Sawai Madhopur Lodge by IHCL SeleQtions is a heritage retreat amidst the wilderness of Ranthambhore, one of India’s most renowned national parks. Spread over 16 acres, the hotel was built in 1936 as a hunting lodge for the Royal Family of Jaipur. Originally commissioned by Maharaja Man Singh II, the lodge became a hub for royal hunting expeditions and as a campsite, with its Art Deco architecture reflecting the grandeur of the era. Visitors such as Queen Elizabeth II in 1961 and former US President Bill Clinton in 2000 have added to the lodge's rich legacy, further cementing its cultural significance.
IDEAS was commissioned to redevelop the property with a phased development approach, aiming to retain its historical essence while upgrading its facilities to meet modern standards. The original design, though majestic, lacked the infrastructural capacity to accommodate the increasing demand for luxury and comfort. Additionally, certain lodge areas had aged, requiring aesthetic and functional upgrades. IDEAS reimagined the entire property to address these challenges while preserving its colonial Art Deco style. Sixteen new guest suites were designed to complement the existing architectural narrative, ensuring a seamless blend between the old and the new. The redesign also included a revamped all-day dining area, a state-of-the-art conference and banquet hall, an organic garden, and a spa and fitness centre with a swimming pool, all carefully integrated around a 100-year-old banyan tree to enhance the guest experience without compromising the lodge’s raw, jungle-inspired charm.
Guests arriving at this transformed lodge are greeted by the promise of jungle adventures and a rich historical narrative. The crescent-shaped mansion, adorned with vibrant colours, geometric lines, chequered floors, and iconic jalidaar patterns, is a treat for period architecture fans. Elements like the Jaipur coat of arms, royal portraits, and taxidermy trophies of wild animals on the walls evoke the lodge’s majestic past while coexisting with modern luxury.
IDEAS ensured that the lodge would stand as a tribute to its royal heritage and an authentic gateway to local culture. The dining experience is enriched with slow-cooked jungle cuisine reminiscent of royal hunting parties, while local musicians entertain guests under the stars each evening. This delicate balance of heritage and contemporary luxury offers guests an immersive experience steeped in the stories of princely legends and the natural beauty of Ranthambore.