Umaid Bhawan Palace

Umaid Bhawan Palace: A Regal Retreat in Jodhpur

Perched on the Chittar Hill in the blue city of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a magnificent testament to Rajasthan’s royal heritage and opulence. As one of the largest private residences in the world, this grand palace is not only a symbol of the royal family’s legacy but also an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends traditional Indian and Art Deco styles.

A Palace with a Rich History

Umaid Bhawan Palace, named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, was commissioned in 1928 as a famine relief project to provide employment to the people of Jodhpur during a period of drought. Designed by the renowned British architect Henry Lanchester, the palace was completed in 1943 and has since become an iconic landmark of Rajasthan.

The palace’s golden-yellow sandstone structure is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, characterized by its grand domes, intricate carvings, and expansive courtyards. Spanning 26 acres of lush gardens, the palace is divided into three distinct areas: the royal residence, a luxury heritage hotel, and a museum that showcases the history of the Jodhpur royal family.

Luxurious Accommodations

The Taj-managed heritage hotel within Umaid Bhawan Palace offers a regal experience that transports guests to a bygone era of luxury and grandeur. Each of the 70 rooms and suites is exquisitely decorated, reflecting the Art Deco style and the rich heritage of Rajasthan.

• Palace Rooms: These elegant rooms are adorned with period furnishings, including four-poster beds, vintage artworks, and ornate chandeliers. The rooms offer views of the palace gardens or the courtyard and are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

• Historical Suites: These suites, once used by visiting dignitaries and royalty, feature spacious bedrooms, separate living areas, and luxurious bathrooms. The decor is a blend of Rajasthani and Art Deco elements, with vibrant colors, plush fabrics, and intricate detailing.

• Royal Suites: The Royal Suites are the epitome of luxury, offering expansive spaces with opulent interiors. These suites are adorned with antique furniture, original artworks, and personalized touches that reflect the grandeur of the palace. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the gardens, the city of Jodhpur, or the surrounding desert landscape.

• Grand Royal Suites: These suites offer an unparalleled level of luxury, with exquisite decor, hand-carved furniture, and an array of personalized services. The Grand Royal Suites provide a regal living experience, with separate dining areas, private terraces, and lavish bathrooms that include vintage clawfoot bathtubs and bespoke toiletries.

• Maharaja and Maharani Suites: These are the most exclusive and opulent suites in the palace. The Maharaja Suite, designed for Maharaja Umaid Singh himself, features a masculine theme with tiger motifs and dark wood furniture. The Maharani Suite, designed for the queen, is a celebration of elegance with pink, floral motifs, and a luxurious bath carved out of a single piece of Italian marble. These suites offer private terraces with panoramic views of the gardens and the Mehrangarh Fort.