New Palace Museum and Zoo Tourism

The New Palace Museum and Zoo located in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, is a historical building that doubles as a palace and a museum. Constructed in 1884 by Chhatrapati Shahu, the Maharaja of the Principality of Kolhapur, the New Palace is a splendid example of Indian architecture with a mix of Rajasthani, Gujarati, and local styles. The museum inside the palace showcases the possessions of the Kolhapur rulers including costumes, weapons, games, jewelry, embroidery, and artifacts from the royal court. A highlight of the museum is the Darbar Hall which still holds the throne that was used by the Maharajas. The building's façade is characterized by intricate woodwork and the museum has several galleries that are artfully designed. Adjacent to the palace is the New Palace Zoo, which was established for the recreation of the royal family and later opened to the public. It is one of the older and well-maintained zoos in India, housing a variety of species.