The Desert Resort

The Desert Resort has been created in the style of a typical Rajasthani village. The mystery and romance of the desert are captured in the unusual architecture of the resort. It is a verdant oasis in the midst of the stark desert landscape.

The Desert Resort, built on a sand dune, was started in 1985 with 8 cottages. Built almost entirely with materials available locally, extensive surveys and research were first carried out in the area regarding the lifestyle of the villagers and the local architecture.

The cottages and rooms are made of bricks and plastered over with mud to retain authenticity. Lime paste 'mandanas' are done regularly by the village women employed there.

Mandawa is located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Renowned for its frescoed Havelis and Palaces, Shekhawati is aptly termed the Open Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan. Set against this exotic backdrop just 1km away from Castle Mandawa is The Desert Resort, built atop a magnificent sand dune with the vista of the desert all around.

While building the desert resort great care has been taken to maintain authenticity. The exteriors are decorated with traditional lime paste 'Mandana' or rice-flour patterns which are redone daily by women from the village, while the interiors are ornamented with mirror-work and glass beads in myriad colours.

Each cottage has a sitting room and a spacious bathroom, complimented by woven fabric and hand-made pottery. The guest gets to savor traditional village life without compromising on modern comforts.

• Telephone in all the rooms.
• A well stocked bar.

• Traditional welcome with tilak and garlands.
• Room service.
• 60 rooms including cottages and spacious deluxe suites.
• Swimming pool.
• Ayurvedic massage.
• Billiard and poolroom.
• Badminton, table tennis, croquet.
• Nature trails.
• Horse riding.
• Facilities for the handicapped.
• Conference Room

Authentic Rajasthani cuisine served in traditional earthenware.