In this highly digitized and connected world, we are just a tap away from connecting with anyone. Remote working is also now a viable reality – all you need is an internet connection to meet your office commitments. However, the constant barrage of notifications and flirting from screen to screen takes a toll on our health. We feel stressed and tired and often feel the need to escape and give rest to our mind, body and soul. If you are looking for the ultimate place to rejuvenate and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones, we would highly recommend Brij Laxman Sagar.
About Brij Laxman Sagar: The concept behind this boutique hotel
Brij Laxman Sagar is one of the most luxurious boutique hotels of the Brij hospitality chain. Located in Raipur, Rajasthan, it was originally built in the 19th century as a hunting lodge for the then Thakur of Raipur, Laxman Singh Ji. Many elements of the lodge have been retained to this day, including separate lounge sections for ladies and gentlemen (gentle and men’s), rocky terrain, natural waterbodies and stunning natural topography. The hotel is spread over 32 acres and has 12 independent cottages with private pools, ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway with your loved ones.
The pool is carved out of a single granite rock and is the show-stopper on the property. photo credit: ndtv food
The manly lounge section is still intact from Thakur’s hunting days. photo credit: ndtv food
The entire property follows a ‘zero kilometre’ design, which means that all the resources used there are sourced locally from the nearby Pali village. So, from the milk you drink at breakfast to the architectural elements in the cottage, the local influence is quite clear and straightforward. That’s not to say Brij Laxman cuts down on luxury by any means – you’ll find your cottage equipped with all modern amenities. However, the elements and rustic touches used at the property will instantly connect you with nature and refresh your senses.
The best thing about Brij Laxman Sagar is that you will experience peace and tranquility. Time seems to move more slowly, even when standing still. The staff introduced us to the concept of ‘living slow’, without distractions and making the most of every moment. Be it the mesmerizing view or the pleasure of watching peacocks from close quarters, it is indeed a heavenly getaway away from your drab everyday life. It is an ideal destination to take a break from your mundane routine and relax your mind from the daily corporate hustle and bustle.
An authentic rustic experience awaits you at Brij Laxman Sagar. photo credit: ndtv food
How to get there – Accessibility
Brij Laxman Sagar is quite easily accessible, especially from Delhi. It is located between Jodhpur and Ajmer near Raipur in the Mewar region of Rajasthan. It is a two-hour drive from Jodhpur airport or Ajmer railway junction. You can also take a train to Haripur Junction – the resort is only a 15-minute drive from there. Trains depart daily from Delhi to Haripur, and it is quite a convenient and hassle-free journey that you can take overnight from the capital city.
Rooms and Facilities
The moment we reached Brij Laxman Sagar; We were taken straight to our cottage without any check-in formalities. The property features express check-in wherein they give you ample opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones without any hindrance. The 900-square-foot cottage was spacious and had pale clay walls with hints of gray slate in some areas. There was a spacious living area which was ideal for getting together with family or friends. Ample natural light and spectacular views of the lake and the rugged landscape made the stay even more enjoyable. The plunge pool right outside our cottage, carved from rough granite found at local quarry sites, had complete privacy. The cottage itself was beautifully decorated with traditional elements like authentic weaves and textiles, wind chimes, lota (pots), and brassware.
The interiors of the hut are decorated with earthen elements. photo credit: ndtv food
Traditional weathered, village-style elements in cottage design. photo credit: ndtv food
The efficient 32-member staff left no stone unturned in terms of facilities and provisions. Neem teeth, incense sticks, native salt and Multani mitti face pack were kept in our room; With luxurious amenities like coffee machine, minibar-cum-wine chiller, air conditioner and a beautiful bathroom fitted with exquisite fixtures and fittings. Brij Laxman also provided in-house syrups and snacks to munch on in between meals.
Authentic local food cooked to perfection
In terms of food and dining, the property has made it a point to serve Rajasthani food that is made from locally sourced ingredients. The zero kilometer philosophy has been extended to food, not only in sustainable procurement of produce, but also in terms of recipes and cooking techniques.
- The traditional Rajasthani food like Dal Bati Churma and Bajre ki Khichdi were downright delightful. The red meat was also spicy and well cooked. We also relished other authentic Rajasthani delicacies like Bajre ki roti, Bajre ka raab, Gatte ki sabzi, Kadhi, Pataud ki sabzi, Palak mangodi and much more. Each dish was carefully prepared without too much oil and generous spices.
Dal Bati with Rice, Gatte and Spinach Mangodi and Kadhi. photo credit: ndtv food
- Practically every meal included fresh juices, fruits and vegetables. These helped detoxify our body and gave us a break from eating heavy meals, as is usual at home. We have also tried mint, tomato juice, aloe vera juice and bitter neem juice along with watermelon juice!
- Some really unique preparations really stole the show in Brij Laxman Sagar. One of the highlights of our meal was the Imli Baingan, made with tangy tamarind that made our mouths drool. We also enjoyed a beautiful salad with all kinds of dips and dressings paired with it.
Fresh fruit, salads and dips. photo credit: ndtv food
- A wholesome barbecue dinner was also presented during our stay. There were dishes like Veg Seekh Kebab, Paneer Tikka, Chicken Malai Tikka and some tandoori preparations which the chef presented to us with the same enthusiasm as the local Rajasthani cuisine.
Activities and Things to Do
Brij Laxman Sagar offers guests complete freedom to choose their own activities and plan their itinerary according to their preferences. You can choose to savor some authentic experiences, or else, just sit back and relax. While some activities are complimentary, others are on a fee basis. Some of the interesting activities we tried were:
1. Have breakfast with a private chef surrounded by farm fresh vegetables in the property’s kitchen garden
2. Kayaking in the lake with an in-house guide and all safety precautions
3. Learn how to grind spices and mix them with traditional chakki setup and expert chefs
4. Nature walk with a knowledgeable guide visiting several bird and tree plantations along with local flora and fauna
5. Picnic at the top of Aravalli hills and delicious high tea at sunset
6. Making millet bread in the village farm and enjoying it with white butter
7. Local jungle safari with carcasses of wild boar, nilgai, seven sister birds, parrots, leopard
8. Learn to sculpt from clay in a private pottery workshop
You can also enjoy a pool carved out of granite with a beautiful backdrop of rugged topography. There is also a spa with a natural backdrop that provides the perfect environment for relaxation.
Relax amidst nature at the spa. photo credit: ndtv food
At night, the clear sky provides the ideal setup for some stargazing and night-watching from the comfort of your hut. Picturesque elements like lanterns, lounge chairs and swings make for lovely clicks. The best thing about Brij Laxman Sagar is its stunning natural beauty. Every section in this property has peacocks covered for you! Trust us, you will not be bored at all and will enjoy every moment here. Do not forget to carry good walking shoes as the property is quite extensive and a lot of trekking is required to get from one place to another.
So, if you want to purify your senses, open your thoughts and calm your mind, Brij Lakshman Sagar is the place to be. You will return to the traditional way of life while enjoying all the modern comforts. This is definitely going to be your future topic of conversation, and will be the envy of all your friends!