Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Built on a grand scale following the Art Deco style, the Umaid Bhawan Palace is one in its own kind. The golden hued monument is a symbol of changing age.

Location

Located at the highest peak of the desert land, Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace covers a vast area of 26 acres of lush gardens. Since 1943, it is home to the royal family of Jodhpur. It is one of the largest private residences worldwide. The golden hued monument is far famed for its grandeur.

About the palace

The palace draws its name from Maharaja Umaid Singh, an erstwhile Maharaja of Jodhpur. The palace is built on a grand scale in the Art Deco style. The construction of this royal palace took 15 years to complete and take the shape that it assumes today.

This massive palace was designed by the well known Edwardian designer Henry Lanchester. In order to include the traditions of Hindu architecture in his concept, Lanchester went over to see the Hindu mountain temples so as to gain inspiration. The architecture of the palace reflects a blend of the eastern style of architecture with the western architectural pattern. The towers in the palatial building are constructed in accordance with Rajput tradition. The influence drawn by the Renaissance can be seen in its 105-feet high cupola. The intricate artwork and the lavish interiors are done in the Art Deco style. To complement them are the exotic murals of Stefan Norblin, a renowned artist.

The palatial building houses a five star hotel and a museum too. A famous poet has described Umaid Bhawan Palace as “a majestic, handsome warrior, his arms spread wide for a loving embrace”. The palace seems to be a work of the fairies.