Samode Palace / Samode Bagh, Jaipur - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit
#20 of 32 Places to Visit in Jaipur
Distance (From Jaipur Junction Railway Station): 40 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day
Transportation Options: Bus / Cab
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 40 km from Jaipur Junction Railway Station, Samode is a town located on the way to Shekhawati in Rajasthan. Samode town is well known for the Samode Palace.
Samode Palace was initially built in the 16th century as a Rajput Fort, but in the early 19th century, under Rawal Berisal, a high ranking noble from Jaipur, it was converted from a fort into an exquisitely designed palace in Rajput and Muslim architectural style. Rawal Sheo Singh, descendent of Rawal Berisal, further expanded the Palace.
Samode Palace is a brilliant example of European, Rajput & Mughal architectural designs. It was built using sandstone at the foot of Aravalli hills with a fortress like setting. The Palace encompasses the Durbar Hall, Sultan Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. The interiors of the palace are composed in the ancient architectural style of Rajasthan: marble floors, intricately ornamented pillars, mosaic walls decorated with old wall paintings. At the entrance gate of the palace is a piece of a large treasure chest made of dark wood with marble settings and gleaming glass. In 1987, it was converted into Samode Palace Heritage Hotel.
There is an old ruined fort above the palace from where a panoramic view of the valley could be seen. It is said that an underground passage links the fort to the palace that provided access at times of emergency. It is now approached by a well laid out stone path.
Samode Bagh is a 16th century Mughal style garden enclosed by a 15 feet high wall. It is spread over an area of 20 acres. There are rows of fountains, flower beds, pavilions and Victorian style decor. This is a popular tourist destination and the highlights of this place are the sandbag colored tents, Mughal terracing and the Victorian styled furnishings.
Palace & Garden Tour: Rs 1000 per person.