A New Year’s Eve at Ramathra Fort: Where Tranquility Meets Adventure
This New Year’s Eve, we decided to take a break from the usual crowded celebrations and opted for something offbeat—a serene escape into the heart of Rajasthan. Our destination? Ramathra Fort—a hidden gem we’d only recently discovered, which made the trip even more exciting. After a smooth, scenic drive along the Mumbai Expressway, we arrived at the fort, our home for the next few days.
A Storybook Setting
Nestled in the peaceful Kalisil River valley, Ramathra Fort feels like it’s straight out of a fairytale. Perched on a hilltop, the fort is surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle hum of rural life. The location is ideal—tucked between the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur and Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in Sawai Madhopur.
As soon as we entered, we felt wrapped in a quiet, timeless charm. It was clear this wasn’t just a stay—it was going to be an experience.
A Heritage Home with Heart
Owned by Ravi and Gitanjali Raj Pal, descendants of the original founders, the fort has been lovingly restored into a boutique retreat that balances heritage with understated luxury. With just six rooms and six garden tents, the fort offers an intimate, almost exclusive experience.
We stayed in one of the beautifully restored rooms with a stunning view from the ramparts.
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The cozy sitting area and the spacious bathroom made it feel like a royal sanctuary. For those who prefer the outdoors, the luxurious tents in the garden are just as inviting—complete with en-suite bathrooms and private daybeds overlooking the valley.
Meals to Savor, Moments to Remember
Let me tell you—the food at Ramathra Fort deserves its own spotlight. Every meal felt like a warm hug from home. Whether we dined indoors or under a blanket of stars, the home-cooked dishes were always hearty, flavorful, and comforting. There’s something magical about food prepared with care—it tastes better, doesn’t it?
But the real magic was in the experiences the fort offered, each one leaving us with a story to tell.
Our Memorable Experiences at Ramathra Fort
- A Stroll to Lake Kalisil: On our first day, we set out for a leisurely walk to the stunning Lake Kalisil. Its sheer expanse was breathtaking. Along the way, we paused often, enchanted by the sight of birds fluttering in their natural habitat. It felt like nature was putting on a show just for us.
- A Hilltop Hike with Local Tales: The next day, we trekked to a nearby hill and stopped at a local temple, where we met villagers who shared stories of their lives and traditions. It was humbling and heartwarming—a glimpse into a simpler yet deeply rooted way of life.
- Night Safari Thrills: Imagine driving through the jungle in an open jeep under the moonlight. The silence of the wilderness was broken only by the calls of nocturnal birds. We spotted jackals, foxes, rabbits—and the blanket of stars above. Absolutely magical.
- A Sunset Safari: Watching the final sunset of 2024 from deep within the jungle, with steaming cups of tea in hand, was surreal. And just as we were soaking in the golden glow, we spotted a hyena in the distance—a moment of quiet wonder.
- A New Year’s Picnic by the Lake: We welcomed 2025 with a peaceful picnic at the lake, feasting on sumptuous food while watching crocodiles basking lazily at a distance. It was one of those “time stands still” moments.
- Reading on the Ramparts: One of my personal highlights was lounging on the daybed on the fort’s ramparts with a book in hand. Every so often, I’d look up and get lost in the horizon, the tranquillity washing over me. If peace had a feeling, this was it.
- Bonfire Conversations: Each day ended with us gathering around the bonfire, swapping stories, sharing laughs, and sipping our favourite drinks. The warmth of the fire (and our conversations) was much needed—it gets cold in Rajasthan at night!
Why Ramathra Fort Stands Out
What makes Ramathra Fort special isn’t just its stunning location or luxurious comfort—it’s the soul of the place. The attentive staff, the beautifully kept gardens, and the quiet, inviting corners make you feel at home. It’s a place where time slows down, and every moment feels meaningful.
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On New Year’s Eve, we found ourselves back on the lawns, glasses in hand, under a sky full of stars. The world beyond felt like a distant memory as we soaked in the silence and the beauty surrounding us.
If you’re looking for a getaway that combines tranquillity, history, and a hint of adventure, Ramathra Fort is everything you need—and more. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to remember long after you’ve left.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat.
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About the Author: Sangeeta Relan
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I’m Sangeeta Relan—an educator, writer, podcaster, researcher, and the founder of AboutHer. With over 30 years of experience teaching at the university level, I’ve also journeyed through life as a corporate wife, a mother, and now, a storyteller.
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