Umaid Bhavan Palace is one of the world’s largest private residences, located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. It was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh of Jodhpur State between 1928 and 1943, as a relief project for the famine-stricken people of the region. The palace is named after the Maharaja and his grandfather, Maharaja Umaid Singh. The palace has 347 rooms and is divided into three parts: the royal residence, the Taj hotel, and the museum.
Umaid Bhavan Palace is a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Rajput, Mughal, and European styles. The palace is also known for its lavish interiors, exquisite furniture, paintings, sculptures, and gardens. The palace is a popular tourist attraction, and offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle and heritage of Jodhpur. Visit during Jodhpur Local Sightseeing By cab.
Location of Umaid Bhavan Palace
Umaid Bhavan Palace is located in Jodhpur, the second-largest city in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air to other major cities in India. The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, which is about 5 km from the palace. The nearest railway station is Jodhpur Junction, which is about 6 km from the palace. The palace can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus from the airport or railway station. The palace is also accessible by car from other nearby cities such as Jaipur (337 km), Udaipur (259 km), Jaisalmer (285 km), and Bikaner (251 km).
Opening Timing/ Entry Fees Umaid Bhavan Palace
Umaid Bhavan Palace is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee for Indian visitors is Rs. 100 per person, and for foreign visitors is Rs. 600 per person. The entry fee includes access to the museum and the garden. There is an additional charge of Rs. 100 for still camera and Rs. 200 for video camera.
Things to Do /Must See Umaid Bhavan Palace
Umaid Bhavan Palace has many things to offer to its visitors, such as:
- Visiting the museum: The museum is located in the basement of the palace and displays a rich collection of artifacts and relics related to the history and culture of Jodhpur and Marwar. The museum has various sections that showcase weapons, armors, paintings, textiles, palanquins, howdahs, cradles, turbans, and musical instruments. The museum also has a gallery that displays vintage cars and clocks belonging to the royal family.
- Exploring the palace: The palace is a marvel of architecture and engineering, with a dome-shaped central hall that rises to a height of 105 feet. The palace has several halls, chambers, corridors, balconies, and terraces that are decorated with marble, granite, sandstone, and wood. The palace also has a throne room, a banquet hall, a ballroom, a library, a billiards room, and a swimming pool. The palace also has a Durbar Hall that hosts various cultural events and festivals.
- Admiring the interiors and furniture: The palace is known for its lavish interiors and furniture that reflect the royal taste and elegance of the Rathore rulers. The palace has various styles and themes of furniture that range from Art Deco to Edwardian to Victorian. The palace also has various paintings, sculptures, mirrors, stained glass windows, and chandeliers that add to its beauty and charm.
- Visiting the garden and the fountain: The palace has a well-maintained garden that has various plants, flowers, trees, and fountains. The garden also has a marble fountain that was gifted by Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to India in 1961. The garden provides a tranquil and refreshing environment for the visitors.
- Viewing the portraits and paintings of the Jodhpur maharajas: The palace has a gallery that displays portraits and paintings of the Jodhpur maharajas from different periods and styles. The portraits and paintings depict the royal attire, jewellery, weapons, horses, elephants, and scenes of battles and ceremonies of the Rathore rulers.
Significance of Umaid Bhavan Palace
Umaid Bhavan Palace is a significant monument that represents the glory and generosity of the Rathore clan of Rajputs, who built and ruled over this magnificent palace for decades. The palace is a testimony to their vision and foresight, as they conceived and executed this grand project as a relief measure for the drought-affected people of the region.
Umaid Bhavan Palace is also a symbol of the art and architecture of the Rajput era, as it showcases the exquisite and intricate marble carving and sculpting skills of the artisans. The palace is also a source of inspiration and attraction for many artists, writers, filmmakers, and celebrities, who have visited and stayed in this palace.
FAQ’s
Q: How long does it take to visit Umaid Bhavan Palace?
A: It takes about 2 to 3 hours to visit Umaid Bhavan Palace, depending on your interest and pace.
Q: Is there any dress code or restriction for visiting Umaid Bhavan Palace?
A: There is no specific dress code or restriction for visiting Umaid Bhavan Palace, but visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully, as it is a historical and royal site. Visitors are also advised to wear comfortable shoes, as there are some stairs and slopes in the palace.
Q: Is there any facility for food and water in Umaid Bhavan Palace?
A: There is a cafeteria in the palace complex that serves snacks and beverages. There are also water coolers and drinking water taps available in the palace. Visitors can also bring their own food and water, but they are not allowed to litter or eat inside the palace or the museum.
Q: Is there any facility for parking in Umaid Bhavan Palace?
A: There is a parking lot near the entrance of the palace, where visitors can park their vehicles for free. The parking lot is managed by the palace authorities and has security guards.
Q: Is there any facility for disabled or elderly visitors in Umaid Bhavan Palace?
A: There is a lift facility available in the palace for disabled or elderly visitors, which can take them to the museum and the garden. However, some parts of the palace are not accessible by lift or wheelchair, due to the uneven terrain and narrow passages.
Conclusion
Umaid Bhavan Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and history of Jodhpur. It is a place where you can witness the royal legacy and lifestyle of the Rathore rulers, who built and lived in this splendid palace for centuries. It is a place where you can admire the craftsmanship and creativity of the artisans, who carved and painted this magnificent palace with Makrana marble.
It is a place where you can enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere amid the garden and the fountain. It is a place where you can feel the spirit and soul of Marwar, which lives on in this glorious palace
