A few km from the main sites of Jaipur, this 100-year-old haveli is grand and charming yet small enough to feel homely and provide old-school Rajasthani hospitality. Mr & Mrs Durga Singh are the property’s biggest asset, keen to help their guests experience more than just the usual tourist sights.

Dera Mandawa is a place that, like its owners, has great personality. The family’s Shekhawati (a certain clan of Rajputs) lineage is evident around the house, in the aesthetics of the rooms and most certainly in the delicious food.

There are 9 suites in total, spread across the main block and former zenana (women’s quarters) which make up the entire property, with wide spaces and patches of garden in the middle.

Staying at Dera Mandawa leaves you in the custody of the 21^st generation of the 13^th ruler of Amber! Be sure to take full advantage of Mr. Singh’s knowledge of Jaipur; relax, have tea and let him regale you with his many stories.

It’s not all ‘old-world charm’ however. Along with the old arches, jharokas, door frames and paintings there’s also a scattering of small, thoughtful environmental projects such as water harvesting, a bio-gas plant and solar heating.