For centuries, India has been home to kingdoms and royal families spanning from north to south and east to west, each contributing to its rich history. Despite the end of monarchy in the country, the majestic legacy of these royal families continues to enchant people. Since independence, many royal palaces have gradually opened their doors to the public. Whether it’s Maharaj Jyotiraditya Scindia’s 4000 crore Jai Vilas Palace or the iconic Mysore Palace, visitors flock to these opulent landmarks with great enthusiasm. These palaces offer a glimpse into India’s regal past. Take a look at India’s five luxurious palaces.
Jai Vilas Palace
Jai Vilas Palace is a 19th-century palace in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. It was constructed in 1874 by Maharaja Jayajirao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior in the British Raj. The three-storey palace was constructed in sandstone and painted in white. It beautifully displays a blend of three architectural styles: a Tuscan first storey, an Italian Doric second storey, and a Corinthian-inspired third storey. This magnificent 400-room palace is valued at an estimated Rs 4,000 crore. The West and South wings of the Palace were converted into a museum in 1964.
Attractions:
- Kerman Masha’ir carpet in the Durbar Hall
- Arms and armour used by the Scindia army
- Decorative art, rosewood furniture and sculpture
- Rare paintings by Indian and European masters, lithographs prints, and manuscripts.
- Southeast Asian art collections
Ranjit Vilas Palace
Located in Rajkot, Gujarat, this historical palace was built in 1870 by Bawajiraj Mehrmansinhji. The palace covers an area of 225 acres and is situated atop a high hill overlooking the city. It has been converted into a heritage hotel that offers visitors a chance to explore its majestic charm firsthand. The Gothic-inspired palace features 100 rooms and is valued at Rs 4500 crores.
Attractions:
- Garage with an impressive collection of Vintage Cars.
- A temple dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Ashapura Mata.
Mysore Palace
Also known as Amba Vilas Palace, it is located in Mysore, Karnataka, India. It serves as the official residence of the royal family of Mysore, the Wadiyar dynasty. It was built in the Indo-Saracenic style in 1912 for Rs 41.47 lakh during that period. It boasts exquisite carvings, luxurious interiors, and a grand Darbar Hall.
Attractions:
- The Doll’s Pavilion- Display of dolls during Dasara festivities.
- Elephant Gate/ Ane Bagilu
- Golden Throne
- Painting of Dasara Procession
- Wrestling Courtyard
- Royal Furniture
- Temples Inside Mysuru Palace Fort
Lake Palace:
Lake Palace is situated on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola, Udaipur, India. The marble is of such exquisite quality and beauty that walking on it feels like gliding on water rather than stone. It used to be the summer palace of the royal dynasty of Mewar, but now it’s a hotel. Notably, Aamir Khan’s daughter Ayra Khan also had her wedding ceremony at this majestic palace in Rajasthan.
Attractions:
- Courtyards with several columns, terraces, fountains, and gardens.
- Rooms by the name of Bada Mahal, Khush Mahal, Ajjan Niwas, Phool Mahal, and Dhola Mahal.
Rajwada Palace:
It was built in 1747 AD and served as the residence for the Holkar dynasty of Central India for several years. The seven-storied building displays Maratha, Mughal, and French architectural styles and is filled with carved stone, wooden jaalis, jharokhas, and chhatris. Meanwhile, the Darbar Hall and the Rani Ahilya throne reflect French influences in their design. The palace now functions as a museum showcasing the legacy of Holkars.
Attractions:
- Royal statues, paintings, palanquins, antique shields, armour, and rifles.
- The Ganesha Hall
- Light and sound shows are held every evening in the palace.
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