Aaina Mahal Museum, Bhuj - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 2.5 km from Bhuj Railway Station, Aaina Mahal or Aina Mahal is an 18th century palace located next to the Prag Mahal Palace in Bhuj, Gujarat, India. It is one of the elegant monuments in Bhuj and among the famous Bhuj Tourist Places.

Also known as Mirror Palace, Aaina Mahal was built in 1761 CE during the reign of Rao Lakhpatji. The fabulous Aina Mahal is a part of the extravagant Darbargadh Palace of Bhuj. It was built under the craftsmanship of the famous architect Ram Singh Malam. Malam designed the building in a mixed Indo-European style and set about creating the materials for the palace locally. He personally crafted the fountains, mirrors and glasswork, as well as many other wonders of artisanship. Spread over two floors, the building features Darbar Hall, a hall of mirrors, and suites belonging to the various members of the royal family.

The Aina Mahal was converted into Madanji Museum in 1997. Due to the Gujarat earthquake in 2001, the palace was damaged and a portion of the palace which was not so badly damaged has been restored and it houses the museum. The museum has two parts, one of which is called the Kala Atari Picture Gallery and the other part is called the Aina Mahal. Decorated with delightful chandeliers and mirror-work, glittered with golden ceilings and marble walls, the Hall of Mirrors is apparently the prime attraction of Aina Mahal Museum and is situated in the second floor.

The museum also displays an impressive collection of weapons, glass paintings, canvas paintings, photographs, royal furniture and possessions, classic embroidery work and the great ivory throne in Durbar Hall. The 15 m long scroll painting that depicts the royal procession of Maharao Shri Pagmalji Bahadur is one of the most exquisite collections here. There is also a pendulum clock synced with the Hindu calendar which was built by Ram Singh himself, with precious gold and ivory work.

Timings: 9 AM to 12 PM & 3 PM to 6 PM, Closed on Thursday

Entry: Rs. 20 per Person & Rs. 30 for Camera