Here we talk about a holiday spot, which transports you to royal ancient era of Indian sub-continent with its traditional style hospitality.
Are you roaring to explore the real flavor of Rajasthan, in its authentic rustic feel?
If yes, then Chhatra Sagar Nimaj is the destination for you. Located at a driving distance of two and a half hours east of Jodhpur and approximately three hours north of Deogarh in Rajasthan, this charismatic tented camp is truly a wild dream come true.
It is justly a place to be for those who love camping holidays and getting close to wild-life. Such holidays of course come at a preferably lower cost too.
Let us take an overview of one such option.
Lying at the foot of a picturesque bank, Chhatra Sagar consists of thirteen traditional Rajasthani hand-stiched tents. Out of which 11 are located at the dam and 2 sit at the top of the hill offering breathtaking views of the sky and the city. Each tent is magnificently adorned with comfortable beds, attached bathrooms and a sitting area overlooking a spectacular lake. The tents are not air-conditioned but they have fans. Heaters are available in colder months and hot water is plentiful which is provided by the local geyser. Each cozy tent has a veranda with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. All in all, it is not a picture of luxury, but a truly earthy arrangement who love to remain close to the nature.
Wild Life Fun
The camp is a treat for wild life seekers as it is situated in the hunting preserve of the Nimaj estate and run by the local ruling family, the Nimaj family. The Nimajs are all personally involved in looking after guests. The camp is an updated version of the 1920s hunting parties hosted by the Nimaj family, who have owned the surrounding working farmland for more than a century. Hence, the tents are amongst the finest to be found in India, portraying the royal culture. Bird watching, nature walks around the lake and the surrounding countryside, jeep safaris and many other enthralling activities are freely available on the menu of this fascinating camp. One just needs to put a chair outside their tent to catch a breathtaking view of chirping birds and engrossing surroundings, while sitting in utter peace. The enchanting landscape and captivating local culture are treats in selves.
While at the camp one young ones can indulge in other activities which include boating at the lake, stargazing, visits to local temples, visits to nearby Bishnoi villages, visits to tribal settlements in the Todgarh-Raoli Sanctuary and excursions to the historic town of Jodhpur, the stunning fort at Nagaur and to Pushkar, via the historic battle grounds at Giri Sumel where Sher Shah Suri fought his decisive battle with the forces of Maldev. There is a lot to explore.
The beautiful lake at Chhatra Sagar often dries up by February or March. However, it is still a wonderful site as all the birds and animals come to drink at the small pond which remains available to quench the thirst.
Facilities With a Smile
The camp is adequately facilitated with a main dining area, lakeside sunbathing area, camp fire for evening drinks and gatherings. Internet access is available though Wifi. There is glass bound air-conditioned library too. Children of all ages are welcome but there are no specific facilities made available for them. One child may be accommodated in their parent’s tent for an extra charge. A babysitting service is available upon special request.
Food Adding to the Experience
Chhatra Sagar’s kitchen offers delicious Indian cuisine using old family recipes made from vegetables which are mostly grown in the farm around the camp. All meals, soft drinks, tea and coffee, are included in the room rate so one can really maximize the stay without worrying about mounting costs. For eating out experience, there is a restaurant which is right at the dam under an open-sided tent allowing one to gaze across the lake whilst relaxed dining.
Ideal Time to Visit the Camp
Rajasthan is known as the desert state. It is largely hot and dry throughout the year, making it a great destination for people seeking post monsoon holidays. The post-monsoon period is from October to November. The official “season” for tourism in Rajasthan starts in October. It’s a great time to travel because it is warm and sunny yet pleasant during the day; perfect for exploring and relaxing. Winters for Chhatra Sagar Nimaj that run from December to March, is the best season to visit. With day time temperatures still in the high 20’s this is apt time to travel. Though one must be aware that December and January can have very cool mornings and evenings, taking some warm clothing are highly recommended.
Camp remains closed for the months starting from May to September.
Now is the ideal time to look-up for train or air bookings and land in Rajasthan for the coming months of October to March.
Accessibility
By Air: Jodhpur Airport is the nearest airport to Chhatra Sagar Nimaj. It is located at a distance of 110kms. Jodhpur Airport is connected to Jaipur, Delhi, Udaipur and Mumbai by daily regular flights. A flight to Jodhpur is an easy access followed by a 2 hours of taxi journey to the destination.
By Train: Jodhpur Railhead Station is an important junction in the North Western railway zone in India. Jodhpur is well connected to all major cities in India including Delhi by Rajasthan S Kranti mail, Kolkata by Hawrah Junction Express, Chennai by Ms Jodhpur Express, Mumbai by Suryanagari Express, Jaipur by Hawrah Junction Express, Jaisalmer by Jaisalmer Delhi Express, and Bangalore by Ypr Jodhpur Express. Jodhpur Railway Station receives rail carriages from all important cities of the country at regular intervals. Chhatra Sagar is approximately 110kms from Jodhpur Railhead.
By Bus: Nimaj Bus Stand is at a distance of 10kms from the camp and it runs Rajasthan Road Transport Corporation bus service to Jodhpur at nominal charges. Private deluxe buses are available from Jodhpur to Jaipur (330km), Delhi (569 km), Jaisalmer (290 km), Bikaner (240 km) and Agra (580 km). The deluxe bus charges vary between Rs 3 to Rs 4 per kilometer.
Being at Chhatra Sagar Nimaj means you wake-up to the sight of the mesmerizing sunrise and the soothing sound of birdsongs, as the scent from bowls placed romantically, brimming with flower petals fills the air. It’s a heavenly spot to take a breather from Rajasthan’s usual city crush.
