Mihir Garh, Near Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India

Where is Mihir Garh Located?

Mihir Garh is located about 45 minutes south of Jodhpur in the state of Rajasthan in north-western India. Jodhpur is accessed by air from major cities like Jaipur, Mumbai and New Delhi, and by road from popular destinations in Rajasthan including Udaipur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Shahpura, Nimaj and Jawai Bandh. It can very easily be incorporated in a holiday covering the highlights of Rajasthan and is particularly good for those interested in history, architecture and traditional crafts, horseback riding and rural life.   

What sort of accommodation is available at Mihir Garh?

This charming mud fort features nine spacious suites, making it ideal for a takeover for a large family or group of friends. The range of activities and experiences available in the region make it excellent for celebrating special occasions. Each suite is tastefully decorated in quintessential Rajasthani style with earthy colours and soft furnishings and features its own terrace with either a heated plunge pool or a Jacuzzi.

There are charming gardens, spacious terraces and an infinity pool creating a serene atmosphere of a lush oasis in the middle of vast wilderness. In order to ensure sustainability and harmony with natural surroundings, the fort has been built by local craftsmen using locally sourced materials. One of its most unique aspects is the flooring within the rooms, which has been done using an indigenous technique known only to one man in the whole region.

All the rooms boast a flat screen TV, a Tea & Coffee station and a mini bar, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi internet and an en suite bathroom.  Each suite is adorned with a hand crafted fire-place that has been created by the local women from nearby villages.

Food at Mihir Garh is nothing short of a masterclass in Rajasthani culinary traditions and fanfare. Their passion for creativity and culinary prowess have earned them a place in the coveted Relais & Chateaux club. From grand dinners at the fort and rustic picnics to exotic bush dinners under the stars in the desert, Mihir Garh offers a perfect opportunity to relive the bygone era and take in the romance, charm and exclusivity that was once available only to the kings and queens.

What activities are available at Mihir Garh?

Mihir Garh is a fabulous destination for active travellers whether one is interested in history, culture, crafts and architecture or the great outdoors and wilderness. As guests of the Family of Rohet, one is extended the same courtesy by the locals, which an incredible privilege. There is plenty to do in the region, but the nearby town of Jodhpur and horseback riding top the list of highlights:

• Day excursion to Jodhpur: With the imposing hill-top Mehrangarh Fort looming over the city and a beautiful ancient quarter with a bustling bazaar, Jodhpur showcases everything Rajasthan is famous for. Its old city is filled with an impressive array of architectural gems including age-old mansions painted in blue, grand havelis, temples and a stunning step-well. In the market, one would find exquisite pottery, textiles, traditional jewellery made of silver and precious stones as well as antiques. Inside the majestic fort lies various palaces with intricate carvings and precious artwork.
• Village Safaris: Rajasthan’s vibrant culture is truly one-of-a-kind and the tranquil villages that surround Mihir Garh have remained rooted in their traditional social and cultural beliefs and lifestyle despite the exposure to international travellers and city dwellers. This part of Western Rajasthan is inhabited by the people of Bishnoi community, who are primarily nature worshipers and consider themselves as the guardians of nature and animals. They are the principal reason why the endangered Black Buck antelope has survived in this region. Village safaris provide a perfect opportunity to mingle with the friendly and hospitable locals, visiting their homes, sharing a cup of tea and listening to their wonderful stories. If you are lucky, you might also spot a few Black Bucks along the way!
• Horse riding: Mihir Garh is one of the finest places in India for horse riding. The owners are expert horsemen and the stables here have some of the best Marwari horses in the country. From short half-day rides to longer three to four-day itineraries can be arranged for riders of all levels. On longer rides, comfortable mobile tents are used for overnight accommodation with attached bathroom and running water. Riding is one of the best ways to explore this region’s stunning wilderness and go completely off-the-beaten-track.
• Bird Watching: Between the winter months of December and February, Rajasthan attracts a great variety of migratory birds. The lakes around Mihir Garh lend themselves beautifully to a nice birdwatching excursion with a lovely picnic breakfast or sundowner.
• Shikar Dinner: One of our favourite experiences, Shikar Dinner offers an opportunity to relive the days of the Raj. An exclusive bush dinner is set up for you in a secluded location in the desert with traditional folk music and dance. It’s an incredible feeling, being literally in the middle of nowhere under the most amazing night sky.
• Culinary Workshop: Being a Relais & Chateaux member, food is a definite highlight at Mihir Garh. Most of the recipes come from the owner’s mother – Late Thakurani Sahiba Kayenda Kumari, but some variations have also been added in order to make the food suitable to wider tastes and preferences. An interactive masterclass as well as a cooking demonstration can be arranged by Mihir Garh’s chefs for those who are interested in discovering the art of Marwari Cuisine.

Does Mihir Garh cater for families with young children?

Children of all ages are welcome at Mihir Garh and Indians in general are known for their impeccable and courteous hospitality. Baby cots and babysitting and monitoring services can be arranged with prior notice.

When is the best time to visit Mihir Garh?

November to March is the best time to visit Mihir Garh although the weather can turn quite cold during the peak winter months of December and January.

How does Mihir Garh protect and nurture the local community and environment?

The Rohet Family have looked after the locals and this region for generations and their tourism initiatives have made a tangible difference in preserving their unique cultural heritage. Majority of staff members are local, and a part of the profit generated by Mihir Garh is invested in the Village Welfare Fund.

Instead of offering individual tips, guests are also encouraged to contribute to this fund, which is used for various initiatives focusing on healthcare, education and nature conservation. So far, the family have organised three successful eye camps where 189 local villages were treated free of charge.

Every year, the family hosts a medical camp in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Jodhpur and an average, 700 to 800 people are examined by expert doctors and offered free treatment including surgery. They have helped set up village schools and also contributed towards initiatives focused on clean drinking water, which is a critical requirement in this arid region.