The Rawla Narlai

Since the 1970s, the Ajit Group has been running its hotel business in Jodhpur, largely centered on the heritage luxury hotel, Ajit Bhawan. In 1996, the family-run company was looking to expand its offerings to a growing base of travelers with a desire to immerse in culture and history. They converted their country manor, Rawla Narlai, into a 35-key heritage hotel, immediately attracting a clientele of guests searching for a beautiful country retreat in the Thar Desert.

The property itself is a jewel amidst the sands and hills of Rajasthan. It was originally a hunting lodge built during the 17th century, eventually becoming a residence of the Jodhpur royalty. After converting Ajit Bhawan palace into what is now recognized as India's first heritage hotel, the expansion was followed in 1996, with Rawla Narlai.

Since Rawla Narlai was built as a hunting lodge during the 17th century, it bears a striking architecture that embodies Mughal and Indo-Saracenic conventions. The masonry uses traditional regional materials such as sandstone and marble, giving the estate the same distinction of glowing in the sun like the palaces of Jodhpur and Udaipur. Also of note are its gardens, which, while not actual charbaghs, still follow principles of those ostentatious lawns and groves.

All of the hotel's 35 suites and rooms proudly offer sophisticated stays, proudly putting its heritage as a royal residence on display. Even contemporary suites integrate traditional designs and embellishments, such as lattice carvings and classic woodwork, into the decor. For a truly authentic stay, the Rawla Narlai's grand heritage rooms capture the atmosphere and comfort once enjoyed by Jodhpur's nobility. These have all been lovingly restored and modernized, while preserving original aesthetics like jharokha arches and period furniture.

Jharokha Café

A cool and cozy space where you can start your day with a delicious and filling breakfast, or unwind after an adventure out visiting the villages and wildlife sanctuaries of the Thar Desert. Savor your meal while admiring the view of the gardens and of Elephant Hill from the tall windows.

Although Rawla Narlai only has one on-site restaurant, the hotel offers an amazing selection of dinner services that can be tailored for special occasions.

Sunrise Champagne Breakfast

Begin your day early with a breathtaking sunrise breakfast up on the hillocks of Narlai. Listen and watch birds and other wildlife begin their activities on a safari, before making a stopover at a scenic vista to bask in the golden glow of first light.

Lakeside Brunch

Gaze at the peaceful lake and watch as native and migratory birds make their way over the waters. By the shores, you'll be treated to a delectable meal served with drinks and desserts, while the canopy keeps out the desert sun.

Jungle Lunch

Surround yourself with the bounty and beauty of Rajasthan's jungle greenery while indulging in a hearty lunch. Native flavors will delight your taste buds while the chirping of birds will be the music in your ears.

Rooftop Dinner

Perfect for a leisurely yet refined meal after a long day, you can savor the delicacies of Narlai and Rajasthan without needing a fancy backdrop.

Stepwell Dinner

Celebrate a special evening with an equally special stepwell candlelight dinner. Make your way to the village via an ox-drawn cart, and be treated to a romantic night with traditional musicians and folk singers providing entertainment.

Tekri Dinner

The word tekri means hillock, which is where you'll be dining. From this vista, you can admire the twinkling desert night sky and the gentle illuminations of the distant villages.

Campfire Dinner

Perfect for winter or nights suited for revelry, the campfire dinner creates an atmosphere of togetherness that even strangers might find themselves making new friends.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Aside from wonderful dinners, Rawla Narlai will also be happy to arrange exciting adventures around the region. Book a safari tour where skilled and knowledgeable guides will take you around the Aravalli Hills, bringing you up close encounters with its wild denizens. Get to know the native leopards, mongooses, as well as local and migratory birds. You can also sign up for escorted village walks, where local guides will take you to meet the people of Narlai. Discover their recipes and flavors, as well as shop for handicrafts and other souvenirs.

When you're not out and about, take advantage of the on-site spa's services. Nourish your body with signature treatments, and rejuvenate your aches with special massages. There's also an outdoor pool where you can go for a swim, or just take a dip to cool off from the desert heat.

Other Celebrations

Although the hotel does not have a venue, you can celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries by booking one of their dinner services or adventures. Groups may prefer the lively atmosphere of the campfire dinner, while romantic couples will likely enjoy the intimate ambiance of a stepwell dinner.