Jai Vilas Mahal 🇮🇳

Step into the royal history of Gwalior, India, with a visit to Jai Vilas Mahal, a grand nineteenth-century palace built in 1874 by Maharaja Jayajirao Scindia during the British Raj. Designed by Lt. Col.

Sir Michael Filose to host King Edward VII and Queen Mary, this impressive structure spans 124,771 square feet and seamlessly blends Mughal and Medici architectural influences. Today, while descendants of the Scindia family still reside in a portion of the estate, much of the palace has operated as the Jiwajirao Scindia Museum since opening to the public in 1964. As you explore its double-storied wings featuring Tuscan, Italian-Doric, and Corinthian orders, you will encounter lavishly preserved bedrooms, drawing rooms, and a traditional royal kitchen.

The highlight of your visit is the magnificent Durbar Hall, decorated with over 300,000 leaves of gold, a massive carpet, and two gigantic 3.5-tonne chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. You can also view unique historical artifacts, such as a palanquin gifted by Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, cut glass furniture, and an exhibit demonstrating how to wrap the family's traditional Maratha silk turban.

What to see at Jai Vilas Mahal

• Marvel at the massive Durbar Hall featuring gold leaf decoration and gigantic 3.5-tonne chandeliers.
• See the famous model silver train used to serve after-dinner brandy and cigars along the dining table.
• Examine unique artifacts, including a historic palanquin gifted by Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II in 1787.
• Explore preserved royal living quarters, an authentic Indian-style dining room, and cut glass furniture.

Visiting tips

Be sure to visit the turban exhibit to learn about the intricate steps required to wrap the family's traditional 60-meter Chanderi silk Maratha turban.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Jai Vilas Mahal is easy to reach on Gwalior’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Gwalior travel guide.