- Named after
- Maharaja Umaid Singh
- Also known as
- Chittar Palace
- Uses
- Royal residence, Taj hotel, museum
- Best time
- October to February
- Ideal time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
History and architecture
The palace was built from 1929 using a pale yellow sandstone quarried from the Chittar hills, which is why locals also call it Chittar Palace. Its style blends Indian and European ideas, with a tall central dome and clean art deco lines inside, making it quite different from the older forts and palaces of Rajasthan.
What to see
Visitors without a hotel booking can see the museum wing, which gives a good picture of royal life in the twentieth century.
- Collections of antique clocks and watches
- Art deco furniture and interiors
- Murals, paintings and royal memorabilia
- Classic and vintage cars displayed near the grounds
Visiting tips
The museum charges an entry fee and guided tours cost extra; photography rules vary by area, so check at the gate. The hotel and the family's residence are closed to day visitors. Wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are large, and carry water. October to February has the best weather in Jodhpur. Allow one to two hours for the museum and grounds. Late afternoon light turns the sandstone a warm gold, so it is worth timing your visit for then if you want photographs of the dome from the lawns.
How to reach and nearby
The palace is only a short drive from Jodhpur airport and a few kilometres from the city centre, so a taxi or auto is the easiest way to get there. Nearby you can visit a Ganesh temple, the Umaid Heritage Art School and other city sights, or add a camel ride on the outskirts. We can combine the palace with Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada in a full-day Jodhpur tour.
Also nearby
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