Amir Mahal

Amir Mahal is a historic palace located in Royapettah, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Built in 1798 by the British East India Company in Indo-Saracenic style, it was later handed over to the Nawab of Arcot and remains the official residence of the Prince of Arcot. The palace is notable for its distinctive architecture, heritage value, and continued royal association, representing a significant landmark of Chennai's colonial and princely history.

Visitors can expect to view the exterior of a large Indo-Saracenic palace set within grounds in central Royapettah. The structure features arched facades, minaret-like towers and a fortified appearance. As it is an occupied private residence of the Prince of Arcot, interior access is generally restricted and requires prior permission. Most visitors experience the palace from the outside, observing its architecture, entrance gateway and surroundings.

Amir Mahal was constructed in 1798 by the British East India Company to house administrative offices. Designed in Indo-Saracenic style, it was later in 1876 handed over to Nawab Muhammed Ghouse Khan and his family after the British acquired Chepauk Palace. Since then it has served as the official residence of the Nawab of Arcot and his successors, the Prince of Arcot, continuing as a symbol of the Arcot princely lineage in Tamil Nadu.

The palace is the seat of the Prince of Arcot and represents the cultural heritage of the Arcot Nawabs in Chennai. It is associated with Indo-Islamic traditions, ceremonial functions and community events hosted by the family, and is recognized as an important heritage building reflecting the city's colonial and princely past.