Mihir Garh

Hotel review

What can prepare you for the first sight of this beautiful small fortress, perfectly placed on a sand dune rising out of the middle of the Thar Desert? As if that is not surprise enough, you must understand the creation of this miracle is a 21st Century affair. It was the realisation of a dream by the noble Singh family, scions of nearby Rohet Garh, that wonderful heritage hotel, created in their ancestral home, first established in 1622.

Mihir Garh takes the comfort and luxury of Rohet Garh to another level. Built in only two years, this imaginative hotel houses just nine magnificent suites. Each one is more than 1700 square feet of private indulgence, having a balcony or courtyard of its own, and either a jacuzzi or a heated plunge pool. The decoration and furnishings are spectacular, including the traditional white fireplaces, fittingly made by local craftsmen to create intimate and unusual spaces. Everywhere are alcoves, arches and small staircases built in satisfyingly soft polished curves.

At night small candles star the walls, and braziers accompany the alfresco dining tables gathered around an infinity pool which looks out into the desert. All around rise the saw teeth of the Mogul-inspired battlements, while above the stars prick the heavens. There are courtyards within courtyards, and everywhere is the sound of gentle running water from tumbling fountains. There is such a sense of intimacy throughout, it is surprising to learn that that there are over forty members of staff to attend to the nine suites. They are friendly and discreet, and you will be amused to find that when you finally tumble into bed, a hot water bottle awaits you.

This pleasure palace is not a desert mirage. It offers exquisite cuisine, both traditional and continental. The Tulsi Spa offers a variety of treatments, the village Safari takes you to meet local artisans, the Royal Picnic will surpass your expectations, while the equestrian programme takes you out on unique rides through the wild desert on their famed Marawi breed. There are even culinary workshops and demonstrations, so guests can learn the secrets of the delicacies they have enjoyed from the kitchens.

The owners of Mihir Garh are aware of their ecological responsibilities, and ensure that the various activities of their guests in no way encroach on the beauty of this virgin land. The surrounding desert is surprisingly full of birds, including plenty of peacocks who can be seen everywhere around the fort, and antelope grazing a little further off. Mihir Garh gives you a taste of paradise, with the highest standards a hotel can offer. It not an easy place to leave.

Hugh Dunford Wood Review published: 23/09/2024