Ananta Spa & Resorts, Ajabgarh, is a peaceful getaway in the Aravallis, offering comfort, nature and luxury with beautiful views, spacious rooms and warm hospitality, says Pawan Soni
Just three hours from Delhi-Gurgaon, Ananta Spa & Resorts, Ajabgarh, offers a picturesque escape nestled within the Aravalli range. The journey itself is a delightful transition, from the smooth Mumbai highway to Rajasthan’s winding state roads, passing through quaint villages before culminating in a scenic drive over forested hills. This seamless blend of modern infrastructure and natural beauty sets the perfect tone for a luxurious yet tranquil retreat.
Rooms Inspired by the Elements
The resort’s accommodations are conceptualised around the seven elements of nature, with four currently available, Fire, Earth, Bamboo and Water (Lagoon). Each villa-style room is designed with private front and back lawns, ensuring an ideal balance of openness and privacy.
We stayed in a Bamboo Room, distinguished by its elegant arch-shaped design and a mezzanine floor with an additional double bed, perfect for families traveling with children or extra guests. The earthy tones and bamboo-inspired décor further enhance the warm, inviting ambiance.
For those, seeking a more exclusive experience, the Lagoon Villas offer a taste of the Maldives in Rajasthan. Built over a serene waterbody, these villas let guests observe the water below through glass floors or relax in private balcony hammocks, overlooking the tranquil surroundings. Plans are underway to further enhance these lagoons with lotus flowers and fish, adding to their aesthetic appeal.
Activities and Recreation
Ananta Ajabgarh offers a variety of recreational activities to keep guests engaged throughout their stay. We particularly enjoyed the battery-powered cycle rides, which made exploring the vast property effortless and fun. A camel ride through the resort added a touch of local Rajasthani charm, while the entertainment room provided a selection of indoor games for leisure.
The expansive swimming pool serves as a refreshing retreat, while evenings bring cultural vibrance with folk dance performances set against the stunning backdrop of the Aravallis. Complementing the experience is complimentary evening tea and snacks, allowing guests to unwind in a serene setting.
One amenity we missed during our visit was the spa, which was not yet operational. However, the immersive experience the resort offers made up for its absence. Once open, the spa will undoubtedly add another dimension of relaxation and wellness to the property.
Exemplary Hospitality
A resort’s true essence lies in its hospitality, and Ananta Ajabgarh excels in this regard. The staff’s attention to detail and personalised service elevate the guest experience. For my in-laws’ anniversary celebration, the team went above and beyond, decorating their room beautifully and organising a special barbecue evening with their favorite snacks, making the occasion truly memorable.
Another small yet thoughtful gesture stood out, the responsiveness of the golf cart staff. While the carts were occupied ferrying other guests, the team quickly arranged alternate transport for those walking. This proactive approach reflects the resort’s commitment to guest comfort, making it feel less like a hotel and more like a home away from home.
Beyond the Resort: Nearby Attractions
While the resort itself offers ample relaxation and entertainment, guests looking to explore beyond can visit Chattri Lake for a picturesque picnic and a short trek. Another fascinating excursion is a 30-minute drive to Bhangarh, the famed 16th-century ancient township. Known as one of India’s most haunted places, Bhangarh is also a treasure trove of history, boasting remarkable architecture and centuries-old temples.
A Culinary Experience to Remember
Currently, Ananta Spa & Resort features a single all-day dining multicuisine restaurant, The Oasis, with an Italian specialty restaurant set to open soon. This upcoming venue will feature a range of Italian delicacies, with the highlight being authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza.
What truly impressed me, however, were their Indian meat preparations. Most of the mutton served in Delhi is sourced from Rajasthan, but here, the resort benefits from direct access to high-quality produce. More importantly, the culinary team, led by Executive Chef Laveen Mathur, has done a stellar job crafting dishes to appeal to diverse palates.
A Destination Poised for Greatness
Ananta Ajabgarh is poised to become one of Rajasthan’s premier luxury getaways. Despite being only a month old, the resort has already hosted multiple weddings and corporate events, a testament to its growing popularity.
During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting Pradipta Biswas, Chief Operating Officer of Ananta Spa & Resorts, who was at the property despite managing a vast portfolio across India. In his words, "This resort is like discovering the lost kingdom," and I couldn’t agree more.
