Ahilya Fort

Situated high above the banks of the sacred Narmada River, Ahilya Fort was the capital of one of the most celebrated women rulers — Ahilya Bai Holkar. Built in 1766, the fort-palace is a typical example of the Maratha architecture of the period.

Your host is Prince Shivaji Roa Holker, son of the last Maharajah of Indore who takes a personal interest in the care of his guests. During your stay, a boat trip can be taken to Baneshwar Temple in the middle of the river where you can swim in the cool, unpolluted waters. Ahilya Fort has one two-bedroom suite, eight double bedrooms and two luxury tents.

Completely off the beaten track, Ahilya Fort is a wonderful place to relax, explore the small untouched village, and drive out to Mandu, a vast abandoned city dating from the 10th century and abandoned in the 16th after an illustrious line of Moghul leaders.

OUR RATING: Medium