Vijay Vilas Palace,Gujarat
Vijay Vilas Palace, located near Mandvi in Kutch district of Gujarat, is a seaside royal palace built in the early 20th century as a summer residence for the ruling family of Kutch. It is valued for its architectural fusion of Rajput, Mughal and regional Gujarati styles, its landscaped gardens, and its rare seaside setting that combines cultural heritage with coastal scenery.



Places to visit
- The Palace Building (ornate facades, balconies and courtyards)
- Landscaped Gardens and Lawns surrounding the palace
- Seaside Location and Mandvi Beach — immediate access to sandy beach and sunset views
- Palace Interiors and Period Furnishings (where accessible)
- Traditional Boatyards of Mandvi nearby — wooden shipbuilding tradition
Unique Aspects
- Blend of Rajput, Mughal and Gujarati architectural elements with carved jali work and decorated facades
- Seaside setting offering panoramic sea and sunset views
- Well-maintained gardens and open courtyards ideal for photography
- Used frequently as a location for films and commercials
Things to do
- Walking and photography of the palace exterior, gardens and terraces
- Relaxing and watching sunset at nearby Mandvi Beach
- Visiting traditional wooden shipyards and watching craftsmen at work
- Exploring Mandvi town markets for local handicrafts
- Joining a guided tour (if available) to learn about local history and architecture
Best Time to Visit
October to March — cool, pleasant weather and clear skies ideal for sightseeing and beach walks.
Weather Conditions
Arid coastal climate: hot summers (April–June), monsoon (July–September) with sporadic rain, and mild winters (October–February). Expect evenings to be cooler in winter.
Entry Fees & Permits
Entry policies, fees and visiting hours may change; typically the palace and gardens are open during daytime (commonly around 09:00–18:00) with a nominal entry fee in many seasons. Check locally or with official tourism sources for current timings and ticket prices before visiting.
Accessibility
Nearest major airport and railhead: Bhuj (about 60–80 km by road, depending on route). Mandvi is accessible by road from Bhuj and other cities in Gujarat; regular taxis, private cars and state-run buses serve the route. Local travel within Mandvi is easy by auto-rickshaw or taxi. Road conditions are generally good but allow extra time for travel in peak seasons.
Recommended Duration
Plan 2–4 hours to explore the palace grounds and nearby Mandvi Beach. For a relaxed visit including local markets and shipyards, consider staying 1–2 nights in Mandvi or Bhuj.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable clothing for daytime; a light jacket or shawl for cooler winter evenings. Comfortable walking shoes, sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen for beach and outdoor sightseeing.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try local Kutchi and Gujarati dishes at Mandvi eateries (fresh seafood, regional thalis). Popular souvenirs include Bandhani textiles, embroidered Kutchi handicrafts and mirrorwork items, locally made pottery and traditional wooden toys. Support local artisans and shipbuilders by purchasing authentic handicrafts.