Royal Heritage Palace

Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II following the final sacking of Chittorgarh by the Mughal emperor, Akbar. According to legend, Udai Singh II found the site of his new capital some years before the last assault on Chittor, after coming across a holy man meditating on a hill near Lake Pichola. The old sage advised the Maharana to establish his capital on that very site - and that is how Udaipur came into existence. Surrounded by forests, lakes and the protective Aravalli Range, the new capital of Mewar was in a far less vulnerable location than Chittor.

Maharana Udai Singh II died in 1572 and was succeeded by his son, the famous Rana Pratap, who bravely defended Udaipur from subsequent Mughal attacks, and gallantly fought at the battle of Haldighati in 1576. After struggling against the Mughals, Udaipur was later attacked by the Marathas. But, unlike many other rulers in Rajasthan, the rulers of Mewar refused to be controlled by foreign invaders.

An end to bloody battles and instability came with British intervention in the early 19th century, when a treaty was signed by which the British pledged to protect Udaipur from invaders. This umbrella of protection ended when India gained independence from the British. Along with all the other princely states, Udaipur surrendered its sovereignty and became part of a united India.

The 76th Custodian of the House of Mewar, Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar, has brought about incredible changes to the City Palace complex in Udaipur. His far reaching vision has resulted in the conversion of the famous palaces into Grand Heritage palace hotels, Royal Retreats and Resorts.

THE AODHI, KUMBHALGARH

After Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh is the most important fort in the Mewar region. It is an isolated and fascinating place 84 km from Udaipur, built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha. Because of its inaccessibility - at 1100 metres up atop the Aravalli Range - it was occupied only once in its history.. Even then, it took the combined armies of the Mughal emperor, Akbar, and of Amber and Marwar to breach its defences. It was here that the rulers of Mewar retreated in times of danger. The thick walls of the fort stretch some 36 km and enclose many temples, palaces and gardens. This mighty fort was renovated in the last century by Maharana Fateh Singhji. A leisurely walk around the huge compound, with its imposing ruins, is intriguing. The fort is open daily and entry is free.

There is also a large wildlife sanctuary here, known for its wolves. The scarcity of water holes between March and June makes this the best time to sec animals. Other wildlife includes chowsingha (the four-homed antelope), leopard, panther and sloth bear. This is one of the few sanctuaries that allow people to enter on horseback. The Aodhi Hotel, at Kumbhalgarh can organise horse safaris and jeep-safaris for adventurous guests.

A mere two kilometres from the spectacular Kumbhalgarh Fort, The Aodhi Hotel nestles like a small village on the side of the hill, blending into the landscape.

The rooms arc thematic, drawing their inspiration from Kumbhalgarh's rich and varied wildlife; (hence the Parrot room and the Tiger). Everything, down to the smallest detail, contributes to the unique ambience. Each room has a private balcony where one can relax and enjoy the natural beauty, and catch glimpses of the wildlife at the Kumbhalgarh sanctuary.

The Aodhi boasts a superb, multi-cuisine restaurant, arrange around a central fireplace, and with an adjacent around bar. The Aodhi also has a swimming pool, and the poolside is a wonderful place for a barbecue dinner – or just to relax with a drink.

For those who enjoy nature trails, the pathway leading to the nearby lake is ideal for walking or cycling, while the hill besides the hotel offers fabulous views of the sunrise and sunset. Meanwhile the historically-minded can visit the Kumbhalgarh Fort and the 15th century Ranakpur temples.

The hotel organizes jeep safaris to the Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary and fort, and also a special village safari: a trek that leads to the homes of the Garasia and the Bhil tribes, living in seclusion in the forest.

For more details visit www.hrhhotels.com

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