Amanbagh, Ajabgarh India, Rajasthan

This verdant green resort is contained within a walled compound and feels much like an oasis in the sandy desert, just two hours away from Jaipur in India’s Alwar region. Amanbagh is classy and luxurious, providing a lovely upmarket place to relax for a few days between busy cities.

Amanbagh is surrounded by arid countryside, home to architectural ruins, forts, temples, mosques, and villages. Bhangarh, the mysterious uninhabited medieval city that was abandoned overnight, is just fifteen kilometres away. Sariska National Park is close by, a great place to spot leopards, wild boar, antelope, macaque monkeys, and tigers. A 40-minute trek from the resort leads you through the valley to the wide and picturesque Somsagar Lake, a beautiful place to take breakfast or practice meditation and yoga.

There are 15 spacious pool pavilions and 24 havelis (villas) for guests. Each haveli has its own landscaped courtyard or balcony, and the pool is large and lovely. You can expect all the usual spa treatments and facilities, as well as high-end service and top quality cuisine, locally sourced, of course. All in all, this is a deeply satisfying five-star experience in the Aravali foothills.

Amanbagh might have less historical character than other luxury hotels in the same region, but it’s an impressive property and a lovely place to while away a few relaxing days.