THE FACTS ABOUT NEEMRANA FORT PALACE

India

A couple of hours from Delhi on the airport side, this is an excellent first stop for new arrivals not wishing to battle with big-city mayhem. The fort, built in 1464 on a plateau, is India's oldest Heritage Hotel, set into the hillside in 25 acres. Francis Wacziarg and Aman Nath, who bought the palace in a derelict state several years ago, have renovated it intensively with the aid of Indian artists; it is a decidedly audacious hotel conversion of a princely property. Most suites have private balconies or terraces with great views. Food is a blend of French and traditional Rajasthani, served alfresco, with small charcoal stoves at the tables taking the chill out of the night air. Visit the ruined forts above the palace, or descend into the nearby 18th-century step well, which once provided the ruler and his entourage with a cool retreat from the summer heat. ROOMS Doubles cost between £35-£105 a night CONTACT Delhi Reservation office: 00 91 11 435 6145 / 8962 / 5214; fax: 435 1112; email: sales@neemranahotels.com WHO TO BOOK WITH It is often difficult to book rooms direct. A more reliable (and generally cheaper) solution is to book through a reputable agent. The following arrange tailor-made itineraries: Western & Oriental (020 7313 6600); Worldwide Journeys (020 7381 8638); Cox & Kings (020 7873 5000); Greaves Tours (020 7487 9111); Abercrombie & Kent (020 7730 9600); Steppes East (01285 651 010)