PeterVDV16
★★2.0Wrote on 27 Jul 2023
Beautiful place, disappointing experience
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.
Trvl4evr
★★★★★5.0Wrote on 12 May 2023
A magical and unforgettable stay!
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.
SanRobbo
★★★★4.0Wrote on 27 Feb 2023
Think 'Exotic Marigold Hotel' before the renovations!
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.
deerstop
★★★3.0Wrote on 25 Feb 2023
Full of character though decrepit in parts
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.
Ava0707
★★★★★5.0Wrote on 7 Feb 2023
A magical castle
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…
