15 Majestic Palaces In India That Redefine The Word ‘Grand’
India is famed for its rich cultural history and heritage. The numerous magnificent palaces across the country stand as testament to this fact. These breath-taking, luxurious palaces tell stories of the lavish, elegant lifestyles of the royal families that lived here. Many of these royal palaces have been converted into luxury hotels/museums, and made accessible to locals and tourists. These evergreen architectural wonders never fail to mesmerize anybody who visits them.
1. Jai Vilas Palace, Gwalior
It was constructed in the 19th century by Jayajirao Scindia. Each and every corner of this marvelous palace is stunning thanks to its eclectic mix of Italian, Corinthian and Tuscan architecture. This palace has now been converted into a museum.
2. Laxmi Vilas Palace, Bharatpur
This former palace is now a heritage hotel. It has its own unique style and is very elegantly designed. If you want to experience the grandeur and majesty of Rajasthan, then just take a trip here and step inside.
3. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
One of the most popular and beautiful heritage palaces in India, the Rambagh Palace is considered one of the finest heritage hotels in the world.
4. Chowmahalla Palace, Hyderabad
The Nizams of yore lavishly entertained their official guests in this 200 year old palace, which is famous for its intricate architecture. Staying here is an unforgettable experience.
5. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Umaid Bhawan, previously known as Chittar Palace, was one of the world’s largest private residences. Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, this palace is a true example of Indian royalty.
6. Mysore Palace, Karnataka
Locally, this palace is also known as Amba Vilas Palace. It houses two durbars and has mesmerizing courtyards and gardens around it.
7. Lake Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Formerly known as Jag Niwas, Lake Palace is located at the heart of Lake Pichola. Spanning over 4 acres, this place is regarded as the most romantic hotel in India!
8. Bangalore Palace, Bengaluru
Situated in the heart of Bangalore, the beautiful architecture is believed to have been inspired by Windsor Castle of London. The Tudor style architecture and magnificent wood carvings are second to none. It was built by the Wodeyar Dynasty in 1887.
9. Marble Palace, Kolkata
Neo-classical in style, the Marble Palace is a creation of Raja Rajendra Mullick. It is largely inspired by traditional Bengali styles. Marble floors and walls add to its serene beauty.
10. Jaganmohan Palace, Mysore
Built in the traditional Hindu architectural style, Jaganmohan Palace is one of the seven impeccably beautiful palaces of the royal city of Mysore. It is one of the most beautiful architectural undertakings of the Wodeyar kings.
11. Ujjayanta Palace, Agartala
Ujjayanta Palace is situated in the princely state of Tripura. This exotic palace stands on the banks of a small lake and is surrounded by the lush greenery of Mughal gardens. This palace is now the largest museum in North East India.
12. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Thukalay, Tamil Nadu
Padmanabhapuram Palace is located in the old granite fort of Padmanabhapuram. It is an example of the magnificence of the traditional architecture of the Southern dynasties. It is a must-visit if you are travelling to Tamil Nadu.
13. Bolgatty Palace, Mulavukad, Kerala
Situated on Bolgatty Island, Bolgatty Palace was built by the Dutch in India in 1974. This quiet mansion is now surrounded with gardens, swimming pools and Ayurvedic centres.
14. Cooch Behar Palace, West Bengal
Inspired by the stunning Buckingham Palace in London, Cooch Behar Palace is one of the major landmarks of West Bengal. Also known as Victoria Jubilee Palace, its elegance and grandeur are truly remarkable.
15. Kowdiar Palace, Trivandrum, Kerala
Kowdiar Palace was built by Sree Moolam Thirunal in 1915 and is a reminder of the rich history of Trivandrum. It consists of 150 royal rooms and is famous for its intricate architecture.
