Amar Mahal, located in Jammu, is a palace depicting the grandeur of an erstwhile era. It was constructed by a French architect, Raja Amar Singh, of the Dogra dynasty. The architecture of this palace resembles the grand chateaus of France, and it is made of red sandstone, which is a real visual treat. Moreover, the scenic background of the place enhances the beauty of the palace manifolds. The sight of the River Tawi flowing below and the Shivaliks in the north is a delight.
Dr. Karan Singh donated this palace to the charitable trust of Hari-Tara. At present, this trust is responsible for the maintenance of this palace. Amar Mahal Palace, at present, has been transformed into a museum. It also plays host to a well-stocked library.
The Art Gallery in Amar Mahal in Jammu
Amar Mahal's Art Galleries play host to Indian art and artists. The galleries display various paintings created in different styles, showcasing an ethnic environment along with a touch of a modern art. On the one hand, the Indian miniature paintings of the Kangra style will fascinate you. On the other hand, you will find the current art collection, including works by celebrated artists like -
- M.F. Hussain
- G.R. Santosh
- J. Swaminathan
- Bikash Bhattacharjee
- Laxman Pai
- Ram Kumar
In addition, the exhibits also consist of family sketches of the monarchs of Jammu and Kashmir.
Library in Amar Mahal in Jammu
The book collection in the library of Amar Mahal is wide.. You will find books on philosophy, religion, and political science, apart from fiction and other works by some of the best-selling international authors. Covering the first and second floors, the library of Amar Mahal has an envious collection of over 20,000 books, and it also includes some rare titles from Raja Amar Singh's Library.
Famous Attraction in Amar Mahal in Jammu
Another big attraction of this palace is the suite of Maharani Tara Devi. It has been preserved painstakingly to give a glimpse of the royal life. You will be speechless to witness the sheer luxury of antique furniture, period photographs, the silver bedspread, Maharani's clothing, and the exclusive Victorian bathroom. Even the decoration crown of India is also on display, which she obtained in 1945.
How to reach Amar Mahal in Jammu?
You can take auto rickshaws from anywhere in Jammu to reach Amar Mahal Palace. These auto-rickshaws will bring you to this place at a nominal cost. Minibusses also run on this route. However, as they can not enter the palace premises, you will need to walk up to the palace.
Timings- 8 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fee-
- Foreigners – INR 550 per person
- Foreign Students – INR 100 per person
- Indians – INR 50 per person
- Indian Students – INR 10 per person
