Balaram Palace Resort

The construction of Balaram Palace took place between 1922 and 1936, led by the 29th ruler of Palanpur, His Highness Zubd-ul-Mulk Dewan Mahakhan Nawab Sir Taley Muhammad Khan Lohani. Heavily inspired by European aesthetics, the main palace building features Neoclassical and Baroque architecture. The estate itself is spread across 13 acres (5.26 hectares), sitting atop a low hill and surrounded by lush gardens and jungle.

Situated away from Palanpur, the palace was formerly a hunting lodge where the royal family and important guests spent their holidays. They likely conducted their hunts and safaris in the area now protected as the Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary.

Balaram Palace's transition into a heritage stay took place sometime during the 1990s, reflecting a nationwide trend of adapting historic landmarks and properties into luxurious accommodations. Reasons range from using earnings for upkeep to preserving and showcasing family and regional legacy. Other similar properties in Gujarat are Jambughoda Palace in Jambughoda, and The House of MG in Ahmedabad.

Balaram Palace Resort splendidly represents the Neoclassical and Baroque architecture that became popular in British Colonial India, harmoniously combining European aesthetics with royal Indian opulence. Originally designed as the summer retreat of the Royal Family of Palanpur, the palace occupies a beautiful estate outside the city, close to the hills and jungles of the Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary.

Surrounding the palace are gorgeous Mughal-style gardens, following the principles of harmony and geometry, easily seen with the charbagh right in front of the palace. Complementing these are green spaces such as the Crocodile Garden, the Helipad Garden, and the expansive lawns used for ceremonies and gatherings.

For its interior spaces, Balaram Palace’s historic grandeur is carried through its heritage suites and royal rooms. These classic chambers have been carefully restored and retain their original character. The Nawab Suite and Begum Suite, located within the original palace, feature elegant wooden flooring, period furniture, and panoramic views of the gardens, river, and hills. The Royal Suites echo these classical interiors while offering spacious dressing areas and large windows overlooking the palace grounds.

Meanwhile, the Royal Rooms are newly constructed yet also stylistically align with the palace’s aesthetics, featuring imported marble flooring and private balconies. The Royal Tents, on the other hand, bring a modern, luxurious twist to outdoor living, furnished with tiled floors and surrounded by landscaped lawns. The Heritage Rooms, also located in the original structure, preserve the warmth of wood and the ambiance of old-world royalty through the use of antique furniture and decor.

Chitrasani Restaurant

Balaram Palace Resort's indoor multicuisine restaurant, specializing in vegetarian Gujarati, Indian, and Chinese cuisine. Mix and match the enticing and exquisite dishes from the extensive menu; start your meal with a bowl of sweet corn soup and a plate of chaat, before moving on to a plate of fried rice and vegetable sizzlers.

Chitrasani Coffee Shop

Delight in a wide range of Indian, Chinese, and Continental snack items enjoyed with your preferred beverage. Aside from juice and soda, the cafe also has mocktails, as well as tea or coffee blends available.

Aside from the aforementioned establishments, guests can also take a breather to admire the evening view at the palace terrace's Sunset Cafe, open every 5 pm until 6 pm, and served with complimentary tea or coffee. For romantic celebrations, you may also arrange a special candlelit dinner in the garden, served with delectable dishes prepared by Chitrasani Restaurant.

The base package for a destination wedding at Balaram Palace Resort, granting use of one lawn area for up to 110 guests. Catering will be covered by Chitrasani Restaurant, while decoration will be set up by the resort's partner services. If you'd like to further customize your celebration, reach out to the resort via their website or email.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Balaram Palace Resort isn't just a holiday getaway; it's also a gateway to numerous adventures in and around Palanpur.

The palace offers several on-site activities with its wide range of facilities and services. Play some sports with friends, family, and other guests, such as table tennis, volleyball, and carrom. For the fitness-minded, the resort has a large outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, as well as regular yoga classes. You can even sign up for a signature Balaram bread-making lesson if you like their special breads.

If you'd like to explore the nearby areas, you can rent a bicycle, or book a special picnic day trip. The picnic covers a nature walk, as well as meals for the day, from breakfast to dinner. Other fun activities you can sign up for include pottery classes, horse rides, and camel cart rides. Adventurous spirits can also try some rappelling and mountain trekking.

Companies can also turn Balaram Palace Resort into the venue for their corporate retreat. The vast grounds provide various opportunities for team-building activities such as yoga classes, sports competitions, and village culture visits. The palace also offers conference packages as well as a variety of venues; the indoor conference halls are suitable if you'd rather conduct your session in an air-conditioned location, while the gardens make for a great outdoor setting for exciting competitions and celebrations.