A number of notable dynasties, realms, and empires have ruled over India throughout its history. There are a large number of palaces situated in different zones of India. Today these are the reminders of that glorious past. Their aesthetics, painting, balances, and everything about them are visually striking to everyone.
While some of these palaces have been altered into museums. In contrast, some others have been remade into Grand Heritage hotels. Let’s read about the 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see in this blog.
You Must See These 25 Magnificent Royal Palaces in India if You Love Architecture:
1. Mysore Palace, Mysore, Karnataka
One of the most beautiful palaces in the world is Mysore Palace in Mysore, Karnataka, which is located in the center of the city. Also known by another name Amba Vilas Palace. Henry Irving designed the building and it was completed in 1912. The Indo-Saracenic style of the building and its domes and turrets are unique.
And there is a great amount of art on show worldwide. It also boasts several yards, two durbar halls, twelve Hindu temples, and even an antique doll pavilion. Therefore, it is among the top 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see.
Location: Mysore, Karnataka
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Entry Fee: ₹70 for adults, ₹30 for children
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
Photography: Allowed only outside; no photography inside the palace
Travel Experience:
- Witness the grandeur of the Wodeyar dynasty
- Enjoy the evening light and sound show
- Admire the intricate carvings and vibrant paintings
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport (12 km)
- By Train: Mysore Junction Railway Station (2 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from Bangalore (150 km)
2. Prag Mahal, Bhuj, Gujarat
Built in 1910, Prag Mahal is one of the most Royal palaces in India. Its structure reflects various style influencers. It combines Romanesque architecture with Indo-Saracenic Revival elements.
Also called Italian Gothic, it is sometimes referred to as a style of architecture. This is among the top 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see.
Location: Bhuj, Gujarat
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 12 PM, 3 PM to 6 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Explore the Italian-Gothic architecture
- Climb the clock tower for panoramic views of Bhuj
- Visit the adjacent Aina Mahal
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuj Airport (5 km)
- By Train: Bhuj Railway Station (3 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from major cities in Gujarat
3. Chowmahalla Palace, Hyderabad, Telangana
This 18th-century Palace is a mixture of Persian and Mughal designs. It is built across 40 acres.
The palace has two courtyards, fine antique furniture, Belgian crystal chandeliers, and a 1911 yellow Rolls Royce. During the Asaf Jahi dynasty, it was the official residence of the Nizams.
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: ₹80 for adults, ₹10 for children
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on Fridays
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Marvel at the Persian-style architecture
- View the vintage car collection of the Nizam
- Stroll through the beautiful gardens
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (20 km)
- By Train: Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station (5 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Hyderabad
4. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Thuckalay, Tamil Nadu
Near the city of Thiruvananthapuram lies Padmanabhapuram, the ex-capital town of the realm of Travancore. This palace dates back to the 17th century and has lovely murals, floral carvings, and structured interiors.
Here you will get the option to study the many rooms of the palace and its black granite base.
Location: Thuckalay, Tamil Nadu
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: ₹25 for adults, ₹10 for children
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 1 PM, 2 PM to 4:30 PM, closed on Mondays
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Admire the wooden architecture and murals
- Learn about the Travancore dynasty
- Enjoy the peaceful and serene surroundings
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (50 km)
- By Train: Nagercoil Junction (15 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from Trivandrum and Kanyakumari
5. Thanjavur Palace, Tamil Nadu
Nayaka kings built Thanjavur Palace in the 1530s. By the time Shivaji of Thanjavur died, the Thanjavur Marathas held it. According to the Doctrine of Lapse, the British acquired the palace.
It was in ruins for decades until the tourism department began to restore it.
Location: Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹20 for children
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 1 PM, 2 PM to 5 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Explore the Nayak and Maratha period architecture
- Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library
- Enjoy the art gallery and its collection of sculptures
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (60 km)
- By Train: Thanjavur Junction (3 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from nearby cities
6. Jai Vilas Mahal, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
In the 19th century, Jayajirao Sc India, the Maharaja of Gwalior, built the magnificent Jai Vilas Mahal. There are a lot of luxury decorations and gold furnishings in the three-story building, which features European style at its finest. There is now a display of weapons, historical documents, and other artifacts at the palace. So, you must know about these top 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see.
Location: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹300 for adults, ₹150 for children
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on Wednesdays
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- See the world’s largest chandelier
- Explore the opulent European-style rooms
- Visit the museum showcasing the Scindia family’s heritage
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport (13 km)
- By Train: Gwalior Junction (5 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from major cities in Madhya Pradesh
7. Jal Mahal, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jal Mahal is Jaipur’s most great palace in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Made by Sawai Pratap Singh in the year 1799. But still, it is an iconic landmark in Jaipur city. Its unique style is a mixture of Mughal and Rajput styles.
Although the palace has five stories, only the top is visual to the viewers. The remaining ones are dipped underwater.
Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Not applicable as entry inside is restricted
Opening Hours: Viewable 24/7 from the lakeside
Photography: Allowed
Travel Experience:
- Admire the palace floating on Man Sagar Lake
- Enjoy bird watching around the lake
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (17 km)
- By Train: Jaipur Junction (10 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Jaipur
8. Leh Palace, Leh
Construction of the 9-storeyed Leh Palace began in 1553. On the upper floors were members of the royal family. However, on the lower floors were stables and storerooms. As a result of the 19th-century invasion, the palace was abandoned.
The Archaeological Survey of India manages it, but it is still dilapidated.
Location: Leh, Ladakh
Practical Details:
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 4 PM
- Photography: Allowed
Travel Experience:
- Experience the grandeur of the Tibetan-style architecture
- Enjoy panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding mountains
- Learn about the history of the Namgyal dynasty
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (5 km)
- By Road: Accessible by road from Srinagar and Manali
9. Datia Palace, Madhya Pradesh
This Amazing palace is situated in Madhya Pradesh. It is mainly famous for having 7 floors. This palace is also known by another name Bir Singh Palace. And it took about 9 years to finish its building.
Location: Datia, Madhya Pradesh
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM
Photography: Allowed
Travel Experience:
- Explore the impressive seven-storied structure
- Enjoy the blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles
- Visit the nearby temples and shrines
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport (75 km)
- By Train: Datia Railway Station (2 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from Gwalior and Jhansi
10. Ujjayanta Palace, Tripura
The palace is reminiscent of Neoclassical architecture, which was the style of the Kingdom of Tripura. A museum now occupies the building, which was opened in 1901.
Location: Agartala, Tripura
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on Mondays
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Discover the mix of Mughal and Indo-Saracenic architecture
- Visit the state museum showcasing Tripura’s cultural heritage
- Enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (10 km)
- By Train: Agartala Railway Station (5 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Agartala
11. Cooch Behar Palace, West Bengal
Cooch Behar Palace is the most beautiful Indian palace in West Bengal. Buckingham Palace inspired this building in the late 19th century.
A staggering 51,309 square feet (4,766.8 m2) is the total area of the palace, and it is 395 feet (120 m) long and 296 feet (90 m) wide.
Location: Cooch Behar, West Bengal
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Admire the grandeur of the palace modeled after Buckingham Palace
- Explore the sprawling gardens
- Learn about the history and heritage of the region
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (138 km)
- By Train: Cooch Behar Railway Station (3 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from Siliguri and other nearby cities
12. Marble Palace, West Bengal
Built by Raja Rajendra Mullick, and is situated on Muktaram Babu Street in North Kolkata. The palace is famous for its marble floors and walls. It has giant statues, paintings, and other valuable pieces, along with a Marble Palace Zoo.
Despite its age, the palace still retains its elegance and well-preserved condition. It is among the top 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see.
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Free (entry by prior permission from West Bengal Tourism)
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM, closed on Mondays and Thursdays
Photography: Not allowed inside
Travel Experience:
- Marvel at the exquisite marble architecture
- View the eclectic collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts
- Enjoy the lush green gardens surrounding the palace
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (15 km)
- By Train: Kolkata Railway Station (5 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Kolkata
13. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
By 1887, Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh converted it from a garden house into a hunting lodge. Currently, the Taj Group operates it as a five-star hotel.
Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Not applicable (operates as a luxury hotel)
Opening Hours: Accessible to guests and visitors with reservations
Photography: Allowed for guests
Travel Experience:
- Experience royal luxury at its finest
- Enjoy fine dining and royal hospitality
- Explore the opulent rooms and beautiful gardens
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (11 km)
- By Train: Jaipur Junction (7 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Jaipur
14. Taj Mahal Palace – Mumbai
The history of India was written here. As the Tata group’s flagship hotel, the Taj (as it is known to regulars) was built in 1903 next to the Gateway to India. Among Mumbai’s most iconic (and classified) monuments, the Taj is a must-see for wise travellers. An iconic pool, luxurious suites, trendy cafes, and 1,500 employees make this the ultimate caravanserai in Bollywood’s capital.
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Not applicable (operates as a luxury hotel)
Opening Hours: Accessible to guests and visitors with reservations
Photography: Allowed for guests
Travel Experience:
- Stay in one of India’s most iconic hotels
- Enjoy luxurious amenities and historic architecture
- View the Gateway of India from the hotel
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (25 km)
- By Train: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (2 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Mumbai
15. Bangalore Palace, Karnataka
This palace was made in the year 1878. Wodeyars, the royal family of Mysore, resided in this magnificent palace that Windsor Castle inspired. The court includes paintings by the famous Raja Ravi Varma.
Location: Bangalore, Karnataka
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹230 for Indians, ₹460 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Explore the Tudor-style architecture
- Enjoy the lavish interiors and beautiful gardens
- Perfect spot for photography
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport (35 km)
- By Train: Bangalore City Railway Station (5 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Bangalore
16. Kangla Palace, Manipur
Built by Meitei rulers of Manipur at Kangla on the western bank of the Imphal river. A holy palace of worship and ceremonies, the Palace of Kangla is located in the center of Imphal city.
If you are looking for the top 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see, read this blog.
Location: Imphal, Manipur
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM
Photography: Allowed
Travel Experience:
- Discover the historic and cultural significance
- Explore ancient structures and sacred statues
- Learn about the history of Manipur
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Imphal Airport (8 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Imphal
17. Presidential Palace, Delhi
In Delhi, Rashtrapati Bhavan is a huge mansion on a floor area of 20000 square feet. It contains Rajpath, a huge Vijay Chowk that begins from the house and ends at the India Gate. This palace also has gardens at the back, known as Mughal Gardens, with many flowers.
Location: New Delhi, Delhi
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM, closed on Mondays
Photography: Not allowed inside
Travel Experience:
- Tour the Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens
- Admire the impressive architecture
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (15 km)
- By Train: New Delhi Railway Station (8 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Delhi
18. Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, Tamil Nadu
You can find Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace in Madurai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is a classic fusion of Rajput and Dravidian styles.
In the 17th century, the King of Madurai built it, and today it’s open to the public.
Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Marvel at the Indo-Saracenic architecture
- Enjoy the grand pillars and intricate carvings
- Experience the palace illuminated at night
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport (12 km)
- By Train: Madurai Junction (3 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Madurai
19. Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort sits high above the Blue City of Jodhpur in Rajasthan. The project was initiated by Rao Jodha, the chief of the Rathores, in 1460. Aside from the Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal, the fort also houses museum housing beautiful royal palanquins, musical devices, and paintings.
Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Explore one of the largest forts in India
- Visit the museum and palaces within the fort
- Enjoy panoramic views of Jodhpur
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport (8 km)
- By Train: Jodhpur Junction (6 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Jodhpur
20. Vijaya Vilas Palace, Mandavi, Gujarat
Built-in 1920, this unique palace was made by Maharao Shri Khengarji III of Kutch as a summer pullout for his son. It Is famous due to its use of red sandstone and the superb coloured glass window and carved stone screens that adorn it.
It also consists of fantastic Gardens, a private beach, and a museum. But after the earthquakes in Gujarat in 2001, it has also become the family’s primary residence after the Gujarat earthquakes of 2001 damaged the other palace.
