Mandir Palace and Tazia Tower
A living royal residence showcasing exquisite Jaisalmeri architecture, offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into Jaisalmer's heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Mandir Palace and Tazia Tower
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A living royal residence showcasing exquisite Jaisalmeri architecture, offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into Jaisalmer's heritage.
"Marvel at the perfection and beauty of the design, a serene place with a museum worth exploring."
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture the palace's beauty in the soft light of sunrise or sunset for stunning photos.
💰 Entry Fee Awareness
Be prepared for entry fees and potential photography charges. Check current rates before visiting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Jaisalmeri Architecture
Palace Facades
Marvel at the golden sandstone, intricately carved with traditional Rajputana designs and jharokhas.
Badal Vilas Tower Views
Rooftop
Ascend for panoramic vistas of Jaisalmer Fort, the Golden City, and the Thar Desert.
Royal Artifacts Museum
Museum Section
Explore a modest collection of royal artifacts, weapons, and historical relics offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Royal Views
Understanding Access and Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture the palace's beauty in the soft light of sunrise or sunset for stunning photos.
💰 Entry Fee Awareness
Be prepared for entry fees and potential photography charges. Check current rates before visiting.
🚶♂️ Manage Access Expectations
Not all areas are accessible; the palace is partly a residence. Enjoy the views and museum.
🤫 Seek Tranquility
This is a peaceful spot, ideal for a quiet escape from the city bustle.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture the palace's beauty in the soft light of sunrise or sunset for stunning photos.
💰 Entry Fee Awareness
Be prepared for entry fees and potential photography charges. Check current rates before visiting.
🚶♂️ Manage Access Expectations
Not all areas are accessible; the palace is partly a residence. Enjoy the views and museum.
🤫 Seek Tranquility
This is a peaceful spot, ideal for a quiet escape from the city bustle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mandir Palace is praised for its beautiful Jaisalmeri architecture and stunning rooftop views of the Golden City and fort. Visitors appreciate the glimpse into royal heritage and the tranquil atmosphere. However, some find the museum small for the entry fee and have reported issues with staff behavior and restricted access to certain areas.
"Mandir Palace is where the current royal family of Jaisalmer, including the prince, resides. Though not entirely open to the public, certain parts of the palace are accessible and absolutely worth visiting. The intricate Jaisalmeri architecture carved in golden sandstone is at its finest here—you’ll be amazed by the perfection and beauty of the design. The palace also houses a heritage hotel that offers a touch of royal hospitality. It’s a serene and quiet place, with a museum inside that’s definitely worth exploring."
Maitreyee Sen
"Mandir Palace, also known as Badal Mahal, is a beautiful blend of royal heritage and intricate Rajasthani architecture right in the heart of Jaisalmer. The finely carved jharokhas, peaceful atmosphere, and the tall Badal Vilas tower offer a majestic view of the Golden City. Though the museum section is small, the charm of the palace and its rooftop views make it worth a visit. Ideal for photography lovers and those who appreciate history, but day visitors should know access is limited. Still, it's a must-visit gem for a quick royal experience in Jaisalmer."
Nitin bhati
"Nestled in the heart of Jaisalmer, just 2 km from the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, Mandir Palace, also known as Badal Vilas, offers a fascinating blend of history, heritage, and hospitality. This magnificent palace, still partially serving as the residence of the royal family, transports visitors to a bygone era of Rajput grandeur.
Architectural Charm & Heritage
The exterior of Mandir Palace is a striking example of traditional Rajputana architecture, featuring ornately carved facades, jharokhas, and intricately designed archways. Its golden sandstone structure glows in the sunlight, making it a favorite for photography and heritage enthusiasts alike.
Inside, parts of the palace function as a museum, displaying a modest collection of royal artifacts, weapons, and historical relics. While not extensive, it provides a brief insight into Jaisalmer’s royal lineage.
rooftop view—offering stunning panoramas of the Jaisalmer Fort, the Golden City, and the Thar Desert, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Visiting Experience & Entry Fees
Museum comes at a fee of approximately ₹160–₹250, with an additional ₹30 for mobile photography. While the architecture is beautiful, the museum section is relatively small, and some might find it underwhelming if expecting a large exhibit.
Overall Impression
Mandir Palace / Badal Vilas is not just a structure—it's a living piece of Jaisalmer's royal legacy. While the museum might not justify the ticket price for every visitor, the architectural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and regal charm still make it a worthwhile stop, especially for those interested in heritage and history."
somnath nagare
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mandir Palace is located in the heart of Jaisalmer, approximately 2 km from Jaisalmer Fort. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi from anywhere in the city. It's a convenient stop to combine with your Jaisalmer Fort visit.
