The Begum Samru's Palace, also known as Bhagirath Palace, is a historical building located in the bustling Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi. It was once the residence of Begum Samru, a powerful and influential woman from the 18th century. The palace is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture and is a popular tourist attraction in New Delhi.
The Begum Samru's Palace is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day of the week except Mondays.
The entry fee to visit the Begum Samru's Palace is INR 100 for Indian citizens and INR 500 for foreign tourists. There may be additional charges for photography or videography.
It takes about 1-2 hours to explore the Begum Samru's Palace thoroughly. Visitors are not allowed to carry food, drinks, or pets inside the palace premises.
The architecture of Begum Samru's Palace is a blend of Mughal, Rajput, and European styles. The palace features intricately designed marble walls, colorful frescoes, and beautiful arches. The interior of the palace is adorned with ornate carvings and decorative motifs.
The best time to visit the Begum Samru's Palace is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.
The Begum Samru's Palace is easily accessible by road from various parts of Delhi. Visitors can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or public bus to reach the palace. The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk, which is a short walk away from the palace.
Begum Samru, whose real name was Farzana, was a dancer of mixed Indian and European descent who rose to power and established her own principality in the 18th century. She built the palace as her residence and court, where she held lavish gatherings and entertained dignitaries.
Inside the Begum Samru's Palace, visitors can explore the opulent living quarters, the durbar hall where official meetings were conducted, and the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace. There are also displays of artifacts, paintings, and furniture from the time of Begum Samru.
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as the palace grounds involve some walking. Visitors should also carry a bottle of water and sunscreen during the summer months. It is advisable to hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.
Some of the hotels near Begum Samru's Palace are:
Some of the nearby tourist spots of Begum Samru's Palace are: