Vinai Vilas Mahal
Vinay Vilas Mahal is a beautiful palace located in the city of Alwar in Rajasthan, India. It was built by the King of Alwar, Maharaja Vinay Singh, in the early 20th century. The palace is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture and is known for its intricate designs and stunning artwork.
Vinay Vilas Mahal was the official residence of the Maharaja of Alwar and was also used to host royal gatherings and events. The palace has several courtyards, gardens, and a beautiful Durbar Hall which was used for important meetings and ceremonies.
Today, Vinay Vilas Mahal has been converted into a heritage hotel and is open for tourists to experience the royal lifestyle of Rajasthan. The palace has been restored and refurbished to provide all modern amenities to guests while still retaining its old-world charm.
Visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture, stroll through the gardens and courtyards, and indulge in traditional Rajasthani cuisine while staying at the Vinay Vilas Mahal. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture.
History
Vinay Vilas Mahal is a palace that was built in the early 20th century by the King of Alwar, Maharaja Vinay Singh. The construction of the palace was completed in 1910, and it served as the official residence of the Maharaja.
The palace was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, who was a renowned British architect. The architecture of the palace is a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, which is reflected in the intricate designs and beautiful artwork throughout the building.
During the British Raj, the palace was used as a residence by the British Resident of Alwar. After India gained independence, the palace was returned to the Alwar royal family.
Today, the palace has been converted into a heritage hotel and is a popular destination for tourists visiting Rajasthan. The palace has been restored and refurbished to provide all modern amenities to guests while still retaining its old-world charm. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful palaces in Rajasthan and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Things to do and Know
Things to do at Vinay Vilas Mahal:
- Explore the Palace: Take a tour of the palace and marvel at the beautiful architecture, intricate designs, and stunning artwork.
- Enjoy Traditional Rajasthani Cuisine: The palace serves traditional Rajasthani food which is a must-try for anyone visiting Rajasthan.
- Stroll through the Gardens and Courtyards: Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens and courtyards of the palace and enjoy the serene ambiance.
- Attend Cultural Events: The palace hosts cultural events and performances that offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Rajasthan.
- Experience Royal Lifestyle: Stay at the palace and experience the luxurious lifestyle of the royal family of Alwar.
Things to know before visiting Vinay Vilas Mahal:
- Dress Code: Since the palace is a heritage property, it is advisable to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothes.
- Photography: Photography is allowed inside the palace, but permission needs to be obtained beforehand.
- Entry Fees: There is an entry fee to visit the palace, and it varies for Indian and foreign tourists.
- Timing: The palace is open for visitors from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM every day.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Vinay Vilas Mahal is during the winter months between November and February when the weather is pleasant.
Major Attraction around Vinay Vilas Mahal
There are several major attractions around Vinay Vilas Mahal that visitors can explore. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Sariska National Park: It is a wildlife sanctuary that is located about 20 km from the palace. Visitors can spot tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
- Alwar Fort: It is a 15th-century fort that is located in the heart of the city of Alwar. The fort is known for its impressive architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Bala Quila: It is a historic fort that is located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Alwar. The fort offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Aravalli hills.
- Siliserh Lake Palace: It is a beautiful palace located on the banks of Siliserh Lake, about 20 km from Vinay Vilas Mahal. Visitors can enjoy boating and water sports on the lake while admiring the palace’s stunning architecture.
- Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri: It is a historic cenotaph that is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the city of Alwar. The cenotaph is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
These are just a few of the many attractions around Vinay Vilas Mahal that visitors can explore and enjoy during their visit to Rajasthan.
Where to Stay
Vinay Vilas Mahal has been converted into a heritage hotel that offers guests a chance to experience the royal lifestyle of Rajasthan. The palace has been restored and refurbished to provide all modern amenities to guests while still retaining its old-world charm.
The rooms and suites in the palace are decorated with traditional Rajasthani furnishings and offer stunning views of the palace gardens and surrounding landscape. The hotel also offers a range of facilities such as a swimming pool, spa, and restaurants serving traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
Besides, there are also several other hotels and resorts in the city of Alwar, ranging from budget to luxury, that visitors can choose from. Some popular options include Neemrana Fort Palace, Hill Fort Kesroli, and Dadhikar Fort. Visitors can choose the one that best suits their budget and preferences.
How to reach
Vinay Vilas Mahal is located in the city of Alwar in Rajasthan and can be reached by various modes of transportation.
By Air: The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is around 163 km from Alwar. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city.
By Train: Alwar is well-connected by rail, and the city has its railway station. The railway station is served by trains from major cities across India.
By Road: Alwar is well-connected by road, and there are regular bus services from major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. Visitors can also drive to the city or hire a taxi to reach the palace.
Once visitors reach Alwar, they can hire a taxi or take a rickshaw to reach Vinay Vilas Mahal, which is located in the heart of the city.
