Elite Traveler November-December 2015

INSPIRE DESERT ESCAPES

elite traveler NOV/DEC 2015 ISSUE 6 92

Mihir Garh THAR DESERT, INDIA

This impressive fortress overlooking Rajasthan’s Thar Desert looks a bit like a giant sandcastle. That’s probably not the most flattering description – nor one that will please proud owners Sidharth and Rashmi Rohet who designed it personally, nor the 100 craftsmen and carpenters who toiled for two years building it – but it begins to explain why it has been nicknamed the world’s most extraordinary hotel. The nine suites are 1,700 sq ft each but there's a distinctly personal touch – staff hand out hot water bottles on chilly evenings and recipes in the cooking classes are old family favorites compiled by Rohet’s mother. Standout service The shikar dinners (traditional Indian barbecues) with live Rajasthani folk musicians. ”Royal picnics” can also be arranged, with crisp table linen and an ornate tent, all transported to your picnic site by camel cart. Special amenities Every suite has a private plunge pool, fireplace, freestanding bathtub and antique teak bed. There’s a roof terrace with a mattress for viewing the Indian sunset, and a stable of fine horses – the Rohet family are keen horsemen. Room to book Rent the whole nine-suite property for your party taking one of the three Shandaar Suites for yourself, with infinity spa pools and private terraces overlooking the desert. Contact Thakur Sidharth Singh, owner, reservation@mihirgarh.com, +91 291 243 1160, mihirgarh.com Price $5,500 per night for exclusive use, including meals