Perched high on a granite hill with 360-degree views of the stunning Rajasthani landscape is Alila Hotels & Resorts’ newest property, Alila Fort Bishangarh. The hotel is housed in an incredible 230-year-old defensive fortress, one of the only warrior forts to be converted to a heritage resort of this caliber. Alila Fort Bishangarh, opening in the first quarter of 2017, will feature 59 luxurious suites and several top-notch food and beverage options.
The impressive structure is fortified by two-metre-thick stone walls with openings for firearms and features large turrets and elaborate arched windows and jaalis. It is an excellent example of the Jaipur Gharana architecture, which was influenced by both the Mughals and the British. The fortress went through a meticulous seven-year restoration and the property also features a completely new structure that was created outside the old fort.
There are five different styles of suites to choose from, as well as 22 different layouts; each suite is custom designed to offer the best possible views of the surrounding landscape, which includes havelis, villages, and temples. Rooms come with modern amenities including spacious bathrooms, footed/inbuilt bathtubs, and large daybeds.
Fort Bishangarh has both indoor and outdoor dining options; the outdoor grill offers spectacular views of the Aravalli hills. The hotel’s bar, Madhuveni, features a cigar/cognac turret, and the Kachhawa Lounge serves the four C’s—champagne, coffee, chai, and cakes. There is also a library, a grand banquet hall, a show kitchen, and a conference room. Spa Alila is located in the dungeon within the main fort.
The resort has lavish public areas which are found down the hill at the Haveli. These include an arrival courtyard and tent; opulent banquet lawns; the pool, pool verandah, and terrace; a fitness centre; a bar and pantry; an organic garden and greenhouse; and the Play Soldiers Club with separate areas for teenagers and toddlers.
Fort Bishangarh is situated in the Arvalli hills in the Jaipur district, a three-hour drive from New Delhi and an hour’s drive from Jaipur. Its location makes it a pleasant escape from the heavily-frequented Jaipur-Jodphur-Udaipur trail.
Rates at Alila Fort Bishangarh start from $400 USD per room per night. For more information, visit www.alilahotels.com
