Narmada Kothi 🇮🇳

Located in the municipality of Barwaha in Madhya Pradesh, Narmada Kothi is a European-style palace built by the Maharaja Holkar of Indore State during the Maratha era. Originally constructed as a luxurious royal retreat, the Maharaja and his family used this mansion for holidays and picnics in pre-independence British India. The term "Kothi" signifies a mansion of the wealthy or royal class.

Following India's independence, ownership transferred to the state government of Madhya Pradesh. The main floor was converted into offices for the Narmada River Valley Development Project, while the top floor was divided into residential quarters for project engineers. Today, the complex houses state government offices for the Narmada Valley Development Authority, Circle Number 8.

Sitting on a fortified embankment above the high flood level mark along the banks of the Narmada River, the structure is situated just east of the Khandwa – Indore Road Bridge on National Highway 27. When you visit, you can admire its European architectural design, which features a light maroon exterior with white highlights and an interior that predominantly retains its original yellow and white color scheme.

What to see at Narmada Kothi

• European-style palace built by Maharaja Holkar of Indore State
• Historic royal retreat used for family holidays and picnics
• Situated on a fortified embankment along the Narmada River
• Light maroon exterior and classic yellow-and-white interior design
• Houses Narmada Valley Development Authority offices

Visiting tips

Look for the palace just east of the Khandwa – Indore Road Bridge on National Highway 27 along the banks of the Narmada River.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Narmada Kothi is easy to reach on Indore’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Rajwada palace and Indore Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Indore travel guide.