Suryagarh

Suryagarh occupies an imposing -- and impressive -- mass of concrete blocks put together to resemble an ancient palace. Surrounded by sand dunes of the Thar Desert, Suryargh’s fortress-like exterior is grand and enhanced by lovely public areas and sophisticated interiors. The grounds are vast and filled with green lawns, rocky sculptures, beautiful stepwells, courtyards with outdoor seating, beautifully shaped ponds, and flooring with colorful floral-like tiles. Arches are a predominant feature inside and out. Interiors are impressive, such as the lobby with glossy floors, high ceilings, and golden lighting spilling from hallways. There are lounge areas throughout with colorful seating areas, wooden furniture, and decor influenced by the colorful desert culture. It’s not just the design that feels authentic, but the experience the hotel provides its guests. It starts with a unique welcome that include Rajasthani music, occasional dancers, Indian sweets, and flower garlands. In the evenings, there are often cultural dances and shows. With opportunities like camel safaris or private tent dinner in the sand dunes, this hotel provides a luxurious and eventful stay in a desert oasis, making it an ideal romantic escape for couples. 

Suryagarh is located in west India in the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert. This area is known for desert tribes, colorful culture, and historic places. Getting to the hotel is a bit of a hassle. Jaisalmer Airport is a 35-minute drive, though it can sometimes be difficult to find a flight here. Alternative routes include flying into Jodhpur and making a five-hour drive to the property or flying into Jaipur and take about a 10-hour train ride there. Though it’s located in the desert, there’s plenty to do around here with a car. Jaisalmer -- a 16-minute drive away -- has diverse dining options, shopping, and a historic fort. It’s a 15-minute drive to Tannot Mata Mandir, a beautiful temple, or 12 minutes to Lodurva, an ancient capital. 

All rooms at Suryagarh are spacious and upscale, but feel more cozy than opulent in terms of style. They have scenic views of the Thar Desert and tasteful interiors dominated by a color palette of creams, browns, and soft reds or oranges. The wooden floors are complemented by varying shades of beautiful wooden antiques in handmade furniture like desks, coffee tables, and dressers. There’s a definite desert vibe to the rooms thanks to small touches like local artwork or pottery, threaded pillows, and woven rugs. Amenities in the rooms include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibars, free Wi-Fi, safes, and two free bottles of water. Most rooms lack coffee- and tea-making facilities. Some guests receive Indian snack platters or personalized stationery from reception. Suites offer separate living rooms. The luxurious bathrooms are done up in two-vessel sink vanities, separate bathtubs, and glass showers. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

Suryagarh provides a full luxury experience for its guests. For one, there’s an indoor pool and hot tub, complemented by a solarium with loungers. The spa is large and offers beauty treatments and massages. There’s modern cardio and weight equipment, free weights, and yoga classes available in the gym. Guests have access to a few different dining options. There’s a varied breakfast buffet served in the courtyard, with a background flute player and peacocks roaming about. Breakfast can be included in rates. Nosh is a 24-hour restaurant with Indian and international cuisine. The Legend of Marward provides dishes from recipes of travelers of the Silk Road in old days past. There’s a bar with a variety of drinks and a section of the courtyard with tea assortments and small snacks. Note that the restaurants are reportedly pricey. This is a popular place for weddings or events as there are plenty of lovely outdoor spaces to hold an event. The hotel offers cool excursions or experiences like a picnic in the sand dunes, bird watching, desert exploration, camel safaris, and mountain biking. Other notable amenities include a lounge for cards and pool, a small clothing boutique, and free Wi-Fi and valet parking.