About Ranjit Vilas Palace
Ranjit Vilas Palace is a heritage palace situated on a hillock overlooking Wankaner town in Morbi district, Gujarat. Built in 1907 as the residence of Maharana Raj Shri Amarsinhji of Wankaner State, it blends European, Mughal, Venetian and Rajput architectural styles. Now partly operated as a heritage hotel and royal residence, it is notable for its hilltop setting, ornate interiors, vintage car collection and views of the Machchhu River and surrounding landscape.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a hilltop palace complex with Indo-European architecture, arched verandas, jharokhas, domes and ornate interiors. The palace overlooks Wankaner town and the Machchhu River valley. Areas accessible on guided tours or as hotel guests include durbar halls, corridors with royal portraits, antique furniture and a vintage car display. The surroundings are quiet and elevated, offering panoramic views and a glimpse of the former princely state's royal lifestyle.
Key highlights
- 01
Hilltop location with panoramic views of Wankaner and Machchhu River
- 02
1907 palace blending Venetian, Mughal, Rajput and European architectural elements
- 03
Former residence of Wankaner royal family, now partly a heritage hotel
- 04
Collection of vintage cars, royal portraits and period furniture
- 05
Ornate durbar hall, balconies and detailed stone and woodwork
History of Ranjit Vilas Palace
Ranjit Vilas Palace was commissioned by Maharana Raj Shri Amarsinhji, ruler of Wankaner State, and completed in 1907. It served as the royal residence of the Wankaner dynasty, a princely state under British India. The palace was designed with European architectural influence and built as a modern royal residence of its time, reflecting the status and progressive outlook of the Wankaner rulers. It remains in the possession of the former royal family.
Culture & Context
The palace represents the cultural heritage of the former Wankaner princely state and showcases a fusion of Indian and European architectural traditions. It preserves royal artifacts, portraits and customs of the Jhala Rajput dynasty and serves as a heritage hotel that maintains traditional hospitality and conservation of princely heritage in Saurashtra.