Vijay Vilas Palace
Palitana

Nestled near the quaint town of Palitana, about 4 km away, this early 20th-century summer retreat was commissioned in 1906 by the Maharao of Kutch for his heir, Yuvraj Vijayaraji, and completed in 1929. Built in warm red sandstone, the palace blends Rajput and Bengali architectural influences, domes, ornate jharokhas, chhatris, intricate jalis and stained-glass windows crafted by master artisans from Rajasthan, Bengal, Saurashtra and Kutch.

Set across six acres of rose-scented gardens, with marble fountains and meandering peacocks, the palace retains a lived-in grandeur. You’re not just visiting history, you’re sleeping in it. The seven heritage cottages are gently faded in the most romantic way; tastefully furnished, with en-suite bathrooms, cool stone verandas and sweeping views toward the sacred hills.

Dining at Vijay Vilas Palace is a homely affair. Meals are typically served in the palace’s simple yet elegant dining room or al fresco in the gardens, where guests enjoy traditional Gujarati thalis, freshly made chapatis and vegetables sourced from local markets or grown on-site. The experience feels more like dining with a noble host than at a hotel buffet, flavours are authentic, service is warm and timings are often tailored to your temple visits or travel plans. While alcohol isn’t prominently advertised or available on display, it may be possible to enjoy a quiet drink on request; as always in heritage or semi-religious settings in Gujarat, discretion and moderation are appreciated.

Just 10 minutes from Palitana, Vijay Vilas Palace is the ideal base for pilgrims making the revered ascent to Shatrunjaya’s 900-plus Jain temples. Begin your journey from the palace’s peaceful grounds, where the hilltop temples glow softly in the morning light, adding a spiritual poetry to every step. This is a deeply quiet place, perfect for travellers looking to exhale after a temple climb or long journey. Hidden corners invite quiet reading, writing or afternoon tea as birdsong drifts on the breeze. Shared spaces include tennis courts, stables and old garages, a nod to a regal past.

Guests can explore the palace interiors and small museum, enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop or wander down to the royal family's private stretch of Arabian Sea coastline. Few know that air-conditioned tents by the beach offer a unique seaside stay, complete with candle-lit dinners under the stars. The cinematic charm is no surprise, Bollywood titles Lagaan, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Commando were all filmed here, using its arched verandas, marble courtyards and lush lawns as their backdrop.

Despite its opulence, the palace remains refreshingly unpretentious. Faded facades and timeworn details lend it authenticity, a sense of place that hasn’t been scrubbed of its soul.

Whether you’re a spiritual pilgrim, heritage enthusiast or simply seeking a slower, more meaningful escape in Gujarat, Vijay Vilas Palace offers a rare combination of cultural immersion, architectural splendour and old-world serenity.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson