History

The family of Kankarwa Haveli is of the ruling class known as Rajput. They are descendants of the ruler of Mewar (Udaipur), having bifurcated from the royal family in the 16th century in the regime of Maharana Udai Singh, founder of Udaipur. They settled in and managed the Village of Kankarwa, 60 km from Udaipur, where they lived in a castle, their family home.

The Kankarwa Fort northeast of Udaipur still stands testimony to the family’s rich history. Early in the 19th century, the Maharana gave the Thakur of Kankarwa permission to build an urban house in Udaipur City. Construction began around 1820 and is presently known as Kankarwa Haveli.

In 1993 the family began renovation work and within two years Kankarwa Haveli opened its doors for travellers while remaining the city dwelling of the original family.

Facility

There is a secluded alcove with a jharokha on the first level with comfortable furniture, a place to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, meditate, read, relax, or converse in private. Just off the courtyard is another gathering place for Guest to meet, enjoy a drink and peruse the many magazines and current newspapers.

Internet(Wi-Fi)

Behind Reception is a room fitted with computers where guest may use the Internet. There is also Internet access via Wi-fi in the haveli.

Laundry service

Laundry service is available in the morning and afternoon.

Airport pickup/drop services

Reservations for tours or airport transfers with cars and drivers can be made with Janardan Singh.

Visa and Master Card are accepted

Accommodations

Great thought was given to the renovation of this haveli and careful attention was given to every detail to preserve the simple, yet elegant style of traditional Rajasthan. There are a total of 16 rooms in Kankarwa Haveli.

Deluxe suites and rooms command full view of the lake, whereas standard rooms have a partial view. Every room is fitted with world class O General Air Conditioners and has ensuite bathroom with hot water available 24 hours a day. Some bathrooms are equipped with tubs as well as showers and all have western style toilets. You will be delightfully surprised by whichever room you choose, for each is unique.

Every year the management thoughtfully adds colorful, singular attributes to the rooms to make them more inviting. From the towels and bedding, to the glass chandeliers called ‘handis’ to the hand-worked curtains and colorful pillows, to the wall paintings every single item is particularly chosen for each room. Kankarwa Haveli maintains its old world charm and resembles a home rather than a hotel. There are no telephones or television sets in the rooms to upset the tranquility and serenity of this beautiful haveli. You cannot help but fall in love and want to stay forever.

Food

The family kitchen is located on the roof where breakfast is served every morning between 7:30 AM and 11 AM.

A menu of Indian and continental food is available. This is a vegetarian house with eggs the only exception. A set menu is provided for clients whose breakfasts are included in their hotel plan. Lunch and dinner are available to haveli guests and outsiders at 1 PM to 2:30 PM and from 8 PM to 9 PM. Both are served ‘family style’ or in the ‘thali’ style, which consists of individual round tray containing ‘katoris’, small bowls of vegetables and dals, the center being left free for rice and Indian breads. The dinner has a choice of three kinds of thalis. The 'Food is prepared fresh' daily and no two sauces, gravies, or masalas are identical.

If you are lucky, you will find Thakurani Suchana kunwar, the charming lady of the house who is responsible for all the wonderful cooking, busy, but smiling in her kitchen. The family trusts you will find much enjoyment and pleasure at their table and a welcome change from the usual restaurant fare. Hot and cold beverages are available at all times. Room service is not available.

Location

Kankarwa Haveli has a prime location in the heart of the old City, at Lal Ghat. This is directly on the shore of Lake Pichola where the water caresses the windows and western facade. A five minute walk will take you to the City Palace. Only a short distance in another direction is the famous Jagdish Temple. Boats for hire and shops of every description are available just outside the haveli doors.

From Udaipur airport it is a 35 minute (25 kilometer) drive into the city. Railway and bus stations are easily accessible via Autorikshaw at only a 10 minute distance (4 kilometer).

Attraction

Travel Desk

Reservations for tours or transfers with cars and drivers can be made with us. We offer services for your convenience, safety and comfort. We provide cars in spotless condition, continuous maintenance, and insurance. Our drivers are licensed. experienced, trustworthy, well-groomed and polite. We also provide transfers to airport, railway and bus terminals.

Tours and Excursion

Half day Excursions:

City Sightseeing Eklingji and Nagda Temples

Full day Excursions:

Ranakpur Temples Kumbhalgarh Fort Chittorgarh Fort

Full day Tours and Journeys:

Jodhpur, Ajmer, Jaipur, Pushkar, Bundi, Ahmedabad & others Cities. We can also arrange bus, railway and flight tickets