UP Unveils First Luxury Heritage Homestay in Kannauj

Uttar Pradesh Tourism has introduced its first luxury heritage homestay — Anand Bhawan Palace in Tirwa, Kannauj — in collaboration with ama Stays & Trails by Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL). It is the 150th bungalow in ama's national portfolio and a major push towards heritage-led experiential tourism in India's fragrance capital.

Constructed in 1929 and located on five acres, the zamindari-era Anand Bhawan Palace has been refurbished as a cultural refuge in the form of six heritage suites inspired by vintage perfumes: Jasmine, Patchouli, Oudh, Neroli, Gulaab, and Bakhoor.

The visitors can indulge in bespoke activities such as attar-making tours, bird watching at Lakh Bahosi Sanctuar, farm-to-table cuisine, and barbecue nights. 

Key highlights:

• Uttar Pradesh Tourism launches its first luxury heritage homestay, Anand Bhawan Palace in Kannauj, in collaboration with ama Stays & Trails by IHCL
• Built in 1929, the zamindari-era palace offers six perfume-inspired suites and curated cultural experiences like attar-making tours and birdwatching
• Officials hail the project as a model for heritage conservation, cultural tourism, and sustainable economic development in the state

“This is an example of how our heritage houses can be kept alive and restored as places of culture, hospitality, and economic development," said Jaiveer Singh, Minister of Tourism & Culture, UP.

Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism, observed, "With Anand Bhawan Palace now opening as a heritage homestay, we are introducing a new chapter in the tourism attraction of Kannauj.”

Tourism Director Prakhar Misra stressed, "Uttar Pradesh has numerous zamindari houses that, although not appropriate for hotels, possess huge heritage value."

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Homestay owners Divyaudit Singh and Shruti Shandilya, who belong to the founding family of the palace, were proud to share their heritage. "This is not merely a homestay, but preserving and celebrating our history," stated Shandilya.

The launch was marked with presence of main officials and tourism stakeholders.