A trip to Jaiselmer would be incomplete without a couple of nights at Hotel Killa Bhawan. It has incredible charm and character; it is a complete stunner to be precise. Well this is not surprising given that it is not often that one gets to stay on the ramparts of a medieval fort (800 years old) - that too one that counts among the very few 'living' forts in the world.
The place is designed very aesthetically, with artifacts (mainly old metal pots and urns and art objects, embroidered fabrics and camel paraphernalia) installed all over the place. In fact you have old (and traditional) heavy metal pots in various corners that are used as trash bins!
It is small hotel (8 rooms if I am not mistaken) with a personalized touch. Staff are extremely courteous, friendly and helpful, which made our stay that much more special.
Killa Bhawan serves very good breakfast on the rampart terraces, from where you get awesome views of the fort as you enjoy breakfast. Now you can't beat that, can you?
Being a small establishment, they however don't serve lunch or dinner on site. For that you need to either go to their cafe (a very good one where we had delicious Rajasthani food) located very near Patwa Haweli, or can go to one of the numerous other good restaurants in close vicinity of the hotel.
The hotel arranged for a very good guide, Mr. Lallu, who was very knowledgeable, competent and and very likable. He showed us the fort and the small town below the fort. If you are looking for a good guide, Lallu is your man.
Killa Bhawan also has a handicraft shop which has some really good and high quality stuff. I would recommend a visit.
In case you are looking for opulent luxury and indulgence, you might be better off somewhere else. But if you are looking for elegance, comfort, warmth and real character, Killa Bhawan is the right place for you.
Many thanks Bhanu and team for our memorable stay. It was simply magical and we look forward to going back, next time with our daughter.