The Splendor of Lukshmi Vilas Palace that dwarfs Buckingham Palace

Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat, is the world’s largest private residence and home to the royal Gaekwad family of Baroda. Spanning 30.5 million square feet, this Indo-Saracenic marvel, built in 1890, features opulent interiors, lush gardens, a golf course, and a historic stepwell. Valued at ₹24,000 crores, it eclipses Buckingham Palace in size. Open for public events, the palace reflects India’s royal heritage and architectural brilliance.

India boasts some of the most opulent private residences in the world, thanks to its wealthy entrepreneurs and celebrities who spare no expense in hiring acclaimed architects. Yet, there exists a unique echelon of homes that surpass mere luxury—they are steeped in history, grandeur, and royal legacy. Among these, the Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat, stands unrivaled. Not only is it the grandest home in India, but it also claims the title of the world’s largest private residence, serving as the seat of the royal Gaekwad family of Baroda.

A Palace Beyond Imagination

Referring to Lukshmi Vilas Palace as a private residence hardly does justice to its magnificence. This colossal structure, valued at an astounding ₹24,000 crores, eclipses even Buckingham Palace in size, with a square footage 36 times larger. It also overshadows Turkey’s White Palace, the world’s second-largest private residence, being ten times more expansive. The palace’s sheer scale and architectural brilliance make it a true marvel of design and heritage.

The History Behind the Gaekwads’ Palace

Commissioned in 1878 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and completed in 1890, this architectural masterpiece was envisioned to symbolize Baroda’s and India’s cultural prowess. Spanning an astonishing 30.5 million square feet, the 135-year-old estate includes not only the palace but also a professional golf course and a historic stepwell (baoli) dating back to the Mughal era. According to the current Maharani of Baroda, Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, the palace’s grandeur is unparalleled. In a recent interview, she remarked, “Even after living here for 23 years, I continue to discover new things about the palace.”

Designed by British architect Major Charles Mant—who was also the mastermind behind several other royal residences in India—the palace’s gardens were meticulously crafted by British landscape architect William Goldring. These gardens, with their lush greenery, water courts, and vibrant flora, continue to encircle the palace, enhancing its timeless charm.

The architectural style of Lukshmi Vilas Palace is Indo-Saracenic, a revivalist blend popular among British architects in 19th-century India. Drawing from Indo-Islamic elements, the style incorporates Gothic revivalist and Neoclassical layouts. As historian Pradip Kumar Das notes, this multicultural approach is evident in every detail of the palace, making it a true fusion of artistic traditions.

A Glimpse Inside the Palace

The interiors of Lukshmi Vilas Palace are equally awe-inspiring. At its heart lies the majestic Durbar Hall, where the Maharaja once held court. This expansive room blends Indian and European influences, featuring Venetian tiles adorned with rangoli motifs, stained glass depicting Hindu deities, and Islamic patterns painted in vibrant lacquer on the ceiling. Wooden balconies overlooking the hall allowed women to observe proceedings discreetly.

Adjacent to this is the resplendent Hatti Hall, named for its association with royal elephant processions, where gold and blue accents create an atmosphere of regal opulence.

In recent years, the royal family has opened parts of the palace to the public. Events such as dance festivals, vintage car exhibitions, and craft fairs offer visitors a chance to experience its grandeur firsthand. As Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad aptly puts it, “Lukshmi Vilas Palace is ultimately for the people of India. We are fortunate to call it home.”

The Royal Residence Today

While the palace houses 170 rooms, only a select few are occupied by the royal family. The private wing, reserved for family and guests, includes luxurious suites, intimate courtyards, lounge areas, a formal living room, and an ornate grand staircase. The current occupants are His Highness Samarjitsinh Ranjitsinh Gaekwad, the Maharaja of Baroda; Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, the Maharani of Baroda; their daughters, Princesses Padmajaraje and Narayaniraje; and Her Highness Shubhanginiraje Gaekwad, the Rajmata of Baroda.

By blending history, culture, and architectural brilliance, Lukshmi Vilas Palace stands as a testament to India’s royal heritage. It is not just a home but a living museum, showcasing the opulence and vision of a bygone era. For those lucky enough to visit, it offers an unforgettable journey into the grandeur of India’s princely past.