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Explore the grand architecture of Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the largest private residences in the world. Visit the museum inside the palace showcasing the royal family's history and artifacts. Take a guided tour to learn about the construction and royal heritage. Enjoy the palace gardens and take photos of the stunning exteriors.
Umaid Bhawan Palace is Jodhpur's most iconic building. Construction began in 1929 and was completed in 1945, employing 3,000 artisans. Located on the eastern edge of the Thar Desert, it is designed as one part palace museum, one part five-star luxury hotel.
The climate is subtropical, with a hot season from April to June and a rainy season from July to September. Temperatures can reach over 50 degrees Celsius during the hot season, while the frequent rains make travel difficult. Therefore, the dry season from October to March is more suitable for travel.
1-3 hours
60 rupees, 25 rupees for Indians
Museum 9:00-17:00
Umaid Bhawan Palace was constructed between 1928 and 1943 as a royal residence for Maharaja Umaid Singh. The palace is a symbol of the architectural splendor of Jodhpur and is one of the largest palaces in India, designed in a blend of Indian and Western architectural styles.
Umaid Bhawan Palace is located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. You can reach the palace by taxi or auto-rickshaw from the Jodhpur city center or airport. There is no metro service in Jodhpur, but buses also run from the city to the palace.
The palace is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the cooler months of October to March when the weather is pleasant for outdoor exploration.
The entry fee for adults is approximately 30-50 INR for the museum. Photography fees and guided tour charges may apply additionally. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the palace entrance or online through the official website.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are visiting during the peak tourist season. However, it is recommended to book guided tours ahead of time for a smoother experience.
A visit to Umaid Bhawan Palace typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether you opt for a guided tour and how much time you spend in the museum and gardens.
Must-see areas include the museum showcasing royal artifacts, the magnificent Durbar Hall, and the stunning exterior and gardens. The palace's architecture itself is a key highlight.
Guided tours are available in English and Hindi. Audio guides may also be available for rent at the entrance, providing detailed insights into the history of the palace and the royal family.
The best photography spots are outside the palace with views of the grand facade and the surrounding gardens. The Durbar Hall and the palace terraces also offer great photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the museum inside the palace to learn about its history, then proceed to the Durbar Hall and other public areas. Afterward, take a stroll through the gardens and the exterior grounds for photos.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Umaid Bhawan Palace. However, special events or private tours may be arranged with advance notice.
The palace can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially during the off-peak months (July to September).
Facilities include clean toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There is a small gift shop offering souvenirs. For food, it is best to visit nearby restaurants as no major dining options are available inside the palace.
While the palace is accessible to elderly and children, some areas, especially the gardens and the palace's higher floors, may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. It’s advisable to plan accordingly for disabled visitors.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (like Paytm and Google Pay) are widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are also accepted at the ticket counter and gift shop.
There are no restaurants inside the palace, but several dining options are nearby in Jodhpur. Popular choices include Mehran Terrace at Mehrangarh Fort and The Blue Turban for Rajasthani cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Jodhpur’s restaurants. Halal food options can also be found in local eateries.
Luxury accommodations nearby include Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel itself, as well as the Ajit Bhawan and Raas Jodhpur. For budget options, there are several guesthouses and mid-range hotels in the city center.
Nearby attractions include Mehrangarh Fort, Mandore Gardens, and the Clock Tower. These sites can easily be combined with a visit to Umaid Bhawan Palace for a day of exploring Jodhpur’s history and architecture.
Souvenir shops inside the palace and nearby sell handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and Rajasthani artifacts. Popular souvenirs include miniature paintings, turbans, and traditional clothing.
After visiting Umaid Bhawan Palace, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and private cars are readily available for transport to nearby attractions or to the Jodhpur railway station/airport for further travel.
