Location
The 250 year old Ahilya Fort has what is possibly the most dramatic and beautiful setting of any Indian boutique hotel. Perched on the edge of a cliff, enclosed within the massive walls of the 16th century Maheshwar Fort, Ahilya Fort has breath-taking views over the sacred kilometre wide Narmada River and the ghats below. Within the Fort there are shaded courtyards and verandahs on different levels, linked by stone walkways. 16 unique rooms/tents and our splendid Arjun Regal tent with its adjacent smaller tent [an excellent family combination are set amidst 6 different 18th century buildings. Numerous gardens, hidden terraces, ancient turrets and battlements, and a stunning swimming pool all make for a unique boutique hotel. Off the beaten track, Ahilya Fort offers an authentic Indian experience.
Rooms
There are two Regal suites – Narmada, Naqarkhana and the splendid Arjun Regal tent, all with excellent river views. All rooms are air-conditioned with en-suite bathrooms: 9 double, 4 twin, a two bedroom family apartment, and a junior tent with garden sit-out. All the rooms are very individual; some have alcove lookouts over the river, and some overlook the organic vegetable garden. The Naqarkhana suite has a spacious balcony overlooking temples and the river. Arjun’s Regal tent is luxurious, located in its own private walled garden with a plunge pool and magnificent views over the Narmada and Ahilyeshwar Temple. The luxurious spacious Narmada Suite has teak parquet floor and a balcony perched over the river. The Naqarkhana suite and Arjun Regal tent is less than a minute walk from palace’s main entrance. All rooms are beautifully furnished in neutral, natural fabrics. Adjacent rooms are available on request in princely category. Nobut Niwas is our two bedrooms set, ideal for families.
Included Activities
There is much to explore around Ahilya Fort, and walking is a good way to do so. The town is warm and tourist friendly. Wander through Maheshwar and along the Ghats. Take a sunset boat trip to Baneshwar temple in the middle of the river (sunset boat trips to this temple can be arranged on prior request and are inclusive in the rates). Laze around our pool and gardens. Discover numerous Shiva temples. Learn about Maheshwar’s famous hand woven textiles at Rehwa Society. Visit the Ahilya School for weavers’ children (guests often sponsor a child). Walk or bike around the charming village of Naoda Todi, just across the river. Next to Naoda Todi, you will discover Shaliwan temple, which denotes the geographical beginning of South India. Visit our organic farm on the edge of town. For excursions farther afield, ask our front desk to arrange a packed lunch and day trip to the historic and deserted 14th Century city of Mandu and the Fort at Dhar. Explore the island temple of Omkareshwar. Local sightseeing excursions by car can be arranged. Consider taking a longer detour to Ujjain, Bhopal, Sanchi, Vidisha, Bhojpur to the North and Burhanpur, Ajanta and Ellora to the South.
