Visit to Vijay Vilas Palace in Mandvi, Kutch

A brilliant example of Rajput architecture, Vijay Vilas Palace in Mandvi was built in 1929 by Maharao Shri Khengarji III. Located on the banks of the Rukmavati River, Mandvi was once a fortified town and the principal port of Kutch. Mandvi's famous tourist spots apart from Vijay Vilas Palace include shipbuilding yards along the Rukmavati River where wooden ships are still built by hand and to know other things to do in Mandvi, read our previous blog.

The well maintained Vijay Vilas Palace has featured during shoots of many known Bollywood films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Lagaan lies at an accessible distance of 7 km from the center of town. After paying an entry charge, walk approximately 10 minutes to reach the palace, poised majestically amidst manicured gardens. Built with red sandstone, the palace features marble fountains, an artistic main central dome, elaborate windows painted in muted pink and embellished with colored glass and intricate carvings, marble hallways, wall art and more.

Walk around the ground floor and one gets to appreciate intricate work on the main central dome, Bengal domes at the sides and bastions (a projecting part of a fortification built at an angle to the line of a wall, so as to allow defensive fire in several directions) at the corner. Hunting trophies and royal paintings adorn the walls along with pictures of many dignitaries and one gets to see royal furniture placed in the main hall. Though not directly accessible, the royal furniture helps one get an idea of the lifestyle enjoyed by the royals :)

The climb to the second floor rewards you with unhindered views of the surrounding areas, the king's tomb and the serene beach. Take pictures poised against the umbrella shaped domes, just like we did (read all about an ethnic fun look book we shot here) or get enveloped in the past royal history of the palace.

How Do I Get Here:

Many airlines operate flights between major cities to Bhuj airport and Kandla airport located in the Kutch district of Gujarat. From any of these airports hire a vehicle to reach Mandvi. The distance will be roughly 95 kms from Kandla airport and 62 kms from Bhuj airport.

What About Entry Fees:

Open every day from 9am-1pm and 3pm-6pm, the entry fee is INR 40/- on weekdays and INR 50/- during weekends , photography costs extra.

Where Do I Stay:

Mandvi offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from humble dharamshala stays to luxurious resort options.

Best Time To Travel:

Mandvi enjoys a pleasant weather all year round and the best time to travel is between October till March. 

What More Can I Do Here:

Serenity lovers can choose to stay in the tented accommodation offered by the palace. The beach adjacent to the palace is tranquil and safe for families.

Once a major port city and a popular summer retreat of the royal family of Kutch, Mandvi stands untouched by overt modernization. To know more about must see attractions around Mandvi, read this article. While you are in Mandvi, don't forget to try the famous local double rotis, also known as dabeli. If you are planning to visit the Rann of Kutch during the months of September till February, read all about our road trip here.