A 230-Year-Old Warrior Fortress Becomes A Luxury Resort: The Alila Fort Bishangarh In Northern India

After a recent trip to Delhi, I was fortunate to explore some of the most spectacular forts and palaces situated across the famed Aravalli Mountain range. Stretching about 300 miles from the northeast to the southwest, the Aravalli’s start in Rajasthan in western India, and extend all the way to Delhi.

This is the land of Kings once ruled by various clans with the majority of hill forts showcasing masterpieces of architecture. Once towering forces of protection, many of these forts are now guarded by legions of monkeys and open to tourism.
A remarkable 230-year-old Fortress has finally completed its restoration by Alila Hotels and Resorts, its location perched on a granite hill with stunning 360 degree views of the Rajasthan landscape. Alila Fort Bishangarh is a special place, filled with marble floor, stone walls and extensive history. In a region filled with palaces and historic forts, the resort opens in February 2017 and is the only warrior fort that has been converted into a resort.
After an intensive seven-year restoration, the Alila Fort Bishangarh retains its original structure of towering turrets and arched windows. It offers up 59 luxury suites, all supplied with modern conveniences. Located within the fort are dining options such as; the indoor specialty restaurant Amarsar, an outdoor terrace restaurant Nazara, the Madhuveni Bar and the Kachhawa Lounge. The dungeon of the fort houses the stunning Spa Alila, all carved out of granite rocks.
The history of the Shahpura royalty is reflected in the regal design of the hotel with its stark and refined features that once hosted families of great distinction. The architecture was influenced by both the Mughals and the British, and the fortified seven foot thick walls still retain their openings for cannons and guns.

Alila created a new building above the old fort which hosts five unique Royal Suites as well as the decadent social areas. Among the 59 suites, all have spectacular views of the valley and feature 22 different and unique layouts. An imposing arrival area greets guests down the hill from the Fort and features courtyard, swimming pool and terraces as well as the gym and Teen Soldiers Play Club.