Ranjit Vilas Palace, Wankaner - Timings, History, Architecture, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 7.5 Km from Wankaner Junction, Ranjit Vilas Palace is a beautiful palace perched on the Gadhio Hills in Wankaner. It is one of the stunning royal palaces in Gujarat, and among the must-include places in the Wankaner heritage packages.

Ranjit Vilas Palace served as the main residence for the royal family of the princely state of Wankaner until 2012. Constructed by Amarsinhji, the building's construction began in 1907 and was completed in 1914 CE. The last ruler of Wankaner, Amarsinhji, was the architect behind the palace's design. The palace is named in honor of Jam Ranjitsinhji, the Maharaja of Jamnagar at the time, who was a close friend of Amarsinhji. The building sustained significant damage during the Gujarat earthquake of 2001.

Spanning over an area of 225 acres, Ranjit Vilas Palace is a blend of Victorian, Mughal, Gothic, and Dutch architectural styles. It is situated on a hill in the Gadhio Hills, and overlooks both the town of Wankaner and the Machchu River. The three-story edifice boasts a Venetian-Gothic facade, intricately carved jharokha balconies typical of Rajput palaces, gothic arches, Doric columns, and Franco-Italian windowpanes. An Italianate marble fountain graces the front garden. The sandstone used in the palace's construction was sourced from quarries within Wankaner State. Additionally, the palace features a clock tower topped with an onion dome, offering a panoramic 360-degree view of the town of Wankaner below.

Much of the palace's decor and furnishings were imported from Europe. The interiors are lavishly adorned, featuring Italian marble flooring, Burma teak furniture, and chandeliers from Murano and Belgium. The palace walls are embellished with what is reputed to be the largest collection of hunting trophies in India. A section of the palace has been converted into a museum, showcasing paintings, armaments, swords, daggers, and numerous stuffed animals. The expansive grounds are captivating, dotted with beautiful Italian fountains throughout the area.

On the palace grounds, one can find the former British Residency, several bungalows, a garage that houses a collection of vintage cars and buggies, and a stable for Kathiawari horses. The garage of this palace contains a 1921 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost, recognized as one of the most impressive cars and horse-drawn carriages. Furthermore, it features a guesthouse referred to as 'The Royal Oasis', which welcomes guests for overnight stays, allowing them to experience royal hospitality.

Since this is a private estate, access to the public is restricted; proper permission must be obtained from the Royal family for visits. Nevertheless, guests residing at the Royal Oasis Hotel in Wankaner can enjoy a complimentary guided tour of the palace.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Need Permission from the Royal Family