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Offbeat destinations

We bring you little known secrets tucked away from prying eyes in the folds of mountains, deep within forests or surrounded by seas. Discover these way-out, offbeat gems, some of them destinations in their own right.

 
Bhainsroargarh Palace, Chittorgarh
Off the beaten track hotels - Bhainsroargarh Palace, Chittorgarh
 
Bhainsroargarh Palace, Chittorgarh
 
Sitting astride a 200 feet high rocky ledge that falls directly into the Chambal River, Bhainsroargarh Palace is grand and intimidating. Originally the abode of the Chundawats of Mewar, the palace has been restored to its former glory, retaining the old world charm. The interiors take you on a journey full of luxury and promise the good life with their stained glass windows and period furniture.

Understated opulence and discreet luxury is the buzzword as colourful cushions beckon you to sink into their depths, all shaded by gauzy curtains. At the Bhainsroargarh Palace, it’s royalty all the way, and you are given the regal treatment too.

The views in the morning from the many jharokhas are stunning – the mist shrouded countryside and the placid river glow in the early morning light, showing you pictures you’ll never forget, imbuing you with tranquility.

USP: Live life ‘king’ size! High on romance.
Bhainsroargarh is a fortified outpost of the kingdom of Mewar, 235 kilometers northeast of Udaipur and 50 kilometers south of Kota. The nearest town is Rawatbhata, 7 km from Bhainsroargarh.

Air: Nearest airport is Kota, 50 km away, although Udaipur airport is busier with a higher frequency of flights. The drive from Kota will take about 1 hour 15 minutes while Udaipur is 5 hours away.

Rail: The most convenient railhead is Kota, well connected with Delhi. Kota is on the Western Railways main route from Delhi (550 km, 10 hour drive) to Mumbai. Major trains which run on this route are: Rajdhani Express, August Kranti Rajdhani Exp, Golden Temple Exp, Jammu Tawi Exp, Paschim Express, Nizammuddin to Indore – Intercity Exp and the to and from daily Jan Shatabdi Express (except on Sundays) which has two AC Chair Car coaches. It leaves Delhi at 1.10 PM and reaches Kota at 7.45 PM and departs Kota at 6.00 AM to reach Delhi at 12.15 PM.

Road: Delhi is about 550 km and the drive takes 10 hours. Follow NH – 8 to reach Jaipur and proceed to Ajmer (bypass) and Bhilwara (150 km). Turn towards Chittorgarh (125 km) and proceed via Bassi, Parsoli, Katonda and Singoli to reach Rawatbhata.

If driving from Bombay, take the route through Udaipur. From Udaipur, proceed via – Chittorgarh, Bassi, Parsoli, Katonda and Singoli. If driving from Ahmedabad (500 km) the drive takes 8 hours and goes through the Udaipur – Chittorgarh route given above.

Five unique suites, each with a varied decor. Since the palace is situated on top of a hill, all rooms overlook the Chambal River and offer magnificent views. You can go fishing in the river and maybe, catch the famous Mahseer! Or go boating in old-styled boats as drinks and snacks are served on board. You can also choose to enjoy your evening tea on the boat.

The palace offers to organise a visit to the Mukund Dara National Park - spot wild animals such as panthers, sloth bears, hyenas, Sambhars and so on. Also enjoy the picturesque drive that takes you through mountains and scenic stretches. Alternatively, you can relax with a picnic lunch on an island from where one can site a Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), the highly endangered species of crocodiles. You can also go sightseeing to nearby heritage locations that lie peppered throughout Rajasthan. Or just lounge in your room at the palace and enjoy being treated like royalty!