Vatsalya Vihar is described as a boutique homestyle retreat in Udaipur. So I went hoping to find a cozy little homestay. But the first look at the expansive property completely threw me off. After all, a home couldn't be so swanky and tranquil. And then, I was attended to by such warm hospitality, ummm..homestyle hospitality I should say. In other hotels, when it is all about the standard process of asking for identity cards and giving the keys to the guests in other hotels, there is no formal check-in and check-out in Vatsalya Vihar. The hosts Mr. Vagmi and his wife Vandana personally welcome you home and show you around the property. They seat the guests in a gorgeous poolside cum living area to have an informal chat and make them comfortable.
After I inhabited my home (one of the villas), I understood more clearly why the property is described as 'boutique homestyle'. The villa interiors, furniture, garden, etc. have been done in a meticulous way. It clearly shows that the hosts have put their heart and soul in setting this all up. Only a home could give such a feeling. So, the boutique homestyle aspects of the property became evident by now. A few tabletops and chairs are made up of re-purposed wood so no new trees had to be cut down to make furniture. The property surely scores some brownie points for this.
Accommodation
The property is unique in its own way. There are 5 villas and 2 suites spread around a beautifully done garden. They all are guest's private space. While staying at the Villa, I had the luxury to have my own small private garden with a custard apple tree at the entrance. I had the comfort of having my own garden-facing deck outside the bedroom where I could sit and have a cup of hot coffee with cookies while admiring the Aravalis. Life indeed rarely gives us a chance to admire the beauty around us. This property will surely give you a chance to do that, well, at least at a comfortable pace.
The villa has an alluring bedroom, an elegant bathroom, an additional living room, and a veranda attached to the bedroom. I would recommend staying in the villa rather than a suite. The suites are ultraluxurious and spacious. But, the villa looked more like 'my space'.
The hosts have also maintained the exteriors quite well. It makes you not want to go anywhere out in Udaipur. I always endorse waking up early when visiting a resort or a boutique hotel. It is the perfect time to enjoy the calmest slot of the day and click instagrammable photos.
Amenities
There is a pool which you can use at any time of the day. There is a well-appointed gymnasium, which I would say is useful as you will need to burn the calories after being well fed by the hosts. Since this is a place for retreat, you've got to indulge in a massage at the in-house spa. Free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry services, etc. are some of the other amenities. There is no intercom in the villa/suite just the way there is none at home.
Vatsalya Vihar hosts quite a lot of international guests. Vandana conducts cooking workshops (Indian recipes) which have grown to become popular with guests. The hosts also arrange for a guided city tour and other tourist attractions in Udaipur.
Food
Feeding the guests is an art and the hosts here are experts in that. Feeding is an important ritual here. The hosts will make sure that you are served every meal of the day with a pinch of Indian hospitality. There is no set menu. Vandana personally plans the menu every day according to the taste preferences of the guests. I was served a delicious Indian thali for lunch and continental food for breakfast. If you happen to stay for more than 2 days, you will instinctively enter the kitchen on the third day to be a part of the cooking process, Yes, the place gives you that sense of belongingness.
Mangoes, sapodilla, custard apple, lemon, Indian gooseberries, corn, barley, carrot, pomegranate, spinach, etc. are all grown on-site and used to prepare food for the guests.
Conclusion
Udaipur is not only about lakes and palaces. There is more charm to it. Book your stay at Vatsalya Vihar and discover that endearing side. If at all you feel like going out of this aesthetic property (Well, I didn't), the hosts will guide you to explore some offbeat places along with the popular tourist attractions in Udaipur.
