After hearing that a new luxury hotel had opened on the rural outskirts of Jaipur, we were already very much intrigued. And on learning that the resort was built in Anopura – a tiny, untouched, rural Indian village which Shiv (Co-Founder) hails from – we simply had to experience it for ourselves.
Anopura is quite possibly the world’s small luxury hotel, offering just two guestrooms and a luxury tent. Located an hour outside of bustling Jaipur, Anopura is an oasis of natural beauty and serenity, nestled in the shadow of the ancient Aravali hills and endless green fields. This is a side to India that many tourists never get to see; a glimpse of rural life that hasn’t changed for centuries. The only noise you’ll hear is the occasional peacock’s cry or the gentle chirping of crickets in the evening; a welcomed contrast from the buzzing Pink City of Jaipur.
As we arrived at Anopura, our initial concern of a modern hotel spoiling the natural beauty of the village dwindled. The small resort has been built to reflect a traditional Rajasthani home, blending seamlessly into its surroundings, complete with a traditional thatched roof and hand-crafted, block-printed motifs.
We were met by the hotel’s friendly General Manager, Ishwar, and guided through to the central courtyard. We immediately noticed the fine details which bring Anopura into its own. The traditional touches are just stunning. Every corner is tastefully filled with tableaux that evoke a sense of complete peace and tranquillity. Here, we can spot all the traditional elements of a Rajasthani village home, spruced up with a touch of luxury and elegance. Placed in the centre of the courtyard is a beautiful charpoy (traditional Rajasthani woven bed stretched over a wooden frame) which now serves as a lounging chair, adorned with comfortable oversized cushions – a brilliant way of incorporating local aesthetics with a fresh approach.
A shaded seating area in the inner courtyard at Anopura in Rajasthan
The two guestrooms are known as the Kedjeri Suite and the Champa Suite. Both are spacious, airy and extremely comfortable. Each room features the finest locally sourced furniture and tasteful block-printed fabrics. The bathrooms are black marble, with an abundance of fluffy white towels. There is no television in the rooms, as the resort invites you to escape in your thoughts, completely relax and almost forget where you are. However, there is a communal lounging room with a couch, television, complimentary WiFi, and a selection of inspiring reading material.
Between meals, there is little to do other than breathe in the scent of frangipani, relax on a charpoy around the stunning plunge pool, and take in the majestic countryside views. For the more energetic of guests, the resort offers a range of complimentary activities; including bird-watching, camel trekking, and a visit to the local village.
The beautiful sights, sounds and smells of Jaipur can result in overload for the senses. So we imagine Anopura is a delight to return to after sightseeing, as you settle into a comfortable chair with a glass of wine, awaiting a delicious meal from the chef.
Seating area at Anopura
From our point of view, the best thing about the hotel is that it was consciously designed to help the locals and improve their way of life. The property has brought plumbing and stable employment to this underdeveloped community. The owner, a former Belgian diplomat, hired local people for the construction at every opportunity. His staff at the hotel are all local to Anopura village; even his resident chef, Chotu, who he trained to prepare a repertoire of delicious local dishes along with European cuisine. During our visit, Chotu was preparing bruschetta, sourced from locally grown herbs and vegetables. He has now earned a reputation as one of the region’s finest chefs.
Swimming pool at Anopura, a luxury hotel on the outskirts of Jaipur in Rajasthan
For those who want to steer away from the beaten track without compromising on luxury, Anopura is a perfect choice. Despite only staying for an hour, we left Anopura relaxed and inspired and can only imagine how one would feel after a beautiful two or three-night stay!
A photograph of friendly locals in Anopura village, taking by our recent guests Mark and Elizabeth who stayed in Anopura during May 2015.
Rooms at Anopura start from ₹20,000 per night depending on the season. Prices are inclusive of all meals, soft drinks, local activities and taxes.
If you’d like to include a stay at Anopura on your upcoming trip to Rajasthan, please get in touch. As specialists in private, bespoke tours of this region, we’re the ideal match to assist with your arrangements. For inspiration, do check out our sample itineraries.
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