Castle Kanota shares historical roots with other properties such as Hotel Narain Niwas Palace and the Rajmahal Palace, which were properties constructed at the behest of the Thakurs of Kanota. In particular, the Castle Kanota was one of the earlier properties to be constructed, having been built in 1872 by the Thakur of Kanota at the time, Zorawar Singhji, then also a cabinet minister in Jaipur’s government. The castle faithfully passed down through the generations as a family property, serving a unique role as well in later years as a repository of the collections of General Amar Singhji, a distinguished World War I veteran.

Throughout the 20th century, with the experience of both World Wars, the independence of India, its transition to a republic, and the loss of ruling status that came along with it for the Thakur and his fellow nobles, the property would survive unscathed and remain largely intact without any significant change. Succeeding generations of the Thakur family, notably the 5th Thakur, Mohan Singhiji Kanota, and his late wife Thakurani Sahab Narendra Kanwar, would begin the process of transforming their palatial properties into public accommodations around the 1980s, and the castle would be among them.

The castle would be significantly renovated, maintaining its palatial design and features while also adapting modern conveniences for the benefit of prospective visitors. Other parts of the castle have also been refurbished to provide guests with recreation and relaxation spaces where they can spend their time comfortably. Today, the ownership and management of the Thakur properties are now in the hands of Thakur Mohan’s sons, Thakur Man Singh and Thakur Prithvi Singh, who, with their sons, are continuing the heritage of quality, authenticity, and hospitality.

Design and Architecture

Even as a relatively recent 20th-century construct, Castle Kanota serves as an exemplar of traditional Rajasthani architecture, with notable influences that also feature Indo-Saracenic and Rajput aesthetics. This is most evident in the frequent use of arched doorways and passageways in exterior spaces, along with prominent structural elements such as pillars. Rajput influences, while relatively subtle in individual features, are more discernible in the overall architectural composition of the castle. Its compact, square-shaped layout—reflective of its origins as a fortress—stands in marked contrast to the more ornate, temple-inspired designs typical of other palace residences. In comparison, Indo-Saracenic elements are more specific and pronounced. These include the widespread use of painted geometric frescoes and patterns in place of engraved ornamentation, as well as the presence of open pavilions, chhajja-style overhanging eaves, and recessed iwan-style entrances.

Inside, rooms, hallways, and entrances all have decorative design or patterning that uses naturalistic shapes and patterns consistently, interspersed with subtle features like family pictures or various Thakur family artifacts. Compared to other palace accommodations, the castle applies such aesthetics in a more subdued fashion, with some rooms featuring blank and minimalist white walls and ceilings. Overall, the blend of these various features and influences elicits a certain eclectic appeal, bringing together historical and cultural influences for both authenticity and comfort. 

The dining experience at the Castle Kanota Hotel is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural insights of General Amar Singh, who, in his prolific readings and writings, provided a series of writings regarding the subject of food and exacting instructions on how to cook and present it. The general would even go so far as to specify which types of metal utensils were to be used in preparing such dishes. This contributed towards the revival of traditional royal cuisine, known as thikana recipes, which is a unique feature of the castle’s culinary offerings.

Guests have different venues where they can savor their special meals. These venues include the courtyards and terraces that dot the castle’s on-site exterior spaces, or the lavishly decorated dining halls within the castle itself that offer scenic views. In the afternoon, enjoy afternoon high tea, along with pastries, while relaxing and enjoying the sunset from one of the castle’s terraces.

Among the choices that guests can expect are local favorites of Rajasthani cuisine, such as the Chandrahaas, which is made by brewing together natural herbs, spices, and dry fruits. Other options include various Chinese delicacies, vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, and even kosher dishes.

The castle has always been seen as a prime wedding location given its palatial features, making participants feel as if they were also nobility. Both the indoor and outdoor facilities of the property are available for those holding their wedding and reception ceremony. The castle also provides specific services for such events, such as pre-wedding photoshoots, catering during the event itself, and even decorative services for those without their own. 

Guests planning to have their wedding at the castle can expect the same, if not greater, quality and available event locations as in any other palace accommodation. Whether a sophisticated, intimate affair in a secluded indoor setting or a grand celebration taking place throughout the entire property, where guests can enjoy staying the night in one of its rooms, the castle is eager to accommodate the wishes and requests of interested visitors.

Standout features: March with horses, camels, and elephants along with folk performers, musicians such as DJs, and a wedding band

Guest capacity: The banquet hall can host up to 60 seated guests and 100 floating guests, while the larger lawn has a capacity for 150 seated guests and 250 floating guests.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Castle Kanota provides guests with a rich experience of local history and culture. One of its unique on-site facilities that guests can visit and tour is the General Amar Singh Kanota Library & Museum Trust, which features the many works, journals, artifacts, and collections of the esteemed general. Even today, items featured in the museum are regularly used for ceremonial purposes. Meanwhile, the showcase of the 89 volumes of his diaries from 1898 to 1942 provides a deep and comprehensive insight into the lives of people during that time, alongside a collection of thousands of contemporary books in both English and Hindi.

One of Rajasthan’s most well-known features is its rich and diverse cuisine, with many unique dishes being preserved from being lost by enthusiasts and culinary experts. At Castle Kanota, this expertise continues to thrive and is even demonstrated on behalf of visitors interested in knowing more about this side of Rajasthani culture firsthand. Kanota’s top chefs are willing to show guests how many of Rajasthan’s unique and endangered dishes are made, whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian options, or sweets and other similar delicacies. Afterwards, guests even have a firsthand opportunity to savor these various culinary delights themselves.

For lucky guests visiting at certain parts of the year, the castle also serves as an ideal place for them to experience various Indian festivals and celebrate alongside the locals. The property itself features these events in its own premises, with guests not even needing to leave the comfort of the castle. Castle staff are also skilled and well-versed to help guests join and participate in such activities, ensuring that they can enjoy their celebratory experiences to the fullest. In March, visitors can experience Holi, the festival of colors, where they can join in spreading around in the air various colored powders symbolizing health and medicinal herbs. Around October/November, guests can experience Diwali, the festival of lights, where candles and lamps are commonly lit everywhere, while multiple fireworks displays colorfully light up the sky all over.

Other Experiences

Guests with special occasions in mind, such as anniversaries or birthdays, are welcome to celebrate their special event at the castle. The property offers a flexible range of planned and personalized activities that can be held on its grounds. Prospective events may make use of the castle’s catering service to provide classy and genuine local and international cuisine. Participants may also enjoy their time more by staying at the castle itself and experiencing its hospitality firsthand.