Shalini Palace Kolhapur
A grand 1930s palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture, admired for its black stone and Italian marble.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for exterior photos
Shalini Palace Kolhapur
Best Time
Best light for exterior photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand 1930s palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture, admired for its black stone and Italian marble.
"Admire the majestic Shalini Palace, a black stone and Italian marble masterpiece by Rankala Lake."
Admire from Outside
The palace is closed to visitors, but its exterior is magnificent. Enjoy views from Rankala Lake.
Combine with Rankala Lake
Visit Shalini Palace as part of a trip to the popular Rankala Lake.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 471 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Exterior Architecture
Shalini Palace
Admire the intricate black stone and Italian marble, a testament to Indo-Saracenic design.
Rankala Lake Views
Rankala Lake
Enjoy stunning photo opportunities of the palace from the serene banks of Rankala Lake.
Historical Significance
Shalini Palace
Learn about its construction in the 1930s and its namesake, Princess Shalini Raje.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Shalini Palace
Best Views & Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire from Outside
The palace is closed to visitors, but its exterior is magnificent. Enjoy views from Rankala Lake. +1
Combine with Rankala Lake
Visit Shalini Palace as part of a trip to the popular Rankala Lake.
Drone Photography
Consider drone photography for unique aerial shots if regulations allow.
Historical Context
Research its history as a former hotel and its connection to Princess Shalini Raje.
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire from Outside
The palace is closed to visitors, but its exterior is magnificent. Enjoy views from Rankala Lake. +1
Combine with Rankala Lake
Visit Shalini Palace as part of a trip to the popular Rankala Lake.
Drone Photography
Consider drone photography for unique aerial shots if regulations allow.
Historical Context
Research its history as a former hotel and its connection to Princess Shalini Raje.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shalini Palace is a visually stunning historical landmark, admired for its intricate black stone and Italian marble architecture. While it's currently closed to the public for interior visits, its grandeur can be appreciated from the outside, particularly from the scenic Rankala Lake. Visitors often highlight its photogenic qualities and historical significance, though the inability to explore inside is a common point of disappointment.
"The Palace is built of intricately carved black stone and Italian marble. Rich decorative wooden doorways fitted with etched Belgian glass bearing the crest of the Maharaja of Kolhapur, add to the regal grandeur. Majestic black stone arches form the verandah and the porch. The stained glass windows and the huge tower clock are restored to their original beauty.
The palace has been converted in 1987 into a 3-star hotel and has been used as a background for many films. Because of heavy losses it had to be shut down in 2014 and given over to the Municipality. It is closed by now (March 2018)."
Vishal Desai
"Shalini palace is the one from historical places in Kolhapur near rakankala ... although the area is restricted but still it attracts a lot of people by it's structure and peaceful environment...........!"
Diya Jadhav
"Shalini Palace although it is inaccessible to the public now caught attention from far off. I saw it from the roadside and tried to find it entrance. One of the accesses is via the Rankala Chowpati side. This is limited to taking photos from outside the fence. Yet the views are enjoyable, and it has a clock tower also."
Tushar Suradkar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shalini Palace is located on the western side of Rankala Lake in Kolhapur. You can reach Rankala Lake by auto-rickshaw or taxi from anywhere in the city. The palace is visible from the lake's perimeter.
Parking is available near Rankala Lake, which is adjacent to Shalini Palace. You can find parking spots along the lake road or in designated areas.
Auto-rickshaws are a popular and convenient way to get around Kolhapur. Taxis are also readily available for longer distances or more comfortable travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Unfortunately, Shalini Palace is currently closed to the public for interior visits. You can only view and photograph its exterior from the outside. +1
Since the palace is closed for interior access, there are no official visiting hours. You can view the exterior at any time, but daytime offers the best light for photography. +1
As you can only view the palace from the outside, there is no entry fee. However, there might be nominal charges for parking near Rankala Lake. +1
No, booking tickets is not required as the palace is not open for public entry. You can freely admire its architecture from the surrounding areas. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The most popular and accessible spots for photos are from the banks of Rankala Lake. The lake provides a beautiful foreground and reflection of the palace.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and permissions before flying a drone near Shalini Palace.
The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for capturing the palace's architecture. Daytime provides clear views of the details.
While exterior photography is generally allowed from public areas, it's always good to be mindful of any posted signs or local guidelines.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Shalini Palace was constructed between 1931 and 1934, taking about four years to complete.
The palace was named after Princess Shalini Raje, the daughter of Kolhapur's rulers, Chhatrapati Shahaji II and Queen Pramila Raje.
Shalini Palace showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture, a blend of Indian and European styles, built with black stone and Italian marble.
Historically, it was a royal residence and later converted into a 3-star hotel in 1987. It has also served as a backdrop for numerous films.
The palace had to close down in 2014 due to severe financial losses and was subsequently handed over to the Municipality.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit