Hidden Rajasthan

Nestled in the sunny-sounding, Friend's Colony West, The Manor is a modern and well-appointed property in a quiet garden. With a minimalist style, the hotel has 12 contemporary rooms and suites, and lounges decorated with hand-crafted furniture and vases of colourful flowers. Separate from the well-known bustle of Delhi, this urban oasis makes for a welcome home-away-from-home where staff greet you by name. The beating heart of New Delhi is still only a drive away, where centuries of history blends with cuisine from all over the globe, which you can enjoy on a stroll past grand forts and lush Mughal gardens.

Set just an hour outside Agra, Chambal Safari Lodge is a peaceful woodland getaway, built and managed by passionate conservationist and naturalist, Ram Pratap Singh. A descendent of the Singh family, who own much of the surrounding farmland, Singh restored the neglected house in 1999 allowing visitors to explore his ancestral home, and it's a paradise for wildlife and bird lovers. There are 35 acres of land to explore and the guides are knowledgeable and incredibly warm and generous. A lovely change from the hotels in Agra, it's also close enough to combine a visit to Taj Mahal too.

Ramathra Fort looks rather mythical from its perch on the hillside. Surrounded by ancient stone walls complete with fairytale turrets, the 350-year old palace is a collection of leafy courtyards, tented lounges and beautiful painted ceilings. Despite its grand outer shell, the rooms aren't particularly ornate, but have an authentic, homely style. Overlooking Kalisil Lake, there's plenty of birdlife to spot and the small, quaint villages nearby complete the scene. Far away from the big cities of Rajasthan, the fort and its countryside views are the main attraction. After a day of exploring or enjoying a little R&R back at the fort, sunset from the ramparts is a fitting end.

Set amongst a tapestry of lakes, life is unhurried at Shahpura Bagh. Off an alleyway in the bustling village, the doorman opens a large gate leading you into a quiet refuge filled with neem, ashoka and mango trees. Managed by the current Raja and his family, Shahpura has the feel of a homestay where evenings are spent sharing stories in the drawing room or by the fire. There are a plethora of walking trails round the tranquil lakes, and plenty of hammocks and day beds are found in scenic spots. Head out on birding excursions and visits to ancient forts before returning to your spacious suite.

With lemon-yellow walls, Dev Shree is a bright, haveli-style hotel looking out over Ragho Sagar lake. Originally built as a family home, you'll feel just like a friend coming to stay; enjoying the leafy garden and plentiful countryside jaunts. Begin your morning with the house special, 'Mother's omelette', and watch as the birdlife swoops over the lake or painted storks raise their wings to the sun. Apart from Dev Shree's many relaxing alcoves, spend your days exploring on a leopard-spotting drive or train ride through the Aravali hills. It's name means, 'divine blessing', a promise Dev Shree shares with every guest.

Perched in its own private corner of the Aravalli hills, RAAS Devigarh looks every bit like a palace. With a history dating back to the 18th century, this countryside mogul is carved out of Rajasthan's signature marble and semi-precious stones add shine to its impressive facade. Across its myriad floors, you'll find plenty of places to relax and enjoy the tree-laden views, which extend over the charming village of Delwara. Atop a turret, you can enjoy a good soak in the steaming hot tub or venture out past the tranquil Jain temples. Every moment at Devigarh comes with a smile, but the service never overwhelms and the silence is golden.