Lying in the Aravalli Hills, north of Jaipur, Samode Palace is a magnificent example of Rajput-Mughal architecture and boasts some of the finest frescoes and mirror-work in the state. The owners are very much involved with the running of the property and it is their exquisite taste which has produced some of the most stunning rooms and suites to be found in any heritage hotel. The swimming pool is magnificent and the surrounding village is lovely to stroll around.

The townhouse of the Samode family, this is another gem, lying in the heart of Jaipur. Again, it is home to some fabulous frescoes and, with its large gardens, it is difficult to believe that from this sanctuary you can stroll out into one of the city's busiest streets. As with Samode Palace, the bedrooms are scattered around the rambling building and are superbly decorated. The huge new swimming pool is one of Jaipur's finest and is a draw in itself. Samode Haveli is the only option for anyone wanting a heritage hotel in Jaipur.

One of India's few 'boutique' hotels, Devi Garh will come as a surprise to anyone exploring Rajasthan. The concept of entirely modern interior design within the framework of a traditional palace is unique in Rajasthan and this is Devi Garh. The ingenious owners and given life back to what was a derelict hilltop palace and it is now a gloriously comfortable and different 'palace' hotel. The huge suites are spread around the building and are decorated predominantly in marble with individual colour themes to differentiate one from the other. Panoramic views, proximity to Udaipur, a large swimming pool, a small spa, superb cuisine and caring staff make this a must for anyone visiting Udaipur or the Aravalli Hills.

Situated just 2 hours from Jodhpur, this idyllic haven comprises 11 tents pitched on a dam, overlooking a lake teeming with birds. The Nimaj family are all personally involved in looking after guests and the tents are amongst the finest to be found in India. Each is pitched to ensure privacy and all face directly onto the lake. The food served here is some of the finest Rajasthani home cooking in the state and the charming family ensure you want for nothing. Due to its location, surrounded by farmland and small villages, a stay here allows you to experience rural Rajasthan in a way that few other properties allow you to.

Located 40 minutes south of Jodhpur, this lovely, family run fort is an ideal alternative for those wanting to stay outside the city, in a rural environment. Very much a family concern, it is an extremely friendly place with prettily decorated rooms scattered around the premises, facing onto the gardens. The family are lovers of the great outdoors and will take you out to visit the local tribal villages and farming communities. They are also keen horsemen and this is one of the best areas at which to base yourself if keen on riding. Alternatively, rest by the glistening swimming pool or find a secluded spot in a garden to read and while away the hours.

Ideally positioned in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, this is the perfect overnight stop between Jodhpur and Udaipur and is close to Ranakpur and Kumbhalgarh. Owned and run by one of the kindest, most affable families around, they have restored their family fort from near ruin and have created one of Rajasthan's finest heritage hotels. A stunning swimming pool and dining room, endless comfortable roof terraces, and the beautiful, traditional bedrooms are the result of a great deal of hard work, immense love and care, and superb taste. The surrounding town is one of the friendliest and safest to immerse yourself in and the neighbouring countryside boasts wonderful, secluded picnic spots.

This unique little fort / villa / hotel lies in a wonderfully pretty and secluded area in the heart of the Aravalli Hills and is surrounded by sublime scenery and peace and quiet. Fort Seeng Sagar would be ideal to take in its entirety as a 'villa' for a group of friends. The unique infinity pool is carved into the rock and juts out into the lake and will tempt you not to move away. It offers delicious, Rajasthani home cooking and is ideally positioned between Jodhpur and Udaipur - a must for anyone travelling in Western Rajasthan.

This lovely little hotel lies, hidden away in a small village, deep in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, at the foot of a huge, granite rock. Surrounded by forested hills and rocky outcrops, it is reminiscent of a Rajasthan that few see today and is in one of the most beautiful parts of the state. Rawla Narlai is a delightful 17th century property which was once a favourite hunting lodge of the Jodhpur Royal Family. It is still owned by members of the Jodhpur family who are young, keen and energetic and who play an active part in the running of the hotel. They have invested vast amounts of time, money, love and care into restoring this little gem and it's now looking better than ever.

This wonderful, garden estate was formerly the summer home of the rulers of Shahpura and comprises 2 residences with 8 rooms. The style and décor is very much a mixture of Rajasthani meets colonial, with a quiet, understated yet elegant air. Set in 30 acres of garden and pasture and surrounded by lakes, it is a very special and ultimately peaceful little oasis, situated midway between Jaipur and Udaipur. Very much a family concern, the family all reside there and are more than happy to sit and chat with guests. With its idyllic and unspoilt rural setting, this is a place to come for at least a couple of nights as it provides a perfect, restful break in an otherwise rather hectic, city-based itinerary. Borrow the bicycles and go cycling around the lakes; go fishing and boating on the lakes; visit the stunning local temple and stepwell; explore the town and see the traditional local artists at work; enjoy a beautiful candlelit dinner in the huge, old palace in town; or have a guided tour of the palace. The walking is excellent and, due to all the water in the area, the birdlife is phenomenal.