Amanbagh
Ajabgarh

Amanbagh is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Romantic Retreats, Top 10 Hotels in Rajasthan and Top 10 Aman Resorts in Asia.

A lush oasis in Rajasthan’s starkly beautiful Aravalli Hills, Amanbagh evokes the palatial elegance of the royal Mughal era, and is an all-round winner. Bountiful fruit trees, mature palms and eucalyptus are set within a walled compound to create a contemporary oasis which pays homage to India's golden age.

The sandstone and pink marble palace is designed with every possible contemporary comfort in mind, comprising of 22 Haveli Suites and 15 Pool Pavilions situated in lush gardens around the main swimming pool. The generously proportioned suites are of the highest standard and provide the perfect tranquil base from which to explore the rich heritage of Rajasthan.

The graceful domed main building is set on three levels and houses the Restaurant on the ground floor, which opens onto a terrace overlooking the garden. The menu focuses on seasonal Indian and western cuisines, with vegetables and herbs grown in the organic kitchen garden. Opposite, the Salon Bar provides a cosy place in which to relax and unwind. On the main building's upper floor is the Library Terrace, an ideal spot for informal dinners under a starlit sky, and the Library itself offers reference books on the history, arts, culture and wildlife of India. Elevated above the tree canopy, the Rooftop provides a pleasant alfresco venue for dinners and refreshments, with sweeping views over the gardens and surrounding hills. Beyond the main building, set in landscaped gardens, stretches the enormous 33-metre swimming pool and a 12-metre wading pool. There is also an Amanbagh spa which offers a range of western and Ayurveda treatments, and yoga and meditation take place within the scenic gardens. It is also possible to curate an experience centred around wellness, and stay for a minimum of two weeks with a fully personalised dietary and treatment programme, all within the breathtaking Rajasthani hills.

A stay at Amanbagh is as much about the spa as exploring the surrounding area. The evening Cow Dust Tour follows the cattle and their herders (from the comfort of an open top jeep) on their return home from a day of grazing in the jungle. As you wind through the villages they come alive with coloured saris and ambling water buffalo. It is a magical look at rural Rajasthani life.  A series of cultural excursions can also be organised, such as visits to the 17th century Ajabgarh Fort and Baba Kapoor Shah Mosque, as well as the atmospheric deserted city of Bhangarh, a national heritage site comprising an entire city of bazaars, palaces, gardens, temples and bathing pools. Or, you may just simply want to unwind and get in touch with your inner maharajah or maharani.

Please note that Amanbagh closes from 1st June to 31st July every year for monsoon season. 

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson