Travel Blogs

Weather: 13 - 25°C
Label: Great For Couples
Tags: Forts & Palaces, Heritage, Luxury
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Time Required: 1 - 2 hrs
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee

Fort Chanwa, located in the peaceful village of Luni, near Jodhpur, offers an unparalleled experience of luxury and royalty. Constructed centuries ago by Maharaja Manish Soni, this majestic fort has now been converted into a luxury heritage hotel by its owners, Maharaja Dalip Singh and Rani Madhu Devi. Set against the backdrop of the vast Thar Desert, Fort Chanwa beautifully combines the opulence of Rajasthani architecture with modern comforts, making it an ideal getaway for couples, history lovers, and luxury travelers.

A Blend of Royalty and Modern Comfort

Fort Chanwa is a stunning showcase of Rajasthani architecture, featuring intricately carved parapets, lush manicured gardens, and decorative Jharokas (balconies). The fort’s royal appeal is further accentuated by its red sandstone walls and beautiful lattice work friezes. Visitors can wander through the maze of courtyards, corridors, and stairways, each leading to hidden pavilions that reflect the grandeur of the bygone era.

Today, the fort has seamlessly merged with modern-day luxury, offering a heritage hotel experience that allows you to experience Rajasthan’s rich royal legacy while enjoying contemporary amenities. The interiors are a perfect blend of tradition and comfort, while the hospitality provided by the staff ensures a memorable stay.

History of Fort Chanwa

Fort Chanwa's history dates back to the reign of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II (1876-1895), during which Kaviraj Muraridanji, a distinguished politician, was granted the hamlet of Chanwa as a reward for his military achievements. Muraridanji built the fort in the late 19th century. However, after his death in 1941, the fort passed into the possession of the state due to the lack of a male heir.

In 1948, the fort was restored to the family of Maharaja Dalip Singh, the youngest son of Maharaja Umaid Singh. After years of neglect, it was restored in the early 1990s and reopened to the public as a luxury heritage hotel, offering guests a chance to experience the charm of royal Rajasthan.

Architecture of Fort Chanwa

The architecture of Fort Chanwa reflects the 18th-century Rajasthani style, with its elaborate carvings, lattice work, and ornate balconies. The fort is constructed entirely from red sandstone, creating an imposing and regal atmosphere. Inside, visitors can explore a labyrinth of courtyards, staircases, and secret passages, all leading to beautiful rooms and pavilions.

The fort also houses a water wheel, showcasing traditional water management techniques. The walls and public areas of the fort are adorned with ancient paintings and handicrafts, some of which are made by local artisans from the village of Luni.

Services & Activities at Fort Chanwa

Fort Chanwa offers a wide range of services and activities designed to enhance the luxury experience:

• Luxury Rooms: The fort has 60 rooms, divided into Heritage Classic Rooms and Heritage Deluxe Rooms. Both room types offer a perfect balance of traditional décor and modern amenities, such as LCD TVs, mini refrigerators, and comfortable beds. The Heritage Deluxe Rooms are slightly larger, making them ideal for families or groups.

• Village Tours: Guests can take a village tour to explore the rural lifestyle of Rajasthan. The tour offers a glimpse into the daily life of local villagers, with opportunities to visit traditional mud and thatch houses.

• Safari Adventures: Fort Chanwa offers both jeep safaris and camel safaris to explore the surrounding desert landscape. These safaris include a chance to spot local wildlife like black bucks and chinkaras and offer the opportunity to capture stunning desert vistas.

• Horse Riding and Camel Riding: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, horse and camel rides are available at the fort, providing a fun way to explore the surroundings.

• Cycling: Enjoy a leisurely cross-country cycling tour through the nearby villages and the picturesque desert landscape.

• Wedding and Event Venues: Fort Chanwa is a popular venue for destination weddings, pre-wedding shoots, and corporate events. The fort’s stunning décor and majestic ambiance make it the perfect location for celebrations and private events.

Nearby Attractions

• Luni River: Just a short distance from the fort, the Luni River is a tranquil spot for relaxing by the water, birdwatching, or enjoying a picnic.

• Mehrangarh Fort: Located about 40 km from Fort Chanwa, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the most prominent historical sites in Jodhpur. It is renowned for its grand architecture and breathtaking views of the city.

• Flying Fox: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Flying Fox activities are available around 20-30 km from the fort, providing an exciting way to experience the region.

• Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park: Situated nearby, this 72-acre park is home to the desert flora of Rajasthan and offers a unique ecological experience.

How to Reach Fort Chanwa

Fort Chanwa is located in the village of Luni, about 34 km from Jodhpur. Here’s how you can reach the fort:

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Jodhpur, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Jodhpur Airport, you can hire a taxi to reach the fort.

• By Train: The nearest railway station to Fort Chanwa is Luni, which is just a short distance from the fort. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the station to reach the fort.

• By Road: Fort Chanwa is easily accessible by road. It is about 8 km from Jodhpur and can be reached via taxi or private vehicle. Regular buses also connect the village of Luni to Jodhpur.