Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum
Umaid Bhawan Palace is a 20th-century palace in Jodhpur built between 1928 and 1943. The palace complex houses the royal residence of the Jodhpur royal family, a luxury Taj hotel occupying part of the building, and the public Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum. The museum showcases the history of the Rathore dynasty, the palace construction, royal artifacts, vintage automobiles, weaponry, paintings, and an impressive Art Deco architectural style. It provides panoramic views over Jodhpur and blends Indo-colonial and Rajput design sensibilities.
Location
Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum (Circuit House Road), Jodhpur, India
Duration
1–2 hours (typical visit); 2–3 hours if combining with high-tea at hotel or a guided in-depth tour.
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cool, dry winter months). Early morning or late afternoon for best light and comfortable temperatures.
Pricing
Approximate entry fees (subject to change): Indian nationals INR 40-60; Foreign nationals INR 200-300. Guided-tour charges extra if available (INR 200-500). Photography / video charges may apply for non-commercial use; check at ticket counter. Hotel areas and private quarters are restricted to guests only.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Art Deco architecture blended with Indo-Rajput motifs
Royal galleries with portraits, furniture, dresses and personal effects of the Rathore family
The Armoury: historical weapons and armaments
Vintage car collection (pre-war and classic cars of the Maharajas)
Clock gallery and ornate chandeliers
Magnificent central dome, marble work and polished floors
Panoramic views over Jodhpur and surrounding lawns
Museum displays explaining the palace's construction during a famine-relief project
Itinerary
Arrival & ticketing
Buy tickets at the counter or pre-book (if available). Ask about guided tours and photography rules.
Main museum galleries walkthrough
Explore royal portraits, furniture, textiles and exhibits on the history of the palace and the Rathore dynasty.
Armory and Clock Gallery
View historic weapons, ceremonial arms, clocks and timepieces—good photo opportunities where allowed.
Vintage Car Collection
See the Maharajas' collection of classic cars parked in the museum courtyard.
Garden walk & terrace viewpoints
Walk the palace lawns and enjoy views over Jodhpur; ideal for photographs of the blue city in the distance.
Tea / refreshment (optional)
Visit the hotel cafe or palace restaurant if open to non-hotel guests; advance booking recommended for high tea.
Safety Requirements
Respect restricted and private areas — do not enter hotel/residence sections unless a guest or authorized.
No touching of exhibits; follow signage and staff instructions.
Watch your step on stairs and polished floors—some surfaces can be slippery.
Children should be supervised at all times, especially near display cases and lawns.
Carry a government ID if required for entry discounts or bookings.
Tips
Confirm current opening hours and ticket prices before visiting — museum timings and fees can change.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and the heat (especially in summer).
Carry cash and card; some counters may accept only card or cash—check ahead.
If you want detailed context, hire an authorized guide at the museum entrance or join a pre-booked guided tour.
Combine the visit with Mehrangarh Fort or Jaswant Thada in a half-day itinerary — all are close by.
Dress respectfully (light, breathable clothes in summer) and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
If intending to take many photos, ask about photography charges to avoid surprises.
Respect photography restrictions inside galleries and of the royal family's private areas.
