A northern state of India, Himachal Pradesh, is known for its Himalayan landscapes, with its rich history carried forward from past until now. A few of the remainders from its days as a real royalty existing till this day are its royal palaces that are huge statements of the rich cultural and architectural historical scenery. Every one of these palaces has a history and all together provide us a distinct profile of the life styles and behaviours of Rajput Royals who once commanded in every bit of this area.
So let’s go on a tour of the royal palaces in Himachal Pradesh and find out its historical importance, architecture( only if it remains) and some more such things.
1. Rampur Bushahr Palace(alias Padam Palace)
Padam Palace Is an iconic specimen of a royal residence in the heart of Rampur, Himachal Pradesh. The palace, which was constructed in the early 20th century by Raja Padam Singh of Bushahr dynasty, is a perfect balance between the traditional and European style. Made of wood and stone, the structure boasts detailed balconies and jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies), evidence of the extraordinary craftsmen of its time.
It is a palace which was the winter capital of the Bushahr state. At that time, Rampur was a significant trade centre on the ancient Hindustan-Tibet road; and the Bushahr dynasty rulers collected significant capital from this route. The grand halls at Padam Palace especially the Darbar Hall which has palatial interiors that recites a tale of long lost yesteryear. Parts of the palace are not open to visitor but the exterior and state house architecture can be seen outside
Highlights:
Location: Rampur
Style: Indo-European Blend
What Attracts: Wood Carvings, Darbar Hall
2. Naggar Castle
Located on a hill in the Kullu Valley, Naggar Castle was constructed during the 15th century by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu. Myanmar Haveli, also known as the ‘Cremation Ground Fortress’ is distinct because of its local use of earthy resources – stones and timber in a traditional earthquake-proof building style common to Himachal Pradesh called Kath-Kuni.
Naggar Castle was the royal seat of Kullu kings for about 1400 years before a new capital was founded at Sultanpur village. Today, the castle is held open for tourism and provides a vista of the valley below and mountains in the distance. The British Simla Agreement is also a heritage hotel, managed by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). Inside the building when you walk across its corridors you can still feel reverberations of its royal days.
Highlights:
Place: Naggar, Kullu Valley
Architectural Style: Kath-KuniÂ
Highlights: Heritage hotel, has an awe-inspiring view
3. Chail Palace
Chail Palace : This beautiful palace situated in Chail hill station was built as a summer retreat by the Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala. Today, it is a beautiful blend of British colonial influence with traditional Indian features and the palace was built in 1891. The sprawling lawns, log cottages and richly furnished rooms remind one of the luxuries and lifestyle of the Patiala royalty.
Originally developed by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, after he was banished from Shimla by the British. The Chail Palace, which is now a heritage hotel and provides a sneak peek into the regal life of the royal family. Tourists can spend time…..walking around the palace, relaxing in the palatial atmosphere of the fur sanctuary.
Highlights:
Place: Chail, District Solan
Architectural Style: Colonial and Indian Blend
Highlights: Old world charm; Palatial Interiors
4. Jubbal Palace
One such testament to this glorious relationship is Jubbal Palace in Shimla which perfectly symbolises the fusion of colonial and Pahari architecture. The Palace was Constructed by Raja Rana Bhagat Singh Established in the Early 20th century displays the frippery of European confluence which was all over India under British architecture Blocks.
The palace is famous for its lovely gables, the wooden carvings and lavish halls. While some portions of the palace are used by the royalty as residence, most parts are open to the visiting public. The palace with its old-world interiors amidst the rainforest setting is a must visit for those interested in exploring Himachal’s rich royal legacy.
Highlights:
Place: Jubbal, Shimla district
Type of architecture: Indo-European Architecture, featuring both European and Pahari styles
Hype: Wooden SculpturesAntique Interiors
5. Raj Mahal Palace, Chamba
RAJ MAHAL PALACE- CHAMBA The Raj Mahal Palace luxury hotels in Chamba is the one of the oldest Royal Residences in Himachal Pradesh. Commissioned by Raja Umed Singh in the mid-18th century, this is where the Chamba royal family used to reside. The building is swinging for the fences on architecture, a mixture of Mughal and British styles with fine woodwork and craftsmanship.
The palace has now been converted into a Hotel and Heritage property allowing one to witness the aura of royal liveliness. The view of Chamba Palace and its landscape is moving, which indeed draws the attention of many tourists and some history enthusiasts.
Highlights:
Location: Chamba
Type of tourist attraction: Architectural Style Mughal and British blend
Highlights: Traditional hotel, woodwork
6. Suketi Palace (Suketi Kothi)
Suketi Palace which is also called Suketi Kothi lies in the vicinity of Nahan, district Sirmaur. This palace was constructed by the rulers of Sirmaur and was a summerhouse for the royal family. Amidst the green ambience in the valley with high mountains- Suketi Palace looks calm as a spiritual venue.
The palace is a great sample of traditional Himachali structure, with slanting roofs and wood carvings. While it may not be the most impressive palace as the others, its simple beauty and peaceful surroundings make it a little gem to explore.
Highlights:
Type: Castle Location: Nahan, Sirmaur district
Style: Traditional Himachali (Architecture)
Highlights: Pictures settings, traditional architecture.
Conclusion
Explore the Royal Palaces of Himachal PradeshHimachal Pradesh royal palaces are not only architectural marvels but windows to its rich history and culture. Inspiration behind each palace is unique and a page turner on its opulence, tradition and cultural influences. Be it the grand Padam Palace at Rampur or the cute Suketi Palace near Nahan or heritage Naggar Castle, these palaces take you back in time and narrate stories of kings and queens that called these lands as their own.
These palaces are a trip back in time, not just for travellers but history lovers who are able to get an insight into the royal legacy Himachal Pradesh has. Be it living in a palace-turned-hotel, or taking just a day off to the historic structures. These monuments have such a regal charm that they are sure to make a lasting impression on whoever experiences them.
Take on this royal Himachal Pradesh tour to see all of the palaces in real life, more than mere visuals!
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