HILL FORT KESROLI

Hill fort Kesroli, a slice of a royal stay

Keeping abuzz my love for heritage, I turned back the pages of history and visited Fort Kesroli this winters for a leisure stay and marked the occasion of my anniversary.

Nestled in the Delhi - Jaipur- Agra triangle ,on the foothills of Aravalli range, Fort Kesroli  is about 150 km away from Jaipur, and is undeniable an amazing piece of architecture from the 14 th century .The fort was constructed during the reign of the Yaduvanshi Rajputs and is witness to many historical battles which is now turned into a heritage boutique hotel and serves as a one of the most beautiful holiday destination with a wonderful amalgamation of the old world charm with impeccable hospitality and contemporary  comforts of the 21 century amidst the beautiful vistas of mustard and the lush green fields which is a must visit.

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 discovered the whole complex was full of bougainvillea creepers, bushes and trees.  Exploring the true maze of staircases, terraces hidden courtyards, walk able roofs and hallways revealed nobility .There were many nook and crannies and secret tunnels that lead different part of the fort .Each part was more intriguing than the other and served as the perfect backdrop for my selfies. Once a home to the kings, this fort resonated with an aura of regal splendor which suffused a royal feel in me and drove my senses to the yore of the rich past.

This heritage hotel has 31 rooms of which 4 are duplex suits, 5 are grand rooms, 10 are suites and 12 are rooms ,bathroom is attached to each room. Rooms are named as "mahal" likeTota mahal, Deepika mahal , Nirmal mahal etc. Some rooms are spacious but quaint some tiny but airy, some are expensive while some are just right for the budget travelers. Each room is unique with its own beauty, decor style and theme with different locations some open to the courtyards, some to the willable roofs while some open to the garden. The Fort Kesroli is more along the lines of a boutique hotel, so don't expect to be pampered the way you would be in a five star hotel as the rooms don’t ooze luxury. Rooms are adorned with the furniture that evokes old times ,furnishing is tasteful ,there is no television , rooms have paddle locks, windows are arched that fold downwards showing off the carpenters skill and uphold the majesty of the royal medieval era and pamper you with all basic amenities .The actual charm of this heritage hotel lies in the fact that it allows you to relax and enjoy in a historical setting and explore nature's beauty around on a bi cycle ride.

Fort Kesroli s signature lies in their hospitality and leaves no stone unturned to pamper you to the hilt with their gracious services. The fort houses a multi cuisine restaurant called “Ranawat burj “which serves a wide variety of delectable veg and non veg cuisines apt to match your taste buds and also brings out the robust flavors of the local rajasthani cuisines which enhance your entire experience of eating. Fixed buffets are displayed for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while there is an option of Ala carte for snacks menu. Appetizing complementary snacks like pakoras, cookies, cakes and beverages are also served at “Bulbul mahal” around sunset. From the restaurants i got a breathtaking view of the endless green fields and watched village life so close, which was not only soul soothing but also a treat to my eyes. At night the fort looked staggeringly beautiful with all lamps lit up adding grandeur to the ancient charm, engulfing my senses in the glories of the rich past. 

Durbar mahal is the recreation room for the guest’s entertainment which offers carom, cards, chess and other indoor games along with a TV. and a huge sitting for your relaxation. To rejuvenate your mind body and soul you can indulge in various holistic massage therapies at the spa, while a game of Bad Minton will actually tone your tired muscles. There are two swimming pools, one for kids and other for adults.

Away from the hustle bustle of the cities, Hill fort Kesroli 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 fresh air ,rustling of bushes and a laid back ambiance of serene surroundings. Well equipped to throw grandest of weddings, Hill fort kesroli is also a perfect wedding destination for the couples who are looking to infuse royal heritage in to their special day.