Taj Usha Kiran Palace, like first ray of Sun, a translation of its evocative name - rises on the Gwalior horizon inviting global travellers to experience the artistic opulence, royal lineage and exceptional musical legacy of central India. Taj Usha Kiran Palace transports guests to a bygone era of nobility and genteel glamour.
Spread over nine acres of landscaped estate in Gwalior, adjacent to The Jai Vilas Palace, The Usha Kiran Palace was built in 1880 by HH Maharaja Jayaji Rao Scindia of the Maratha dynasty and has hosted royalty and dignitaries on myriad occasions. Overlooking the Gwalior Fort - one of India’s most impenetrable fortresses, Taj Usha Kiran Palace echoes the valour of the city’s erstwhile rulers, engulfing guests in an ethereal time capsule.
The moment you arrive at the Palace, you’re welcomed in a ceremonial horse-drawn carriage following in the footsteps of world dignitaries who have visited the Palace through the decades. Meticulously restored, the Palace retains its a profound sense of history, with a flourish of contemporary tropical style and luxurious amenities. Earthy ochre and fresh green palette in the lobby mirrors, manicured gardens with swaying palms, spectacular Navtal Swimming Pool, landscape of bridges and moats with peripheral child pool and lounging deck, are at the heart of the Palace’s public spaces. The progressive and artistic history of the Scindias unfolds on guided heritage walks within the Palace. The walks conducted by our historian replete with intriguing tales of century old elevator made by Marryat & Scott Ltd, London and vintage letter boxes, transport you into a mesmerising world. The Palace immerses guests in Gwalior’s exceptional lineage of craft, architecture and rich textiles, while reverberating with an inimitable musical heritage reflecting the Gwalior gharana - A fountainhead of Indian Classical Music.
With 50 guest rooms including immaculately appointed pool-facing luxury tents that offer a glamping experience, the Palace provides for intimate getaways as well as grand celebrations.
A tribute to the glorious Maratha royal heritage, the Palace offers finest dining experiences with its closely guarded royal delicacies, robust home-style regional dishes and global cuisine served at Silver Saloon, the all-day diner. Bada Bar, designed for refined socializing over a prized selection of wine and liqueurs, reveals a secret private spot tucked away within its retro-luxe interiors. The Palace’s impeccably manicured lawns serve as magical outdoor venue that can host grandest of events. The State Room – a ballroom evoking royal grandeur provides for an exceptional venue for corporate and social gatherings.
The Palace offers a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a royal J Wellness Circle Spa, which envelopes you in ancient Indian wellness therapies with its signature treatments that harmonise your mind and body. Our concierge would be happy to arrange a city tour for your group, and all else your heart desires.
The Palace invites you to experience the finest traditions of Maratha hospitality and get a glimpse in to a bygone era leaving you enchanted for a lifetime.
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Luxury Rooms offer princely-inspired décor and each room is unique in size and is adorned with traditional motifs and dark teak furniture. Hand-painted murals and elegant cove-lighting keep the mood regal and sophisticated. Contemporary comforts amidst an old-world charm make these the perfect palatial retreat.
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A sophisticated ivory and soft pastel colour palette sets the tone for quiet luxury at these grand luxury rooms. Marble flooring, dark stained shutter doors and arch patterned columns ensconce you in a distinctively Gwalior aesthetic. Custom-designed nature-inspired prints introduce an element of freshness and sophistication in the décor. Features include a four poster bed with luxurious bedding, an ergonomic work desk, cosy sitting area with couches and vintage wooden mini bar. The three-fixture bathroom has geometric handcrafted tiles, a marble counter with Venetian mirror and luxe toiletries. Intuitive housekeeping and in-room dining services make your stay here authentically royal.
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Palace rooms usher you into understated princely glamour, highlighted by warm, welcoming interiors. Carefully-preserved and restored period furniture - from the four poster bed to chairs and couches with traditional bolsters – evoke an era of gentility. At the same time, top-of-the-line modern amenities, including LCD television, smart custom lighting and glass-walled bathroom with luxe fixtures and premium bath amenities keep you luxuriously anchored to the present. Local artwork framed by the state’s iconic chanderi fabric keeps you engrossed in the region’s fascinating history. Our courteous housekeeping and in-room dining staff ensure a marvellous stay.
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Fringing the Navtaal swimming pool, surrounded by swaying palms and manicured gardens, our luxury tents offer a unique glamping opportunity in an authentic royal setting. Blending a breezy bucolic vibe with decadence and modern amenities, they’re designed to impress, while offering complete privacy. Evoking 19th century imperial nuptials, when royal families were invited to the palace and allotted specific tents to camp in, these modern versions are sought after for unforgettable palace experience. Each of the tents is divided into a spacious sit out with plush armchairs, a four poster bed, writing desk and three-fixture bathroom. A chandelier, teak wood flooring with soft rigs and restored wooden furniture add gravitas and elegance to the white canopied space. A breezy patio is designed to savour meals and refreshments while taking in the splendour of the palace.
