We chose Chandra Niwas as our first homestay whilst in Udaipur and weren’t we glad! After a long train journey from Mumbai, a heartfelt welcome at a very warm home is just what we needed. We instantly hit it off with Samvit and our trip across Rajasthan began on a high note!
Dr. Samvit Audichya runs Chandra Niwas homestay (named after his mother Chandra and Niwas meaning abode). He is also a philanthropist and is the founder of Daan Foundation, an initiative that helps in the development and education of rural children. We visited the learning centre and interacted with the kids who were engrossed in playing Uno and Carrom. Visiting the villages lets you into an entirely different Udaipur. If you would like to be involved and contribute to a social cause, you can either participate in the cultural exchange programme that Samvit organises or be a volunteer at the learning centre.
The most homely place to stay in Udaipur – Chandra Niwas Homestay (Picture Credit)
What we love about Chandra Niwas Homestay
*Read as ‘Absolute Highlights’
- His collection of antiques! I just couldn’t stop admiring them. Most of them are old woodworks from old temples/forts modified into door panels, centre tables, jewellery boxes. Beautiful!
- There is nothing fancy or over the top. It is a simple homestay with a lot of heart.
- Samvit, himself! The ultimate chai-lover is the life of the place and such a great host.
- You get to meet and hang out with other travellers.
Lovely artifacts at Chandra Niwas Homestay
What we like about Chandra Niwas Homestay
Read as the ‘Nice things about this place’
- The rooms and bathrooms are very clean. All the basic requirements are available in each room.
- The lovely breakfast served in the common area and the fact that you can have as many cups of chai as you please.
- The homestay is just a rickshaw ride away from the main attractions of Udaipur.
What we did not like
You may want to be aware of these points
- I had absolutely no complaints and definitely looking forward to another visit. But do bear in mind to keep your sightseeing schedule in check because if not, then you will only end up having long chats over pyaaz ki kachori (onion kachori) and chai with Samvit!
- Being away from the city, you cannot sit on the rooftop and gaze at the glistening lake or the lit up city palace. But, then neither will you see so many other tourists
Cooking with Samvit (Photo Credit – Chandra Niwas Homestay)
Chandra Niwas is Ideal for
- Backpackers
- Single travellers
- A long stay in Udaipur
- Guests interested in visiting Samvit’s NGO and education centre
Daan Foundation (Photo Credit – Chandra Niwas Homestay)
Rates for Chandra Niwas
- The room prices during season start from INR 1,500 including breakfast.
- To Book – Contact Person: Samvit Audichya
- Website: http://www.chandraniwas.com/
- Daan Foundation: http://www.daanfoundation.org/
- Reviews on TripAdvisor of Chandra Niwas: Click here
To plan a unique and economical trip across Rajasthan, contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Located in a non-touristy neighborhood, Chandra Niwas Homestay is a simple yet peaceful homestay accommodation. It is not like a commercial hotel, but you are given personal attention and are warmly welcomed.
The rooms are simple and basic, providing comfortable accommodation with essential amenities. Each room has an en-suite bathroom with 24-hour hot water for your convenience. Breakfast is served at the dining area where you can freely access the Wifi.
Chandra Nivas Homestay is a ten-minute drive (approximately 4 kilometers) from the city center. This allows for a quieter experience while still being easily accessible to Udaipur’s attractions.
About Harsh Sonawala
Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.
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