There is one place we always tell travelers to India that they must go: Rajasthan and in particular, Rawla Narlai. Rawla Narlai is a heritage hotel in the village of Narlai, and it is the old hunting lodge of the king of Jodhpur. (In fact, while we were there, the owner of the lodge, who is considered the king of Narlai, came by for a visit. See below for evidence.) It is rare to make a hotel an actual destination, but there are so many magical experiences at this hotel that make it worth a vital addition to any Rajasthan tour. First, it’s location is perfect: it’s situated between two other must visit cities, Udaipur and Jodhpur. Car is the mode of travel in this area, so any way to break up the trip is gratefully accepted. When you arrive to Rawla Narlai, you really feel like you’ve stumbled onto an old, Mogul home. Everything about this heritage hotel is serene: the lush landscape, the quintessential rooms, luxe sitting areas everywhere you look, and impeccable treatment by the hotel staff. Ask for Lala. He will take you on a village tour at dusk, and you’ll have a chance to really see how Rajasthani folk live. If you want those silver anklets that the village women wear, he’ll take you to the local silversmith (I haven’t taken mine off yet!). The moment we arrived, humble Lala even remembered us and still had the picture of him carrying Gigi all around when she was just a little toddler. When we were deciding where to travel in India for our three week tour, returning to this magical spot is what steered our vacation to Rajasthan. I love Rawla Narlai–so much! I hope one day to mimic a courtyard just like their’s and spend my days reading and drink nimbu pani (sweet lime water)!
Rawla Narlai
Village Narlai, Rajasthan, India
Tel : + 91 2934 260443
Fax : +91 2934 260596
Email : crs@rawlanarlai.com
*Aside of the dusk tour through the village, there are other options in this countryside stay. But I’ll leave that for a later post….
My goodness what a gorgeous place to be Ann!!!
I want to see the ankle bracelet!!!
I want to see the picture of Gigi and Lala!!
Hey, speaking of pictures. .. where are some of you and the family for the post?
Coming later I hope.
Oh, you know my fam. They are hard pressed to be featured here on the blog! We did get a family pic however. Once I get the (very belated) card ready, I’ll post those family pics. Email me your address if you’d like a physical one! Love, Annie
It looks so amazing, luxurious, beautiful, authentic. All those flowers and the pretty buildings!
such a fabulous place!
besos
Oh, Dear! It is!! It is all of those things and more. I love this little slice of heaven so much!! It’s a “Pinch me, am I dreaming?” sort of place. Love, Ann