Ahilya Fort

Set high above the Narmada in Maheshwar, this guest residence occupies Ahilya Wada, where Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar lived and governed from 1765 to 1796. Prince Richard Holkar converted his home within the Wada into a guest residence in 2000, and it is now known as Ahilya Fort. The property has 19 guest rooms across six 18th-century buildings, complemented by modern amenities.

Three acres of courtyards, fountains and gardens connect different areas of the Wada and provide quiet spaces for reading, tea and views of the surroundings. Many rooms are reached by a flight of 10 to 15 steps, while ground-floor rooms can be requested. Guests should confirm accessibility requirements and room availability before booking.

Dining Experience

Dining follows a fixed-menu format rather than a conventional restaurant menu. Prince Richard Holkar plans the daily selection, drawing on regional dishes and recipes from his cookbook, Cooking of the Maharajas. Breakfast may be served at the mandap overlooking the Narmada or in the garden cottage. Lunch generally features light Western fare prepared with produce gathered from the house garden and farm, while dinner commonly includes a traditional thaali with regional specialities and a Holkar interpretation.

Meals are served at different locations around the fort. The team can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies when informed in advance, though guests should confirm specific requirements and current meal arrangements directly.

Leisure and Wellbeing

• Walled-garden swimming pool with shaded poolside seating
• Petanque court using 18th-century cannon balls
• Village-style Nimaadi Maalish and selected massage treatments
• Sunrise yoga on the ramparts and sound-healing sessions
• Children’s arts, crafts, storytelling and organic gardening activities
• Baccha Bagh outdoor experiences and visits to the property’s menagerie

Massage and wellbeing sessions are intended for relaxation, and individual experiences may vary. Guests with health concerns should consult an appropriately qualified professional and discuss suitability before participating.

Exploring Maheshwar

The location offers access to Maheshwar’s village markets and its riverside complex of temples and cenotaphs. Children’s sessions also introduce local craft traditions and history through activities led by teachers from the Ahilya School. Guests may confirm current schedules, activity availability, prices and inclusions with the property before their stay.