Hotel Chanoud Garh

Thakur Ajeet Singhji's clan had the Chanoud Palace as their ancestral home since the 18th century. As a warrior clan, their history was tied to the conflicts of the Mewar and Marwar kings of royal Rajasthan. It was during one of these great battles, also during the early 18th century, that Thakur Anoop Singhji distinguished himself and was rewarded with rulership of present-day Chanod. The family immediately set about building civic works to improve the living conditions in their Chanod, including the construction of the Chanoud Lake reservoir. The palace itself was first built during the 18th century, during the rule of Thakur Vishen Singhji, son of Thakur Anoop.

Even though royal titles were abolished during the unification of India, many royals retained their holdings and property. While Thakur Ajeet may no longer be the titular lord of these lands, he still holds plenty of influence, which he uses to help grow local industries and promote the heritage and culture.

Since Chanoud Palace was built around 300 years ago, it exemplifies the popular Rajputana architectural styles of the time, particularly conventions used in both Mewar and Marwar cultures. Examples of these elements are the carved jharokha arches embellished with delicate filigrees, marble-pillared corridors, and painted wall murals that tell various stories. The main courtyards and lawns are designed much like a Persian charbagh, which is often found in other royal palaces of Rajasthan. These gardens are meant to represent the four gardens of Paradise in Islam.

For accommodations, guests have a selection of 10 beautiful heritage suites, each uniquely decorated with period-style furnishings and adorned with antique heirlooms. Some also feature stained-glass windows, which were influenced by Victorian British aesthetics integrated by the native Rajasthani.

Chanoud Garh's royal kitchens have prepared feasts and banquets for esteemed guests over the centuries, and that proud tradition continues to this day. They prepare authentic Rajasthani, Marwari, and Central Indian cuisine, representing native flavors. Sustainability initiatives are integrated into the kitchen's and restaurants' philosophy, featuring dishes with ingredients sourced from the royal family's organic and dairy farms as well as those sourced from local industries. Thakurani Sahiba Marudhar Kumari herself oversees the kitchen operations, even adjusting flavors and spiciness, and preparing alternative options for those with allergies and other restrictions.

Moti Mahal

The dazzling main dining hall of the palace, drenched in sunlight filtered through stained glass windows, and decorated with jharokha arches adorned in hand-painted patterns.

Badal Mahal

The rooftop terrace, where dinner services are held under the moon and stars. Diners can enjoy the views of Chanod village as they savor their meal.

Mor Chowk

A cozy and immersive mud house setting with painted walls and a warm crackling fire, perfect for appreciating authentic native dinners.

Hawa Mahal

A cozy private tower where you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea as the sunset filters through the lattice-laden jharokha windows.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

While Chanoud Garh Hotel is far from Rajasthan's big cities, its location makes it perfect for authentic and immersive activities and experiences. Here, you will meet the Rabari people, who are one of the nomadic tribes of the Thar Desert. You can visit them via jeep safaris, which lets you watch how they work as sheepherders and see how they make their handicrafts. The safari will also let you spot native wildlife and enjoy an afternoon tea while sunset-watching on the dunes and hillocks.

If you're planning to take it easy and stay close to the hotel, you can instead book a heritage walk or village walk. The heritage walking tour will be personally guided by Thakur Ajeet Singhji, who will take you around the 250-year-old property and regale you with tales of its residents. Within the halls, you'll also find items from the family's collection, including figurines, weapons, and artworks. The village walking tour, on the other hand, has a local village school headmaster take guests around the neighborhoods of Chanod. While the village has modernized in some aspects, most of the community has retained its traditional charms. You'll be passing through local eateries and workshops, so you can buy snacks and handicrafts like jewelry.

India is a land full of festivals, and two of their most significant annual celebrations are Holi, and Diwali. There's also Teej, which marks the start of the monsoon season and celebrates the beauty and roles of both married women and unmarried women. The residents and workers of Chanoud Garh Hotel dress up for these important occasions and invite guests to join them in the revelry with complimentary outfits.

As for private celebrations, such as birthdays and anniversaries, the hotel can arrange for private dinners. Be sure to reach out to the management when making reservations so they can provide some personalized service, such as a special celebratory dish or romantic evening entertainment that helps set the mood.