Top 10 Best Must Visit Palaces Of North India

India is an incredible country with a diverse and rich past. The northern region of India is home to some of India’s most renowned architectural and historical wonders. The splendour of its illustrious past has been preserved and treasured in the form of majestic royal palaces. Indian palaces are known for having some of the best architecture in the world. North India’s royal palaces are worth visiting for their wide variety of lively cultures, fascinating traditions and distinctive architecture. In the past, the headquarters of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire were in North India. You can have a glimpse into the kind of life that these monarchs led by visiting their palaces. So, take a peek at the list of the top 10 Must-Visit Palaces of North India compiled by the Top 10s Only team.

List of Top 10 Must-Visit Palaces in North India

The architectural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance of Indian royal palaces attract many tourists. India had numerous kingdoms at various points in its history, contributing to the abundance of palaces that still exist today. Our list of the top 10 must-visit palaces of North India will take you through several magnificent palaces, such as the mesmerising Palace of Winds in Jaipur, or the oldest palace of the Gondal region, and even the Leh royal family’s residence.

1. Hazarduari Palace – Murshidabad, West Bengal

The Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad has survived the test of time and is one of the most famous palaces in North India. During the rule of Nawab Humayun Jah, it was constructed in the nineteenth century by the architect Duncan MacLeod. The Hazarduari Palace gets its name from its number of doors, in contrast to most Indian palaces, which have names connected to the city in which they are located. This palace is now under the care of the Archeological Survey of India, which has turned it into a museum.

Things To Do In Hazarduari Palace

Here are a few pointers to help you fully experience Hazarduari Palace:

• Admire the impressive gates that can accommodate an elephant carrying a mahout through them.
• Discover other noteworthy structures within Kila Nizamat, including the Nizamat Imambara, Bacchawali tope, Murshidabad Clock Tower, and Chawk Masjid.
• Explore various antiques, paintings, weaponry, statues, and vintage cars that previously belonged to the Nawabs displayed in the Museum.

Plan a day to explore the Hazarduari Palace to get a feel of the Nawabi way of life! 

2. Vijaya Vilas Palace – Mandavi, Gujarat

Vijaya Vilas Palace, listed among the top 10 best palaces to visit in North India, was constructed on the Mandvi seashore in Gujarat. It was intended to serve as the summer retreat for the Kutch rulers. The architecture and design of the palace indicate the merging of influences from many parts of India. Craftsmen from Bengal, Rajasthan, Saurashtra, and the local Kutchi community contributed to the exquisite carvings throughout the palace.

Things to do in Vijaya Vilas Palace

• Wander leisurely through the vast green garden with marble fountains and water canals.
• Get enchanted by the breathtaking palace interiors that feature exquisite glasswork and elaborate stone carvings.
• Book a gorgeous suite with a private beach at the Vijay Vilas Heritage Resort to enjoy luxury and harmony.

3. Deeg Palace – Bharatpur, Rajasthan

When we speak about Rajasthan, we instantly think about the Rajputs as its most prominent rulers. However, Bharatpur had historically been ruled by the Jat kings. Deeg Palace in Bharatpur is one of the must-visit royal palaces in North India, built during the rule of the Jat dynasty. There are about 2000 fountains around the palace, and two water bodies(Rup Sagar and Gopal Sagar) on either side provide water for the fountains. Try visiting this palace when they run the fountains during the Deeg Brij Festival.

Things to do in Deeg Palace

• Engage a knowledgeable guide to learn the intricate details of the palace, which would otherwise just be a well-built structure.
• Observe the carving of the idol of Lord Hanuman, which was made from a single brown-coloured Hakik gemstone.
• Witness a giant swing made of marble which the Jat king won in the battle against the Mughals, and an ancient geyser that the king used to warm the water around the palace.

4. Hawa Mahal – Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur is among the top 10 best places to visit in North India. Hawa Mahal, often referred to as the “Palace of Winds”, is located in the centre of Jaipur. This palace is built with red and pink sandstone. Its numerous windows were designed to let the airflow while maintaining the palace cool. Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 to allow the royal ladies to watch the events outside the palace without being seen by others. The Palace of Winds has always been on the list of the top ten most beautiful palaces in India. 

Things to do in Hawa Mahal

• Appreciate the palace’s honeycombed-shaped front and its interlaced lattices, elaborate balconies and magnificent domes.
• Take pictures of the panoramic vista of Jaipur streets from the Hawa Mahal’s top floor.
• Gain insight into the palace’s history by visiting the museum within the palace.

5. Leh Palace –  Leh, Jammu and Kashmir

You know you have arrived at Leh when you are at 3500 m above sea level. Counted among the 10 best royal palaces to visit in India, the glorious Leh Palace is situated in Leh. King Sengge Namgyal planned this nine-storey palace. The palace is presently under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India and houses an extensive collection of royal artefacts, including 450-year-old paintings. If you are travelling to Leh Ladakh, this palace should be on your list of must-sees.

Things to do in Leh Palace

• Bask in the captivating views of Leh City from the upper levels of Leh Palace.
• Ensure your shoes are comfy since you’ll be walking on a route full of slopes.
• Admire the palace’s spectacular architecture which is noticeable even from a distance due to its hilltop location.

6. Jahangir Mahal – Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

One of the top ten most spectacular royal palaces of India, Jahangir Mahal in Orchha was built by Bir Singh Deo as a friendship gift to Emperor Jahangir. The “Jahangirnama” claims that Jahangir stayed the night here while travelling home after conquering the South. To honour all religions equally, Maharaja Bir Singh Deo incorporated elements of both Hindu and Muslim architectural styles into the palace’s construction. Jahangir Mahal is one of the monuments within the Orchha Fort Complex.

