Let's help you plan

Joanna - Travel Consultant
Johnny - Travel Consultant
Eve - Travel Consultant
HeartHeartHeartHeartHeart
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars on Feefo

4.9/5 (1001 reviews)

Ahilya Fort, Maheshwar | Timbuktu Travel
Maheshwar

Ahilya Fort

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Ahilya Fort

Built by a warrior queen, this luxury fortress is a shrine to heritage and history.
The seat of power and the private residence for the much-celebrated female leader Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, who ruled from 1765-96, Ahilya Fort to this day remains in the hands of the Holkar dynasty. Run and owned by her direct descendent Prince Richard Holkar, the ancient property has been converted to an all-singing, all-dancing boutique retreat, giving all visitors a taste of the royal life (for a while at least, anyway). Set amid three acres of sprawling gardens and perched atop a hill with views over the Narmada River, you'll feel whisked away to another world...
Maheshwar , India
From $590 per person/per night
None
13 Rooms
Open Map
Static map

Property details

The property

This isn't just a fort by name - it's a real fort by nature! On a wander around the exquisite grounds, expect to discover plenty of courtyards, fountains and gardens scattered about, as well as several nooks and crannies to read a book and enjoy a cup of tea. You'll also find a freshwater pool (set in a walled garden - dreamy), well-stocked library, an in-house masseuse and even a tailoring service. Meals here are fragrant and fabulous and the menu is selected each day by the Prince himself. How's that for service?

The rooms

There are 13 rooms and suites dotted across six 18th-century buildings and each is beautifully decorated with hand-picked antiques and intricate fabrics. All have ensuite bathrooms with rain showers, but only some have air-conditioning. There are also two air-cooled tents in the gardens; choose the Royal Arjun, high up in the ramparts and complete with plunge pool, four-poster bed and freestanding bathtub for the ultimate Sheherazade vibes.

Activities

Ahilya Fort is committed to helping guests understand the culture and history of both the property and the surrounding city and will very happily arrange visits to traditional weavers, pilgrimages to local temples and forts, and village walks. Closer to home, enjoy sunrise yoga sessions on the turrets, take the hotel boat to explore the peaceful Narmada cascades, and then end the day with dinner on a private island surrounded by hundreds of candles.
Why we love it

Why we love it

The cocktail bar that pops up on the terrace every evening for sundowners with a view - and better yet, the cocktails are included as part of your stay.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Many of the staff have worked here for years so be sure to ask them about the history of the palace and their own experiences.
Something to think about

Something to think about

Maheshwar is a conservative city; pack clothing that covers your arms and legs for out and about wanderings. Good excuse to purchase a delicate Maheshwari silk scarf too.
Plan your stay

How to book Ahilya Fort

How do I book Ahilya Fort?

Ahilya Fort can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made India trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended India trips featuring Ahilya Fort or get advice and suggestions from one of our India specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Ahilya Fort?

Stays at Ahilya Fort start from around $590 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Ahilya Fort

India

Maheshwar

Holy Maheshwar is peaceful and serene, chaotic and colourful, with many a multi-tiered temple to explore.