Tucked away from hectic Indian street life, on a substantial tract of land shaded by a canopy of seasoned trees, sits the Ratan Vilas Jodhpur. Weaving through the pillars of this erstwhile family mansion and spilling onto the neatly-manicured lawns and secluded courtyards are stories of Rajput nobility and tales of the bygone era.

A 20-minute drive away from the hotel rests the formidable Mehrangarh Fort that towers over the Blue City. This highly-personalized and generously spread out heritage hotel has just 21 immaculate rooms, some with marble tubs, and yet some more with an idyllic veranda. You may sample Indian delicacies under the stars out on the terrace or in the restaurant and pick out trinkets and curios at the little boutique.

The pool completes our little oasis of tranquility- many a late afternoon can be spent by the sparkling blue waters on sun loungers.  The family is still in-residence. Allow them to regale you with stories of their history, legacy and future dreams- visitors to the Jodhpur heritage hotel aren’t just visitors, they’re guests of the family. Come and experience India’s regal past and stay a while in a chamber fit for nobility at one of the best heritage hotels Jodhpur has to offer. Ratan Vilas Jodhpur, a heritage hotel today, was once the private home of Maharaj Ratan Singh.Maharaj Ratan Singh (1887 – 1978) was a Rajput nobleman from Raoti, Jodhpur.

Opening into wide verandas with comfortable sit-outs, the Courtyard Standard rooms offer 300 square feet of character and old-world charm. The stately Courtyard Superior Rooms surround the traditional shaded inner courtyards which are perfect to relax in during hot summer months.  The grandest and most-sought after set of rooms in Ratan Vilas- these pool-facing chambers take you back to the august days of Rajput nobility. Much like the décor of Hotel Ratan Vilas Jodhpur, the cuisine served here is a mélange of traditional Indian flavours and continental fares. The dishes presented before guests will cater to the most discerning of palates without compromising on the experience of savouring family recipes passed down through generations. Partake in meals in the air-conditioned dining room overlooking the lush gardens. You can also dine al fresco in the gardens amongst trees or along the parapet with the hotel’s red sandstone façade in the background. In the winters, huddle around fire braziers with a beverage in hand and make delightful conversations with lilting Rajasthani music, played live, adding to the ambience.