Mihir Garh
Mihir Garh, Village, Khandi, Rajasthan, India
Mihir Garh is an elegant and acclaimed sanctuary located in Khandi village, Rajasthan, India, that offers a luxurious escape in the midst of the Thar Desert.
The Venue
Located at the edge of the Thar Desert, approximately 75 minutes south of Jodhpur, is the village of Khandi. The breathtaking views of the sand dunes, semi-arid shrubs, and the captivating night sky make it an ideal destination for a luxurious and relaxing retreat. You can explore the local flora and fauna on horseback or by jeep, and get to know the Bishnoi people, who have inhabited this region for centuries and have unique customs and traditions.
Mihir Garh, a multi-award-winning boutique hotel, is tucked away in a rural hamlet and resembles a small mud fortress. It sits atop a sand-dune and boasts a perfect blend of earthiness, tradition, and luxury. The hotel offers various themed experiences, including equestrian immersions, and a gastronomic journey that is second to none, making Mihir Garh an unforgettable destination.
Who is hosting?
Mihir Garh, a luxurious mud fortress retreat, was a dream come true for owners Sidharth and Rashmi Singh when it opened in 2009. Sidharth had a childhood fascination with the sacred dune of Mali Nathji ka Dhora, which inspired the idea of creating a luxury residence in a mud fortress. With the help of local craftsmen and artisans, they built Mihir Garh, a place where the past meets the present and promises guests an unforgettable experience.
The House of Rohet brand encompasses Mihir Garh, Rohet Garh, Rohet Wilderness Camp, and The Rohet House, all of which are managed by the Singh family. The family is passionate about their heritage and culture and personally welcomes each guest. They also ensure the locals play an essential role in village experiences and employ them in their properties. The Singh family also contributes to the welfare of the village through eye and medical camps, the development of local schools, and a village welfare fund.
Aesthetics & Philosophy
Mihir Garh, also known as the Fortress of the Sun, is a picturesque oasis that perfectly blends with the surrounding desert landscape. The property showcases understated luxury in every detail, from the silk cushions in the three lounges to the elegantly furnished eco-friendly suites adorned with exquisite art and craft from Jodhpur. The common areas and intimate alcoves offer breathtaking views and provide guests with the opportunity to connect with themselves and others. The team at Mihir Garh is highly motivated and meticulously selected, ensuring top-notch service and hospitality that matches the magnificence of the property.
Accommodation
Mihir Garh provides nine luxurious suites for guests, each named after Marwari Stallions from the Rohet Stables and offering over 1700 square feet of private space. The ground floor suites, known as Alishan, feature a private plunge pool in a personal courtyard, while the first-floor suites, called Shandar, have an exclusive open-air jacuzzi and a private terrace. All suites combine local craftsmanship with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, DVD players, mini-bars, and tea and coffee stations. The rooms are designed to provide guests with a sense of royal comfort, featuring bespoke furniture, colorful furnishings, hand-made rugs, mirrored fireplaces, and antique teak beds. The bathrooms are equipped with all modern conveniences, including separate showers, freestanding or embedded baths, double washbasins, and a range of toiletries.
The hotel's social spaces include open-sided lounges, a princely drawing room with a library, and a rooftop terrace for enjoying sunset views. Dining at Mihir Garh is a celebration of traditional Rajasthani delicacies, along with a wide selection of barbeque and international dishes.
The all-day dining menu is inspired by recipes created by the late Thakurani Jayendra Kumari, a renowned local culinary expert and author. Guests can dine by the poolside, in the suites, or enjoy special occasions like a magical bush dinner under a star-lit sky or a royal picnic lunch in the desert.
Experiences
Mihir Garh offers a range of family-friendly activities such as horseback riding and jeep excursions to immerse guests in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Children and adults alike can enjoy activities such as village explorations, bird watching walks, cooking classes, board games, and reading books. Take a moment to visit the tiny temple at the entrance of the property where puja is performed every morning. The stunning infinity pool, located at one end of the property, offers breathtaking views of the desert and is perfect for relaxation. The Vilasa Spa is a luxurious retreat in the Thar Desert and features two treatment rooms with decor inspired by rural arts. Yoga lessons can also be arranged upon request.
Experience the pulse of rural Rajasthan with the Village Safari, one of House of Rohet's signature experiences. Meet the Bishnois, known as the "premier ecologists of the world," who have a special relationship with the protected black buck antelope species. You can also encounter Raikas (shepherds) with their striking costumes, Paliwals and Meghwals, Brahmin farmers and weavers.
Take a culinary workshop led by the skilled chefs at Mihir Garh, inspired by the Late Thakurani Sahiba Jayendra Kumari's cookbooks and handwritten recipes. Learn to prepare traditional Rajasthani dishes such as Laal Maas, Ker Sangri, Lasan (garlic) Chutney, bread made from millet flour, and more. You can choose to participate in the cooking process or simply observe, and enjoy the delicacies at a special dinner.
Mihir Garh is an ideal retreat for those seeking a secluded oasis in the midst of the desert. It's perfect for individuals, couples, groups of friends, and families with children of all ages. The luxurious atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for celebratory occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries, as well as those seeking a rich equestrian experience.
Conscious Travel
The House of Rohet family has strong ties with the region and the local community, having been associated with them for generations. The family engages in various initiatives to support the community, such as providing employment opportunities, promoting local businesses and artisans, organizing medical camps, and contributing to local schools.
Their commitment to preserving heritage is evident not only in the architecture but also in showcasing traditional family recipes and village walks that offer insights into rural Rajasthan. The family is credited with introducing The Village Safari, which is a great example of responsible tourism that benefits the local community. They continue to actively participate in community development through various projects undertaken on a yearly basis.
