Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. It is also one of the world’s largest private residences. Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of Gaj Singh, the present owner and the great king of Jodhpur, the palace is the primary residence of the Jodhpur royal family, consisting of 347 rooms. A part of the palace is a museum, and Taj Hotels manages another part.
Visitor Details
Pricing
Indians: ₹30
Foreigners: ₹100
Timings
The Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, the best time to visit would be in the morning, when it’s not overly crowded.
Contact
Address: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006
Phone No.: 0291-2510101
History
The foundation for the monument, which was laid down in 1928, is linked to a curse by a saint who stated that drought would follow the rule of the Rathore Dynasty. The narrative continued as destined. After the end of the reign of Pratap Singh, which lasted 50 years, Jodhpur suffered from a severe drought. To provide the community with employment, Maharaja Umaid Singh consulted experts and started the construction of the Umaid Bhawan Palace. If thought about extensively, the Umaid Palace is a purposeful construction, helping around 2000-3000 people in times of hardship. The building was completed in 1943, close to the period of independence.
What You’re Up For?
The Palace is set across 26 acres of land, including 15 acres of gardens. The Palace has all the important sections that a palace should consist of, like the throne, a private meeting hall, a Durbar hall, a pool & spa, etc., all under a giant dome.
Museum
The Palace’s museum is a journey to the past without time travel. It exhibits stuffed leopards, a very large flag passed on by Queen Victoria in 1877, and lighthouse shapes. The museum also displays Maharaja’s vintage car collections, royal clocks, and photographs that carry historical significance. All in all, the museum is home to artefacts of the royal family.
Hotel
Have a taste of how royal families reside. Stay in the part of the Palace managed by the Taj Hotels Group, which is equipped with all the amenities that give you the experience of a lifetime of living like a Maharaja. Witness breathtaking views of the city, taste delicious cuisine, and experience spa treatments that once were only accessible to the princely Rathores. The hotel has hosted multiple high-profile wedding events and Bollywood stars like Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra.
Reaching the Palace
| Place | Distance |
| Mehrangarh Fort | 7 km |
| Jodhpur Railway Station | 5 km |
| Jodhpur Airport | 3.5 km |
| Jaswant Thada | 6.5 km |
| Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) | 5.5 km |
| Rao Jodha Park | 7 km |
| Kaylana Lake | 11 km |
To reach the Umaid Bhawan Palace comfortably and conveniently, you might choose the best cab service in Jodhpur, i.e., Rajwada Cabs. No more being stuck in the traffic, sometimes in a vehicle packed with people. With a taxi service in Jodhpur, travel with comfort from anywhere in the city to observe the beautiful landscape of Umaid Bhawan Palace with experienced drivers, affordable rates, and timely service. Book now on +91-7014461166.
Visiting Tips
- Photography: Capture the memories of your visit to the Palace, but make sure you respect the restrictions put on by the management.
- Museum Etiquette: You must follow proper museum etiquette in the Palace’s museum. For instance, refrain from touching any artefacts, maintain a distance, and talk lightly.
- Consider a Guided Tour: Consider hiring a tour guide like those offered by Rajwada Cabs to reflect upon the deep insights of the palace’s history, architecture, and the royal family.
- Plan Your Visit: Research the Palace before visiting and plan out your visit in advance so that you experience every aspect of the place.
Conclusion
Umaid Bhawan Palace is another must-see location in Jodhpur. The palace is one of the world’s largest private mansions, dating to the early 20th century. A museum, a five-star hotel, and the former royal family’s residence may all be found in the palace, which is a beautiful combination of Indian and European architecture. If you’re planning a trip to Jodhpur, make sure this is in your itinerary.
