The Aina Mahal, or Palace of Mirrors, is an 18th-century palace situated next to Prag Mahal within the Darbargadh complex in Bhuj, Kutch (Gujarat, India). Commissioned around 1750 by Rao Lakhpatji and designed by artisan Ram Singh Malam, it blends local craftsmanship with European decor, featuring glass, mirrors, and tiles in its interiors.
The two-storey palace once served as a royal residence. The first floor includes the Audience Hall, Pleasure Hall, Hall of Mirrors, and State Apartments, where royalty entertained guests; the second floor has the antechamber, Darbar Hall, and Marriage Hall, where court’s ceremonies were held.
Now transformed into a museum, Aina Mahal preserves the opulent lifestyle of Kutch royalty. Its design exemplifies Indo-European architecture, combining stone carvings with wood fretwork (intricate, symmetrical decorative patterns).
A devastating earthquake in 2001 significantly destroyed the Aina Mahal, resulting in the loss of its top storey. The first floor, however, remains open to visitors despite extensive damage.
Join me on a virtual tour of the palace exploring the art, architecture, and grandeur that make this structure a timeless marvel.
A beautifully crafted chariot at the palace entrance
A grand palanquin—its wooden frame adorned with hand-cut mirrors in intricate geometric patterns, creating a dazzling play of light
An antique weighing scale
A wall clock crafted in 1869 by Shri Morarji Lakhamshi Soni, displaying time and the phases of the lunar calendar
Fuvara Mahal, also called Pleasure Hall, served as an entertainment chamber.
It had a large pool with a raised square platform in the centre accessible from three sides. In the middle of this platform was a marble throne, around which were diverse musical instruments. Fountains, or Fuvara, around the throne helped beat the heat through cooling sprays.
Pillars with Chinese-style carvings line the surrounding corridor. Hanging candelabra with 18th-century glass painting of Chinese influence illuminate the chamber.
An array of weapons in the king’s chamber showcase the martial heritage of Kutch royalty and the region’s military prowess. The collection includes ornate spears; daggers and swords featuring intricate hilts and decorative motifs, blending function with artistry; flintlock pistols and muskets; and leather and metal shields.
Hanging candelabra and chandeliers—some made of tinted Venetian glass (glassware made in the island of Murano near Venice, Italy)—evoke the elegance of a bygone era.
The palace floors are laid with blue Delftware (tin-glazed earthenware) tiles, and the marble walls have decorative mirrors with gilded frames, hence the name Mirrored Palace of Bhuj. These mirrors must have created a stunning spectacle in the palace’s heyday. Inbuilt shelves display glassware and ceramics. The pillars and ceilings feature intricate golden mouldings and ornamentation.
Hira Mahal, or the royal bedchamber, located on the first floor, next to the Hall of Mirrors, contains the legendary bed of Maharao Lakhpatji (1752–61), who reportedly used his bed just for a year before auctioning it off to fund his entertainments.
The room features 27 carved wood frame mirrors, each frame with an eye-catching glass inlay work. A single candle can illuminate the entire room through an interplay of light and reflection.
A breathtaking diamond-studded sword gifted by Mughal emperor Alamgir II
The golden ceiling of Hira Mahal—a stunning masterpiece made of intricate gold leaf work—radiates a regal glow. A combination of floral motifs and geometric designs reflect Mughal and European influences.
The palace door, created in 1708, during the reign of Pragmalji I, by carpenter Madho, showcases exceptional craftsmanship with its intricate inlays of ivory and gold.
Aina Mahal, a symbol of Kutch’s royal legacy, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region. By captivating visitors with its splendour, it ensures that the elegance of a bygone era lives on.
The mahal welcomes visitors from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and from 3 to 6 p.m. on all days except Thursdays.
Related posts:
Very nice. Really breathtaking and awesome.
Cool Dev. Going on my bycket list. Will get details from you.
Lovely shots along with your explanation. Tnx for sharing