1N/2DKutchAina Mahal, Bhuj
An 18th-century hall of mirrors in the old palace complex of Bhuj
- Type
- Palace museum
- Location
- Bhuj, Kutch
- Time needed
- 1 hour
- Best time to visit
- October to March, in the morning
About Aina Mahal
The Aina Mahal, or Palace of Mirrors, stands in the old palace complex of Bhuj, next to the Prag Mahal. It was built in the 18th century under Rao Lakhpatji, one of the rulers of Kutch. The palace was designed by Ramsinh Malam, a local craftsman who is said to have learnt glass-making and other European skills during years spent abroad.
The inside is decorated with mirrors, glass, gilt and painted panels. The best known room has a raised platform surrounded by fountains and a hall lined with mirrors, built for the ruler to enjoy music and poetry. Other rooms display European clocks, tiles, paintings, royal clothes and a long scroll showing a royal procession.
The 2001 earthquake badly damaged the building, and only part of it is open today. Even so, it gives a good picture of the taste and wealth of the Kutch court, and it takes little time to see.
Things to do at Aina Mahal
- See the hall of mirrors and the fountain room
- Look at the long painted scroll of a royal procession
- See the European clocks, tiles and glasswork
- Combine the visit with the Prag Mahal next door
How to reach Aina Mahal
- It is in the old town of Bhuj, near Hamirsar lake. An auto-rickshaw from anywhere in town takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips before you go
- Timings and the weekly closing day change. Confirm them locally before you go.
- Photography may be restricted or charged separately inside.
- Wear comfortable footwear; the old town lanes are narrow and uneven.
Packages that cover Aina Mahal
1N/2DKutch
2N/3DKutch
3N/4DKutchKutch with Dholavira
2N Bhuj · 1N Dholavira- Hotels
- Meals
- Transfers
- Sightseeing
Starts from
₹11,999
per person
Nearby places to visit
Palace · Bhuj
Prag Mahal
A 19th-century palace in Italian Gothic style, with a grand durbar hall and a clock tower that looks out over Bhuj.
Time needed: 1 hourRead more →Must visit
Heritage town
Bhuj
The main town and base for Kutch, with the Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal palaces, Hamirsar lake and the Smritivan memorial.
Time needed: 1 dayRead more →Memorial and museum · Bhuj
Smritivan Earthquake Memorial
A memorial park and museum on Bhujiyo Dungar, remembering the people who died in the 2001 Gujarat earthquake.
Time needed: 2 to 3 hoursRead more →Aina Mahal: FAQs
Who built the Aina Mahal in Bhuj?
It was built in the 18th century under Rao Lakhpatji of Kutch, with the craftsman Ramsinh Malam leading the design and decoration.
Is the Aina Mahal open after the earthquake?
Yes, part of the palace is open as a museum. Some areas damaged in the 2001 earthquake remain closed.