Samode Palace is a heritage palace located in the village of Samode in the Jaipur district of Rajasthan, India. Originally built as a Rajput nobleman's residence, the palace has been converted into a heritage hotel and is regarded as one of the prominent examples of Rajput–Mughal architectural fusion in the Shekhawati region's vicinity.
| Name | Samode Palace |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage palace and hotel |
| Location | Samode village, Jaipur district, Rajasthan, India |
| Architectural style | Rajput–Mughal (Indo-Saracenic influences) |
| Original use | Residence of the Rawal Sahibs of Samode |
| Current use | Heritage hotel |
The palace stands at the foot of the Aravalli hills, approximately 40 kilometres north of Jaipur city. The Samode estate was historically a feudatory of the princely state of Jaipur, and the Rawal of Samode held a senior position among the nobles of the Jaipur court. The palace served as the principal residence of the ruling family and as a centre of administration for the surrounding territory.
Samode Palace is built around a series of courtyards and terraces, with painted halls, intricately decorated walls, and mirror work characteristic of Rajasthani palatial architecture. Among its most noted interiors is the Durbar Hall, decorated with elaborate frescoes, mirror inlay and gilded ornamentation. The Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) is another prominent feature, with painted floral motifs and traditional Rajput murals depicting court life and religious themes.
The structure incorporates jharokhas, arched colonnades, and ornamental gateways. A flight of stone steps leads up to the main entrance, lending the palace a fortified appearance against the hillside backdrop.
Two other heritage properties are associated with the Samode estate and are operated alongside the palace:
Samode Palace was adapted for use as a heritage hotel by the descendants of the original ruling family. It offers guest accommodation within restored sections of the palace while preserving the painted halls and historical interiors. The property has been used as a location for film shoots, fashion photography and destination weddings, and is part of the wider heritage tourism circuit of Rajasthan.
Samode is reached by road from Jaipur, the nearest major city, which is connected by rail and air to the rest of India. The Shekhawati region, known for its painted havelis, lies further to the north and west of Samode.