Built in the year, 1888, the Maharaja's Palace is often referred to as the New Palace and is located in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. The Maharaja's Palace was built in accordance to the designs of an English architect called Mant. The architecture is a mix of Rajasthani, Gujarati and Jain architectural styles. The palace building gets a distinct look from the black and polished stone used that has been used to build it.
In order to convert it into a tourist spot, it has been furnished with landscaped gardens, zoos, a lake and a museum within its premises. The museum has an extensive display of coins, weapons, jewellery and other items belonging to the Kolhapur rulers. A letter from the British Viceroy and Governor General is also a part of the collection. The museum has galleries dedicated to wildlife and one exhibiting photographs of the lives of rulers, too.
The Darbar Hall situated at the centre of the palace has an ambience to take you on a trip through Maratha History with glimpses from the lives of some rulers painted on stained glass on its side walls. A cast iron balcony above this hall is supported by carved columns that look like temple brackets. The open zoo located inside the premises of the new palace has migratory birds like flamingoes. Peacocks, geese, wild boar, black bear and a variety of deer are also present in the open zoo.
History buffs will definitely be thrilled by this palace. For tourists in general, the palace is an interesting place that should not be missed even by chance. The gardens, architecture, art and history might make one take a walk down the memory lane of Indian history.
Maharaja's Palace open at 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM
30 INR per person for new palace (addition 10 INR if you want to visit Museum)
Closed on every Mondays
Is there any concession available for primary school children??
How many Entry fee for students??