Dhola Maru Hotel

Post Box No. 49,

Jethwai Road,

Jaisalmer – 345001,

Rajasthan,

India

The Dhola Maru, a smart hotel about 3km out of Jaisalmer, though not cheap by Indian standards, was, in my opinion, money well spent for a short, one night stay away from the ceaseless heat, dust and hustle and bustle of an Indian town. 675

A night in a room for 3 people was Rs. 1500 (just over £20). The room was spacious and clean, with wonderful air-conditioning- you know it’s doing a good job when you actually feel cold in the hottest part of India at the hottest time of year.

Complete with swimming pool, restaurant, bar, internet, laundry service, room service, doctor on call and massage parlour, the hotel offers all western comforts, but is still visually and architecturally pretty Indian.

However, there are no unique or particularly exciting characteristics to the hotel, and if you’re looking for an interesting or unique hotel, this isn’t for you. If, however, you’re looking for one night of comfort and luxury, perhaps as a break from cheaper hotels, this is a better choice for you.

The complimentary breakfast consisted of a self-service spread of toast, cereal, mango, papaya, boiled eggs and tea, as well as a choice between omelette or fried egg served at the table.

I left the hotel feeling a great deal cleaner and cooler than I had in a long time, but at the same time, longing to get back to the business, excitement and fun of real India. My one night experience of western comfort was quite sufficient- enough to refresh me and make me appreciate normal Indian life even more, however exasperating the dirt and heat can get.