Wankaner was the first Princely former ruling family in Gujarat to open their Palaces to tourists and guests. The Royal Oasis (MotiVadi), once a retreat for the royals, from the scorching summer sun stands barely 2.5kms away from the main palace complex perched atop a hill.

The Royal Oasis situated on the banks of the Macchu River was started as Gujarat's first heritage hotel in the 1970's by Maharana Digvijay Sinh. Built in the 1920's the Royal Oasis has stunning interiors done in the fashionable art deco style with spacious rooms and mirrored bathrooms to match. The art-deco s indoor swimming pool which is fully functional and restored is one of its kind. The most unique part of this quaint property is the 3 storied step well or vaav built in the 20th century with exquisite stone carving and a fine marble sculpture fountain. The Royal Oasis is a treat for bird watchers and nature lovers who can find a wide variety of birds and wildlife like blue bulls, porcupine, civet cats in the vast expanse of the surrounding lemon orchards.

RANJIT VILLAS PALACE

The sprawling Ranjit Villas Palace is perched atop the Gadhio hills offers a splendid view. It was built by Maharana Raj Shri Amar Singhji who was the last ruler of the Wankaner Royal family. The place is built in Indo-sarsenic or Indo-Gothic style of architecture. Its interiors with Italian marble, stain glass, Burma teak antique furniture, marble fountains, Murano chandeliers and hand woven carpets take you back to the splendors of royal living in the by-gone era.