Experiences
A 40 acres estate with myriad trees and vegetation has interesting occupants that conjure up melodious ways to wake you up in the morning. A stroll is all you need to spot scores of bird species, especially in the winters. Else, the rest of day can be devoted to sheer laziness, to read a book or swim in the heated pool. For those who love to explore rural India, there are farm visits, interactions with phad (traditional religious painting of Rajasthan) artists, sunsets at Dhikola fort, tribal village safaris and photo-ops in Shahpura town.
The swimming pool at Shahpura Bagh is a great hit with sun-worshippers and even the harsh winter provides a warm respite to wash away the fatigue of travel. For celebrations book yourself a private meal for two, which will be organised at a secluded venue under the star-lit sky with a delectable menu of recipes over 100 years old. Birding on the property and by the lake reaps many awards in the form of previously unencountered species. Shahpura Bagh has initiated and is involved with many development and restoration projects like a local school, promoting projects such as education of the girl child. You can choose to visit schools and participate in any of the projects.
Guests can’t keep their fingers away from the shutter while walking through the Shahpura town. Esepcially in the evening when the market is alive with live snack and sweet counters, colourful daily waves set out in carts and markets teeming with activity.
The old fort of Dhikola was where the family originally ruled from and it forms a part of an evening drive and sunset point for tea and snacks on the fort ramparts – a treat for all shutterbugs. A high point from where you can look around for miles including the sight of the village winding down for the day, it is a picture to take back home to see cows come home from grazing. Shahpura has a wonderful connect with the ancient art of ‘Phad painting’. In fact, the Joshi family is probably the last family of artists who paint these life size canvases depicting the stories of mythology and folklore. A close tryst with these will be an inimitable experience.
Perfect For
those looking to veer off the regular Rajasthan itinerary and pacing out a usually whirl-windy trip to the state. Heritage, cusine and birding enthusiasts will especially enjoy a stay here. Shahpura is great for all age groups with plenty of open spaces and activities to engage the young and the
Operational status
Shahpura Bagh remains open through the year except the summer months of May and June.
