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Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Palace & museum · Jodhpur

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

The last great palace built in India: an Art Deco landmark on Chittar Hill, part royal home, part hotel and part museum.

LocationChittar Hill, Jodhpur
Built1929–1943, Maharaja Umaid Singh
ArchitectHenry Vaughan Lanchester
Time needed1 hour

The story

A little history.

Maharaja Umaid Singh commissioned the palace in 1929, partly to give work to thousands of people during years of drought and famine. Designed by the British architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester, it was completed in 1943.

Built of golden-pink sandstone in Art Deco and Indo-Saracenic style, it remains one of the largest private residences in the world. Today the royal family lives in one wing, another is a luxury hotel, and a third is a museum open to visitors.

What to see

Don't miss.

  • The museumPhotographs, clocks, crockery and objects that tell the story of the palace and the royal family.
  • Vintage car collectionClassic cars from the royal garage, displayed near the palace entrance.
  • The domeThe central dome rises over 30 metres and is visible from across the city.
  • Palace gardensFormal lawns and views back towards Mehrangarh Fort.

Our tip: See it from Mehrangarh first, then visit in the afternoon. Only the museum is open to non-guests.

Good to know

Questions travellers ask.

Can I go inside Umaid Bhawan Palace?

The museum and car collection are open to visitors. The hotel and royal residence are private.

Why was Umaid Bhawan built?

It was built partly as a relief project, giving employment to local people during years of famine.

How old is Umaid Bhawan?

Construction began in 1929 and was completed in 1943.

More in Jodhpur

Jodhpur city guideMehrangarh FortMarwar Festival

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