The magnificent palace of Kawardha was built at an altitude of 941 metres above sea level in the Maikal Hills of Kawardha, Chattisgarh. The Kawardha Palace is a famous tourist spot and is considered to be one of the luxurious palaces in the vicinity.
History of the Kawardha Palace
The Kawardha Palace belongs to the Royal family of the Kawardha state. It was built under the patronage of Maharaja Dharamraj Singh between the periods of 1936-39. This palace is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India.
In the year 1991, Maharaja Yogeshwar Singh, the successor of Dharamraj Singh restored the palace into a luxury Palace hotel. It now forms one of the prime tourist attractions of Kawardha.
Architecture of the Kawardha Palace
The Kawardha Palace spreads over 11 acres of land with lush green surroundings and scenic hills. The palace is built with Italian marble and stone. The architecture of the palace is an exquisite blend of Italian, Mughals and the Colonial styles, thus making it all the more interesting. It has several well maintained rooms and cottages, each given a personal touch which is unique from that of other constructions. The Durbar Hall which is more than 80 feet in height with its majestic towering dome and gold leaf filigree, provides a setting for relaxation. The interior of the palace has a spot called the Zebra room, which serves as an evening bar and a library.
The main gateway of the Kawardha Palace is known as the Haathi Darwaza, which means the elephant gate. This structure marks the royal procession of the past that were headed by elephants. The marble staircases and the graceful courtyards show the intricate architecture of that time. With the palace getting renovated, additional structures like the arched corridors, residential quarters and the courtyard has also been extended. The fresco which has been well designed with the furniture used in the palace is rare and unique.
Tourism in the Kawardha Palace
The Kawardha Palace is renowned for its hospitality and the royal experience which one can enjoy. The visitors can witness the amazing architecture of that era and immerse themselves in the relaxing ambience of the palace. Recognized as a heritage site, this palace is a huge tourist attraction in the state of Chattisgarh.
Visiting Information on the Kawardha Palace
The Kawardha Palace in Kawardha is easily accessible from Raipur, the capital city of Chattisgarh, which is around 140 km away. The nearest airport is the Swami Vivekananda Airport at Raipur. There are also an abundance of trains connecting from Raipur to Kawardha.