Umaid Bhawan Palace

The museum was a highlight for me, especially the vintage cars and royal artifacts that tell something of the Jodhpur royal family's history. I also liked how peaceful and elegant the palace felt, with tradition and luxury together. I visited Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur today. The architecture was grand and the gardens were beautifully kept, giving a sense of Rajasthan's royal heritage. It made for a memorable visit and feels like a must-see in Jodhpur.

Today the palace has three parts: the royal family's residence, where they still live, a Taj Hotels luxury hotel, and a museum open to visitors. Set on Chittar Hill above Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a golden-yellow sandstone landmark and one of the world's largest private residences. Henry Vaughan Lanchester designed it in a mix of Indo-Colonial and Art Deco styles. It has a central dome, detailed carvings, and ornate balconies. The address is Circuit House Rd, near Umaid Bhawan Museum, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006.

We’ve just checked out, and the room was clean and well looked after. Housekeeping was very keen to keep us happy, so remember to hang the “do not disturb” sign if you want privacy. There was plenty for our 8 year old to do through the hotel's kids' activities, and we got to watch a couple of polo matches, which we found exciting. The wellness spa was the most beautiful and relaxing one we experienced on our trip in India. The food and restaurant were great, and the waiters and staff were very attentive. This is truly the most magnificent, grand property we’ve stayed in, and one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. We’ll be back :)

The limited museum area is what visitors can see, and the ₹100 per person ticket feels expensive for that small portion of the palace. You also don't get a proper view of the palace front from outside, which makes it harder to appreciate its full grandeur. Umaid Bhawan Palace is an iconic and historically significant Jodhpur attraction, with impressive architecture and a fascinating past. It's worth seeing once for that history, though the limited access left my visit a bit underwhelming for the price.