Ever dreamt of staying in a Rajasthani fort, digging into authentic Rajput hunting cuisine, spending cold nights by a sigree under the night sky and getting pampered at a luxury spa in the dungeons? Alila Fort Bishangarh offers all of that – and so much more. A 250-year old warrior fort has been transformed into a luxury heritage hotel property, with a fine balance between rustic experiences and modern amenities. The original fort has been left intact, with much care given to ecological restoration, and the reconstruction of new residential areas has recreated the courtly flavour of Shahpura’s royalty. It’s a unique example of the Jaipur gharana of architecture, influenced by both the Mughals and the British. The two-metre thick ancient walls around the fort still have openings for firearms and turrets, the terraces overlook the tranquil countryside and the haveli-style greeting area, pool and lawns make it the perfect location for a grand destination wedding.

The suites are outrageously decadent (it is an all-suite property, with 52 suites), and you can dine on the terrace at Nazara, the Rajasthani hunting cuisine specialty restaurant, which has a delicious and unique menu curated by celebrity chef Ranveer Brar. After that, relish an after-dinner drink at the restored bar, Madhuveni, which was the entertainment section for the soldiers back in the day. To add to that, there’s a wonderful cigar and cognac room, a well-stocked wine cellar, Kachawa (the tea lounge and breakfast terrace), and you can enjoy traditional Rajasthani treatments at the underground spa and take camel safaris around the village, with pit stops at the homes of potters, silversmiths and carpet weavers, for a holistic rural Rajasthan experience. For a romantic weekend or a memorable wedding, AFB is the place to head off to.