In a moment of pride for India and especially for Rajasthan, Sujan Jawai in Pali has been recognized as one of the world’s top 50 unique hotels, securing the 43rd position. This is a remarkable achievement as Sujan Jawai is the only hotel from India to make it to this prestigious list. The announcement was made at a grand ceremony held at the renowned Guildhall in London.
The selection process for these top 50 hotels was a meticulous one, taking over a year. More than 600 experts in the hospitality industry, including hotel entrepreneurs, travel journalists, teachers, and world travelers, evaluated hotels across all continents. Their judgment was based on unique qualities that made these hotels stand out from the rest.
What Makes Sujan Jawai Stand Out?
Sujan Jawai is not your typical city hotel. Nestled amidst the rugged landscape of the Aravalli Hills, it is surrounded by the wilderness near the Jawai Dam. The hotel is divided into 10 luxury tented camps, each offering guests an unparalleled experience of nature and wildlife. Located just 10 km from a leopard safari and 12 km from the dam, it provides a perfect getaway for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
One of the hotel’s most unique aspects is its deep connection with the surrounding ecosystem. Despite its proximity to wildlife, Sujan Jawai has not disturbed the local environment or wildlife. It plays a pivotal role in preserving the natural habitat and has ensured that the local communities are not displaced. The hotel operates in harmony with nature, ensuring no noise pollution or waste disrupts the pristine environment.
The hotel also maintains close ties with local communities. Unlike traditional hotels, the staff at Sujan Jawai are not in formal uniforms but are locals from nearby villages. They provide essential services like dairy, vegetables, and security. Guests can immerse themselves in the local culture by joining shepherds on walks through the forest, experiencing village life firsthand, and learning about traditional food and customs.
A Wildlife and Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Sujan Jawai is more than just a hotel; it is a wilderness camp where guests can enjoy the beauty of the forest and wildlife from the comfort of their suites. The camp is home to over 250 species of birds, making it a haven for bird watchers. Guests can witness flamingos and cranes flying right past their tents, while leopards, deer, hyenas, and crocodiles roam the nearby jungle.
The hotel offers a variety of luxurious tented suites, including Rock Suites, Family Suites, and the Royal Panthera Suite. Each suite provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and water bodies. Guests can also enjoy amenities like private swimming pools and personal butler services.
Exclusive Experiences
Sujan Jawai offers its guests exclusive leopard safaris through the rugged terrain of the Aravalli Hills. They can also explore the landscape on foot, by bike, or in a jeep. The opportunity to be so close to nature, with complete privacy and serenity, is what draws many high-profile guests to the hotel.
A Global Inspiration
At the awards ceremony in London, Tim Brooke-Webb, Managing Director of “The World’s 50 Best Hotels” program, expressed his admiration for the hotels honored on the global stage. He highlighted that the unique qualities of these hotels have had a profound impact on tourism experts and travelers. Sujan Jawai, ranked 43rd, was recognized for offering guests an inspiring and one-of-a-kind experience that combines luxury with sustainability.
The Visionaries Behind Sujan Jawai
The founders of Sujan Jawai, Jaisal Singh and his wife Anjali Singh, were thrilled by the recognition. They expressed their satisfaction in creating a space where guests don’t feel confined to hotel rooms but rather experience the vast open skies, serene wilderness, and tranquility that is Sujan Jawai’s unique selling point (USP).
Their efforts to support local communities have not gone unnoticed. The hotel provides employment opportunities, conducts educational programs, and hosts veterinary camps to improve the quality of life for the local population. Sujan Jawai is also part of a broader rewilding project, working tirelessly to restore natural habitats and protect biodiversity.
A Favorite Among Celebrities
Sujan Jawai’s reputation for privacy and tranquility has attracted many celebrities. Bollywood stars like Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt have stayed at the hotel, as well as political figures like Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, and South Indian actor Allu Arjun. The serene environment and complete privacy make it a popular destination for celebrities from around the world.
Staying at Sujan Jawai comes with exclusivity. A night in the Rock Suite for two starts at ₹1.25 lakh, which includes meals and two safaris. Guests also contribute ₹2,500 per person for wildlife conservation efforts.
Rajasthan’s Global Hospitality Appeal
Rajasthan continues to captivate tourists from all over the world with its royal hospitality. Thousands of domestic and international tourists flock to the state each day, many of whom seek experiences like those offered by Sujan Jawai. Over the past few years, the state has also become a popular destination for celebrities looking to host grand weddings in ancient forts or escape to the wilderness for a New Year celebration.
The recognition of Sujan Jawai in the top 50 unique hotels list further solidifies Rajasthan’s status as a global tourism hub, blending luxury with cultural and ecological responsibility.