LF Says: ★★★★
Driving from Jaipur International Airport to Bookmark Resort Jogi Mahal Ranthambore – a serene and swift 3-hrs car ride – there’s a sense of anticipation in the air as I make myself ready to set foot in the enigmatic city of Ranthambore for the first time.
Ranthambore, though a small town, looms large in the annals of history. Its very name evokes images of ancient forts and regal splendour. So does this new Ranthambore resort by Bookmark Resorts. The palace-like resort exudes a sense of opulence. And rightfully the name of the property comes from the historic hunting lodge located on the Padam Talao shoreline beneath Ranthambore Fort.
Upon reaching Ranthambore, the sprawling expanse of trees and the arid desert present a striking contrast. The sight of this resort with traditional Rajasthani architecture–intricately carved arches and domes that evoke the grandeur of a bygone era amidst the wilderness–captivated my senses.
Into regal splendour
Entering Jogi Mahal, the resort and the staff offer an unparalleled experience that captures the spirit of Ranthambore in all its glory. The sprawling resort becomes a peaceful sanctuary where you enjoy the elegance of exquisitely created interior areas and the rustic outdoors. Oh! The sound of birdsongs becomes the ideal soundtrack.
The striking property leaves a lasting impression on every traveller who stays there. A warm welcome with a refreshing drink, garlands and a musician playing Ravanahatha, Rajasthan’s traditional string instrument, sets the tone of warm hospitality that defines this oasis. Traditional Rajasthani architecture meets modern luxury in the stunning lobby, decorated with vivid jungle-themed murals, Rajasthani stonework, and intricate chevron and checkerboard patterns.
At first glance, the resort appears like a page from a fairy tale, its majestic architecture steeped in history. It has a grand-sized main pool inspired by the designs of Rajasthan’s Chand Baori, an amphitheatre seating arrangement in the central courtyard, and well-manicured gardens. The air is alive with the calls of myriad bird species, and the rustle of leaves carries the promise of encountering elusive wildlife.
Bookmark Jogi Mahal offers 40 rooms, including 19 Luxury Rooms with heated plunge pools and 21 Deluxe Rooms. Stepping inside, my room felt like a cocoon of comfort, adorned with plush furnishings and exquisite artwork. The private plunge pool and open-air shower were a delightful surprise. The room came with a private balcony, dramatic murals on the walls, and luxe-toned interiors of earthy hues and soft lighting made it visually arresting. The ensuite bathroom includes indoor and outdoor rain showers, walk-in closets, and top-of-the-line amenities and toiletries to envelop you in luxury.
After a day of exploring the untamed beauty of Ranthambore, there’s no greater pleasure than returning to your sanctuary, where indulgence knows no bounds.
Culinary odyssey
While you’re here, be ready to indulge in a feast fit for a king. From outdoor poolside barbecues to curated sit-down meals, food becomes a feast under the canopy of clear, starlit nights. Picture this: the tranquil ambience of the poolside, the crackling of flames, and the tantalising aroma of grilled delicacies wafting and a nice whisky drink. This was how my first dinner went here, a five-course continental meal. Another intimate dining experience included an intimate sit-down dinner at the central courtyard while dancing to the tunes of popular Rajasthani folk music.
While Bookmark Jogi Mahal takes pride in showcasing the rich flavours of Rajasthan, its culinary offerings extend beyond traditional Rajasthani dishes. Indulge in a selection of succulent tandoori specialities; timeless favourites like pies, continental grilled fish, Nasi Goreng, Udon dishes and more. The eclectic menu extends beyond borders, catering to the discerning tastes of travellers from around the world.
When you visit Rajasthan, however, you must enjoy a typical Rajasthani thali, which includes spicy curries, savoury snacks, and sweet desserts. No trip to this vibrant state is complete without taking a bite of their signature dishes. My last-day lunch here had me tucking into sumptuous daal baati churma, ker sangri, gatte ki sabzi, Mewari chicken, mirchi ketipore and sev tamatar–it was a heavenly end to a memorable trip.
Another remarkable aspect of this resort is the complimentary high tea ritual. Amidst the soothing melodies of chirping birds and rustling leaves, indulge in a lavish spread of tea cakes, pizza pockets, delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones and croissants. Sounds like the perfect way to unwind in the evenings!
Additionally, the resort’s signature buttermilk drink was enticing enough and a pure bliss must-have. The refreshing elixir was refreshing and deeply satisfying–perfect to soothe the soul in Ranthambore’s heat. Oh! Don’t miss trying the kachoris of Ranthambore. The taste of golden-brown, crispy orbs, stuffed with a delectable spicy filling of both dal (lentils) or pyaaz (onion) leaves a lasting impression on all who enjoy indulging in them.
Roaming Ranthambore
Having opened its doors to wildlife enthusiasts and luxury seekers in late December 2023, this Ranthambore resort enjoys a close vicinity to the National Park. At an extra cost, the resort provides custom-made safari vehicles with guides and rangers to help you explore the park, in addition to arranging your safari permits, which must be done in advance.
However, decades ago, the park was a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur. When a person goes to a tiger park for the first time, the hope of encountering the majestic, enigmatic animal is highly sought-after. In the early 2000s, Ranthambore National Park’s legendary Tigress Machali, who is claimed to be the most photographed Tiger in the world, has now left behind a royal lineage of great tigers like Krishna, Sultana, Arrowhead, Noor and others.
Taking both an afternoon and morning safari, the National Park showcased panoramic views, from the golden hues of sunrise to the mystical allure of twilight. Boarding open jeeps, the landscape of this forest shines in shades of some green but mostly gold. The park has a total of 10 zones, we visited two of them – Zone 4 opened to serenity with lots of foliage, while Zone 8 has rugged terrain along winding trails.
As you enter the zones, the forest begins its promise of thrilling encounters and birdsong. Herds of spotted deer graze lazily, languid crocodiles basking in the sun along the riverbanks, while langurs playfully frolic in the branches overhead. There are remnants of the bygone era as well, from crumbling temples to weathered fortresses. However, every rustle of leaves or every distant roar sends a thrill down to embark on a quest to catch a glimpse of one famous tiger of this park.
However, mine was a serendipitous encounter on the road. For wildlife enthusiasts, spotting a tiger in its natural habitat is often considered the ultimate thrill. When I returned from Ranthambore Fort, a long line of halted vehicles blocked the road with people running to see ‘something’. People pointed to a sight of a familiar silhouette lounging on the road ahead. It was only a matter of drawing closer and using a pair of binoculars from somewhere that I could see her!
It was Tigress Sultana, resplendent in her glowing coat, reclining regally with her playful cubs by her side. Their amber eyes gleamed as they basked in the warmth of the fading sunlight. Well, don’t the most magical moments often occur when we least expect them?
Ranthambore beckons travellers with its storied past and vibrant present. Additionally, don’t miss exploring the ancient ramparts of Ranthambore Fort lined with tales of triumph and tragedy, of dynasties risen and fallen. Shilpgram is another place to experience this region’s rich craftsmanship, an art-focused village near Sawai Madhopur.
There is nothing like the comfort of the Bookmark Resort’s Sansha Spa’s therapy rooms when you have just spent the day exploring. The tranquil setting and soothing music are sure to lull you to sleep.
Bookmark Resort Jogi Mahal offers a sanctuary of luxury and tranquillity amidst the untamed beauty of Ranthambore. The immersive experiences along with championing the art of relaxation are what make this Ranthambore resort quite a pick among the rest!
LF Says: ★★★★
Coordinates: Near Sherpur Helipad, Khilchipur, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, India
