10 Must see palaces of India

India is home to some of the most spectacular architectural marvels of the world. The palaces give us a glimpse into the royal by-gone era. Strong structures, impressive architecture and most of all the sheer brilliance of these palaces are just some of the highlights of the magnificent palaces. Our list of Must see palaces of India is huge and grand in the same sense.

Here is our list of the top 10 must see palaces of India.

1. City Palace – Udaipur

City Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city. Built on the banks of Lake Pichola, City Palace is artistry personified.

You have to be there to witness the alluring structure and the picture perfect view from the palace. It was built more than 400 years ago, but still stands strong.

2. Mysore Palace – Mysore

Be ready to be mesmerized by the imposing Mysore Palace. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions of India, after Taj Mahal. Also known as Amba Vilas Palace, it was the residence of Wodeyars, the Maharajas of Mysore.

The architecture blends Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles. The famous Mysore Dasara festival is celebrated with great zeal in the palace.

3. Falaknuma Palace – Hyderabad

At Falaknuma Palace, you get to experience Nawabi grandeur at its best! Falaknuma literally translates to ‘like the sky’. Spread over 32 acres, the architecture has Italian and Tudor feel to it. The color glass windows, Zenana Mahal and Gol Bangla are the main attractions of the palace.

4. City Palace – Jaipur

City Palace is a brilliant example of Rajputana opulence. It tells a story about the glorious yester years of the region. The palace was built during 1729 – 1732, by Sawai Jai Singh II. The architecture is an effortless blend of Mughal, European and Rajput styles.

The palace is a delight for history buffs! Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Govind Dev ji temple are the main attractions of the palace.

5. Ujjayanta Palace – Agartala

Away from the chaos of the concrete jungle is the stunner – Ujjayanta Palace. The palace was established in 1901 and has also served as the meeting place for Tripura Legislative Assembly. The palace houses the largest museum of northeast India.

Mughal gardens, musical fountains, Chinese room and various temples are the main attractions of the palace.

6. Jai Vilas Palace – Gwalior

Next on the list is the beautiful Jai Vilas Palace, Gwalior. The palace was built in 1874 by the Maharaja Jayajirao Scindia of Gwalior. This palace is the Official residence of the Royal Family of Gwalior. It has 400 rooms, out of which 40 have been converted into Jiwaji Rao Scindia Museum.

The traditional European architecture is the highlight of the palace. The two massive chandeliers in the Durbar Hall are said to be the largest in the world.

7. Umaid Bhavan Palace – Jodhpur

When talking about Rajputana glory, we cannot miss mentioning Umaid Bhavan Palace. The palace is one of the largest private residents in the world. It is owned by the Royal family of Jodhpur.

A part of the palace has been converted into a heritage hotel. In the backdrop of the picturesque Thar Desert, Umaid Bhavan Palace is a must see when visiting Jodhpur.

Also read what to shop in Jodhpur. 

8. Lakshmi Vilas Palace – Vadodara

Four times the size of Buckingham Palace, the largest private dwelling in the world and one of the grandest palaces of India, welcome to Lakshmi Vilas Palace. The palace is the residence of the royal family of Vadodara – Gaekwad dynasty.

Elaborate carvings, detailed architecture and the beautiful Durbar Hall give prominence to the overall structure.

9. Bolgatty Palace – Kochi

Built on Bolgatty Island is the quaint yet majestic Bolgatty Palace. It is the oldest existing Dutch palaces in India.

Post-independence, the palace was converted into a heritage hotel. 9-hole golf course, swimming pool, traditional Dutch architecture and nature’s bliss are the highlights of the palace.

10. Lake Palace – Udaipur

Lake Palace, Udaipur is one of the most romantic getaways. Initially known as Jag Niwas Palace, it was built between 1743- 46 by Maharana Jagat Singh of Udaipur. The palace is known for its traditional architecture and intricate carvings.

This royal palace was the summer palace of the maharana! The famous Bollywood film Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani was also shot at Lake Palace Udaipur.

These palaces give a fine example of how to live life king size! Which of these have you ticked off from the list?