Driving into Luni, a small, dusty desert town in Rajasthan, India, one starts to wonder what kind of bed you might be sleeping on for the night. Amazingly, any cares you had disappear once inside the large walls of Fort Chanwa. Lush green lawns surrounding beautifully maintained flower beds inhabit the grounds within the walled property. The former residence has been remarkably restored and converted to a 4 star hotel.
A staff the size of a small army runs a tight operation behind the scenes. Luggage is quickly swept up to your room while hot towels and refreshments are brought to weary guests upon check in at the main reception desk. Just past the reception hall lies the combination indoor / outdoor dining area. Guests sit out on a raised veranda overlooking the circular driveway, pool and outdoor seating area. Tables with over-sized umbrellas blocking out the desert sun provide a relaxing setting for meals. Food is served in typical Rajasthani fashion by waiters dressed in crisp linen uniforms.
The rooms are large, neat and clean. Comfortable beds afforded me a welcome break from the past few nights of restless sleep. The bathroom was smartly fixed with a Western toilet, shower, hot water tank and full time running water. Be prepared to walk steps here as there are no elevators. Fortunately the staff is available to move heavy luggage upon exit and of course, entry.
Bring lots of reading material, cards or anything that keeps your mind off quiet. Other than the little noise heard from the surrounding town of Luni, Fort Chanwa is meant for relaxation. Guests lounge by the pool or in their room. At times, I did see a few adventurous guests sit in the outdoor seating area located in the middle of the grounds. It is within eyesight of the entire complex which didn’t feel relaxing to some guests. Also, the eager staff continuously asks for drink or food orders to ensure their guests are comfortable. This can be a minor irritant when immersed in a good read.
Management did seem a little irritated (or possibly concerned) when my travel partner and I decided to walk the town. Instead of opening the large fort doors, we were ushered out through a smaller door-within-a-door. When we returned, a knock on this same door responded with a swift opening by the doorman and a welcome, but curious look. When asked if our friend and driver could join us for meals, management agreed, however it was with a very reluctant yes. Between this request and our excursion into the lackluster town without escort, we felt as if we had broken all the rules at this white collar retreat.
Come to Fort Chanwa to relax, recharge and rest in-between the multiple tourist sites Rajasthan has to offer. If you desire more action, skip Luni altogether.
