Ruthi Rani Mahal

Ruthi Rani Mahal is a ruined historic palace located on Idariyo Gadh hill within the Idar Fort complex in Idar, Sabarkantha district, Gujarat. Perched atop the rocky hill overlooking Idar town, it is known for its stone architecture and association with local royal folklore. The palace is in a dilapidated state but remains a notable heritage attraction within the fort, offering panoramic views and insight into the region's former princely history.

Visitors can expect a ruined stone palace structure on the hilltop of Idar Fort, accessible via a steep trek with stone steps and rocky paths. The site consists of dilapidated walls, arches and chambers with no roof in parts, set amid boulders and scrub vegetation. The surroundings offer panoramic views of Idar town, lakes and the Aravalli hills. There are no maintained interiors or museums; the visit is primarily for sightseeing, photography and exploring the fort complex.

Ruthi Rani Mahal is part of the Idar Fort (Idariyo Gadh) complex, historically associated with the princely state of Idar ruled by Rathore dynasty. The palace is linked by local legend to a queen known as Ruthi Rani who is said to have left the palace due to displeasure, after which it remained unoccupied and fell into ruin. The fort and palace structures reflect the region's medieval hill-fort architecture and princely heritage.

The palace holds local cultural significance as part of Idar's heritage and folklore, often narrated to visitors as the story of the Ruthi Rani. It is a recognized heritage site within the Idar Fort complex that represents the historical identity of Idar town and is visited as part of cultural and heritage tourism in Sabarkantha.