Perhaps you shouldn't be reading this. For then you will come upon Samode Bagh suddenly, surprisingly.

Driving through the rural green you will chance upon a wall travelling beside you and wonder what lies behind. You will enter the wide gates and as you take in the horses being groomed in the stables, a palatial marble façade will rise up in panoramic magnificence in front of your eyes. You will go through the cool and discreetly splendid main lounge and look out into 20 acres of gardens, modeled in the Mughal style, and be quite delighted. You could then do nothing in the natural bliss of this retreat, or imagine yourself in another era, strolling amidst this natural splendour in regal robes with a princely consort, as some guests, and some honeymooners, are known to do!

Historically used by the Samode family for private retreats, Samode Bagh is idyllic and unusual, more haven than hotel. Be charmed by the lush abundance of trees, plants, flowers in a sanctuary set amidst fountains, waterways and pavilions, as you sit out under luxurious canopied tented ceilings and verandahs and are serenaded by myriad birds that come in happily to meet you in their natural abode. This is a restful meditative surrounding that bonds you to nature and to yourself. Its gentleness also attracts families who come with their young or with their friends to unwind and play in the beauty of the open spaces while enjoying the royal elegance of Samode and the renowned hospitality and courtesy of the hotel.

Rooms

Deceptively simple-looking at first glance, the 44 dune-coloured tented tops are spacious, inviting and attractively furnished.

Air-conditioned comfort and all contemporary conveniences in the rooms and en-suite marble bathrooms would have you forget this was a tent, until you glance up at the muslin ceiling printed with floral motifs in gold that reach up to a tented peak. Each room has a sit-out where you can relax, read, engage with the quiet and with nature or watch the warm buzz of the main pavilion. This is the way to live, as we are often told by our guests.

Food and Wine

Fine dining is a Samode hallmark.

The main dining pavilion is a warm hub that serves royal Rajasthani and international cuisine. You can sit and eat on your own though usually it's a great place to meet up with fellow travelers and swap stories over an excellent meal. If you prefer a quiet intimate dining experience, the poolside offers the perfect spot.

Of course, given the environs of the Bagh, dining al fresco is perhaps the most pleasurable experience and many occasions and celebrations are organized under the trees and the sky and the stars. Rajasthani food, music, song and dance are perfect accompaniments to the natural grandeur that overtakes your senses.

Feasts for over 350 people are easily arranged. Barbeques are popular for special lunches and dinners, as are displays by local art and craft artisans. The wine cellar at the Bagh boasts of an extensive selection of Indian wines.

Things To Do

Take nature walks, identify flowers and plants, watch birds, stroll, meditate, read by the fireside, play games, swim in the exotic pool or rejuvenate with a massage.

Come alone or come with someone - there's plenty to keep you happy at Samode Bagh, a perfect retreat from your daily hustle.

And when you've done with the easy relaxing, get adventurous, saddle up for horse or camel safaris around the rugged countryside - into villages and fields- into Samode and around. Take a jeep if you will. Drive up to the splendid Samode Palace - ideally dine there or have tea or a drink.

You may want to walk through the cobbled lanes of Samode village and market, stopping by the little shops of the bangle maker, the cloth merchant, the gemstone expert.

If you have an extra day, visit Jaipur - you could also stop by at Samode Haveli and continue to enjoy our hospitality.

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