Innovative Asian hotelier Alila Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its first Indian heritage property. Alila Fort Bishangarh will launch in late 2013 following the restoration of the beautiful 230 year-old Rajasthan Fort into a luxury 59-suite boutique resort.Positioned on a granite hill in the Aravalli Mountain range, with spectacular 360-degree views, the site is owned by the ruling Maharaja, Rao Rajendra Singh, and has been in his family since the 14th century. The fort is thought to be the only one of its kind to be converted into a heritage resort and is a unique example of the Jaipur Gharana architecture influenced by both the Mughals and the British.
The ecological restoration project will focus on lovingly preserving the grandeur of the original fort with its two metre thick walls and original battlements and turrets, whilst sensitively developing new residential areas to recreate the courtly flavour of Shahpura’s royalty.
A completely new structure is being created above and outside the old fort to house five different styles of royal suites and lavish public areas. As befitting its royal heritage, Alila Fort Bishangarh has its own landholdings, which include the charming Bishangarh village and its havelis (mansions).
The all-suite resort will feature 59 stately suites with stunning views. Each spacious suite will be elegantly furnished with large bay windows, day beds and expansive bathrooms with footed bathtubs, with each suite comfortably accommodating a family of four.
Leisure facilities within the fort will include an outpost of the acclaimed Spa Alila, two speciality restaurants, an all-day coffee lounge, a bar and cigar room, wine cellar and Library. Down the hill, the public areas will include a pool, pool terrace and juice bar, Fitness Centre and a ‘play soldiers club’ for children.
Alila Fort Bishangarh will also provide a majestic setting for grand weddings and celebratory events including MICE facilities, with a royal banquet hall, banquet dining room, conference and meeting rooms, an open-air terrace and large banquet lawns.
The Alila experience will offer guests the chance to explore the charm and beauty of Jaipur, Bishangarh and rural Rajasthan with a host of tailor-made rural activities and adventure.
Located at Bishangarh Village in the Jaipur District, Alila Fort Bishangarh is easily accessible from both Delhi and Jaipur, just 180 km (3 hours) from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi and only 55 km (1 hour) from Jaipur Airport. Amber Fort at Jaipur is only 45 minutes away and Bishangarh is a good base to explore Jaipur’s innumerable tourist attractions.
Alila Fort Bishangarh will become the third Alila property in India, joining the contemporary Alila Diwa Goa and Alila Bangalore to further strengthen the group’s Indian portfolio.
