Soneva Secret

One of Rajasthan’s most glorious architectural wonders is the meticulously restored 14th-century Fort Barwara. What once belonged to a Rajasthani Royal Family has been transformed into a Six Senses sanctuary of well-being.

Six Senses Fort Barwara is located a three-hour drive from Jaipur and a 30-minute drive from Ranthambore National Park, where you can go in search of the region’s wild tigers. It houses 48 luxury suites where the essence of royalty has been kept intact. The East Wing overlooks the countryside and the West Wing offers views to Barwara village and beyond. Each accommodation is designed in contemporary Rajasthani style, reinterpreting the fort’s rich history while subtly incorporating state-of-the-art technology.

Here, dining is a royal affair. The on-site restaurants combine the best of regional Rajasthani and pan-Indian cuisine with a sprinkling of international influences while embracing the Eat With Six Senses philosophy of local, fresh and seasonal produce. Where possible, they harvest ingredients from the resort’s very own organic gardens and carefully selected farmers from the villages and townships nearby.

As the sun begins to set over the Chauth ka Barwara Mandir Temple, come and find the wine sommelier to tour their vintages, or start your evening as you mean to go on with a pre-dinner cocktail at The Viewing Gallery.

There is also an immense focus on personalised wellness. The resort is home to a 30,000-square-foot (2,800-square-meter) spa and fitness centre where an extensive menu of Ayurvedic treatments awaits. You can even blend your own skincare products at their Alchemy Bar.

Six Senses Barwara is a royal base for exploring Rajasthan’s regional delights. Activities can be customized based on your preferences, whether it’s enjoying a sunset drive through the Rajasthani countryside or discovering the wildlife of nearby Ranthambore National Park. With visits to the temple and guided heritage walks, you will find endless possibilities to immerse in local history and culture.

Serenely sat in the middle of Lake Pichola, the gorgeous Taj Lake Palace is among the most iconic and romantic hotels in India.

Built as a pleasure palace by a young prince in 1746, it has since been tactfully restored to its former glory, its fine white marble walls glowing orange at sunrise and purple at dusk

66 rooms and 17 suites are designed to capture a different mood and period from the palace’s long history, each with stunning views across the lake to the surrounding hills and Udaipur or into the lush courtyard gardens.

This spectacular setting is best enjoyed in its panoramic glory from the rooftop Bhairo restaurant. Neel Kamal is the place for authentic Indian specialities, or Jarokha if you’re after a more informal spot to eat throughout the day. Unforgettable private dining experiences – such as out on the lake aboard a 150-year-old boat – can also be arranged.

During the day, find secluded spots around the palace to relax, bathe in the swimming pool, treat yourself on the Jiva Spa Boat or spend some time at handsome Amrit Sagar bar. Across the lake’s waters, explore Udaipur on city tours, heritage walks and even hire a vintage car for the day.