Rajasthan, India

Shekhawati is one of the most fascinating corners of the state, and this old-established heritage hotel is the best base from which to explore it. Set in an authentic 18th-century castle, it’s the most imposing building in town – in fact, for many miles around. Huge turreted towers and palanquin-roofed balconies overlook an inner courtyard, where wild peacocks can be seen grazing on the lawns.

The rooms are mostly huge and full of faded Rajput atmosphere, with portraits of former maharajas, antique four-posters and sunken marble tubs in the bathrooms. A fabulous outdoor pool, fronted by a three-storeyed domed pavilion, is a welcome modern addition, and there’s a breezy rooftop terrace where you can dine on tandoori cuisine with view over the crumbling havelis of the old town.

Our opinion

One of the most comfortable hotels in this region, the standard grade facilities marry well with the charm of this Rajput castle.