A Little Paradise Down to Earth
Savista is a great place to stay if you want a break from the city noises. We enjoyed the beautiful nature atmosphere and the hosts are lovely and very helpful people. The property, including the rooms are very nicely decorated, keeping the sense of Indian traditional culture and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We recommend to taste the fresh and organic food they serve at dinners. It’s very healthy and tasty. In winter they keep you warm with a fireplace. Letizia Giordano, (Italy), on Google, 2020
An Extremely Pleasant and Comfortable Stay
The surroundings are just the perfect getaway (approx. 45mins) from the city hustle and bustle. We took bikes around the countryside lanes and enjoyed that very much. The service, rooms and food are of the highest standards. Would recommend to anyone looking to stay in an high quality, lovely countryside setting. Miia Godwin, Berlin (Germany), on Google, 2020
Loin de l’agitation de Jaipur, cette bâtisse blanche en pleine campagne est un refuge idéal pour ceux qui veulent un séjour 100 % relax à l’écart de l’agitation de la ville. Les chambres confortablement meublées et décorées avec beaucoup de goût entourent la splendide piscine. Le restaurant concocte des plats locaux à base de produits bio provenant du jardin. Pour plus de détente : sauna, hammam, massages, initiation au yoga sont à votre disposition. Un petit bijou.
An Oasis of Calm in Rajasthan
Savista Retreat is an exquisite escape from the hustle of North India. Serenely set on 12 acres of garden and organic pasture, Savista transports you to the rhythm of rural India; Birdsong, slow breakfasts, beautiful rooms and a haveli oozing old world charm combine to make Savista Retreat a true gem. Don’t come for a hotel experience. Come to slow down and change gears. Lachlan W., Melbourne (Australia), on Tripadvisor, 2020
Behold the Indian pastoral: acres of wheat fields, twittering birds, gardens, and hammocks swinging from shady fruit trees… Then the old house itself, elegantly light and cooled by the breeze. Savista has its own adventurous storyline: 300 years ago, the heir to the kacchawa throne ran away to set up his own kingdom here. Performances are encouraged, often musical with so many instruments to hand, and held on the amphitheatre steps. Old, rescued artefacts account for much of the furniture, while uncluttered bedrooms-jasmine, lapis lazuli — are named according to their colours. A well-stocked gym and library stretch different muscle groups before a candlelit dinner (of your: request) in the company of your wonderful, warm, cultured hosts. Bhanwar and his wife are deeply environmentally conscious, encouraging guests to share a car (which they will provide with driver), employing and buying locally, composting, water harvesting… even the pool set among palms and a beautifully twisted tree stump, is an irrigation resource. This is special in every way.
A Very Special Place of Nature, Culture and Comfort
Savista is a traditional Jaiput countryside estate, inherited by the present owner from generations before him. It is a beautiful place, offering a peaceful vacation with countryside walks, bird watching in the garden, swimming in the pool and wide views from the roof terrace over the rural landscape. Added to this is the luxury of drinking pure well water from the tap and eat an ecological vegetarian menu prepared from home grown vegetables and fruits. Spacious rooms for guests, tastefully furnished in a Rajasthani fashion, each with fully equipped bathrooms. The hotel owner and his wife both have a wealth of knowledge about Indian history and culture and of the development of India today. They generously share their knowledge with interested guests and you can also use their large library and collection of classical Indian music. This is something you don’t normally expect to find at a hotel, it is worth a lot. Today, as Jaipur is growing, Savista is getting closer to the expanding habitat, enterprises and resorts of various kinds. This could be seen as threatening the peace. But with its well protected 14 acres of land, old and newly planted trees, food crops and seasonal flowers, the relative calm and unpolluted environment of Savista becomes an even greater asset compared to the city. p.s. also read the Savista blog, guests reviews. Savista is situated about 20 kilometers from Jaipur, 20 minutes’ drive by taxi. Annika J., Stockholm (Sweden), on Tripadvisor, 2019
Authentic experience in Rajasthan
My stay at Savista for five nights was one of the highlights of my travels through India, and a wonderful way to end two months of travel through Asia. Staying at Savista is like being welcomed into the home of old friends, and gives the opportunity to connect with other guests, the owners and the staff (if you would like) or sit quietly on the property enjoying the beautiful grounds and countryside away from the noise of the city. The rooms are spacious, clean and thoughtfully decorated with individual sundecks overlooking the pool, and the dinners were the best I ate while in India, made from the owner’s handed-down family recipes. The owners are lovely and engaging, and will help plan your stay in the Jaipur area depending on your interests. The property is located approximately 45 minutes from Jaipur, so travel times should be considered when planning your time there, as this adds considerable time in the car when going into the city for the day. It should also be noted that this is not a traditional hotel — it is a private property which offers warm, hospitable and welcoming service, but you should not expect a tv in every room as in a traditional box hotel, which for me was part of the charm and appeal. A truly unique and relaxing experience in the Rajasthan countryside. Jessieindaworld, Connecticut (U.S.A.), on Tripadvisor, 2019
