Ghanerao Royal Castle Ranakpur

I visited the hotel as part of a trek with Horse India. It was like riding into the past arriving through the gates of this huge homestead. If you want an authentic experience not 'tweaked' for tourists this is your spot. You are staying in the home of the original family and it was nice that the owner came to explain the history of the castle and how he was trying to run it now and save the heritage. There is a beautiful roof top fountain area where local drummers came to entertain us. The staff served us as if we were family. As a solo traveller my room was so large I felt a tiny bit intimidated but that is not a complaint! The bathrooms and amenities were all perfect and it felt like we were in a Disney movie

This royal castle is probably one of the most wonderful and authentic places we ever stayed in … but, unfortunately, it is not properly maintained and service is extremely poor (close to non-existent). This place urgently needs a deal with a hotel chain or other investor.

On my recent trip with Vegan Travel Asia, we did a 12-day tour across Rajasthan. Everywhere we stayed added a special measure of adventure and fond memories. When we arrived at the Royal Castle in Ghanerao, we stopped, blew the horn and someone came to open the gate through the castle walls. Once inside the massive courtyard, the architecture of the castle stood impressively in front of us. This was just the beginning. The room where I stayed was massive, with a large sitting area with double-height ceilings, a separate bedroom, a hallway that ran the length of the rooms, with lattice work and shutters providing privacy from the outside. And then a large, comfortable bathroom with a large, separate, step-down shower room. The castle was decorated throughout with amazing antiques and pieces of furniture with historical significance. The food in the restaurant was made with only locally raised and produced food. And we had the pleasure of spending an hour with the queen, and learned all about her wonderful work with charities, women's causes and other philanthropic endeavours. Staying in the castle was pure magic. I frequently rested with my thoughts trying to imagine what it must have felt like to be around when the castle was originally built over 500 years before.

I've given this hotel a very good, because of its heritage, character & ambience, not because of it's facilities. It is stunningly beautiful, fabulous architecture - real 'faded grandeur', flaking paint, crumbling plaster, little winding passages and staircases, hidden nooks & crannies with interesting artefacts and a lovely courtyard. I believe some rooms were refurbished very well, but mine (14) was in the 'before' category. It had a rather grubby outdoor seating area, an old indoor seating area, very hard bed, with thin mattress on plywood, no hot water, kettle, TV or safe, but amazingly, really good wifi (better than the so-called business hotel we stayed in the night before!). The area outside the dining room was a lovely place to sit & watch the sun set with a drink. The evening meal was basic, but good. The breakfast was poor - no buffet, just toast & omelette brought to your table. It was so exciting and 'exotic', that I excused all of it's faults, but I'd say it needs some work doing if it's going for the luxurious market, However, for the budget traveller it's an amazing opportunity to experience staying in an old palace, full of character & beauty.

I stayed at the Ghanerao Royal Castle Hotel for one night as part of a tour of Rajasthan. It's a 16thC hotel full of character though decrepit in parts. A lovely looking property with terraces for drinks and sunset. Some rooms looked fantastic, double height with murals, but mine (room 107 on top floor) was poor. No fridge or kettle and electrics looked dodgy. It was poorly maintained, fittings were loose and curtain pole fell off. The room looked like it had been painted by a small child with paint drips everywhere. No wifi in room. Bed was clean and comfortable though. Most seriously the shower didn’t work even on cold, didn’t find out till morning so no time to complain.

Unique, authentic and beautiful castle away from the hassle. The rooms each have their own personality and are tastefully decorated. I love the place, which is as charming as it is elegant… special experience… a magical place to ressource yourself…

This has been the best stay we booked. Right from the staff to the food everything was great. We had my niece 1st year birthday celebration here the staff made sure to help us with the cake & decor. On 31st evening they planned a special folk perfor***ce by the locals which was the highlight of our trip. An amazing place for friends and family in midst of a jungle. Kudos to the entire staff Shahrukh and everyone for making us feel comfortable. Thanks.

Ghanerao is a village located about 45 km from main road. The approach road is patchy, so plan your time accordingly. Ghanerao Royal Castle is located in the center of the village It is better to seek directions as GPS will take you through very narrow streets. The palace itself is an amazing place. Despite being over 500 years old, it has been painstakingly done up to satisfy the needs of travellers. Each room is different as can be expected in a palace. Just maintaining it is a herculean task, and the royals have done well to keep it in shape despite the lows of pandemic. The owners are cordial, and Shakti Singhji Rathod is helpful. It was a pleasure interacting with Her Highness, who told us about the history of the place and about the original Krishna idol carried by Mirabai, which is preserved in the palace. Overall a relaxing stay.

I literally fell in love with this place and the owners! We arrived here with no reservation around 9pm without knowing where we were! And they welcomed us in the most charming and lovely way, opening for us they magical castle. You feel like at home, so comfy and relax in the middle of Rajasthan! The owners are wonderful, sharing their life and experiences, their view and work. What an amazing experience ! Thank you so much!