Abhaneri Step Well
Abhaneri, Rajasthan, India[35.7 miles]
Superb and photogenic example of medieval step well architecture, a form once commonly used across Rajasthan and Gujarat states.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Best places to stay:
Situated deep in the Rajasthan countryside, this sumptuous haven of a hotel combines romance, style and sheer luxury. Although built on a former royal hunting ground, it’s not strictly a heritage property but rather a modern retro-styled palace embracing Mughal and Rajput motifs. It’s a sublimely restful place with a large swimming pool and lovely gardens – an idyllic retreat from the general clamour of urban India if money is no object.
The resort has an excellent programme of excursions, including picnics by Somsagar Lake and guided shopping trips into Jaipur, ninety minutes’ drive away. Although this might seem a long way for a day trip, staying at Amanbag does offer the chance to experience both the stunning Rajasthani countryside and one of its most bewitching cities.
The hotel is virtually encircled by rugged hills with a nearby embankment – part of a former royal hunting ground – creating a shallow lake. A small fortress stands on a nearby hillock overlooking Ajabgarh village. The atmosphere is utterly bucolic and serene, while picturesque rural life endures at its own leisurely pace.
Just 30 minutes away, the Sariska Tiger Reserve is home to abundant wildlife including leopards, jackals, deer and hyenas; its once decimated tiger population is growing. Kankwadi, a 17th-century fort, stands atop a hill near its heart.
Want more recommendations in this destination?
Destination Guide >Please note - we hope to one day have live prices for you, but for now, here are some useful links for you to compare prices...
Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Abhaneri, Rajasthan, India[35.7 miles]
Superb and photogenic example of medieval step well architecture, a form once commonly used across Rajasthan and Gujarat states.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India[48.4 miles]
One of Rajasthan’s great maharaja fortress-palace complexes, dating back to the 16th century, set amidst a spectacular backdrop of stark hills.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India[53.7 miles]
Designed to lend seclusion to ladies of the royal court, the intricate lattice-screened and salmon-pink facade of the Hawa Mahal, or ‘Palace of Winds’, is among the most iconic of Jaipur’s buildings.
Best for ages: 13+ | £1
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India[53.9 miles]
A fascinating, and among the best-preserved palace complex in Rajasthan, set in the heart of Jaipur’s Old City.
Best for ages: 13+ | £2
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Bhangarh, Rajasthan, India[8.1 miles]
A small, part-ruined medieval ‘ghost-town’ – reputedly one of India’s most haunted places – in picturesque countryside near Sariska Tiger Reserve.
Best for ages: 13+ | £1
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
India
India’s cultural essence combined with its most iconic sights and greatest bucket list experiences, all distilled into one compact, diverse and vibrant region.
Rajasthan, India
Rajasthan’s state capital is a compelling blend of huge hillside forts, extravagant palaces, bustling bazaars, memorable heritage hotels and almost comically thronged streets.