Hari Niwas Palace

In the early 20th century, Maharaja Hari Singh built this grand palace on the banks of the Tawi River, with views overlooking the city and the Trikuta hills leading to the Vaishno Devi shrine. He ruled from 1922 to 1947, and was known as a progressive and secular ruler. Hari Niwas Palace was designed to reflect both the elegance and modernity of its time. Completed shortly after 1925, it served as the Maharaja’s preferred venue for receptions and leisure until his departure for Bombay following India’s independence in 1947.

Built in an Art Deco style, Hari Niwas Palace was carefully restored and converted into a heritage hotel in 1990 by the descendants of the Maharaja. The palace is now managed by Maharaj Kumar Ajatshatru Singh and his wife, Kumarani Ritu Singh, who have ensured that the architectural integrity of the palace is preserved. Surrounded by mango groves and lush lawns, it remains one of the most luxurious heritage hotels in Jammu and Kashmir and has welcomed numerous distinguished guests over the years.

Hari Niwas Palace is a fine example of Art Deco architecture, built to suit Jammu’s subtropical climate. The two-storey brick-and-plaster building sits on a raised plinth and is approached via a driveway lined with mango trees. The palace has 40 rooms, most offering views of the river valley or the surrounding mountains. Interiors feature Victorian-style décor and polished hardwood floors.

Guests can also enjoy modern amenities, including a well-equipped fitness center, a swimming pool, and beautifully maintained gardens. The palace is wheelchair accessible, with the main building, gardens, and dining areas designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs, ensuring comfort and ease of movement.

Hari Niwas Palace offers several dining options for guests, each with its own character. The on-site Nilaya Restaurant serves Kashmiri, Chinese, Mughlai, and North Indian dishes, with beverages and a focus on wholesome, hygienically prepared food. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet featuring both local and continental options, as well as special kids’ meals.

On the other hand, The Samovar Restaurant offers a wide range of cuisines, including Chinese, Mughlai, Continental, Thai, and Kashmiri, catering to diverse tastes. For a more relaxed outdoor experience, the Garden Restaurant offers Arabic and modern Indian cuisine, set amid the palace’s lush greenery. The Polo Bar then provides a casual spot for fine wine, spirits, finger foods, and cigars, perfect for a light bite or evening refreshments.

Hari Niwas Palace is well set up for big, royal-style weddings. The Royal Banquet area can easily host 1,500 to 2,000 guests in the gardens, so there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy. Inside, the large Durbar Hall can seat about 300 people in theatre-style arrangements, perfect for ceremonies or indoor events. There are also two party rooms, The Magnolia and The Chinar, for intimate weddings. The palace team works closely with you to plan details, from décor and seating to catering, ensuring a perfectly executed and stress-free celebration.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

One of the highlights of Hari Niwas Palace is the Amar Mahal Palace Museum, right on the property. It’s full of artifacts, paintings, and historical pieces from the royal family, so you can spend a few hours exploring and getting a sense of the palace’s history. Guests can relax by the swimming pool, play games in the game room, or take a walk around the mango groves and lawns.

The Royal Health Spa is also on-site and offers all kinds of treatments, combining ancient therapies. On the other hand, the Health Club has a fully equipped gym, steam, sauna, and jacuzzi. There’s even a separate salon and barber shop, so guests can relax and refresh without leaving the property.

Nearby, there’s plenty to see and do. The Ropeway Jammu gives you amazing views of the city and the hills around it. Shri Ranbireshwar Temple is a great spot to soak in the local spiritual vibe. And the Dogra Art Museum is perfect if you want to explore the region’s art and craftsmanship, it’s full of fascinating pieces that tell the story of the Dogra heritage.

Other Celebrations

Hari Niwas Palace is great for smaller celebrations, private get-togethers, or corporate events. The Durbar Hall can be set up for meetings or conferences, while the two party rooms, The Magnolia and The Chinar, are perfect for private dinners or small family gatherings. The gardens and open spaces can also be used for casual outdoor events or team activities, and the palace team is always on hand to help plan and organize things according to your requests.