Serenity and serendipity
Staying at Savista is akin to a homecoming, even if one is not from the peaceful outskirts of Jaipur, where it awaits discovery like a jewel. We were treated like long lost relatives, looked after and taken care of like family by our lovely hosts with the support of warm, diligent staff. The hotel staff did not speak English, but were always cheerfully and kindly attentive–they were obviously treated very well by the owners, who have done an amazing job of creating an enlightened oasis amidst the tensions of modern life and a modernizing India. At Savista, everything felt very intentional, from their employment policies to the sophisticated interior design to the farm-to-table dinner menus. It was a perfect home base from which to explore the Jaipur area, but the impromptu conversations with our hosts soon became the highlight of our stay. I came to Savista looking for a little luxurious respite and found much more–a genuine connection to the surrounding land and the wonderful people who live and work there. I can’t recommend it enough and I hope to be back again and again. Kris L, San Diego (U.S.A.), on Tripadvisor, 2019
A Magical Wonderful Retreat
Savista is a home away from home. Arriving at Savista after several days of working and traveling in cars and staying in very crowded cities was exactly what my friends and I needed. The rooms are spacious with outdoor areas. I had the Gulmohar room. My two girlfriends each had their own very large spacious rooms with outdoor areas. All three rooms were sparkling clean with air-conditioning and king beds that were super comfortable. My room had a very large balcony with comfortable furniture overlooking the grounds which was perfect for a morning read and a sunset drink with my friends. The grounds are spectacular with sheep roaming past us as we eat breakfast. The food was delicious too. We ate dinner there most nights. Most of their food comes from their own grounds including the morning sheep yogurt. The entire team at Savista made our stay very special. They were friendly and happy. It was very obvious that the owners adore them all and that they are all one big happy family. The owners helped us with any arrangements we needed, gave us excellent advice and shared their knowledge of India. The wonderful conversations helped make our stay extra special. The swimming pool was such a treat with fresh water. Also an added bonus was the ability to drink water straight from the tap, they have their own water source. Savista is an easy drive to Jaipur, I highly recommend hiring a driver for the day, Team Savista made us feel like we were at home the entire time and my friends and I are all trying to figure out when we can return. I highly recommend staying at Savista. Dana G. Portland, Oregon (U.S.A.), on Tripadvisor, 2019
A Magical Oasis I Would Highly Recommend
A magical oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Jaipur. Wonderfully welcoming hosts and friendly local staff, environmentally and socially sustainable, this is a very special experience that is one to remember and very different from the large chain hotels we stayed at along the way. Every detail has been thought of and we were well looked after, they have a library, cinema, beautiful pool and gardens to walk through. I would highly recommend the Savista! Anna, Australia, on Tripadvisor, 2018
Savista Resort is a Dream Destination
We spent 2 whole weeks submersed in the tranquillity of this idyllic resort. If you are looking for a big chain hotel with uniformed staff and buzzing nightlife then look elsewhere. If you want to soak up the relaxed atmosphere in beautifully maintained gardens, staff who could not do more for you and the most amazing and original Indian (healthy!) food you will find then this is for you. All staff here are local people employed not for their hospitality backgrounds but for the sustainability of the local community. They are there to help but equally they will be very happy to leave you to doze quietly in a hammock or read a book by the pool. Every room is individual and carefully fitted out with everything you need. The rooms are cleaned every day. Just as an illustration to the attention to detail, you are provided with slippers to wear in the room and leave you ‘day’ shoes outside the room. The food is prepared on site and made with wholesome and natural ingredients. In the two weeks we were there we had a different meal chosen and prepared for us (obviously they will accommodate any dietary requirements). All dishes are carefully spiced (nothing was ever too spicy) and the variety amazed us…… so much so we have continued to cook and eat similar food since returning. Jaipur is a typically busy bustling Indian city and Savista brings a welcome rest from the manic noise of the city. Whilst a good 30 minute taxi ride fares are cheap and we often just hired a driver, arranged by Savista, for the day. The best suggestion we could make to people planning a visit – go with the flow., The staff are such easygoing friendly people and they will help you arrange whatever you need Simon C, U.K., on Tripadvisor, 2018
