Located at a distance of 70 kms from Osian, 110 kms from Jodhpur and 170 kms from Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, Manwar literally means hospitality at its zenith. The Manwar Desert Camp and the Manwar Desert Resort are the sole reason why visitors come to this place.
History:
Moti Singh Rathore wanted to establish a resort in an area which was not a regular heritage hotel site in Rajasthan. Helping him realize his dream was architect Rajiv Narain. Together, they were responsible for creating the Manwar Desert Resort, ideally located in the heart of the sand dunes, between Jodhpur (90 minutes), Jaipur (2 hours) and Bikaner (2 hours 30 minutes).
Best For:
Camel and jeep safaris and bird watching expeditions at nearby Khichan make Manwar a popular tourist destination.
The summer season between April to June is extremely hot and the rainy season from July to mid – September may dampen the spirit of visitors, so the best time to travel is from November to March.
It is best to get foreign currency exchanged at Jaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer or at any of the larger towns.
Manwar can be reached by road from Jodhpur, via Balesar, 115 kms or two hours (on the main road between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer).
Jaisalmer via Pokhran, 170 kms, or Bikaner via Phalodi and Dechu, 225 kms or 4 hours.
Getting Around – Domestic Flights
Domestic flights operate from most major Indian cities to Jaipur and Jodhpur. Flights go to and from Delhi (via Jaipur) and to and from Mumbai (via Udaipur).
International Flight:
The nearest international airport is at Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan.
Getting Around – Road Travel
To reach Manwar by road from Jodhpur, visitors can travel by bus or hire a private taxi.
Getting Around – Train Travel
The nearest railway station is at Jodhpur, which can be reached by train from most of the major cities of Rajasthan.
The Manwar Village Tourallows visitors to share the fascinating culture of the friendly local people and appreciate their grit and determination to survive in these harsh conditions.
Visitors are taken to the homes of the local inhabitants – the Bishnois, the Rajputs and the Meghwals. They get to see the homes of desert craftsmen – carpenters, metal smiths and cobblers and how they pursue their craft with the help of basic tools and minimal resources.Guests can visit the chilli and mustard farms and climb the sand dunes.
Performances And Shows::
Colourful folk dance and song performances can be enjoyed by the tourists during their stay at Manwar Resort. These shows are usually held during dinner time to entertain guests.
Other Activities:
Jeep and camel safaris can be arranged at the camp.
Guests get the rare pleasure of gazing at Chinkara, cattle and sheep while riding astride a camel at a leisurely pace.
The Manwar Desert Camp is a 3 Star accommodation 7 kms away from the Manwar Desert Resort on the Jodhpur – Jaisalmer highway.
The Manwar Desert Resort is separated from the camp by a distance of 7 kms. Spread over five acres, it comprises of 21 well designed stone cottages with thatched roofs and is furnished in a typical village theme.
Excursions to Khichan can be undertaken as it is a 45 minute drive. Thousands of migratory birds come to Khichan, especially between October to March. According to Marwari legend, these birds are a sign of good luck as they were believed to have been responsible for carrying messages to local women from their loved ones in far away lands. This is also the reason why so many folk songs are based on these birds.
Recommended Circuit:
Manwar is visited on way to Khichan or enroute from Jodhpur to Phalodi.
Although there are no grand sights, Manwar offers an ‘off the beaten track’ experience to guests desiring to participate in the tranquility of the desert. There is a quiet an excellent staying option for travelers visiting the Thar Desert for the first time.
