Jai Vilas Palace
जय विलास महल
A European-style palace built by the Scindia royal family in 1874. Its Durbar Hall is famous for two 3.5-tonne crystal chandeliers and a silver toy train.
Jai Vilas Palace was built in 1874 by the Scindia maharaja Jayajirao to host the Prince of Wales. It blends Tuscan, Italian Doric and Corinthian styles, and parts of it remain the residence of the royal family. The Jiwajirao Scindia Museum, open to visitors, has about 35 galleries. Its highlights include the enormous crystal chandeliers in the Durbar Hall, said to have been tested for strength by having elephants walk onto the roof before they were hoisted, and a silver miniature train that carries drinks along the dining table. Admission is expensive, and photography costs extra. The palace is usually closed on Wednesdays, but check the official website for current hours.
Opening hours
10:00–17:30; closed Wednesdays (check official source)
Nearby sights
- Gopachal Parvat
- Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhor Sahib
- Teli ka Mandir
- Sas-Bahu Temples
- Siddhachal Caves
- Gwalior Fort
- Man Mandir Palace
- Chaturbhuj Temple