Jai Vilas Palace, Gwalior

Overview

The Jai Vilas Palace in Gwalior was built in 1874 by Maharaja Jayajirao Scindia and designed by Sir Michael Filose in a blend of Italian, Tuscan and Corinthian styles. Part of it is still the residence of the Scindia family, and part is a museum.

The museum is famous for its huge Durbar Hall, with enormous chandeliers, and for its dining hall, where a silver toy train once carried food and drink around the table. It shows the splendour of a late nineteenth-century Indian princely court.

What to look for

• The Durbar Hall and its chandeliers
• The silver train in the dining hall
• The museum's royal collections
• The European-style facade and gardens

Visiting tips

• Only part of the palace is open; allow about 90 minutes.
• Dress comfortably; the museum is large and has stairs.
• Combine it with Gwalior Fort for a full day in the city.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Jai Vilas Palace, Gwalior, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Gwalior Fort Kandariya Mahadeva Lakshmana Temple Mitawali Jahangir Mahal Orchha Palace Panna Tiger Raneh Falls Man Mandir Ram Raja Temple