55 KM south-east of Jodhpur, was built on the banks of the Sardar Samand Lake by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1933. With its commanding view of the area and the lake, and surrounded by game, it became his favourite place in the world. Now partly Marwar's first holiday resort, it remains a royal retreat. In fact, it customary for the Maharaja and the Royal Family to bring in the New Year at Sardar Samand.Furnished like the Umaid Bhawan, in the art deco style, Sardar Samand is royal style, whether it be paper mache sofas on the verandah or soft pastel curtains and cushions in the pool house. Maharaja Umaid Singh's African trophies are everywhere to be seen; lions, buffaloes, gazelles and tusks taller then tall men. The apartments of Maharaja and his family, however, like the private bar are not open to the public. The Guest Annexe enjoys its own Dining Room and Bar, the former with its own trophies and a fabulous collection of Snaffles originals sketches.