Maharaja Umaid Singh, an admirer of western lifestyles hired a famous Edwardian architect, Henry Vaughan Lanchester, for Umaid Bhavan Palace, Jodhpur. The maharaja got the palace constructed with the intention of providing employment to famine stricken farmers. The palace consists of 347 rooms. Jodhpur Umaid Bhawan Palace was one of the last palaces to be built in India.

The attractions of the palace include the Throne Room (housing fascinating Ramayana murals), a wood-paneled library, a private museum; an indoor swimming pool, a Billiards room, tennis courts and marble squash courts. The Palace has now been converted into five star deluxe palace hotel. The Umaid Bhavan Palace of Rajasthan also houses a museum. On display, in the museum, are an array of weapons, stuffed leopards, clocks and a huge banner presented by Queen Victoria.

A stay in Umaid Bhawan Palace would transport you to the royal world and give you a taste of their lifestyle. The Umaid Bhawan Palace has a combination of rooms and suites:

Maharaja Suite: The once Maharaja Umaid Singh's own suite. Typically masculine, the suite is decorated with murals of leopards from Africa, tigers and horses.

Maharani Suite: Once the private chamber of the Maharani of Jodhpur. Typically feminine, the suite is done up in pink, black and chrome. With a private drawing room, dining room and a little kitchenette, the suite is complete. Overlooking the beautiful gardens and the Mehrangarh Fort.