New Palace Museum

Former Residence of the Royal Family

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Overview

Housed on the ground floor of the current residence of Shrimant Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj of Kolhapur, the museum displays artefacts and memorabilia belonging to the royal family.

Suggested Duration - 2-3 Hours

What To Expect?

Check out the various royal heirlooms like jewellery, weapons, and coins on display here. Experience the vibe of a Royal Maratha court in session, at the imperious Darbar Hall. Wrap up your visit with a glimpse of the royalty in the photo gallery.

Tips

The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and again from 2:30 p.m. till 6 p.m. on all days except Mondays.
There is a nominal entry fee to the museum.
A section of the museum displays various hunting trophies.
There is also a small lake in the museum premise that hosts several migratory birds.

New Palace Museum Overview: Famous Royal Heritage of Kolhapur

The New Palace Museum in Kolhapur is a splendid blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture and Maratha royalty. Once the residence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, this grand structure now houses rare artefacts, royal memorabilia, and historic weaponry. Surrounded by lush gardens and a serene lake, the palace offers a journey through the regal past of Kolhapur.

New Palace Museum Information

Famous For	Royal artefacts, Maratha history, Indo-Saracenic architecture and the legacy of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj.
Timings	Opens every day except Monday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Best Time to Visit	October to March
Entry Fee	The New Palace Museum ticket price is INR 20 per person.
Time Required	2 to 3 full hours
Nearby Places	Mahalaxmi Temple, Rankala Lake, Town Hall Museum, Malvan, Alibaug, Badami, Pune, Mahabaleshwar and Goa.

All You Need to Know About the New Palace Museum

Built in 1884, the New Palace is an architectural masterpiece, designed by Charles Mant with black polished stone and stained glass windows. The museum within showcases royal costumes, hunting trophies, silver artefacts, and a rare collection of arms. Also, the grand Darbar Hall and intricately carved interiors add to the palace's charm. Moreover, the museum is also home to a stuffed tiger and elephant, souvenirs from royal hunts, and a vintage letter from the British era, offering a glimpse into Kolhapur's glorious past.

New Palace Museum History and Significance

The New Palace served as the residence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, a progressive ruler known for social reforms and education. The museum preserves the legacy of the Maratha Empire and highlights their role in shaping modern Maharashtra. Lastly, it stands as a symbol of Kolhapur's royal heritage and cultural pride.

How to Reach the New Palace Museum, Kolhapur

By Road:Easily accessible by local buses, auto-rickshaws, and private cabs within Kolhapur.
By Rail:Kolhapur Railway Station (3.5 km away) is well-connected to Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru.
By Air:Kolhapur Airport (10 km away) offers flights to major cities like Mumbai and Pune.

Activities to Enjoy at the New Palace Museum

Explore the Museum:Discover royal artefacts, weaponry, and personal items of the royal family.
Admire the Architecture:The Indo-Saracenic design, stained glass windows, and lavish interiors are a treat for architecture buffs.
Photography:Capture the grand facade, intricate details, and surrounding landscapes. Keep in mind that activities like photography may require additional charges.
Walk in the Gardens:Stroll through the well-maintained lawns and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

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