Mihir Garh, Jodhpur

Location

Standing proud on a sand dune overlooking the parched earth of the Great Indian Desert, Mihir Garh – or Fort of the Sun – is one of the most extraordinary hotels in the world. India is rife with historic forts and palaces beautifully converted into luxury hotels, but Mihir Garh isn’t one of them. Not because it isn’t luxurious – far from it – but because it’s virtually brand new. Sparing no expense and driven by a desire to build a luxury hotel that celebrated the artistic, architectural and historical traditions of Rajasthan, owner Sidharth Singh built Mihir Garh from scratch just a few years ago, commissioning 100 local craftsmen to build its turrets, battlements and palatial suites.

Accommodation

The hotel has nine suites, each offering more than 1,700 square feet of luxury. They all have their own plunge pools or open-air jacuzzis, hand-crafted fireplaces, private terraces and collections of hand-chosen furnishings from Jodhpur and the surrounding area. And they all offer mesmerising views of the stark and compelling desert.

Dining

Helping set Mihir Garh apart are its Royal Picnics, in which you’re escorted by camel, cart or horse to a secluded spot in the wilderness, where courteous attendants lead you to an ornate tent where food and wine has been spread across crisp, white covers. Or enjoy a Shikar Dinner beneath the stars by a crackling bonfire to the sounds of traditional folk music.

Facilities

Horse riders will love the equestrian programmes available, with the rare chance to ride Marwari horses across breathtaking desert landscapes. Other activities include village visits, bird-watching and culinary workshops, any of which can be followed by a soak in the steaming outdoor hot tubs.