Ramathra fort, a blissful escape
Stepping into
the shoes of royalty and keeping abuzz my love for heritage, i contemplated
Ramathra fort this winters, as an idyllic holiday spot which was well designed
to suit my senses.
Tucked away to the Rajasthan’s
country side, Ramathra fort is nestled in Jaipur-Agra-Delhi triangle on the
foothills of Aravalies and approximately 165 km from the pink city of Jaipur via
NH 23. This small fortress is 350 year old and is undeniably piece of
architecture from the 17th century. This was further expanded and fortified by
Thakur Bhojpal and is witness to many historical battles which is now turned to
a heritage boutique hotel and serves a wonderful honeymoon destination with a
perfect amalgamation of old world charm dotted with impeccable hospitality and
contemporary comforts of the 21 st centaury amidst the breathtaking vistas of
lush green fields which is a must visit.
My journey to the fort was bit bumpy
and hilly but was worth a drive. Wrapped in rich opulence ,the fort entrance
was absolutely palatial with arched doors .After a steep walk through the cobbled
path till the reception ,I found the whole complex was full of trees, bushes
and bougainvilla creepers .Exploring courtyards, walkable roofs , hallways and
round turrets on each corner revealed royalty. Interestingly once a home to the
kings, the fort resonates with the stories of the kingly era which suffused a
royal feel in me and drove my senses to the yore of the rich past.
The heritage hotel features 4 rooms
(including 2 grand suits ) and 6 garden facing luxury tent rooms. Apparently,
mine was a valley facing luxury suite layered with state of art amenities, It
featured spacious sitting area with a fire place, while the bedroom featured
king size four poster bed with the big
windows that opened out to the balcony offering a sweeping view of the
countryside. The bathroom was big with a outdoor bath tub with a sweeping view
and against the backdrop of Aravali hills. Ramathra fort is more on the lines
of a boutique hotel so don’t expect to be pampered like the way you are in a
five star hotel. All the rooms are adorned with furniture that evokes old times
and is tasteful, there is no television and rooms have paddle locks. Windows
are arched that fold downwards showing off carpenter’s skill and uphold the
majesty of the royal medieval era. Each room is different and has its own style
decor .While garden facing luxury tents are set against the fort’s rampart
walls surrounding lush courtyard lawn.
Fort Ramathra ‘s signature lies in
their hospitality and leaves the guests spoilt for choices with their gracious
services. The property houses a multi-cuisine restaurant which serves an array
of appetizing veg and non veg cuisines with well crafted menu. It serves fixed
menus for breakfast ,lunch and dinner. Chefs give authentic touch to the food
and personally offers guests choices of four course dinner menus and customize
meals as per their preference and tries to match their palate. Apart from this
what i liked the most is the culinary expert practice “Farm to table “concept
and dig out the most Indian and international cuisines prepared by the home
grown organic produce.
To rejuvenate mind body and soul you
can indulge in Jacuzzi and spa at the turrets which indeed offers a panoramic
view of the dawn and dusk. The tranquil beauty of the lake Kalisil in the vicinity
offers exotic eye pleasure especially to the bird watchers. The best way to get
soaked in the sublime beauty of the surroundings is by taking a boat ride
service at lake offered by the fort in the evening. The incredible vistas of
the hills and the majestic fort will leave you awestruck. While there are many
activities for the adventure enthusiasts like trekking, nature walk, bird
watching and village visit.
Away from the hustle and bustle of
the cities, Ramathra fort proves to be an ideal locale which lets you soak in
the royal charm of the kingly era, where you hear the call of the birds,
crackling of the fresh air, rustling of the trees and laid back ambiance of the
serene surroundings. Well equipped with amenities Fort Ramathra is a perfect
place for your honeymoon especially for the couples who are looking to infuse peacefulness
with royal heritage on their special stay.
