The Marwar desert region in western Rajasthan is an absolutely majestic place to visit. It is a place of extremes- from the dry sandy Thar Desert climate, to the colorful images of its people, dances, and songs. But no conversation about Marwar is complete without the unspoken question of water access. In the desert your question will be answered; you will see the ‘Paniharan’, women walking long distances in the heat with a pot on top of their head.
The Water Habitat Retreat is an exemplary rainwater oasis within this same desert climate. Nestled in between the Aravalli range of hills, just outside of Jodhpur, it is both closely in touch with nature and entirely self sufficient of its water needs. The retreat, part of a recently renovated area of the Royal Bijolai Summer Palace, has fresh water available throughout the year due to an ingenious water-conscious design. You will find the surrounding landscape, with its bold but not obscuring hills, a peaceful and pure match to the Water Retreat. Nearby the Retreat lies Kayalana Lake, a body of water that quenches JodhpurCity’s thirst, and is a beautiful hotspot for leisurely boat rides and couples. The Palace design is sure to amaze you, as it exhibits the meticulous planning of the old rulers and a bygone era when people knew they live or die by proper rainwater management. [slideshow]
Water Habitat Retreat Location: 15 kms. from Jodhpur Airport, 10 kms. from Jodhpur Railway Station.
Address: Water Habitat Retreat, Jal Darshan Marg, Near Kayalana Lake, Bijolai, Jodhpur – 342003
Rajasthan.
