Deogarh Mahal Deogarh, Rajasthan

Deogarh Mahal is an imposing structure built in the 17th century located 80 miles northeast of Udaipur. It stands atop a hill and offers a commanding view of the Aravalli mountain range and the numerous lakes, strewn across the countryside. With its graying battlements, domes, turrets, jharokhas and huge gateways, it is a picturesque sight from the town below. Deogarh is also renowned as a school of miniature painting. Frescoes of this art form can also be seen on the fort walls. The Mahal also has some exciting rooms to browse through - Sheesh Mahal - the colorful hall of mirrors, is just one of them.

Getting There

Deogarh is accessible both by rail and road. It is a couple of miles east of National Highway No 8. By rail, it is on the Western Railway Route, between Udaipur and Marwar junction.

Nearest Airport: Udaipur 135 km. Jodhpur 170 km. Jaipur 280 km.

Nearest Railway Station: Deogarh - 1 km.

By Road: Deogarh - Jaipur 280kms (NH8)
Deogarh - Udaipur 135kms (NH8)
Deogarh - Jodhpur 170 kms
Deogarh - Kota 250kms
Deogarh - Kumbalgarh  70kms


Things to do

Deogarh is in the heart of Rajasthan and an ideal stopover to experience this colorful desert. The countryside can be explored on horseback with horses from the hotel stable, by bicycle, or by taking the Rural Ramble ride- a drive through the country, organized by the hotel, in one of their vintage vehicles.

A walk through the bustling merchandising village with villagers buying and selling their wares, walking further along the lake, past the family cenotaphs to the ruins of the old city is a morning well spent. The surrounding lake play host to a large variety of migratory birds and are a treat for the avid bird watchers.

A train ride on the local meter-gauge train down a hill with bridges and tunnels makes it a memorable experience. The more adventurous can trek through the jungle to one of the highest peaks with the shrine of goddess. Or those who wish to relax and unwind, the lotus shaped swimming pool with a Jacuzzi and drinks counter set amidst a landscaped garden is the ideal setting for private parties. The local masseur also helps relax the weary traveler.

Deogarh is a convenient base for day trips to the majestic Kumbalgarh Fort or the famous Jain temples of Ranakpur. The Kumbalgarh Fort is the most important fort in the Mewar region after Chittorgarh. Built in the 15th century it is set in the midst of forested area that is now the Kumbalgarh sanctuary. Because of its inaccessibility-surrounded by forest and its thick 36 kilometer wall, it is compared to Great Wall of China- it has been taken only once in history.

One of the biggest and most important Jain temples in India, the marble temple complex of Ranakpur was built in1439 AD. It is also possible to visit the Rajasamand Lake and Nauchaoki, which is the largest inscription in the world.
When night falls, the moonlit terraces under canopy of stars lend to the Mahal an ethereal elegance.

Jeep safaris into the rugged countryside, introduce you to a variety of exciting panoramas and the avian life.

Boating on the lake

Bird watching (near the lakes)

Painting: The Deogarh School was a breakaway form of the Major Mewar School in Udaipur. A saturation of artists in the capital encouraged some of them to strike out on their own in search of new patrons. The work of the artists was dominated by the ruling Rawats. Frescoes of this art form adorn the Fort walls and there are prints set into tinted glass.

Accommodation

The hotel has a total of 40 rooms – 2 Royal Suites, 4 Deluxe Suites and 34 Deluxe Rooms. There also is a mini bar.
Each room is comfortably elegant, with attached bathrooms fitted with modern amenities. All restorations and alterations on the Mahal were carried out, bearing in mind the old architectural style of the building. The idea was to offer the weary traveler, the comforts of today with an ambience of the past. Every room is reflective of a different era like Ranjit Prakash room that dates back to 1670 AD and the decor reflect the Rajput era.  With its domed ceiling, the Yog Maya Mahal or temple room enshrines the family deity.


Eating

Food is sure to be the best at the hotel. Home grown fruits and vegetables, in-house milk products and oils provide a delectable and distinct freshness. You can also flavor typical Mewari cuisine served with traditional hospitality. The hotel also offers delicious seasonal jams, and juices made from fruits grown around the Mahal. Orange marmalade, plum, and fixed fruit are some of the seasonal jams also available for sale. Gala evenings, featuring folk music and dance are also organized.

Facilities

Ayurvedic Massage - A special team from Kerala is available to provide relaxing and therapeutic Ayurvedic massage.

Airy terraces provide a splendid view of the ranges and lakes as one sunbathes, reads or watches the sun set.

Attached bathrooms fitted with modern amenities
Telephones with Direct Dialing Facility in all rooms

24Hr Room Service
Laundry and Dry Cleaning
Multi-Cuisine Restaurants,
Bar
Swimming pool
Jacuzzi
Doctor on Call
Children Swimming Pool
Baby sitter
Travel Counter
Credit Cards
RIJHAVAN -- The Shop (Books, Garments, Antiques...)
Modern Conference Facilities
Public Telephone Booth