The General’s Retreat
With all the buzz about the Jaipur LitFest in the media, I couldn’t help recollecting my own attendance of it a couple of years ago. But I am mostly reminded of my subsequent visit to the Pink City. It was a leisure trip and I stayed at a delightful place called General’s Retreat.
A large sixties-look bungalow fronted by a large lawn, it is located on the Sardar Patel Marg, not too far from the railway station. Not that close either for it to be noisy or grimy. It is in fact in a lesser congested part of Jaipur and sits prettily and at a comfortable distance from all the main attractions of the city.
For those keen on quality ethnic wear and handicrafts, those attractions would include the outlets of Anokhi, Soma, Neerja International, and others of their ilk. After many hours of retail therapy, it was indeed very comforting to return to the well-appointed environs of the home-stay.
Replete with all the ingredients of a comfortable home-stay, it has the advantage of added privacy as the owners’ living quarters are at ground level, while guests are accommodated on the upper and mezzanine levels. Managed by the ever warm, welcoming and hospitable Ketaki Singh, one of the grand-daughters of the late General, who does however, assisted ably by her father Mr Bisht, run a tight ship.
Rightly described as a home away from home, the owners take their hosting duties very seriously and appreciate being met halfway by considerate guests. So the next time you find yourself in Jaipur, you may want to give this lovely home-stay a look-see.
Will keep in my mind for the next visit!!!!