Being one of the first few guests, a French interior designer covered the home for a famous French magazine on interiors and exteriors (Marie Claire Maison, no. 389, May-June, 1994), depicting modern Indian homes through pictures and an article on it. Colonel's homestay, is located in a posh colony named Hanuman Nagar in Jaipur.
The interesting hosts of the well-maintained homestay are Col. Amrit Bir Singh Kalra (Retd.) and his wife Deepak Kalra. After being a part of the Indian Defence Services for 38 years, during which he also received 'Yudh Sewa Medal' from the President of India (1994), Col. Kalra retired from the services in 2006. Being a sports enthusiast, he holds interest in sports like golf, basketball, badminton and croquet. Deepak on the other hand, is very fond of reading and is presently heading an NGO for the disabled in Jaipur. During her work for the cause of people with disabilities for 25 years, she was also awarded 'Nargis Dutt national award' from Mother Teresa. Their warmth, honesty and hospitality make the stay a memorable one.
Colonel's homestay is spread in an area of 1500 sq yds with the residential building standing on an area of 4200 sq ft. On entering the main gate one gets a view of a well-maintained lush garden on the left and a dark maroon vintage model (1975) parked on the right. The ground floor of the house includes living area, dining area and the kitchen. The hosts with their family stay on the ground floor. Spiral marble stairs from the centre, lead the guests to a mini library and resting area, adjoining the two guest rooms. The homestay is tastefully furbished with comfortable furniture, wooden beds, souvenirs collected during one's travel, all complimenting the white marble used for floors. A favorite spot in the house is the sitting area on the first floor, where one can pick up a book from the interesting collection offered.
One of the nearby tourist spots to the homestay include City Palace Complex, which was built by Maharaja Madho Singh-II in the 19th century. It is a beautiful blend of the Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. The palace today is divided into two parts, one still reserved as the residence of erstwhile Maharaja and his family and other open for tourists in the form of Palace museums.
Colonel's homestay offers a comfortable stay and home like hospitality while staying close to the heart of the city. Visit and be a part of its charming existence.
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