Indore, the heart of Madhya Pradesh, is renowned for its modern development, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage. Among these treasures stands Rajwada Palace, Indore, a symbol of the Maratha Empire’s rich legacy and grandeur.
The History of Rajwada Palace
Rajwada Palace, Indore, also known as Rajwada Mahal or Holkar Palace, was constructed in 1747 by Malhar Rao Holkar, the founder of the Holkar Dynasty. He chose Indore as his capital and built the palace as his residence and administrative center.
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The palace has withstood various challenges over the centuries, including being burned down three times during attacks by enemies like the Pidaris, Scindias, and British forces. The last fire occurred in 1984, which destroyed the top four floors. However, the stone-built sections survived, and thanks to the efforts of the Holkar family and the Indian government, the palace was restored and rejuvenated.
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Today, the Rajwada Palace is a hub of cultural activity. It hosts festivals such as Malwa Utsav, which showcase Indore’s rich art and culture.
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Architecture of Rajwada Palace
A striking example of architectural fusion, Rajwada Palace blends Mughal, Maratha, and French styles. The palace spans 2.4 acres and stands seven stories tall, with the lower three floors made of stone and the upper floors constructed from wood.
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The palace complex is divided into two parts:
- The Main Palace: The older palace section faces the main road and includes a beautiful courtyard, a temple, and several halls. The wooden gate, adorned with floral patterns and iron spikes, was once designed to protect the palace from elephant attacks. You’ll find detailed paintings of Hindu deities and intricately carved pillars inside. A temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, featuring a golden idol and a silver door, is also located in the main palace.
- The Rear Palace: The newer section of the palace, facing a lush garden and a waterfall, consists of four floors. The rear palace is home to a statue of Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar, crafted from bronze. The serene garden, a fountain, and an artificial waterfall provide a calming atmosphere. Every evening, a light and sound show narrates the legends associated with the Rajwada Palace.
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Rajwada Museum: A Glimpse into the Legacy of the Holkars
Rajwada, the iconic historical landmark of Indore, is not just an architectural marvel but also a museum that offers an enriching journey into the glorious past of the Holkar dynasty. Located within the premises of Rajwada, the museum beautifully showcases the rich history, art, and culture of Indore.
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What the Museum Offers
The museum features a remarkable collection of artifacts, including:
- Traditional Costumes: Clothing worn by the Holkar rulers and the royal family.
- Ancient Weapons: Swords, shields, and other weaponry used during the Holkar reign.
- Artworks: Paintings and sculptures depicting the lifestyle, culture, and historical events of the era.
- Historical Documents: Manuscripts and records that provide insight into the governance and societal structure under the Holkar rule.
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Nearby Attractions to Explore
After touring Rajwada Palace, you can explore the following nearby attractions:
- Khajrana Ganesh Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known for its self-manifested idol. The temple was restored by Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar in the 18th century and remains a significant religious site.
- Patalpani Waterfall: Located amidst lush greenery, this 150-foot waterfall is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It’s best to visit during the dry season to avoid the risks posed by the heavy monsoon.
- Sarafa Bazaar: A famous street food market, once known for its jewelry shops, where you can indulge in local delicacies like Jalebi, Indori Poha, and Bhutte ka Kees.
- Central Museum: For history buffs, the Central Museum offers a rich collection of artifacts, sculptures, and historical objects, providing insight into the cultural heritage of India.
- Glass Temple (Kanch Mandir): A stunning Jain temple made entirely of glass, featuring intricate glasswork on walls, ceilings, and floors, and a glass idol of Lord Mahavira. The temple’s kaleidoscopic effect is a must-see when sunlight streams through the glass.
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Best Time to Visit Rajwada Palace
Indore experiences a subtropical climate with three distinct seasons. The best time to visit Rajwada Palace is between October and March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. This is the perfect time to explore the palace and other attractions without any discomfort.
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Rajwada Palace Timings
Rajwada Palace is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from Monday to Saturday.
Rajwada Palace Entry fee
- Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 250 for foreign nationals
- Photography: INR 25
- Videography: INR 100
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How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (approximately 8-10 km from Rajwada). You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the airport to reach the palace.
- By Train: The Indore Junction is well-connected to major cities. The railway station is about 3–4 km from Rajwada, and you can reach the palace by taxi, rickshaw, or even on foot.
- By Road: Indore is well-connected by road to major cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states. You can take a bus or hire a cab to reach Rajwada. It is centrally located within the city, so local transport like auto-rickshaws and taxis are also available.
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Tips for Visitors
- Photography: Photography is allowed in certain areas, but it is advisable to ask before taking pictures in the museum.
- Guides: Hiring a local guide can enrich your experience by providing detailed information about the history and architecture of the palace.
- Dress Code: There is no strict dress code, but it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes as you may need to walk around the palace grounds.
- Time to Spend: A typical visit to Rajwada can last 1–2 hours, depending on whether you explore the museum and other sections in detail.
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Address and Google map of Rajwada Palace Indore
Address: Rajwada, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452002
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Images of Rajwada Palace Indore
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Other tourist places near Rajwada Palace
- Khajrana Ganesh Mandir
- Lal Bagh Palace
- Shri Annapurna Temple, Indore
- Kanch Mandir
- Sarafa Bazar
- Indore Zoo (KNPSI)
- Central Museum, Indore
- Gommatagiri Digambar Jain Temple
- Gandhi Hall
- Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
- Patalpani Water Falls
- White Church (Indore)
- Regional Park Indore
- Chappan Dukan
- Chhatribagh
- Bada Ganpati
- Bamaniya Kund Waterfall
- Shree Bijasan Mata Mandir
- Tincha Waterfall Road
- Geeta Bhavan
- Krishna Pura Chhatri, Indore
- Meghdoot Garden
- Choral Dam
- Janapav
- Mohadi Falls
- Crescent Water Park, Indore
- Hatyari Khoh Waterfall
- Asirgarh Fort
- Maheshwar
- Dharampuri
- Mayank Blue Water Park
- Shell City
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