Commune Hotels & Resorts will open a heritage hotel in India in 2016. The Alila Fort Bishangarh, will open in Q4, following the restoration of a 230-year-old Rajasthan Fort.

Positioned on a granite hill in the Arvalli Mountain Range, with spectacular 360-degree views, the fort is thought to be the only one of its kind to be converted into a hotel.

The building is an example of the Jaipur Gharana style of architecture, which was influenced by both the Mughals and the British.

The original fort will remain intact, and the company said it is being careful with the ecological restoration of the building and the construction of new suites which will be designed to recreate the courtly flavour of the local Shahpura royalty.

The building has two-meter thick walls with openings for firearms, as well as turrets, which are known as burjs. A new structure is also being created above and outside the old fort to house public areas and five types of royal suites.

When completed, the resort will have 59 suites, two restaurants, a bar and cigar room, wine cellar and library, as well as a Spa Alila which will be located on the upper floor of the fort.

The spa will include four indoor treatment suites and two garden treatment suites, and will feature contemporary interior design and Indian and Southeast Asian treatments.

Alila is also opening three hotels in China in 2016, as well as properties in Cambodia and Jakarta, Indonesia.