Witness breathtaking Himalayan views from scenic passes like Dochula and trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Chanoud Garh
Highlights
Palace heritage,
Sunset jeep drives
Best for
Couples,
Heritage Enthusiasts,
Solos
Charming, calming Chanoud Garh offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Staying at this fabled fort-palace in rural Rajasthan – around two hours away from Jodhpur or Udaipur – means being welcomed into the fold of a formerly royal, genuinely down-to-earth family. You’ll discover the homestay’s rich heritage and be treated to the most exceptional guest experience.
The palace has stacks of character and charm; it’s not bells and whistles luxury like a Four Seasons hotel, but you will feel like royalty all the same. Come here for a terrific stay and experience in Rajasthan’s vivid desert.
The family of Thakur Ajeet Singh Ji returned from jobs in the city to lovingly restore their ancestral home, a 300-year-old desert palace. They now reside in one of the spacious, private courtyards and warmly host you during your stay.
The restoration work is truly impressive, a continuous labour of love. Instead of complete modernisation, Chanoud Garh has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur. Relaxing in the central courtyard is a delight, and beyond the palace itself, you have the opportunity to explore the nearby village, where the Singh Ji family is highly regarded and respected.
A sunset jeep drive to the salt pans is a must-do activity (especially if you enjoy soaking up a scenic view with a G&T in hand).
The Rooms
As for the essentials, there are 10 tastefully decorated suites. These suites are scattered around the palace, each with its own sense of space and privacy. While you won’t find modern amenities like TVs, a refreshing swimming pool is available for a dip on a warm day.
The cuisine is locally sourced, expertly prepared, and quite delicious.
What You’ll Find:
- Ten heritage suites with antique furnishings and spacious layouts
- Cooling swimming pool and peaceful courtyards for downtime
- Guided village walks and sunset jeep drives to nearby salt pans
Why You'll Love It:
- Stay in a living palace, restored with care and rich in personal history
- Be welcomed by the royal-descended hosts with warmth and generosity
- Watch the sun set over desert salt flats, G&T in hand
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in India
A few of our favourite routes, hand-picked by the team and ripe for tweaking.
Think of them as conversation starters. Curiosity sparkers. Not fixed plans, just ideas for what your holiday could look like, shaped by years of local know-how and the kind of immersive experiences that live long in the memory.
Showing 4 Featured Itineraries
Explore Full Itinerary
Agra
Regal Residences of Rajasthan
This is a far cry from the tired old route that almost everyone takes through India’s Golden Triangle. We know that you’re not everyone. Veer off the tourist trail into the heartlands of Rajasthan to feel the true essence of timeless and, yes, incredible India.
You’ll still be able to experience the manic magic of Delhi, the warm pink hues of Japiur and the magnificence of the Taj Mahal. But you’ll also experience so much more by staying in some of the country’s best heritage properties, brought to life by charismatic hosts. You’ll get the best of both worlds – and be amazed that the rest of the world doesn’t seem to be in on the secret. Shhh!
Highlights
Chambal River
Explore magnificent and lesser-visited sites on the banks of the Chambal River
Heritage properties
Experience a flavour of rural and royal Rajasthan in two contrasting rural palaces
Taj Mahal
Admire the marble magnificence of the Taj Mahal
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Agra
The Golden Triangle & The Himalayas
This is a proper adventure, taking in the riches of Rajasthan before venturing deep into the Himalayas to explore the off-the-beaten-track Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. After tiger-spotting in Corbett, escape to the unspoiled Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. Here, colonial-era hill stations and quiet Himalayan villages offer a slower pace and extraordinary views, far from the tourist trail.
Highlights
Iconic sights
Seeing the best of Rajasthan (think the Taj, tigers and terrific forts, palaces and handicrafts)
Unique accommodation
Staying in haveli hotels and warm and welcoming luxury homestays with fascinating histories
Himalayan views
Ending the holiday on a (literal) high in the Himalayas, venturing into the Kumaon region that most tourists miss
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Agra
Classic Rajasthan with the Taj Mahal
Our ‘Classic Rajasthan with the Taj’ itinerary idea takes in all the must-see sites of India’s Golden Triangle and beyond, such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. You’ll also experience a change of pace and a glimpse at an older, more rural Rajasthan with its impossibly romantic desert forts, dramatic scenery and wildlife.
We’ve suggested mixing opulent city hotels, perfect for escaping the clamour outside, with peacefully charming but quirky heritage properties in converted Rajput residences, used for entertaining visitors from time immemorial.
Highlights
Iconic sights
Marvel at the timeless magnificence of the Taj Mahal, the disorderliness of Delhi and colourful Jaipur
Fort Barli
Escape the madness into the gorgeous surrounds of Fort Barli and the Rajasthani countryside
Lake Pichola
Stay on the banks of Lake Pichola in romantic and laid-back Udaipur
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Bhutan
India's Golden Triangle & Bhutan’s Natural Beauty
Over two weeks, you will venture from the bustling, colourful cities and historical sights of India’s Rajasthan to the peaceful towns and scenic valleys of Bhutan. You’ll really get a feel for the contrasting cultures, pace of life and varied landscapes as your local guides take you off the beaten track and reveal the stories and secrets of each location to you.
In India’s Golden Triangle, you will enjoy the must-see highlights, both cultural and architectural, before flying to Bhutan to immerse yourself in the well-preserved culture and pristine natural beauty across the country. Along the way, we have suggested some charming and comfortable accommodation options in great locations and you’ll have time each day to relax at your hotel.
Highlights
Iconic India
Explore India’s Golden Triangle, including the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s palaces, and the vibrant streets of Delhi.
Magical Bhutan
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s serene landscapes, from Punakha’s dzongs to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Cracking views
Gallery
Chanoud Gahr on the map
In Our Travellers’ Words
Amazing adventure in India & The Maldives
A tour in India taking on Delhi Agra Ramathra and Jaipur. Lots of excursions included and excellent hotels. Then onto Maldives for 5 nights at a lovely resort with experiences included.
An Epic Adventure Across Southeast Asia
There were moments while I was out and about where I thought that everyone should experience this kind of mindful travel that Experience Travel organises, as it's not backpacking where you tick off the standard party hotspots, and it's not the typical cruise for tourists to visit the standard sightseeing destinations, but an experience where I really felt I got to know the countries, meet great people and do fun stuff that most people miss.
Wonderful introduction to India
A relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to India's many different shades, customs, history, beliefs, cuisine and societal strata. A well-thought out tour... all backed up by fabulous hotels and full supportive team. ETG... have a strong environmental ethic and encourage their clients to respect the places they visit, and the world we all live in. But above all, they come up with innovative ideas and... can be relied upon.
The Curious Traveller’s Expert Guide to India
Want to know more? With its vast size, rich diversity, and countless possibilities, planning a holiday to India can feel overwhelming – so we’ve created our Curious Traveller’s Guide to India to help make sense of it all.
It’s our experts’ pick of standout experiences and places to stay, with honest advice on the best regions and tips for both first-time visitors and those returning for more.
