Greeting Local Guides,
Have you ever imagined finding a refuge where time seems to linger, where echoes of history emanate from ancient walls, and where nature creates a mesmerizing masterpiece? Your search ends at Rawla Narlai, a 17th-century heritage treasure tucked away in the rugged splendor of the Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan.
Rawla Narlai stands as a luxurious hotel nestled in the tranquil village of Narlai within the Pali district of Rajasthan. Renowned among travelers as a “must-visit” destination along the popular route between Udaipur and Jodhpur, it marks a noteworthy stop on the well-trodden tourist path through the heart of Rajasthan.
Here luxury meets wilderness - Once a formidable 17th-century fortress, Rawla Narlai has undergone a transformation into a sumptuous hotel property. Experience a serene and tranquil sojourn here, akin to the opulence of a 5-star establishment but without the hustle of crowded tourist spots. The property skillfully merges modern comforts with traditional elegance, inviting you to traverse corridors adorned with vibrant frescoes that narrate tales of Rajput valor and regal splendor and Aravali mountain ranges. Every nook exudes an ambiance of timeless grace, transporting you to a realm steeped in the grandeur of Maharajas and the enchantment of moonlit poetry. The majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is also very nearby (36 km) where the wall is among one of longest walls in the world.
How to reach :-
By Road - Narlai is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by bus, car, or taxi. Pali, the district headquarters, is approximately 36 kilometers away from Narlai.
By Train - The nearest railway station is Falna Railway Station, which is about 30 kilometers away from Narlai.
By Air - The nearest airport to Narlai is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, which is approximately 115 kilometers away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Narlai.
Accessibility :- This place is partial Wheelchair accessible.
My detailed Experience -
Ancient History: Within the sacred texts of Hinduism, there is a noteworthy reference to this village as the meditation abode of the revered sage Narad Muni. The village, named Narlai in honor of Narad Muni, stands as a testament to its deep-rooted spiritual significance in Hindu tradition.
The instant I set foot in this place, it felt as though I had stepped out of the world – a tranquil oasis far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Seeking respite from the crowds and chaos, I had arrived a day earlier to unwind before attending a colleague’s wedding in the nearby Desuri village. This charming heritage hotel offered us a unique Rajasthan experience. It is enveloped by a pair of mountains that beckon us to trek, with stairs leading all the way up to the hilltop.
Courteous Staff - From the warm welcome to their impeccable services, the staff members were truly exceptional, ensuring our utmost comfort at every turn. Whatever request we made, their response was always a gracious “hukum” (हुकुम) making us feel truly royal. Their behavior and services surpassed expectations, reflecting a level of passion and attentiveness that was truly extraordinary. This property boasts well-maintained accommodations with tidy and spotless rooms. The hotel’s breakfast spread is ample, and the lunch menu presents a diverse selection of dishes to cater to various tastes.
Leopard (JEEP) Safari - During our stay, we also did an exciting leopard safari, where we were fortunate enough to spot a couple of leopards (though with the help of binoculars) and a number of peacocks. The best part is the staff of the hotel brought all the things for our snacks and evening tea during the safari.
Unforgettable Stepwell Dinner - Our journey to the dinner venue unfolded in a traditional bullock cart, weaving through the enchanting streets of the village and into the jungle, culminating in the discovery of a 1100-year-old “stepwell” (बावड़ी / बावली). Nestled around 1.5 km outside the village, in a secluded jungle area, this ancient stepwell became the backdrop for a truly magical dining experience. Illuminated solely by thousands of lanterns and candles, the absence of electric bulbs heightened the enchantment of the evening. The stepwell itself was adorned with flickering lanterns and candles, casting a warm glow on the surroundings. Within this mesmerizing setting, two Rajasthani folk singers filled the air with traditional tunes, accompanied by the melodic strains of a Ravanahatha (Harp-like musical instrument). One singer was singing inside the stepwell, while the other graced the exterior. The culinary offerings were a delightful blend of delicious and authentic Rajasthani fare. The intimate dinner, arranged in a traditional manner, ensures an unparalleled experience that will linger in memory for a long time.
Mountain Trekking - I also did trekking on the adjacent Eklingaji Jaikalji Hill, aka Elephant Hill due to the presence of a 15-foot-tall statue of a white elephant at its hilltop. Ascending to the hilltop required conquering 700 inclined steps. The panoramic view from the summit was truly breathtaking, leaving a lasting and memorable impression. Here also, one of the hotel staff had accompanied me carrying the snacks items, water bottles and tea.
Nearby Temples - Narlai, often referred to as the city of temples, is renowned for its ancient spiritual sites surrounded by several beautiful Hindu & Jain temples. Some of these temples are intricately carved into the mountainside and few are on hilltops. I visited a prominent temple dedicated to the revered deity Aai Mataji, located very close to the hotel. Additionally, within Elephant Hill, there’s a small temple nestled inside a mountain cave dedicated to God Shiva.
In conclusion, our sojourn at Rawla Narlai was truly enchanting, providing distinctive experiences seldom encountered elsewhere in Rajasthan. It is a remarkable destination where everything is meticulously crafted to perfection, ensuring an unforgettable and seamless experience. A visit to Rawla Narlai is bound to leave you utterly amazed!
@TravellerG @NareshDarji @TPattanaik @Annaelisa @Shrut19 @KashifMisidia
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