Umaid Bhawan Palace

Fact File
Palace was built under the famine relief project to give employment to famine struck people. It took 16 years to complete, stones were joined by interlocking and no cement or mortar was used in making this grand palace.

Overview
Most popularly known as the Chittar Palace, it was built by Maharaja Umed Singh. Made of golden yellow sandstone this palace was designed by Henry Lanchester, an Edwardian architect The palace spreads on an area of 26 acres. It is divided into three parts, the royal residence, the museum and the heritage hotel. In the musuem, visitors can see waapons, antique clocks, miniature paintings and many other rare things belonging to the royal families. Beautiful balconies, courtyards, terrace, gardens, royal rooms all pull in tourists to this marvelous palace.

Getting There
By Air : Jodhpur has airport that links it with major tourist destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur.

By Rail : The railway network connects Jodhpur with Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Lucknow.

By Road : There are well-maintained roads connecting Jodhpur to tourist destinations like Delhi (597 km), Udaipur (260 km) and Jaipur (336 km).

Attractions:

Mehrangarh Fort
Located in the heart of the city, it is one of the largest forts in India. Situated atop the hill, covering 5km, it houses some of the impressive palaces and apartments like, the Moti Mahal, the Phool Mahal, the Sheesh Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat Khana. Fort musuem in these palaces has on display a collection of palanquins, howdahs, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furnitures.

Balsamund Lake and Palace
Built in 1159 A.D. this beautiful lake is 7km away from Jodhpur. Surrounded by lush green garden, the Balsamund Palace is one of the major attractions of this lake . The palace stands over the lake and is known for the European architecture. It was onstructed in 1936 and is made of red sandstone. The lake also has a public park and the bird sanctuary.

Jaswant Thada
This elegant monument is close to Mehrangarh Fort and lies amidst the sandstone hills. It was construted by Maharaja Sardar Singh in the memory of great Rajput warriors and kings including Maharaja Jaswant Singh Ji. Built in 1899 A.D. it is known for an excellent Rajputana architecture and is made of marble sheets. Sculptures, domes, pillarsall are attractive.

Government Musuem
The musuem has on display collection of weapons, miniature portraits, images of Jain Tirthankaras and many other artifacts which must be seen.

Location
The desert city of Jodhpur houses the enchanting Umaid Bhawan Palace.

Best Time to Visit
October to Ferbruary is an ideal time to visit this desert city.