Things to do in Jahangir Mahal

• View the “Oonthkhana”, the camel stable constructed for Jahangir’s camels used for transportation.
• Examine the 20 distinct Jalis designs on the Jali work, each with a unique pattern.
• Indulge in breathtaking views of the Betwa River, Reserve Forest of Orrcha, temples and Rai Praveen Mahal from the top level of the palace.

7. Datia Palace (Satkhanda Mahal) – Datia, Madhya Pradesh

Datia Palace or Satkhanda Mahal is a beautiful palace located in Datia, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the North Indian royal palaces that serve as a reminder of yet another illustrious history. The only materials used to construct this palace were stone and brick; neither wood nor iron was used. Datia Palace displays both Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. No one ever resided in this palace, despite having 440 rooms. Sir Edwin Lutyens, the designer of New Delhi, was captivated by this fact and deemed the Datia Palace to be, “One of the most interesting buildings architecturally in the whole of India”. 

Things to do in Datia Palace

• Raise your neck to admire the finely painted ceilings.
• Seize every chance to capture unique shots of the palace without anyone photobombing your picture.
• Visit other monuments inside the palace complex including a Dargah and temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Lord Durga.

8. Naulakha Palace – Gondal, Gujarat

Gondal is a famous tourist destination in Gujarat because it is home to several historically significant architectural masterpieces. The Naulakha Palace in Gondal is famous among the North Indian palaces in India. As the reputedly oldest palace in the Gondal region, the Naulakha Palace is a part of the Darbargadh Fort Complex. Given that the cost of the palace’s construction at that time was nine lakhs of rupees, it is known as “Navalakha” or “Naulakha”. The fact that the palace is situated along the banks of the Gondali River greatly contributes to its picturesque attractiveness.

Things to do in Naulakha Palace

• Behold in the beauty of stunning stone carvings, the spiral stairway created from one piece of stone and engraved archways
• Explore the museum that holds the Maharaja’s collectables like dolls, teapots, paghadis(turbans) and trophies.
• Enjoy the reflection of the palace seen next to a river bridge.

9. Lal Bagh Palace – Indore, Madhya Pradesh

One of the best northern royal palaces of India is Indore’s Lal Bagh Palace. It is magnificent, with lengthy hallways and elegantly adorned rooms. The Lal Bagh Palace is considered one of India’s most stunning royal homes. It has amazing carvings on its walls. The statue of tigers that closely resemble genuine ones is another thing you will undoubtedly enjoy about this palace. It is a superb representation of Indo-Saracenic architecture, which combines Indian and Islamic architectural forms. With their lovely lawns, attractive planters, and a wide range of trees and plants, the green spaces that encircle the palace are also noteworthy.  

Things to do in Lal Bagh Palace

• Appreciate the Holkar- emblazoned palace gates brought over from England which are precisely the same as Buckingham Palace’s gate.
• Savour the palace’s early Georgian furnishings and decorations.
• Value the first level of the palace’s showcase of the Mughal coin treasures. 

10. Jodha Bai Mahal – Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

The spectacular Jodha Bai Mahal in Fatehpur Sikri is a monument to India’s illustrious past. This royal palace in North India is regarded as the best portrayal of Mughal Emperor Akbar’s architectural legacy. About 12 kilometres of distance from the Taj Mahal in Agra, Jodha Bai’s Palace or Jodha Bai ka Rauza is unquestionably the best of the top 10 royal palaces in India. Akbar built this luxurious residence for Jodha Bai, his favourite wife and a Rajput princess. The palace was equipped with all the facilities and security features necessary for the royal women’s welfare and safety. It is one of the most significant monuments in the Fatehpur Sikri complex.

Things to do in Jodha Bai Mahal

• Take note of the numerous Hindu decorations around the premises, including the Srivatsa symbol, swans, parrots and lotuses.
• Stay hydrated, and carry a water bottle, as there will be a lot of walking and climbing to be done.
• Spend some time exploring each chamber to appreciate its grandeur.

India is known for having some magnificent structures, as can be seen after reading our list of the top 10 must-visit palaces of North India. We once had a significant number of monarchies, and these palaces bear everlasting evidence of their presence. Indian history and culture have always promoted tourism. If you are planning a trip to any of these palaces, then make sure that you create an itinerary that includes exploring the architecture of the palace and visiting some nearby attractions. A memorable voyage awaits you as you travel through North India. So, which of the above top 10 palaces are you visiting first? Let us know in the comments below if any of them strikes a chord with you!

Frequently Asked Questions About North Indian Royal Palaces 

Which city is famous for palaces in India?

Kolkata is referred to as the “City of Palace” in India. The city is home to numerous magnificent establishments and palaces.

Which is the best palace to visit in Jaipur?

A visit to Rambah Palace, Amber Palace, City Palace, Rajmahal Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal and Samode Palace gives a fantastic chance to learn more about Jaipur’s extensive history.

Which is the largest private palace in India?

Laxmi Vilas Palace is the largest private palace in India. You may learn more about this palace from our page on the top 10 most magnificent royal palaces of India.

Can you go inside Hawa Mahal in Jaipur?

Yes, you can enter and look at the palace. Many people mistakenly believe that you cannot enter Hawa Mahal because no door can be seen in the front. The gates of this palace are located on the back side and face a gate of the Jaipur City Palace.

Which are the best royal palaces of North India?

The majestic royal palaces in North India are renowned for showcasing the area’s illustrious architectural legacy. Some of the best royal palaces of North India are Leh Palace in Leh, City Palace in Udaipur, Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur, and Jai Vilas Palace in Gwalior. These palaces offer an insight into North India’s rich history and cultural legacy in addition to displaying the splendour of an era gone by.