Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

About The Umaid Bhawan Palace

The Umaid Bhawan Palace is a majestic palace located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. It is one of the largest private residences in the world, and it serves as the principal residence of the former Jodhpur royal family. The palace was built between 1928 and 1943, and it is named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, who commissioned its construction. The palace is a splendid example of the Indo-Saracenic architectural style and is set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens.

Timings of Umaid Bhawan Palace

The Umaid Bhawan Palace is open to visitors from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day of the week.

Entry Fee

The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 30, while for foreign nationals, it is INR 100. There is an additional charge for photography and videography inside the palace.

Required Time And Restricted Items

Visitors usually spend around 2-3 hours exploring the palace and its surroundings. Some of the items that are restricted inside the palace include food, drinks, pets, and weapons.

Architecture Of Umaid Bhawan Palace

The architecture of Umaid Bhawan Palace is a blend of Eastern and Western architectural influences. The palace boasts a magnificent sandstone exterior with intricate carvings and exquisite marble interiors. The palace is divided into three functional parts - the residence of the royal family, a luxury hotel managed by the Taj Group, and a museum showcasing the history of the Jodhpur royal family.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace is during the winter months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the palace and its gardens.

How To Reach

The Umaid Bhawan Palace is located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Jodhpur Railway Station is the closest railhead, and there are regular trains from various cities to Jodhpur.

History Of Umaid Bhawan Palace

The Umaid Bhawan Palace was commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1928 to provide employment to the people of Jodhpur during a time of drought. The palace was designed by British architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester and was completed in 1943. It served as the residence of the Jodhpur royal family until 1947 when India gained independence.

Inside Umaid Bhawan Palace

Inside the Umaid Bhawan Palace, visitors can explore the opulent living quarters of the royal family, the grand Durbar Hall where formal receptions were held, and the museum which houses a collection of vintage cars, clocks, and memorabilia belonging to the royal family. The palace also offers guided tours that provide insights into the history and architecture of the palace.

Traveling Tips

Some traveling tips for visiting the Umaid Bhawan Palace include wearing comfortable footwear as there is a fair amount of walking involved, carrying a water bottle to stay hydrated, and following the rules and regulations set by the palace authorities.

Hotels Near Umaid Bhawan Palace

Some hotels near Umaid Bhawan Palace include Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Welcomhotel Jodhpur, and Vivanta by Taj - Hari Mahal.

Nearby Tourist Spots Of Umaid Bhawan Palace

Some nearby tourist spots of Umaid Bhawan Palace include Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Mandore Gardens, and the bustling markets of Jodhpur where visitors can shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and artifacts.