Maharani Bagh Orchard Retreat occupies a former orchard that once belonged to the royal family of Jodhpur, deep in the Rajasthani countryside. Set well away from the main tourist routes, the property serves as a stopping point between Jodhpur, Udaipur and Mount Abu, just a few kilometres from the Jain temples of Ranakpur.

Why choose Maharani Bagh Orchard Retreat

• Former property of the Jodhpur royal family, preserved as a private family retreat
• Set within an orchard surrounded by nature, ideal for birdwatching
• Strategic location between Jodhpur, Udaipur and Mount Abu
• Immediate proximity to the Jain temples of Ranakpur
• Intimate scale with just sixteen rooms

Atmosphere and setting

The essence of this place lies in its character as a private retreat rather than a conventional hotel. The orchard surrounding the buildings gives the property a rare pastoral atmosphere for Rajasthan, a region most often associated with mineral fortresses and urban havelis. Mango trees, lemon trees and other fruit trees line the pathways and provide shade.

The region is renowned for its ornithological richness: peacocks, parakeets, kingfishers and raptors can be spotted from the terraces or during walks around the estate. Travellers with an appreciation for wildlife and flora will find a welcome respite here between two city visits.

Accommodation

The retreat has sixteen air-conditioned rooms, equipped with essential modern amenities. Some open directly onto the swimming pool. The modest scale fosters an intimate atmosphere, well-suited to small family or friend groups seeking a quiet stop between two days of sightseeing.

Services and facilities

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Badminton and tennis courts on site
• On-site dining
• Air conditioning in all rooms
• Setting well-suited to birdwatching

Everything here is deliberately understated: you don't come here for a five-star spa, but to enjoy an open space, simple outdoor activities and the peace of the orchard.

Geographic location

The estate is situated near the village of Ranakpur, in Pali district, at the heart of the Aravalli Range. Its location makes it a logical stopping point on the classic Rajasthan itinerary:

• Jodhpur, the blue city, reachable in a few hours' drive
• Udaipur, the city of lakes, at a comparable distance to the south
• Mount Abu, a hill station, to the west
• Ranakpur Jain temples approximately 3 km away

This central position allows you to break up what could otherwise be a long day's drive between Jodhpur and Udaipur with a peaceful night surrounded by nature.

What to see and do nearby

The Jain temples of Ranakpur

Just a few minutes' drive away, the Adinatha temple remains one of India's most impressive Jain sanctuaries. Built in the 15th century in white marble, it features 1,444 intricately carved columns, each one different. A visit takes half a day and is accessible to non-Jains at certain times.

Kumbhalgarh sanctuary

An hour's drive away, the UNESCO-listed fortress of Kumbhalgarh is surrounded by a wall stretching over 36 km, sometimes called the "Great Wall of India". The surrounding wildlife sanctuary is home to leopards, sloth bears and antelopes.

Birdwatching

The grounds of the estate and neighbouring wetlands offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching, particularly in winter when migratory species join the resident birds.

Including Maharani Bagh in your itinerary

Maharani Bagh Orchard Retreat works particularly well as an intermediate stop on a Rajasthan circuit, complementing other characterful properties such as Woodville Palace Hotel in Shimla or Ranthambore Heritage Haveli for tiger spotting. For a more nature-focused experience, you might pair it with Red Earth. To build your custom-made journey, explore our travels in India.