|
There are certain places on this earth
whose very name conjures up images of peace and serenity. On a 160
kilometer stretch from the bustling city of Jodhpur are two places
worth visiting-Sardar Samand isolated form humanity, and another
three hour drive later, Maharani Bagh, the Orchard Retreat of
royalty.
Sardar Samand (62 kilometers from
Jodhpur), named after the current Maharaja Gaj Singh’s great
grandfather, lies on the rod that leads onward to Udaipur and
Ranakpur. Located in the Pali district, the Sardar Samand Lake
Resort, situated on a hill, was commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh
in 1933. Designed by the state architect George Goldstraw, also the
resident architecture of Umaid Bhawan Palace of Jodhpur, the Resort
built in natural rock, is a fine example of the decorative Art Deco
style of the thirties.
Sardar Samand’s sleek and
anti-traditional elegance that symbolizes wealth and sophistication,
is an idyllic retreat for jaded minds and bodies. For here, amid
tranquil surroundings, overlooking the lake, teeming with migratory
fowls of every size and description, one can sip a lazy cup of tea
and give in to one’s wildest daydreams. For those in a mood for
an active holiday, a dip in the palace pool, a game of tennis or
squash, rowing and fishing are alternative past-times. As for me, a
stroll in the vast shrubby forest dotted with a variety of flora and
fauna was enough to raise my spirits.
One’s arrival at the Resort is an
unforgettable experience. Heavily laced with traditional Rajasthani
hospitality, a colourful welcome consisting of Rajasthani dances
awaits the not-so-weary traveller. Flowers are strewn all the way up
to the top of this wondrous place, giving one the feel of gracious
living. A delicious lunch served in true old time style on the
terrace facing the Balsamand lake, is strongly recommended. And
later, maybe a cuppa in the living room of this hunting lodge covered
with numerous artifacts and trophies, each with an interesting story
attached to it, related through word of mouth by loyal subjects.
Next to the main Resort is a
comparatively newer structure the annexe, with seven 1930’s
style tastefully furnished rooms with amenities to suit the modern
traveller. A wonderful place to ret one’s bones overnight or
for much longer.
The drive through mountain, desert and
farmland 100 kilometer further leads to a cluster of Jain temples at
one of the five most sacred Jain sites-Ranakpur. Four kilometer away
nestling in the remote valley, surrounding by the wooded Aravali
Hills, the mango orchards of Maharani Bagh, provide a silent retreat
for those visiting the renowned Jain temples. Open daily between noon
and 5 pm, the temples with 29 halls supported by 1044 pillars offer a
great visual experience.
Maharani Bagh, the Queen’s
Orchard, was designed and laid out by the Maharani of Maharaja Takhat
Singh of Jodhpur. A stay here is a welcome break for a couple of
nights. Five charming cottages overtook a spacious, inviting swimming
pool. Between dips in the azure water, one can relax by the pool
under shady trees dotted with exotic birds. Thatched hut restaurants
add to the mood of the place. An open-air bar-be-que adds a certain
mystique to the gastronomic experience.
As the sun dips into the desert horizon
leaving a trail of glorious light, special theme dinners in flaming
torch lights are held. As the smell of bar-be-qued food fills the air
and tribals dance to the rhythm of the desert tunes I know that this
is the stuff dreams are made of.
| 
