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Glimpses into the best of the Indian Subcontinent
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RARE India stands for destination knowledge efficiently showcased through the window of a hotel concept and its experience design. As we build back to being who we set out to be in 2003 - that of owner-centric, boutique hotels as powerful storytellers of the region's culture, nature, community, and heritage, we believe that the community of RARE Hotels has worked to change the narrative of what tourism with the best intention may look like. Though planet sensitive and community inclusive tourism is still far from being on the agenda as a force for good, we continue to see shifts in how the industry thinks of future travel. And that is encouraging for the RARE community as every hotelier continues on the path of pioneers and changemakers!
We grow more robust and focused as we move away from expanding and large brands with their own formidable sales force to focus on the fewer keys, boutique, owner-run hotels and lodges that define luxury on their terms and tell a compelling destination story. Our partners for many years, Brij Hotels, The Ultimate Travelling Camp, The Claridges, New Delhi and The Claridges Collection - Mussoorie and Haridwar, are no longer on the RARE platform.
We are delighted to announce new destination experiences on RARE India, with owner-run hotels aligning with our conscious luxury travel ethos. These hotels share our vision of celebrating the diversity and richness of the destination's culture, nature, and heritage. They have been built on values of sustainability, authenticity, and responsibility.
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Sawantwadi Palace, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Shraddha and Lakham Bhonsle of the erstwhile royal family of Sawantwadi are the face of this Heritage revival. Tethered to their roots while being global in their education and outlook, they ventured into experiential hospitality after their culinary education in the USA. The royal palace of Sawantwadi, dating back to the 18th century, is located in a scenic town in the Konkan region of Southern Maharashtra. Here is where they experiment on sustainable hospitality and culinary creations under the aegis of Plated with Royalty - the dining experience headed by the couple which brings a refreshing and authentic reimagination of Malvani food and a showcase of world cuisine.
A unique and notable story in Sawantwadi is the revival of the Ganjifa painting. Showcasing the art and craft of the region, such as pottery, lacquerware, and wooden toys, which local artisans make on the palace premises, Sawantwadi Palace, a boutique art hotel subscribes to the RARE Touchstone of Heritage Conservation.
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The Legacy Mandawa by The Machan, Shekhawati, Rajasthan
A land known for its businessmen and their beautiful homes, Shekhawati created an enduring fantasy land that stands faded yet inspires awe. While many of the majestic havelis are crumbling with blatant disregard, a few notable endeavours have created great hospitality experiences. One of them is our newest partner, The Legacy Mandawa by The Machan. Begun as a hospitality venture based out of Maharashtra, their romance with Shekhawati led them to take on a restored 18th-century haveli in Mandawa, retaining and even amplifying its authentic charm and elegance, a significant heritage preservation project.
Shekawati is a paradise for lovers of art and architecture, as well as for those who want to experience the colourful and vibrant culture of Rajasthan. The Legacy offers beautiful rooms and suites with traditional decor and modern amenities. The hotel also has multiple restaurants - Baithak and Baradari, both inspired by the cuisine and culture of the region, a swimming pool, and a library. A guided walk through the havelis of Mandawa and visits to nearby Ratangarh Fort and Sethani Ka Johara reservoir are among the many immersive experiences here.
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Aashraya on the Ganga, Near Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
The Ganges is the sacred lifeline of northern India, flowing from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal. Upper reaches of the river offer stunning views of the valley surrounded by hills in Uttarakhand, where the river originates. Set near Rishikesh, in one of the secluded spots of the river’s course is Aashraya on the Ganga, a boutique resort with five beautiful cottages, each with a private balcony overlooking the river. The gardens around are to relax and meditate, and for private yoga sessions.
Set away from the crowds, built with locally sourced and recycled materials, Aashraya grows their own produce or locally sources them for the kitchen. The emphasis here from the beginning has been on a creating low impact model, which is why Aashraya on the Ganga is a true example of tourism envisaged to be Planet Sensitive and destination specific.
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Tara Mountain Sarai, Zanskar, Ladakh
Zanskar Valley is a remote and scenic region in the Kargil district of Ladakh, India. It is famous for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and opportunities for adventure. One can explore the valley through treks, river rafting, and visiting the ancient monasteries and villages. Tara Mountain Sarai has been set up to offer myriad experiences that capture the essence of the Zanskar Valley, as a sustainable and regenerative hospitality project that aims to make Zanskar accessible and comfortable for travellers. A boutique luxury camp nestled amidst the untamed wilderness of the valley where the Tsarap and Kargyak rivers converge, Tara Mountain Sarai offers panoramic views of the rugged mountains and valleys. The owner Rigzin is a pioneer in promoting responsible tourism by preserving of the region's nature and culture. Tara Mountain Sarai supports the local community by providing employment, education, and empowerment.
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Ladakh Sarai, Saboo, Ladakh
Ladakh Sarai is a collection of buildings built with reverence to indigenous architecture in the idyllic Saboo village near Leh. Walks around and cultural activities such as monastery visits and festivals are exclusive experiences. It blends in with the landscape and offers a rustic yet comfortable stay. Ladakh Sarai ticks the RARE Touchstone Light Footprint Tourism in more ways than one - from using locally sourced materials, age-old agricultural techniques, and design inspired by the cellular geometry of Ladakhi farms and stepped slopes of the valley. It is a perfect gateway to leaser known villages of greater Himalayas of Ladakh.
Saboo, not far from Leh town is a great starting point to explore the idyllic villages of the Markha Valley, the Nubra Valley, and the Zanskar Valley, where the much of the traditional way of life is still preserved.
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Golden Haveli of Haveli Dharampura, Old Delhi
Old Delhi is a place where history and culture are alive and vibrant. The narrow lanes, colourful bazaars, ancient monuments, and mouth-watering cuisine are some attractions that draw visitors to this part of the city. Old Delhi contrasts the modern and planned New Delhi, but it has its charm and appeal and is a treasure trove of stories, memories, and experiences. Golden Haveli, by Haveli Dharampura, is a restored haveli in the historical Chandni Chowk, dating back to the Mughal era. Golden Haveli transports you to a bygone era of elegance and splendour with its ornate interiors, fine dining, and cultural performances at Haveli Dharampura, just down the street. Guided tours of the old city, exploring its markets, mosques, and monuments, are in the spirit of the RARE Touchstone Sensitive Destination Discovery. It is run by a dynamic father-daughter duo - Vijay Goel provides the vision, while Vidyun helms the entire operation. Vidyun also operates an NGO called the Toy Bank, which ensures the right to play for all children.
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Zhiwa Ling Heritage, Paro, Bhutan
Paro is quintessential when travelling in Bhutan, a landlocked, happy country in the Himalayas. Home to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery, one can explore the many dzongs, museums, markets, and temples, along with stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers that make Bhutan a paradise for nature lovers. Partnering with Zhiwa Ling Heritage, a luxury hotel that blends traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern amenities, has included Bhutan once again as a RARE destination. Enjoy the spa, meditation house, tea house, and fine dining at Zhiwa Ling Heritage along with Bhutan’s rich culture and history.
The concept behind Zhiwa Ling Heritage has been to showcase Bhutan’s unique culture while keeping it true to its heritage and allowing the local community to be a part of it - from design to operations, it is uniquely Bhutan.
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