While there isn't direct public bus access to the palace itself, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available and affordable for reaching this central Jaisalmer location.
The distance is short, making it walkable for many. Alternatively, a quick auto-rickshaw ride is efficient and inexpensive for traveling between the two popular Jaisalmer attractions.
Parking availability can be limited in the narrow streets of Jaisalmer. It's often best to rely on auto-rickshaws or taxis that can drop you directly at the entrance.
Yes, Mandir Palace is a common stop on many Jaisalmer city tours, offering a glimpse into the royal heritage of the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for the museum section of Mandir Palace is typically around ₹160-₹250 per person. There might be an additional charge for mobile photography, around ₹30.
Opening hours can vary, but the museum section is generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the latest timings upon arrival or with your accommodation.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the palace entrance. Advance booking is generally not required for the museum section.
Yes, there is often an additional fee for taking photos within the palace premises, especially with a mobile phone.
Yes, parts of Mandir Palace are still the residence of the royal family, so access is limited to designated areas, primarily the museum and rooftop.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricately carved facades, jharokhas, and especially the rooftop offering panoramic views of Jaisalmer Fort and the city are prime photography spots.
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but there is usually an extra charge for it.
The 'golden hours'—early morning and late afternoon—provide the best light for capturing the golden sandstone architecture.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical monuments and residential areas. It's best to check local regulations before attempting any drone photography.
Look for the detailed jharokhas (ornate balconies), intricate sandstone carvings, and the unique archways that define the Rajputana architectural style.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Mandir Palace, also known as Badal Vilas, is a living piece of Jaisalmer's royal legacy, built by the royal family and still partially serving as their residence. It showcases Rajputana grandeur.
It's a prime example of traditional Rajputana architecture, characterized by its golden sandstone structure, ornately carved facades, jharokhas, and intricately designed archways.
Mandir Palace was built by the royal family of Jaisalmer, reflecting their heritage and architectural preferences.
The museum houses a modest collection of royal artifacts, including weapons and historical relics, offering a brief insight into the Jaisalmer royal lineage.
Yes, parts of Mandir Palace continue to be the residence of the current royal family of Jaisalmer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be prepared for potential limitations in access and the possibility of a relatively small museum. Keep expectations realistic regarding extensive interactive exhibits. The entry fee applies to all visitors, so consider if the experience aligns with your children's interests and attention spans. Ensure comfortable footwear if you plan to explore the accessible areas.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of the photography fees, which are usually separate from the entry ticket. Explore different angles on the facades and balconies to capture the detailed craftsmanship. The Badal Vilas tower provides a unique perspective, allowing you to frame the city and desert landscape.
🏛️ History Buffs & Heritage Seekers
Appreciate the Rajputana architectural style and the intricate carvings that speak volumes about the craftsmanship of the era. The palace's location and its blend of residential and museum functions make it a significant heritage site. Even with limited access, the atmosphere and historical context are palpable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of Mandir Palace
The Badal Vilas tower is a prominent feature, offering elevated perspectives of the surrounding city. The blend of strength in its sandstone construction and the delicate artistry in its carvings creates a unique aesthetic. For photography enthusiasts, the play of light and shadow on these detailed facades, especially during sunrise and sunset, is particularly captivating.
While the palace is partially a private residence, the accessible sections showcase the craftsmanship that went into its creation. Visitors often remark on the beauty and perfection of the design, even if the museum itself is not extensive. It’s a place where history and art converge, offering a tangible connection to Jaisalmer's royal past.
The Royal Residence and Museum Experience
Visitors should be aware that access to the interior might be restricted, and not all rooms are open for viewing. The entry fee, which can range from ₹160 to ₹250, covers access to these designated areas and the rooftop. Some reviews mention that the museum's size might not meet expectations for those anticipating a large exhibit, but the overall experience of being within a royal palace is often considered worthwhile.
Despite potential limitations in the museum's scope, the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to witness a piece of Jaisalmer's royal heritage firsthand are significant draws. The staff's demeanor has received mixed reviews, with some visitors reporting unprofessional behavior, which is a point to consider.
Capturing Jaisalmer's Golden City from Above
The best times to experience these views are during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise and before sunset. During these periods, the sandstone buildings of Jaisalmer glow with a warm, golden hue, creating a truly magical scene. This makes the rooftop a prime spot for photographers and anyone looking to soak in the essence of Jaisalmer's unique landscape.
While the museum might be a brief stop for some, the opportunity to see Jaisalmer from this elevated vantage point is often highlighted as a memorable part of the visit. It provides a different perspective on the city's layout and its historical connection to the surrounding desert environment.
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