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The suites exemplify the adage ‘Luxury is in the details’. From photographs of the Scindia family on the walls - custom- framed in vibrant chanderi silk - to the delicate floral wallpaper and modishly tiled floor, every element in the room is specially curated to immerse you in Gwalior’s rich culture. Top-of-the-line modern amenities include LCD television, complimentary WiFi internet and a sparkling four-fixture bathroom with a Venetian glass mirror and marble vanity counter. These are 1-room suites divided into a living room and a bedroom. And each suite is unique, with an exclusive colour scheme or princely passion theme.
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Suites pays homage to the Maratha Empire that shaped the Scindia dynasty, laying the foundation of modern India. Hailing from the small village of Kanherkhed in Western India, the Scindias were drawn to warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s war cry of independence in the 17th century. Several members of the family fought with bravery and dedication in the mighty Maratha army, rising to prominence by the dawn of the 18th century. Each suite is unique, with an exclusive colour scheme or princely passion theme with custom-crafted motifs that infuses the suite with a regal aura. Modern amenities, including an LCD television, complimentary Wifi Internet, mini bar, an immaculate bathroom keep you ensconced in comfort, even as the suite narrates thrilling adventures of a bygone era. The bathroom evokes minimalist luxury, with marble flooring, striking brass sinks, gilded mirror, walk-in shower and luxe toiletries. Modern amenities, including an LCD television, complimentary Wifi Internet, mini bar and impeccable service elevate your stay at these suite to an aristocratic experience.Suite Names are Maratha, Maharani & Gwalior.
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The one-bedroom villa with a private plunge pool offers a romantic world of princely luxury and modern comforts. Vintage dark wood furniture, retro tiled floors and the palace’s signature scalloped arches are offset by palette of blues, pinks and emerald green. A stunning chandelier further illuminates the sun-bathed living room. The bedroom is lorded over by a canopied bed and hand-crafted vintage wardrobes, surrounded by exquisite artwork on the walls. The four fixture bathroom with chic marble floors, life-size mirrors and vanity area forms an immersive space of its own, as does the breezy poolside space with cast iron loungers. Relax, play and entertain in this beautiful residence surrounded by Gwalior’s rich history showcased through chanderi silk-framed local art and royal family photographs. Elevate the senses while lounging in your private plunge pool and for those who wish to dine while they indulge in their exclusive space, our extensive menu and impeccable service make in-room dining a signature experience at the Palace.
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The Two Bedroom Villa is at once, a resplendent showcase of Gwalior’s rich tapestry of arts and crafts, while being an impressively warm place to call home. Evoking the charm of a tropical summer retreat with a medley of aquamarine, mint and salmon pink, the two-bedroom residence with a private plunge pool and sun-bathing loungers is a treat for the senses. Alongside stained timbre furniture, sandstone and marble flooring and the hand-painted decorative ceiling, Nature plays a major role in the breezy vibe of the villa, from a flurry of outdoor and potted plants to floral decor accents. Once you settle into the villa, observe the finer details; Pichwai art on the walls, zardosi and chanderi-framed photographs of the Scindia dynasty and the green and white marble flooring in the exquisite four fixture bathroom. With gorgeously-appointed private spaces for a family – two bedrooms, a living room with a separate area to entertain guests and vanity areas – a stay at the Villa is an experience to be cherished for a lifetime. Rejuvenate your spirit in the immersive plunge pool, while you take in the elements of your private courtyard, a space earmarked for creating memories.
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Flamboyantly framed by scalloped arches, Presidential Suite serves up the city’s most salubrious views of the historic, blue-tiled Gwalior Fort. The panorama will define your stay at this extravagant 170 square meter residence on the third level of the palace. An elegant gallery – propped with lush cushions and silken bolsters on traditional divans is designed for you to bask in glorious sunrises and dreamy sunsets; a sovereign looking over his or her kingdom, with a designated butler at your service. A living room, dining area, bedroom and a private terrace for entertaining guests complete this expansive residence. The show-stopping bathroom has separate ‘his and her’ sinks, a resplendent bathtub and local tiled flooring. With the delicate fragrance of frangipani wafting in from the palace gardens and key elements of Gwalior’s culture and history – showcased in artwork and period furniture – your stay at this splendid suite promises to be an treasured experience.
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Tripadvisor Travellers' choice 2023
Tripadvisor Travellers’ choice award 2021
Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice 2020
Taj Usha Kiran Palace, Gwalior is conveniently located within touching distance to prominent tourist attractions in and around Gwalior. At 325 kms, our 5 star hotel in Gwalior is also the perfect destination for a blissful getaway from Delhi. Enjoy our warm hospitality and service that make you feel at home. Explore the all meals inclusive 4D Travel offer to plan your next stay.