Restful, Reinvigorating
I spent a wonderful 4 nights at Savista, enveloped in the hospitality of the hosts and staff, eating the most amazing vegetarian dinners, seeing the sites (and jewelry shops!) in Jaipur, and reading and writing in this beautiful and calming heritage hotel. I already long for a return visit with friends and family this time! Savista is outside Jaipur – but very easy to arrange for a driver for day visits – and offers a glimpse into rural India. The rooms are lovely, clean, spacious and with fans so that air conditioning was unnecessary (but available). Special bonus is the clean water, meaning you can drink from the taps here – no need for bottled water. Savista’s hosts offer the right balance of engagement and leaving you to your own devices, and are always available to offer advise or support, as needed. Leah B, Johannesburg, on Tripadvisor, 2018
A magical visit
I can honestly say I have never stayed somewhere as astoundingly wonderful as Savista Reteat. This was a once in a lifetime stay that I will never forget. The property has its own calming, nourishing energy and the retreat owners are some of the most welcoming, warm people I’ve ever met. I felt at home from the moment I walked on the property. If you are even considering booking Savista, book it NOW! You will be in for a magical time. Nicole, Cambridge, Mass. (U.S.A.), on Tripadvisor, 2018
A Place for Rest and Relaxation
This estate is simply charming, delightful and quaint. Savista reflects the philosophy of its lovely owners. They made Savista a retreat for everyone who is interested in experiencing rural Rajasthani life, relaxing, eating healthy pesticide free vegetarian food grown on the premises or in the local villages, enjoying the peace of the beautiful gardens and watching the amazing bird life. Savista offers very cozy and well equipped rooms, a fresh water swimming pool (without chemicals) using water from its own well, fantastic yoga lessons, organized sightseeing trips and most importantly the feeling that guests are part of the family and being looked after very well. We loved the cheerful smiles and friendliness of the staff. Savista is definitely the place to be for people who are open minded for this philosophy which makes this secluded hotel so different from the mainstream accommodation in India. We could highly recommend Savista Retreat. Juergen R. Auckland (New Zealand), on Tripadvisor, 2017
If there were more than five stars I’d rate it higher
There are places just to stay and there are places to just ‘be.’ Savista is not only an incrediblybeautiful place to stay, it is a most wonderful place to be. Aesthetically beyond beautiful, unexcelled service, the staff at Savista have an extraordinary commitment to taking care of its guests. And they are so gentle and kind, that it forced me to just slow down and pay attention. We were only there for two nights and given the occasional chaos inherent in travel thru India, in hindsight I wish it could have been longer for we left so relaxed. Bhanwar is a gentleman raised in the ways of Old India, whose grace and way of being represents a fading way of life and is a rare treat. Jake B., N. Carolina (U.S.A.), on Tripadvisor, 2017
Sanctuary
Savista is a small, elegant private estate where you will be well cared for. Located just outside Jaipur, away from the rush of tourists, Savista is a sustainable place to renew. You can anticipate personal attention from extraordinary hosts Radhika and Bhanwar, and genuine kindness from the staff. I felt like I was welcomed into an extended family. Most of the food you’ll enjoy is grown on property or procured from neighbors. The residence is immaculate and the grounds, with fragrant frangipani and jasmine, are home to many varieties of exotic birds. If you’d like a day trip to the city, or any other special arrangement, you need only ask. My visit to Savista Retreat was a highlight of my experiences in India. Amanda Trevelino, Atlanta, Georgia (U.S.A.), on Tripadvisor, 2017
An Island of Peace in Busy Rajasthan
We stayed at Savista in the middle of a tour throughout Rajasthan. Our plan was to sleep there and take day trips into Jaipur. We arrived late at night after an endless day driving through traffic. From the moment we stepped foot into Savista we felt calmer, and we were whisked off to a late dinner for two by the pool under the moonlight. We were so enamored we decided to forget about Jaipur and just take two days to stay put and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The entire place has a refined combination of minimalism with earthy traditional elements. For breakfast we enjoyed fresh fruit, fresh yak milk (!!!) muesli and more. Dinners had a wholesome, simple elegance. The hosts go out of their way to create a special, personalized experience. We visited a nearby village and a block printing house, took walks, played a little tennis, and lounged in the pool. This is a quiet, peaceful place that makes you feel a world away from the hectic energy of the cities. Highly recommend for people looking for a unique, not-so-touristy piece of heaven. Adriana-Ashwin, New York (U.S.A.), on Tripadvisor, 2017
A Gem in Jaipur
The Savista Retreat website and photos do not do this place justice. It is so much more. We were charmed immediately upon our arrival at the Savista Retreat. The property, the rooms, the warm reception by the hosts, the earnest and lovely staff members… We feel in love and immediately knew that our two night stay would be too short. There is magic in this place and there are many, many stories to be told. For example, the one about how our host couple, Bhanwar and Radhika, personally and lovingly restored the historic family hunting lodge over the course of several years, using ancient artisan techniques and tools. Or the story of the ecological commitment that was made throughout, from renovation decisions through all current operations of the property. And the story of how Bhanwar and Radhika are using their hotel as a training ground for young locals to learn about the hospitality trade. Oh, and how most fruits and vegetables served at breakfast or dinner have been grown organically on the property. And… Well, you will need to sit down with these gracious hosts and have them share all of it. The knowledge imparted by Radhika about Indian culture was precious and helped us truly appreciate and better experience this incredible country. The property is beautiful and comfortable. Dinner and breakfast are served in a nearby building, Hibiscus Court. We loved the candlelight dinner by the fireplace and the breakfast outside in the courtyard. Among other services, Savista will arrange for local drivers, tour guides and workshops. Through their recommendation, we experienced a fantastic block printing workshop, one of the most memorable activities of our three week trip to India. Pretty amazing place. Anne-Marie, K. U.S.A., on Tripadvisor, 2016
Love
My daughter and I spent three lovely nights here after a long train ride from Jaislemer. Arriving at the property we were instantly excited, relaxed and relieved to be away from smog, noise and the craziness which can be India. Sometimes a respite is needed, and amid the extensive lush gardens and in our cosy big room, we welcomed the gentleness of this amazing retreat. I think we both about cried when we were served our first salad in weeks. Lovingly picked from the garden, we ate the crispest of radishes and nuttiest of arugula leaves. All the food was so lovingly grown and prepared that we enjoyed every mouthful. I even went into the kitchen to make three types of roti with grains from their fields. I can’t say enough about both Rhadika and Bhanwar. They are amazing hosts that make one feel like family and not guests. They are a wealth of information, not only on the surrounding area, but on India in general. We would love to have them as guests in our home one day… The building is beautiful, the gardens are full of local plants, many with restorative qualities, the excursion to the printmaking was great…. we really loved our time at Savista and kept recommending it to others during our trip. Lisanne C., Vancouver (Canada), on Tripadvisor, 2016
Highly Recommended: A Precious Experience That Stays With You
Beautifully situated in the countryside outside the noise and pollution in Jaipur. This is a very special place where you feel more as an honoured guest in a home than in a hotel. I did not want to leave, The retreat is run in socially and environmentally sustainable way. Food is delicious and locally produced by staff who are employed from the local community. It is an atmosphere of genuine hospitality and care far away from commercialism and tourism hazzels. Don´t miss the opportunity to go on a camel cart exploring the surroundings and get invited to a farmer´s house. Loved it!!!! Karin, Milan (Italy), on Tripadvisor, 2016
I Want to Live Here
We arrived at Savista Retreat, exhausted, dusty and slightly frazzled from the Pushkar Fair. We needed to recharge our batteries before we went back to Delhi, and were desperately searching for some peace and quiet. Savista was the answer to our search. Bhanwar and Radhika’s passion for the place and care for their guests made our stay wonderful. We slept like babes. We revelled in the lush greenery. We walked barefoot on the grass. We breathed in the sweet air. We lounged on the roof watching the sunset. We dozed on our balcony. We drank the tap water (a HUGE novelty in India). We listened to birds chirp all day long. We should have packed swimwear, gymwear and loungewear to make full use of the facilities but were content just to sit, read and recuperate in the peaceful surroundings. There are many additional activities that your lovely hosts can organise for you – camel cart rides through the village, block printing workshops, tours of nearby Jaipur, Pushkar and beyond. And finally when you are ready to depart, they can also organise a paid airport transfer for the 40 minute journey with a safe driver. One day at Savista felt like a week in a peaceful cocoon. We departed feeling truly refreshed, ready to take on the world and wishing we didn’t have to leave. I am definitely going back. Wandering Nomad, London (U.K.), on Tripadvisor, 2016