Samode Bagh Samode

The setting is peaceful, with the Aravalli hills around it and a welcome break from the city. Samode Bagh is a lovely heritage garden near Samode Palace, with greenery, a well-kept Mughal-style layout, and traditional architecture. I enjoyed walking along the long paths past old pavilions and taking photos of the natural scenery. It seems ideal for a quiet short visit, picnic, or a relaxing walk if you enjoy nature. 4.5/5.

The food was delicious and the staff attentive, though you're in a remote area with no other restaurants nearby. Our group had booked the entire resort for a traditional Indian wedding, so your experience may differ. One thing to know: housekeeping has to be done while guests are present. You can't leave a room tag out and expect the room to be cleaned. The Wi-Fi was poor. Outlets are the three round-pin types C/D and type M. We stayed three nights, about a five-hour drive from Delhi. This used to be the hunting lodge of the Raja who ruled Jaipur and became a modern resort in 1994. The property has two main covered buildings facing each other: the lobby building contains suites, the Raj Darbar dining hall, and main kitchen, while the opposite building also has suites. The reception is in the middle of the grounds, with named lawns scattered around. Farther in, there are a fortress wall, lotus pond, and fountains. Standard rooms are tent-style. When using a map, be careful not to mix up Samode Bagh with Samode Palace, as they're two different places.

The palace is beautiful, but the food wasn't good. Since it's so secluded and there are few food options nearby, it can feel like you're stuck here eating average meals.

We came for a wedding, and it felt like a magical place to be. The setting is gorgeous, the rooms grand, the staff courteous, and the food delicious. Hard to ask for more from a perfect holiday.