History: The foundation of Garh Palace or Jhalawar Fort was laid in the 19th century under the patronage of Maharaja Rana Madan Singh, the then-ruler of Jhalawar. Over the years, successive monarchs contributed to the expansion and embellishment of the structure, ensuring that it evolved into a magnificent royal residence. Unlike other Rajput forts, which were primarily built for military defence, Garh Palace in Jhalawar functioned as an administrative and residential stronghold. The rulers of Jhalawar designed it as a symbol of their sovereignty while integrating spaces for governance and leisure. The palace served as the administrative hub for the Jhalawar princely state, hosting various official proceedings and cultural events. The royal family resided here for generations, leaving behind a legacy that echoes through the intricate frescoes, expansive halls, and the ornate ceilings of the palace. Today, Garh Palace remains one of Jhalawar’s most celebrated landmarks, drawing visitors keen on experiencing its historical grandeur.
Architecture: The sprawling Garh Palace in Jhalawar is a composition of multiple architectural sections, each with distinct functions and aesthetics. The primary buildings rise up to three or four stories, each adorned with balconies and domes that enhance the grandeur of the structure. The largest halls, such as Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas, extend to over 100 feet in length, providing ample space for official gatherings and ceremonies. Diwan-e-Khas, a hall of private audience, was where the Maharaja conducted meetings with nobles and courtiers. It features intricate lattice work and finely carved wooden doors that exhibit expert craftsmanship. Designed for public audiences, Diwan-e-Aam, a grand hall, has massive colonnades and an elevated throne area where the ruler addressed the common people and heard grievances. The walls are adorned with murals that narrate historical tales of the region.
The exclusive quarters for the royal women, Zanana Mahal is adorned with elaborate frescoes and jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies) that ensured privacy while allowing ventilation and light. The decorative patterns on the ceilings and walls reveal stories of religious scriptures and courtly life. Some exquisite paintings and mirrors on the walls of “Zanana Khas" or ‘Women’s Palace’, are particularly interesting. Permission to view these paintings can be obtained from the offices located here. Built by Maharaj Rana Madan Singh, the Jhalawar Fort was beautified by his several successors by adding several paintings. Maharana Madan Singh added beautiful paintings to the rooms between 1840 – 1845. These paintings can be seen with permission from the authorities. The Zenana Khas has some excellent frescoes on both walls and mirrors, which are fine examples of Hadoti School of Art.
The main residential building of the royal family, Raj Mahal showcases a perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. It houses several bedrooms, living chambers, and an expansive courtyard with a fountain. The palace complex also features beautifully carved chhatris (cenotaphs) dedicated to former rulers, celebrating their legacies through ornate domes and intricately sculpted pillars. A stunning palace chamber decorated with mirror work, Sheesh Mahal reflects a Mughal-inspired artistic approach. The interplay of light and mirrors creates an illusion of endless reflections, enhancing the opulence of the space. Known for its pearl-white interiors and subtle yet exquisite floral motifs, Moti Mahal was a luxurious resting quarter for the royalty. Hathi Pol, a grand entrance gate, flanked by sculptures of elephants, marks the primary access to the palace. The gateway’s carvings and motifs narrate episodes of the region’s martial history and royal grandeur. Translating to 'Palace of Clouds,' Badal Mahal served as a summer retreat for the royal family. With its high-ceilinged halls and open terraces, it provided a cool respite during the scorching summers of Rajasthan.
The intricate ornamentation of Garh Palace highlights the skillful craftsmanship that has gone into its construction and beautification. Several elements like stucco work, mirror inlay work, woodwork, carvings, gold leaf embellishments, jali screens, garden and fountain layouts contribute to its present evolved beauty.
Garh Palace in Jhalawar is best visited from October to March when the weather is pleasant for exploration. To reach, the nearest railway station is Jhalawar Road (about 2 km away), while Kota Airport (87 km) is the closest air hub. Well-connected roads make it accessible via buses and taxis from major Rajasthan cities.