Deogarh

The impressive Deogarh Mahal palace sits on the top of a hill overlooking the small town of Deogarh, situated deep in the rugged and beautiful countryside of Rajasthan. Built in 1670 AD by Rawat Dwarka Dasji, Deogarh Mahal was originally a family residence and has been converted into a fairytale heritage hotel by its current owner, Rawal-Nahar Singh. Situated at 2100 feet above sea level, temperatures are relatively cool for Rajasthan and the views of the Aravalli mountain range and the lake-strewn countryside are stunning.

It is easy to walk down through Deogarh, which is a typical Rajasthani market town with narrow streets full of small shops and stalls; local sites include Gokal Garh Fort and Anjana Mahadeoji Temple. Head out of town to sample rural life amidst tranquil Indian scenery – you can explore by jeep safaris, train or on horseback. Boating on the lake, cycling, birdwatching treks and countryside picnics can also be arranged. The train journey is particularly special – Deogarh’s metre-gauge train passes through beautifully unspoilt landscapes, waterfalls and the hills of Kali Ghati where there are many bridges and tunnels constructed by the British.

Deogarh is 80 miles from Udaipur and a great stop off if travelling between Jodhpur and Udaipur. It is also well located to visit the imposing forts at Kumbhalgarh and Chittorgarh, the Jain temples of Ranakpur, or the temples at Nathdwara and Eklingi.

To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson