A legacy of royalty
The story of Mubarak Mandi Palace begins in 1710 when Raja Dhruv Dev laid its foundation. Over the centuries, successive rulers embellished the palace, expanding its magnificence. Maharaja Ranbir Singh, during his reign from 1856 to 1885, erected glorious palaces within the complex for himself, his queen, and his sons. These additions, such as the Gole Ghar and the Sheesh Mahal, adorned the palace grounds, reflecting the prosperity and artistic finesse of the era. In 1925, the royal residence shifted to the Hari Niwas Palace but the complex retained its significance as the political centre. Today, while sections of the palace house government offices, courts and a museum, the aura of regality still lingers amidst its corridors.
Architectural splendour
The Mubarak Mandi Palace is a confluence of architectural styles. The complex is grouped around several courtyards and includes various buildings and palaces like the Darbar Hall Complex, the Pink Palace, Royal Courts buildings, Gol Ghar Complex, Nawa Mahal, Rani Charak Palace, Hawa Mahal, the Tosha Khana palace and the Sheesh Mahal.
Within the palace confines lies the Dogra Art Museum, housed in the enchanting Pink Hall. Here, a treasure trove of miniature paintings showcases the heritage of the region, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich artistic traditions. Meanwhile, the Sheesh Mahal, crafted entirely of glass, mesmerizes with its exquisite craftsmanship.