Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh State Governments Collaborate with Neemrana Hotels on Two Cultural Revitalization Ventures under Public-Private Partnership Scheme
Neemrana Hotels, a pioneer in preserving India's architectural legacy, has announced the restoration of two historic sites - the Baruasagar Fort in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, and the Raja-Rani Mahal in Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh. These projects, set to complete between 2027 and 2028, will transform these heritage sites into unique, experiential tourism destinations.
Baruasagar Fort: A Waterside Wonder
Believed to have been constructed in the 18th century by the Bundela kings, the Baruasagar Fort overlooks Baruasagar Lake and the Bundelkhand plains. With its substantial stone ramparts and bastions, the fort holds historical associations with the era of Rani Lakshmibai and the 1857 Indian First War of Independence. The restoration work aims to rejuvenate this historic structure into a one-of-a-kind experiential waterside property. The first phase of the project includes the development of 25 guest rooms, a restaurant, a spa, a swimming pool, cultural activity spaces, and event facilities.
Raja-Rani Mahal: A Boutique Heritage Experience
Located in Chanderi’s Inner Town, the Raja-Rani Mahal reflects historical architectural heritage, although its specific history is less documented. The project intends to maintain its architectural integrity during restoration. Guests can expect to immerse themselves in an experience that blends Chanderi's heritage with basic modern comforts, including an Ayurvedic wellness spa and regional cuisine. The unique model of Neemrana Hotels is conservation through hospitality.
A Broader Effort
Neemrana Hotels, led by founders Aman Nath and CEO Sonavi Kaicker, has been reviving India's forgotten architectural treasures for nearly four decades. The twin partnership with the Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh State Governments aims to preserve and restore these sites of cultural and national significance. The Raja Rani Mahal in Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh, will be transformed into a boutique heritage experience with 10-12 guest rooms.
Chanderi is well connected via NH 52 to Bhopal, Indore, and Gwalior, and is easily accessible through the rail network. The best time to visit Raja Rani Mahal is between October and March. Neemrana's restoration of Raja Rani Mahal aims to elevate Chanderi's status as a global heritage destination, following the footsteps of Deo Bagh, a garden hotel in Gwalior, which Neemrana Hotels already operates.
The restoration work at Raja Rani Mahal is underway, with an official opening expected by 2028. The historical property has served as a backdrop for numerous Bollywood productions, including Stree 2 and Sui Dhaga. Neemrana Hotels's restoration and revitalization of Baruasagar Fort and Raja Rani Mahal are part of a broader effort to preserve India’s architectural legacy through innovative public-private partnerships.
With 18 destinations spanning 7 states, Neemrana Hotels offers a unique dual-destination itinerary with Raja Rani Mahal in Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh, complementing its existing property, Deo Bagh in Gwalior. The restoration work at Baruasagar Fort is underway, with an official opening expected by 2027. Neemrana Hotels continues to make India's heritage not just accessible, but experiential and sustainable.
After completing the restoration of Baruasagar Fort and Raja-Rani Mahal,Neemrana Hotels intends to provide unique employment opportunities for locals in their home-and-garden sector, allowing them to contribute to the preserved legacy while also enhancing their lifestyle with improved tourism-related services. With the rejuvenated Baruasagar Fort offering a one-of-a-kind experiential waterside property, and Raja-Rani Mahal providing a boutique heritage experience blending history and modern comforts, these restored sites will contribute significantly to the regions' lifestyle and economic development, ultimately transforming them into sought-after home-and-garden destinations for travelers.
