Hotel Suraj

I did not stay at Hotel Suraj, HOWEVER, on recommendation from family members who had stayed there, we popped in to see if we could have a look around, as they had such a great experience. Honestly, once we arrived and were greeted by Shubum the owner, we really wish had stayed at Hotel Suraj. He happily welcomed us in, showed us around the incredible 500-year-old property and told us such in depth history about the place and Jaisalmer more widely, we left fascinated! So many artefacts and pictures from his family's history within the property, it really should be a museum and him a guide! We had beers watching the sun set on the roof while chatting with Shubum and had such a lovely time. Honestly, if at all possible stay here!

We arrived late in the evening but Shubhan guide us to their haveli. If you want an authentic stay with super nice people: this is the place to go. Every guest gets a free welcome tour in Jaiselmer fort from Shubhan, which was very nice. As we left he brought all our stuff downhill for us. A great stay!

Staying in a 500-year old Haveli overlooking a Jain Temple in the heart of the Golden City alone makes Suraj one of my most memorable experiences in India. However the jewel in the crown of this magnificent establishment is its proprietors, the Vyas family, whose hospitality was superlative and humbling. Led by Shubham and his wise father Gokul they provided a truly unforgettable experience during the festival of Holi that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Before we arrived Shubham made sure we knew how to reach the Haveli as first time travellers in the city. He then provided a comprehensive tour of the city and surrounding area, including Patwon ki Haveli and a rooftop bar that was closed to the public. He arranged for us to purchase clothes for the Holi festival and allowed us to take part in the Holika Dahan taking place on the street just outside the Haveli. On the day of Holi itself, Shubham, draped in a spectacular technicolour jacket guided us and the other guests of the hotel around the city, immersing us in the joy and colour of his favourite festival. His infectious energy and constant generosity ensuring we had enough colour made the day really special. For our next day Shubham organised a private camel safari into the Thar desert for us which meant we were privileged to sleep under the starts with no one but the beetles and glinting moon for company. A true paradise. I would urge anyone going to book an overnight camel experience through Shubham - it will be a true highlight of your trip. One example of Shubham’s kindness that really stands out to me several months after my visit is when I set out on foot alone to buy plasters for a cut on my finger. I did not tell Shubham where I was going when leaving the hotel but he rode past on his motorbike, picked me up and escorted me to a pharmacy and insisted on purchasing the plasters for me. An incredible gesture that has stayed with me. We were so sad to leave Jaisalmer and Hotel Suraj and hope to return some day, but we remain eternally grateful for the warmth and kindness we received throughout. Truly the best in India. Dhanyavaad, Ben & Jaisila