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Delwara

Located in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan and home to the fort-hotel RAAS Devigarh, the picturesque farming village of Delwara commands one of the three main passes into the valley of Udaipur. Built in the 18th century and once home to the rulers of Delwara, RAAS Devigarh perfectly captures the magic of rural Rajasthan and it is one of Ampersand’s favourites hotels. This magnificent fort-hotel is perched on a hillside overlooking the colourful village of Delwara, a gentle stroll away.

Delwara is easy to explore on foot and the village itself boasts four 14th century Jain temples, which formed the inspiration for the famous temples of Dilwara near Mount Abu. Known as the “town on the gods”, Delwara once boasted over 1,000 temples, of which 400 were Jain Mandir Temples. Though many have turned to ruins, today every street in Delwara has at least one temple. Aside from temples, other highlights in Delwara include the Indra Kund, a lovely Step Well with beautiful carvings, and Audhi, which is an old hunting tower on Kantya Hill with panoramic views.

Delwara’s community is varied, made up of Jhalas (Rajputs), Patels, Gametis (Bhil tribe), Muslims and Jains. An NGO called Seva Mandir has helped Delwara develop sustainably as a socially, historically and environmentally-aware village. They run excellent personalised village walks by a small number of well-trained trained locals, as well as a patchwork program called Sadhna Workshop to generate income to promote women’s empowerment. Today, this initiative has transformed into a self-owned enterprise involving more than 600 women from various villages.

Delwara offers visitors a rare glimpse of authentic small-town life without the hordes of tourists found elsewhere in Rajasthan. Although now a destination in its own right, it is also an ideal base for exploring Rajasthan’s most romantic city, Udaipur, which is just 45 minutes’ drive from Delwara; in this peaceful rural oasis, you are far enough away from the bustle, but within easy reach of some fascinating forts, palaces and temples, such as 1st century temples of Nathdwara and Eklingji. Further afield you can take a day trip to Kumbhalgarh and Chittorgarh Forts or the elaborately carved Jain temple in Ranakpur.

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Client Testimonials

Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
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Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
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Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
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Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
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I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
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