Dera Mandawa

Built 125 years ago by Thakur Jait Singhji of Mandawa, Dera Mandawa is now home to his great grandson, who is a charming hotel owner full of fascinating stories and interesting information about the surrounding area. The eleven suites all come with spacious en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning and have their own lobby, study and bedroom, exquisitely decorated with traditional furniture. Breakfast options range from a sumptuous Rajasthani morning meal, to a continental choice of eggs, toast, fruit and fresh juices. With advance warning, Dera Mandawa will also be happy to organise lunch and dinner as well.

On special request Dera Mandawa will arrange a traditional gala evening introducing guests to local culture and traditions such as music, kite flying, henna art, and the tying of saris (wrap-around for ladies) and saafas (headgear for gentlemen). Nearby you can wander through colourfully chaotic markets, take a cycle rickshaw tour and explore the great Mughal architecture of this fascinating city.

When to go

December to March is the perfect time to visit Rajasthan and the North when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are pleasant during the day. It can get cold at night, so make sure to pack a few extra layers when visiting at this time. Summer starts mid-March and can get very hot getting into May and June. The monsoon period follows directly after from July to September, where humidity is high and the region receives the majority of its rainfall, although still very minimal amounts. The months of October and November after the monsoon season are also a great time to visit the region as it experiences warm and dry weather during the day with cooler temperatures at night.