Devra, Udaipur India, Rajasthan

Devra is a five-acre estate privately owned by Major Durgas Das and his wife Jyoti. The pair have opened their home on the outskirts of Udaipur to visitors for a warm and personal homestay with great food and stellar service. Come here for a slightly more remote experience of lovely Udaipur.

The house was built around the 'Devra', or tribal temple and the tribal community from nearby villages still carry out a ceremony here every Saturday at which guests are welcome to attend and observe. 

The property has ten spacious rooms and suites, all built around the small temple and tastefully decorated in a rustic style with comfortable beds. The suites have private bathrooms, spacious interiors, and sitting areas. It’s cool and elegant here with soft furnishings and a pleasant atmosphere. The suites in the main house work very well for a family and children are welcome, though there is as yet no pool. 

Dining is an important part of the experience, so you may like to dine with your hosts and fellow guests, or a private meal with your travel companions. Activities available on-site include massage, walks in the countryside, and Udaipur excursions. Major Durgas is a keen environmentalist and will lead the bird watching walks himself at no extra cost. "I have no other hobbies!" he explains. Jyoti leads a very involved and interactive cooking experience in which she demonstrates traditional methods. 

This is an intimate homestay, so if you prefer lots of modern facilities or complete privacy, you may be disappointed. Devra is the place to come for a slightly more isolated and very personal experience just outside of Udaipur with incredible 360 degree views of the lake at Udaipur and the surrounding Aravelis. The city itself might be just fifteen minutes away, but the property has a lovely secluded country feel about it.