Past the Sabarmati riverfront, we plunge headlong into the chaos of the Old City of Ahmedabad through the Gaikwad Haveli Gate (one of the 12 historic gates of the city). A few minutes later, we pull up in front of tall iron gates beyond which stands a sprawling whitewashed mansion with a tinkling fountain. The ground-plus-one structure sports a mix of colonial and vernacular architecture, with arched corridors, louvered windows, stained glass, jaali work, and two elaborately carved jharokha-style oriel windows. Stepping inside jüSTa Diwans Bungalow is like walking through a time portal–the ‘reception’ is a light-filled living room decked out in antique furniture, sumptuous fabrics, objets d’art, and resplendent chandeliers. The Dalan restaurant is divided into an air-conditioned section and a verandah with assorted seating, including a swing. Beyond, a small lush garden offers al fresco seating. Overall, it feels like you’re visiting the house of a wealthy relative with impeccable taste.
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