Malaika Arora is embracing slow travel and her latest getaway is proof. The actor recently shared glimpses of her stay at Rawla Narlai, a 17th-century heritage retreat nestled in Rajasthan’s Pali district,
offering a refreshing alternative to fast-paced, checklist tourism.
Taking to Instagram on April 18, Arora described the property as a hidden gem she almost didn’t want to reveal. “Rawla Narlai felt like stepping into a hidden world in the Aravalli hills… thank you for creating something so magical and personal,” she wrote, hinting at an experience that goes far beyond a typical luxury stay.
A Heritage Stay with Royal Roots
Originally restored as a boutique hotel in 1996 by Rani Usha Devi and the late Maharaj Swaroop Singh, Rawla Narlai is owned by the Jodhpur royal family. The property blends centuries-old architecture with modern luxury, offering 30 uniquely designed rooms and suites that reflect Rajasthan’s rich cultural legacy.
Arora checked into the Narlai Suite, the property’s most premium offering. Spread across 2,000 sq ft, the suite combines regal detailing with contemporary comfort, making it an ideal sanctuary for a private, high-end escape.
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Immersive Experiences at the Heart of the Stay
What makes this destination stand out is its focus on curated, experience-led travel and Arora’s itinerary captured that essence.
Leopard safaris: Guided by expert naturalists, she explored the ancient granite landscapes of the Aravalli hills, known for their elusive leopard population.
The iconic stepwell dinner: One of the most memorable moments was a five-course Rajasthani dining experience at an 11th-century stepwell, illuminated with hundreds of candles and accompanied by local folk music.
Hilltop breakfasts: Her mornings began with sunrise breakfasts on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding terrain.
Reflecting on her stay, Arora shared, “Some places don’t just host you, they unfold like a story… every experience felt beautifully curated.”
Wellness, Food and Effortless Luxury
The retreat’s emphasis on wellness aligns seamlessly with Arora’s lifestyle. From rejuvenating spa therapies to heritage walks and lakeside high teas, the experience is designed to slow you down.
She also highlighted the “exceptional” food and “effortless” hospitality from her personal butler to the local staff, underscoring the warmth and attention to detail that define the stay.
Why This Stay Stands Out
As travellers increasingly seek meaningful, less crowded destinations, Rawla Narlai is emerging as a standout luxury escape. Arora’s stay reflects a broader shift in travel, one that prioritises depth, authenticity, and experience over speed.
In choosing this quiet, heritage-rich retreat, Malaika Arora isn’t just travelling, she’s redefining what luxury travel looks like today.
