Bell Guest House, Sayla
Surendranagar
Overview
Sayla was once the stronghold of the JhalaRajputs who came from Sindh to Saurashtra. This princely state became the founding capital of Seshmalji I Raisinhji after he seized it from the KathiDarbars in 1751. He fortified the town and went on to build the Darbargadh or Rajmahal (palace), which still serves as the residence.
Run by a royal scion, the colonial-era Bell Guest House is tucked away in a 24-acre patch off the Ahmedabad-Rajkot highway. Unlike palaces and havelis ‘converted’ into heritage hotels, Bell Guest House is a striking Indo-European building that was constructed in 1870 to host British officers.
Fronted by a large verandah overlooking a garden full of trees, rambling creepers, a lotus pond and a gigantic outdoor chessboard, the old guesthouse continues its legacy of hospitality as a renovated heritage homestay. While the colonial manor does not spell overt swishy luxury, it possesses a well worn, unfussy homely comfort in a vintage setting. Six of its ten rooms are open to guests who return for the simple joys of a tranquil holiday, home-style food (Indian and Western fare) and the promise of special and enriching experiences. The well-informed host YuvrajSomraj Singh Jhala knows the region inside out and has curated various trails, including birding at the Nearby lakes, and visits to monuments and lesser known step wells like Matri Ma ne Vav built in 1535.
Arounds
KashiVishwanath Temple: The beautiful 250-year old temple in the heart of Sayla is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Darbargadh: The onslaught of time - gadh or royal palace, still occupied by the ruling family of Sayla.Muli: Just 11 km away, the princely state of Muli was the stronghold of the Parmars with several historic structures. Navlakha Temple: Drive 18 km to Sejakpur to the 11th-century temple of the Solanki era. Wadhwan: This walled city 37 km from Sayla is sprinkled with several historic architectural masterpieces.
Contact Details
Address: Bell Guest House
NH-8, Sayla Circle, DistSuren-dranagar
Cell: 09824072075
Email: saylaheritage@rediffmail.com
Website: http://bellguesthouse.com/
Facilities
AC rooms with attached baths and western ttings, dining room, meal with family on request
Note
Rooms: 6
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