Chandelao Garh’s journey from a family home to a boutique hotel is a tale rooted in one family’s vision and a dedication to preserving heritage. For centuries, Chandelao Garh stood as the ancestral home of the Kumpawat Rathores. Recognizing the uniqueness and cultural importance of the property, Thakur Praduman Singh envisioned opening up the Garh to share its heritage with the world. In 1995, he began a careful and dedicated restoration of the property. Finally, the gates of Chandelao Garh were opened to tourists for the first time in its history in 1996. The first guests, an adventurous Australian biker gang on a pan-India tour, stopped by Chandelao Garh in 1997, marking the beginning of its transformation.
Since then, Praduman Singh has been joined in his efforts by Mr. Svein Wilhelmsen (founder of Base Camp Explorer) and Ms. Kristin G. Andresen (philanthropist and owner of Ferd), whose continued friendship and involvement in the property has contributed a great deal to its success over the years.
Over the years, Praduman Singh, alongside his family, has maintained Chandelao Garh as more than just a place to stay. Each room tells a story, adorned with family photos and pieces of Rajasthan’s and the family’s history, giving guests the feeling of stepping into a family home rather than a conventional hotel. Chandelao Garh is now celebrated as one of the leading heritage properties—a peaceful, rustic retreat that honours the family’s past and the home’s legacy, while offering an intimate, welcoming experience.
At Chandelao Garh, we believe true luxury lies in meaningful experiences. From the moment guests arrive, they are enveloped in warm Rajasthani hospitality, a curated blend of elegance and comfort that honours our heritage. Every experience—whether dining on traditional cuisine prepared with local ingredients, unwinding in our serene courtyards, or engaging with local artisans—captures the essence of Rajasthan’s unique spirit. We strive to create memories that linger, offering a retreat that is as luxurious as it is genuine, and as tranquil as it is unforgettable.