that it appears to have intricate designs and patterns on its body. Other activities include tug-of-war competitions between Indians and ‘foreigners’, a turban-tying contest and cultural dances by folk artists.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: January to February

STAY: Several private hotels, heritage properties and government-run hotels available.

GETTING THERE: Jodhpur airport is about 250 km away. Bikaner is also well-connected to many major cities by rail.

Set on the Shivala ghats in Varanasi, this was built in the early 20th century by the royal family of Nepal as a retreat for the aged. You can start your day with yoga on the roof terrace by trained instructors or take a walk through the narrow alleys. The haveli is also connected by small alleys leading to the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: November to February

GETTING THERE: The nearest airport Babatpur is 30 km away, then an hour’s drive + 15 min boat ride. Via Bus or Train, Varanasi junction is 7 km.

SAMODE HAVELI >

This is another property with loads of history and character. Built 175 years ago, it is still the family’s residence while a part of it has been converted into a heritage hotel. It doesn’t accept tour groups, which offers a peaceful and relaxed cocoon for independent travellers and honeymooners. The rooms are adorned in classic Rajasthani style block prints and hand-woven damasks. For a real treat, reserve the haveli’s Sheesh Mahal Suite, which is embellished with 18th-century frescoes and mirrorwork. A special feature of the haveli is the elephant ramp; it offers an outdoor swimming pool and a spa and wellness centre.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: November to January

GETTING THERE: Located in Jaipur city. Train station is 1.5 km away while the airport is 13 km away

Just half a km off the main East-West artery of Jaipur is the exquisite and luxurious Khatu Haveli. The word ‘haveli’ means mansion. Comprising three spectacular courtyards and terraces, it offers views of the Nahargarh Fort and the City Palace.

The haveli was built in mid-19th century, and six generations of the Khatu family have lived here ever since. The mansion offers lavish heritage rooms and a Maharaja suite where guests can enjoy the renowned Rajput hospitality.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: November to January

GETTING THERE: Located in Jaipur city. Train station is 1.5 km away while the airport is 13 km away.

Explore the 200-year-old haveli Braj Bhushanjee in Rajasthan’s Bundi city (kiplingsbundi.com). Another gem is the Amet Haveli (amethaveliudaipur.com) built during the rule of Maharana Jagat Singh. You could also opt for the DeraMandawa (deramandawa.com), a boutique hotel adorned with Rajasthani jharokhas and regal arches mixed with British inspired door-frames.