Rajasthan is home to the most beautiful fortresses and palaces in India. Many of them are converted into a hotel and staying in one of them is something you have to experience at least once. When visiting Jodhpur, Ratan Vilas is your best choice when it comes to fine heritage hotels. The red stone mansion was built in 1920 by Maharaj Ratan Singhji of Raoti, one of the royals from Jodhpur. His grandson Maharaj Bharat Singh and great grandson R.K. Brijraj Singh converted the family mansion into a hotel eleven years ago. New additions built in a similar style have been annexed at the back with sun-filled courtyards in the middle.
Visiting India for the first time can be quite shocking. You need to give yourself some time to get used to the chaotic scene, dirty streets and new aromas. After a walk through Jodhpur’s Blue City our head dazzles from all the noise; claxons, holistic flute music and screaming children. The minute we set foot in the beautiful green garden of Ratan Vilas it feels like we enter an oasis of peace. And that’s exactly what we were looking for to make our first introduction to India a pleasant one.
Walking around the vila takes you to the bygone era. The traditional interior style is kept with antique furniture and old photographs and paintings of family portraits hanging on the wall. The hotel offers 22 cheerful decorated rooms categorized as deluxe and standard. All rooms are air conditioned and well facilitated with modern amenities. Recently they built a sparkling swimming pool, a welcoming addition in one of India’s hottest cities!
Ratan Vilas has a very good restaurant serving a wide variety of cuisine from across the globe and traditional delights to tickle your taste buds. Enjoy your dinner in the dining room or outdoors in the courtyard viewing the garden.
What we appreciated the most is the service and the familiar atmosphere. The fact that the family still lives in the villa makes you feel invited in someone’s home. From the moment that you arrive the staff helps you out with everything you need and Mr. Singh is present to ensure all guests have an enjoyable time.
Price: $$ | For booking and current prices check: Ratan Vilas
Address: Loco Shed Road, Near Bhaskar Circle, Ratanada, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 34200, India
Facilities: free Wi-Fi — swimming pool —restaurant— Flat screen TV – laundry service — garden — toiletries—mini-bar — air-conditioning — locker —massages
