Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Govindgarh Palace stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and architectural splendour. This majestic structure, once the residence of the Scindia royal family, now captivates visitors with its Rajputana and European styles. The palace, surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the serene Govindgarh Lake, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Indian royalty. Its intricate carvings, grand halls, and period furnishings transport guests to a bygone era. As a hidden gem off the beaten path, Govindgarh Palace provides a unique opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of central India away from the bustling tourist crowds.
About Govindgarh Palace
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Standing tall on the banks of Lake Govindgarh in Madhya Pradesh, the Govindgarh Palace, also known as Gobindgarh Fort, was built in the 19th century by the ruler of Rewa and served as a royal residence for nearly a century.
This palace-like building had many buildings and temples inside it. The impressive Durbar Hall and the beautifully decorated Pili Kothi are some of the interesting parts of the palace. After India became independent, the palace was left empty, and there were ideas to turn it into a museum.
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History Of Govindgarh Palace
The Govindgarh Palace, also known as Gobindgarh Fort, has a rich history connected to the Rewa royal family. It was built in 1853 by Raja Raghuraj Singh as a beautiful summer retreat for the Maharajas of Rewa. Situated by the scenic Govindgarh Lake, the palace complex included many buildings and temples, forming a private royal area.
The palace was a beloved residence for the royals for nearly a hundred years. However, after India gained independence and the princely states declined, Gobindgarh Fort was left empty. In 2018, plans were made to renovate the fort and turn it into a luxury hotel, ensuring its heritage continues in a new way.
Top Places To Visit Nearby Govindgarh Palace
Near Govindgarh Palace, visitors can explore several captivating attractions that glimpse the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Within a short distance of 50 to 80 kilometres, here are some top places to visit:
1. Bhedaghat
Bhedaghat is a town about 20 kilometres from Jabalpur City in Madhya Pradesh. The main attraction is the scenic marble rocks and towering cliffs of white marble that flank the Narmada River. The river cuts through these rocks, creating a picturesque gorge. Tourists can take a boat ride on the Narmada River to examine the marble rocks closely.
The boat ride takes you past some of the most interesting formations, such as “Monkey Rock” and “Elephant Rock,” which are named for their resemblance to these animals. You can also visit the Dhuandhar Falls, a waterfall created by the Narmada River as it plunges over the marble rocks.
Best time to visit: Rainy Season
Timings: From 7 Am
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2. Khajuraho
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Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its cluster of ancient temples. Built between 950 and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty, these temples showcase unique architectural styles and intricate carvings. While some depict scenes from Hindu mythology and daily life, others feature sensuous sculptures that have garnered Khajuraho international fame. Tourists can delight in exploring the three central groups of temples: western, eastern, and southern.
The most extensive western group houses the iconic Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, known for its towering shikhara (spire) and exquisite carvings. A guided tour is a great way to understand the history and symbolism behind the sculptures. Visitors can also attend the light and sound show held in the evenings, which brings the temples’ stories to life. Beyond the temples, Khajuraho offers opportunities to delve into local culture and explore nearby attractions like Panna National Park and Raneh Falls.
Best time to visit: All time
Timings: From 7 Am
3. White Tiger Safari Mukundpur
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The White Tiger Safari, Mukundpur, is a wildlife park and zoo that offers a unique opportunity to see various animals, including the majestic white tiger. The park is named after Mohan, the first white tiger ever sighted in the wild, captured near Mukundpur in 1951. Mohan’s descendants are now part of the breeding program at the White Tiger Safari.
The White Tiger Safari is excellent for a day trip from Govindgarh Palace. Visitors can take a guided safari tour through the park to see animals such as lions, tigers, bears, deer, and many more. The park also has a zoo where visitors can see animals up close. The Mohan White Tiger Exhibit is a special exhibit dedicated to Mohan, the first white tiger ever sighted in the wild. The exhibit tells the story of Mohan’s life and his importance to the conservation of white tigers.
Best time to visit: All time
Timings: 7 Am – 6 Pm
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Govindgarh Palace Timings and Entrance Fees
Govindgarh Palace welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 5:30 PM every day. This historical palace offers free entry, allowing tourists and history enthusiasts to explore its grand architecture and learn about its significance without any admission charges. The palace, known for its cultural heritage and architectural marvels, provides a glimpse into Rewa’s royal history.
Visitors can stroll through its corridors, admire its intricate design, and appreciate the preserved artefacts and exhibits that reflect the opulence of bygone eras. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture or simply looking to immerse yourself in the charm of a royal residence, Govindgarh Palace offers an enriching experience at no cost.
What is the Best Time to Visit the Govindgarh Palace?
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The best time to visit the Govindgarh Palace in Rewa is October to March. This period marks the region’s winter and early spring seasons, characterized by pleasant and comfortable temperatures.
Rewa typically experiences a hot and humid climate for much of the year, particularly during the summer, which can be pretty uncomfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In contrast, the cooler months from October to March provide a more enjoyable environment for exploring attractions like Govindgarh Palace.
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How To Reach the Govindgarh Palace?
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Govindgarh Palace is well-connected to other parts of Madhya Pradesh, allowing you to reach the place easily. Below are the ways to reach the palace:
By Air
The nearest airport to Govindgarh Palace is the Prayagraj Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or other local transportation to reach the palace, ensuring a convenient and comfortable journey to this historic site.
By Train
Rewa Railway Station is the closest railway station to Govindgarh Palace, just 5 kilometres away. You can take an auto-rickshaw from the station to arrive at the castle, which makes train travel a helpful decision.
By Road
Govindgarh Palace is about 13 kilometres from the central city of Rewa. You can get there by taking a taxi or driving your car. You can take many beautiful roads, like NH34 and Bundelkhand Expressway, NH34 and NH135B, or AH1 and NH3023. You’ll see lots of lovely sights on your trip!
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Govindgarh Palace showcases Madhya Pradesh’s rich cultural history and beautiful architecture. It’s a hidden treasure that lets visitors see how royalty lived in the past, blending Rajputana and Mughal styles. The palace has detailed carvings and expansive gardens, each part telling a story of its grand past. Ready to experience the magic of Govindgarh Palace for yourself? Make sure you visit this unique landmark and all the other great things Madhya Pradesh has to see. Book your trip to Madhya Pradesh today and immerse yourself in a world of royal elegance, cultural treasures, and unforgettable experiences. Your adventure through India’s heart awaits!
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Cover Image Credit: Tjsv21 for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Govindgarh Palace
Who built the Govindgarh Palace?
Govindgarh Palace, also known as Gobindgarh Fort, was built in the 19th century by Raja Raghuraj Singh, the ruler of Rewa at that time. The fort-like structure served as a royal residence on the picturesque shores of Lake Govindgarh.
What is Govindgarh famous for?
Govindgarh is famous for the historic Rewa Fort, Baghela’s summer palace, and a secret tunnel connecting it to Rewa.
Is Govindgarh Palace still used by the royal family?
No, Govindgarh Palace is no longer used by the royal family. Following Indian Independence and the decline of the princely state system, the palace was vacated.
Is there an entry fee for Govindgarh Palace?
No, currently there is no entry fee to visit Govindgarh Palace.
Which district is Govindgarh in?
Govindgarh Palace is located in the Rewa district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It's about 18 kilometres away from the city of Rewa itself.
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