Narlai, Rajasthan

Narlai is a small, atmospheric village in Rajasthan’s Pali district, tucked at the base of a granite hill between Jodhpur and Udaipur. The rocky outcrop above the settlement, known as Elephant Hill, is topped by a white elephant statue and a small shrine, and the climb offers wide views over fields, lakes and the Aravalli hills.

Despite its quiet feel, Narlai hides several memorable spots: narrow lanes lined with temples and old havelis, a centuries‑old stepwell and small lakes and dams where birdlife gathers at sunrise and sunset. With Ranakpur less than an hour away and Kumbhalgarh within easy reach, the village works well as a gentle offbeat pause between bigger sights in southern Rajasthan.

Time here is best spent walking through the village, talking to local families, riding or walking out into the surrounding countryside and ending the day with the outline of Elephant Hill glowing softly in the evening light. Narlai comfortably fills one or two nights without ever feeling rushed or crowded.

Rawla Narlai heritage hotel beneath Elephant Hill in Narlai, Rajasthan.

Rawla Narlai Heritage Resort

Rawla Narlai Heritage Resort in rural Rajasthan.


Rawla Narlai is a 17th‑century former hunting lodge of the Jodhpur royal family that has been restored as a characterful heritage hotel at the heart of the village. Rooms and suites are set around courtyards and terraces, with arches, stonework and vintage details balanced by modern comforts and a relaxed, house‑like atmosphere.

The property is especially known for experiences such as stepwell dinners by lantern light, guided walks and rides through the surrounding countryside and sunrise or sunset climbs up Elephant Hill. These, together with simple village walks and time by the pool or in shaded courtyards, make Rawla Narlai a strong base for travellers who like a mix of gentle adventure and quiet rural time.

Narlai sits roughly midway between Jodhpur and Udaipur, with a drive of around two to three hours from either city depending on the route. Nearby railheads include Falna, Jawai Bandh and Pali, while Jodhpur and Udaipur provide the closest airports; from these points transfers to Rawla Narlai can be arranged easily.

For current information on rooms, special dinners and local activities, visit www.rawlanarlai.com. Rajasthan Tour Trip can help include Narlai and Rawla Narlai in wider itineraries that also feature Ranakpur, Kumbhalgarh, Jawai or Jodhpur, and can assist with bookings and private transfers via enquiry@rajasthantourtrip.com or on +91‑7976900625.

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