Badal Mahal

Badal Mahal, also known as the Palace of Clouds, is situated at the highest point within the Kumbhalgarh Fort complex in Rajasthan. Built by Maharana Fateh Singh in the 19th century, this two-storied palace features pastel-colored murals and intricate stone lattice screens. The palace is divided into Mardana Mahal for men and Zanana Mahal for women, offering panoramic views of the Aravalli Hills and surrounding landscape.

Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated interiors with 19th-century wall paintings and pastel-colored murals. The palace offers breathtaking bird's-eye views of the fort complex, jungle-covered hillsides, and the Marwar desert towards Jodhpur. Visitors must climb narrow stairs through dark corridors to reach the terrace. The stone jali screens in the Zanana section allowed royal women to observe court proceedings privately.

Built by Maharana Fateh Singh (AD 1885-1930) in the 19th century as a summer retreat for the royal family. The palace is located within Kumbhalgarh Fort, which was constructed in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha and is the birthplace of legendary Mewar king Maharana Pratap. The fort served as a refuge for Mewar rulers during times of strife.

Represents Rajput architectural excellence combining Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The palace demonstrates traditional royal living arrangements with separate sections for male and female family members. It holds cultural importance as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kumbhalgarh Fort.