Narendra Bhawan
Bikaner

Narendra Bhawan is a beautiful property which brings alive the Royal past and life of Maharaja Narendra Singh of Bikaner, after whom the hotel is named.

On arrival, guests are welcomed by the attentive staff, who have a hawk eye for detail, and from there on in they ensure each guest is well looked after. The hotel is intimate, it has just 82 rooms and is located in a quiet residential area in the heart of the bustling city. There is a boutique home-from-home feel to the property, but it was initially built as a hospital. Each room is beautifully decorated, with stylish contemporary design, with modernised Rajput furnishings and modern amenities, but perfectly incorporates its Indian heritage.

The elegant dining room, Pearls & Chiffon serves up both European and local dishes, with choices ranging from chicken caprese and spinach risotto to spiced Murgh sabzi and mutton korma, whilst restaurant staff can recommend pairings from the carefully curated wine list. The golden bar echoes traditional smoking parlours and serves up classically muddled cocktails. Alfresco drinks can also be taken on the terrace under the stars on warm evenings. In the corner of the rooftop is an inviting rooftop infinity pool which has panoramic views over the new and old quarters of the city. There is also a relaxing spa offering a range of treatments.

Narendra Bhawan is 4 kilometres from the Junagadh Palace which is certainly worth a visit. This most impressive fort was constructed between 1589 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, ruler of Bikaner and a general in the army of the Mughal emperor. In addition, the Bhandasar Jain Temple is particularly beautiful, with yellow-stone carving and dizzyingly vibrant paintings. It was commissioned in 1468 by a wealthy Jain merchant, Bhandasa Oswal. One should also walk through the old bazaar, and the hotel recommends a merchant trail tour which takes you through the narrow lanes of the old city. 

Both Bikaner and Narendra Bhawan come as a welcome change to the usual tourist route, and what’s more, it is easily connected to Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. It’s a real hidden gem and one we are excited to share!

When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.
Susan Heller