Govindgarh Palace



Govindgarh Palace, Rewa, Madhya Pradesh

Information on Govindgarh Palace (Rewa, Madhya Pradesh) - History & Architecture


Govindgarh Palace is regarded as a personal museum of the sovereigns of Rewa. It is situated in the banks of Govindgarh Lake in Rewa of Madhya Pradesh. The lake was believed to be made by the rulers of Baghola. The palace is bounded by several stunning cascades viz. Keonti, Bachuti and Chachai among others. Furthermore, it is the place where two rivers namely Bihad and Pichiya had united together.

Govindgarh Palace Architecture

Govindgarh Palace is well built with lovely architecture all around its structure. It is a typical component of primitive architecture and over years, Govindgarh Palace was developed by new rulers. Thus, every portion of the palace imitate diverse eras and diverse architectural style, making the palace an exclusive one. The most attractive part of Govindgarh Palace is 'Durbar Hall'. Besides, there is a place named, 'Pili Kothi' in Govindgarh Palace, which is an outer house and presently hosts the museum. In the museum, there are various private collections of royal family. The key attractions of the museum are replete white tiger, gold and silver elephant seat and dual barrel gun. There is a covert passageway in the palace which was used as a secret route by the rulers of Rewa. There are also various temples in Govindgarh Palace for instance, Chowandi temple and Hanuman temple among others. Furthermore, Panchmukhi temple and Shiva temple rests in near to each other in Govindgarh Palace.

Govindgarh Palace is a good specimen of Indian architectural style. It is created over small upland and is enclosed by a beautiful lake. This lake complements more beauty to the nearby parts of the palace. Moreover, the palace is also characterised by natural attractiveness. Initially, Govindgarh Palace was created as a hunting cottage for the kings. A contiguous jungle was created inside the palace and there was various animals which were raised in the zoo of the palace. However, at later phase, the palace become a museum. At present, the Department of Tourism of Madhya Pradesh has decided to transform the palace into a heritage hotel and resort.

Govindgarh Palace History

As stated above, Govindgarh Palace was created by the rulers of Rewa in the year 1882 AD. Rewa was believed to be the earliest capital of Baghelkhand. The history of this place can be traced back to the primeval period which was ruled by Baghela kings. Later, an empire similar to Chandels and Kalchuris also ruled this area during the 5th and 10th centuries and provided a rich architectural style. According to legends, throughout 3rd century BC, the existing lands of Rewa district was governed by Maurya rulers.

The museum inside the palace also has significant history itself. The museum is famous as the first museum in India to house white tiger. In the year 1952, a white tiger was also recovered from the nearby jungle of Govindgarh Palace. The local people gave the tiger title of Mohan.

Govindgarh Palace Tourism Importance

Govindgarh Palace is regarded as an important place for tourism. It is a famous historical site where tourists can find attractive places to visit, such as temples, park and museum among others. Furthermore, the nearby beauties of Govindgarh Palace is also fascinating for travellers. Besides, there is also small islands which have been created near the Govindgarh Lake for the purpose of tourism.