My friend Tanvi and I travelled to Lakshman Sagar with two other journalists from Delhi. We took the Shatabdi from Delhi and then had someone pick us up and drive us to the resort. When we arrived at Lakshman Sagar, it was pretty warm but we couldn’t get over how far removed we had managed to get ourselves from the rest of the world.

Upon looking through a pair of binoculars, I could see a herd of nilgai with babies, some resident birds and shrub and sand everywhere. I found out that Lakshman Sagar used to be a 19th century hunting lodge that had been converted into an eco resort. Spread over 32 acres along the man-made lake, the resort has 12 cottages that have been meticulously planned and conceptualised by architects, Vasant & Revathi Kamat and designer duo Sahil & Sarthak. The resort is effortlessly stylish and chic with a blend of traditional Rajasthani elements, beautiful installations and elements of eco and slow living to round off the experience.

The cottages at the resort are divided into two clusters, with six 900 sq mt cottages on either side of the lake. We had cottage number 9 which was a bit of a walk to get to but perched at a beautiful height. Every photograph we took from the pool was absolutely spectacular. The cottage was fully furnished with a mini bar, nespresso machine and nibbles. The bathroom is gorgeous and stocked with the latest amenities and ‘multani mitti’ to whip into a face pack and rose water to cleanse your face.

Based on the concept of ‘slow food’ the cuisine served at Lakshman Sagar is the traditional cuisine of the vicinity and includes special traditional hunting recipes of the Raipur Family. The dining experience combines freshest seasonal ingredients that are locally grown or sourced.Touted as one of the hidden gems of Rajasthan, the picture perfect surrounding of Lakshman Sagar not only make it a perfect romantic destination but also a place to disconnect from the hustle bustle of the city life. The food at the resort is delicious, satisfying and makes you nostalgic because it tastes like home. Breakfast is typically eggs (any style), porridge or muesli, fruits and coffee. You can choose to make yourself an espresso from the Nespresso machine in the cottage or opt for a french press coffee. The masala tea that they serve at breakfast and tea time is absolutely divine with just the right amount of cinnamon and cardamom. Lunch is vegetarian with a focus on organic greens and veggies that come from the farm. The resort tries to serve traditional rajasthani fare at lunch time with a choice of veggies, raita or yoghurt and a dessert. If you are avoiding wheat or are gluten intolerant- you can ask for rice or millet rotis. Dinner can be served to you in the room, courtyard by the lake or at the restaurant. It typically starts with a soup and some tikkas or barbeque followed by either a traditional non vegetarian thali or laal maas and its accompaniments. 80% of the clientele that visits Lakshman Sagar are from overseas and can’t eat spicy food so the spices have been tempered for the guests. If you feel like eating a fiery hot curry you can request the kitchen and order it separately to your room or your private dining venue.

Things to carry- carry portable speakers if you are travelling with your friends or partner. Carry some slabs of dark chocolate and other decadent sweets to nibble on post your midnight swims. Make sure to carry some warm clothes in the winter as Rajasthan, particularly the dessert gets really really cold.

Things to do around Lakshman Sagar- You can ask Dayal-the resident guide and naturalist to take you for a trek, for a jeep safari or for a nature walk around the property. Please bring closed shoes and dress appropriately for the hike/ walk. You could also try your hand at some pottery, go into the neighbouring markets to take some photographs or use the stargazing app to lie and watch the stars. Amul would be more than happy to guide you through a morning yoga session and can give you a ‘champi’ and a neck and shoulder massage that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised. You can ask Mr Ajit Singh (manager at the resort)to organise local liquor tasting, a field breakfast, angling or tea served by the single rock-cut pool.

Special thanks to Rushali for organising the trip, Tanvi and the journalists who made it all worthwhile. Mr Ajit Singh, Amul and Dayal were extremely helpful and made our visit a memorable one. Can’t wait to visit again when its cooler perhaps early next year for evenings spent around a bonfire.

P.S- this was my second trip to Rajasthan in a month and I wouldn’t have taken it but Lakshman Sagar has been on my bucket list for 2 years now. I am so glad I did. We’ve got an exciting discount for all my lovely readers who book through Wandering for Wellness. All you need to do is quote Jia Singh or Wandering for Wellness to avail your special offer.

Quick Notes-
Raipur Road, Near Haripur Railway Station, Dist. Pali, Raipur, Rajasthan 306304
011 2649 4531, 9910029109
For more information, please visit – www.sewara.com
Open from October to end April every year

Getting there- Situated approximately two hours from Ajmer, Lakshman Sagar lies 10 kilometers off NH-14 en-route to Jodhpur via Pali. It is strategically located in the centre of the tourist circuit in the Marwar and Mewar region of Rajasthan.

The closest commercial airport, Jodhpur, is about 2 hours away, while Haripur railway station is only 3kms away. We also provide a pick and drop facility from both locations.

I paired my leggings with this delightful blue cape from 335th. shop here http://www.335th.com/product/10-am-to-10-pm-light-blue-cape The swimsuit I wore on my trip is from a collaboration between Koovs and Melissa Obadash.