India’s palaces aren’t just old buildings; they’re sprawling, magnificent chronicles of history, architecture, and unimaginable wealth. When people look for the best Indian tour packages for a royal experience, most often include Rajasthan, and for good reason! This desert state is absolutely brimming with royal residences, many of which are still owned by the descendants of their original builders.
But India houses palaces beyond Rajasthan, and here are some that should be part of your itinerary:
1. Mysore Palace, Karnataka:
An absolute sight to behold, especially when it is illuminated with close to 100,000 light bulbs in the evening on a Sunday and at the time of Dussehra. The Indo-Saracenic architecture with domes and arches is strikingly beautiful. It’s really a symbol of the Wodeyar dynasty’s power.
2. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur:
Perched upon Chittar Hill, this is one of the largest private residences in the world! A part still accommodates the royal family and another portion has been converted into a luxurious heritage hotel. Its structure is a marvel of Art Deco and Indo-Saracenic fusion architecture.
3. City Palace, Udaipur:
A beautiful combination of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles that overlooks the stunning Lake Pichola. It’s simply an ideal stop for people who seek the most outstanding scenic Indian tour packages.
4. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur:
The ‘Palace of Winds’ is instantly recognizable thanks to its unique, five-storey honeycomb exterior. Built so royal ladies could observe everyday life and festivals on the street without being seen, it has 953 small windows. It’s an architectural marvel of clever design.
5. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur:
Floating magically on Lake Pichola, this former summer palace is now one of the most romantic hotels in the world. Its pristine white marble structure makes it look like a dream rising out of the water.
6. Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara:
In Gujarat, this palace is often cited as being four times the size of Buckingham Palace! Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, it showcases the Indo-Saracenic style and is still the residence of the royal family of Baroda.
7. Jai Vilas Palace, Gwalior:
Located in Madhya Pradesh, this palace is famous for its colossal Durbar Hall. The Hall features gold-gilded ceilings and two enormous, heavy chandeliers that required a test run with elephants on the roof to ensure the ceiling could handle the weight!
8. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur:
Once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, this palace has been converted into a truly opulent hotel. Its elaborate gardens and opulent suites transport you straight back to the height of the princely states.
9. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad:
Meaning “Mirror of the Sky,” this palace was the residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad. It’s perched on a hill, offering a panoramic view of the city, and its interiors are a lavish display of Tudor and Italian architecture.
10. City Palace, Jaipur:
No list is complete without the main palace complex in the Pink City. It’s an active residence, museum, and a blend of old and new. For those looking for comprehensive best Indian tour packages, this site is an essential inclusion for a taste of authentic Rajput history.
These sites are more than just photo opportunities; they’re a deep dive into India’s vibrant past. Whether you are seeking pure luxury or a cultural experience.
Most travelers, especially those going on visits for the first time, seek expert guidance from companies like Indian Panaroma to ensure that they see the best of the country. Specializing in crafting bespoke royal itineraries, they ensure your experience is seamless and unforgettable. The best tour packages for an Indian royal experience are not those that stick to the standard itinerary but include these stunning historical gems.
If you are looking forward to luxury and convenience, then there are plenty of best Indian tour packages that feature a stay in the palaces that have been converted into five-star heritage hotels.
