Opening the box of untold surprises on anniversaries each year, this time I
unlocked fort Alila which eventually my husband contemplated as an idyllic spot to
best suit my senses. The place promised an authentic slice of royal life
and myself being a heritage aficionado, I captured every spirit of this royal
place right from the moment I entered.
Tucked away to the Rajasthan 's country side Fort Alila is just 50 km. from
the pink city of Jaipur on NH 8.This 230 years old, fortress stands splendid on a magnificent hill
is undeniably an amazing piece of architecture from the 14 century and is
witness to many historical battles which is now turned into a beautiful
boutique hotel and serves as one of the most romantic holiday destination with
a wonderful amalgamation of old world charm with the comforts of 21 century amidst
the mesmerizing vistas of mustard and lush green felids which is a must visit.
Cocooned in rich opulence, the fort entrance was absolutely palatial through
the long and steeped cobbled path with the high fort walls on either sides
which reflects the glories of the past and elevated me to the aura of old world.
Haveli is the reception area much before the fort encircled by a beautiful
manicured garden where the guests are given warm welcome .Unlike other hotels there is no concept of check in counters. All
check ins are done in the comfort of your room.
The fort has been amazingly designed and refurbished into a five star property
where beauty, elegance and opulence greet you at every step. This heritage
hotel has nine stories in all well connected with three fast moving lifts and
features 59 suites, which includes 18 heritage rooms, 8regal suites, 11royal
suite and 20grand suites and 2 presidential suites. Each room is unique with
its own beauty, decor, style and theme. Interestingly, each room offers a
sweeping view of the countryside which is sure to stun your senses.
Fort Alila’ s signature lies in its hospitality and leaves the guests
spoilt for choices. The property houses three restaurants. “Amarsar “is a
multicuisine restaurant on the fourth floor which serves an array of veg and
non veg cuisines which promises best to match your taste buds. Fixed menus are
set for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The chefs give authentic touch to the food
and try to match their preference .A romantic candle light dinner on the Nazara
terrace is a perfect way to end your day on. While you can enrich your palate with
the mediterrean delicacies at the Mediterrean restaurant located by the pool
side. Nazara is the open air restaurant which lets you dine under the twinkling
stars hence the highlight of the fort. The restaurant offers Rajput hunter
cuisine cooked in sandpits and over open flames. This place offers picture
perfect vistas which are best suited for capturing in your cameras. Folk
singers add an extra charm by playing soul soothing music which will leave you
spell bound. To enjoy a laid back ambiance you can spend time at Kachwaha lounge
which serves a combination of 4 c’s that is cake, coffee, chai and champagne. To
add zest there is an exotic Madhuvani bar and cigar lounge. Apart from what I
liked the most is that the culinary expert practice “farm to table concept” and
dig out the most Indian and international cuisine by their home grown organic
produce.
To rejuvenate your mind body and soul you can indulge in various holistic
massages and therapies offered at the spa. While the fort also features ’’Darbar”
as an activity and entertainment room on the fifth floor which houses all sorts
of indoor games and TV. for your recreation. There is a swimming pool and kids
play area at the haveli side garden which offered the best clicks by the fort
being my background for selfies. The best way to get soaked into the sublime
beauty of the place is by taking a nature walk by the village .The tranquil
beauty of the surroundings offer exotic eye pleasure especially for the bird watchers.
The fort also offers string of activities for the enthusiasts like a visit to local
jeweler, weavers and potters where you can try your hand over weaving and learn
about Rajasthani pottery style. The royal stay at the fort would have been
indeed incomplete without a camel cart ride and kite flying activity which
reminded me of the ancient medieval era.
Living up to its name, cradled by nature, this 230 years old fort is a
celebration of senses, underlined with finest expression of luxury and a practice
of perfection culture of generosity which proves to be an ideal locale for a
family getaway or a leisure stay which lets your senses immerse in the regal
days of the yore. Equipped to throw grandest of weddings with expert in house
wedding planners this ethereal palace is a wedding destination for the couples
who are looking to infuse royal heritage in to their special day.