Location: Mandvi, Gujarat
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Visit the picturesque palace with a mix of architectural styles
- Enjoy beautiful views of the Arabian Sea from the rooftop
- Stroll through the well-maintained gardens
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuj Airport (65 km)
- By Train: Bhuj Railway Station (60 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from Bhuj
21. Patwon Ki Haveli, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Patwon Ki Haveli is one of the first Haveli made in Rajasthan. It is also called the mansion of brocade merchants. A prosperous trader, Guman Chand Patwa built the building in 1805. The Patwon Ki Haveli embodies grandeur, magnification, and pure class.
It impresses onlookers with its gateways and arches in addition to its paintings and mirror works on the walls. There is a different depiction for each arch. Sandstone makes up its construction.
Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Wander through the intricately carved haveli
- Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region
- Visit the museum within the haveli
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport (14 km)
- By Train: Jaisalmer Railway Station (2 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Jaisalmer
22. Mubarak Mandi Palace, Jammu, and Kashmir
Jammu’s Mubarak Mandi Palace once served as the royal residence of the Dogra Dynasty of Jammu and Kashmir. Located near the old-walled city near the Tawi River.
This picturesque palace has numerous courtyards, rooms, large halls, and an extensive collection of items once belonging to the royal family. Its architectural style ranges from Rajasthani to European Baroque and Mughal, with a history dating back to 1824.
Location: Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
Photography: Allowed
Travel Experience:
- Explore the grand palace complex
- Enjoy the mix of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European architectural styles
- Visit the Dogra Art Museum
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jammu Airport (7 km)
- By Train: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (5 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Jammu
23. Lalgarh Palace, Bikaner, Rajasthan
The Lalgarh Palace is a harmonious blend of East and West built between 1902 and 1926. Maharaja Ganga Singhji of Bikaner commissioned the palace, located deep in the Thar Desert of Bikaner, Rajasthan. The palace currently is a Heritage Hotel that Princess Rajshree Kumari runs.
Designed by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob and is one of the most remarkable Royal Residences built during the 20th century. During your visit, don’t forget to check out the Redstone of the Thar Desert, charming sepia photographs, and royal lounges. Thus, it is under 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see.
Location: Bikaner, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Visit the red sandstone palace
- Explore the fusion of Rajput, Mughal, and European architecture
- Enjoy the beautiful gardens and museum
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport (250 km)
- By Train: Bikaner Junction (3 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Bikaner
24. Bolgatty Palace, Ernakulam, Kerala
Bolgatty Palace, situated in Kerala in South India, was built by the Dutch. And it is still a stunning site to come across. A Dutch trader built it in 1774 as a Governor’s palace for Dutch Malabar’s commander and then leased it to the British in 1909.
When India gained independence, it was altered into a Heritage Hotel. With a little room and world-class animators, it attracts honeymooners and those searching for luxury travel to escape city life. It is among the top 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: Free (operates as a heritage hotel)
Opening Hours: Accessible to guests and visitors with reservations
Photography: Allowed for guests
Travel Experience:
- Enjoy the serene beauty of the backwaters
- Stay in a Dutch colonial mansion
- Experience luxury with modern amenities
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (30 km)
- By Train: Ernakulam Junction (7 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Ernakulam
25. Monsoon Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan
If you are visiting a romantic Rajasthan city, you must visit the unique monsoon Palace perched on Hill Udaipur. It looms the city and the lake on top of Fateh Sagar Lake.
Originally intended to be a 9-story astronomical observatory, the Monsoon Palace was built in 1884. Keeping track of monsoon clouds was used to pick the arrival of monsoons.
Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: July to September (monsoon) and October to March
Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹80 for foreigners
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM
Photography: Allowed with a fee
Travel Experience:
- Admire the panoramic views of Udaipur
- Visit during the monsoon season for lush surroundings
- Explore the palace known as Sajjangarh Palace
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport (28 km)
- By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station (10 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services within Udaipur
The Bottom Line:
These are the top 25 magnificent royal palaces in India you must see. Thus, it is vital to read about these palaces and make your plan accordingly. Therefore, make a trip to these amazing palaces and stop any worries.
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