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By Official Rann Utsav – The Tent City · Updated August 2026
Vijay Vilas Palace is a 1920s royal summer palace built in Rajput style at Mandvi, on the Arabian Sea coast of Kutch, Gujarat — about 60 km from Bhuj, and famous as a filming location for Lagaan and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam.
| Location | Mandvi, Kutch, Gujarat (beside Mandvi Beach) |
|---|---|
| Built | 1920–1929, under Maharao Khengarji III |
| Distance from Bhuj | ~60 km · about 1.5-hour drive |
| How to reach | Bus or taxi from Bhuj — see our route guide |
| Best time | November–February (Rann Utsav season) |
| Nearby | Mandvi Beach, Mandvi shipbuilding yard |
| Plan your stay | Rann Utsav packages |
My visit to Vijay Vilas will always remain special, right from exploring locations that became an integral backdrop for iconic Bollywood films, to playing live music in the presence of its visitors. Built in 1929 by Maharao Vijay Singhii, the palace is an eclectic blend of architectural styles, offering a panoramic view of the sea and is a favourite destination of Hindi filmmakers.
The palace was built during reign of Maharao Shri Khengarji III, the Maharao of Kutch, as a summer resort. The palace has been named after Yuvraj Shri Vijayaraji, the son of Maharao Shri Khengarji III. The construction of this palace began in 1920 and was completed in year 1929.
The palace is set in the middle of well-laid gardens with water channels and marble fountains replete with carved stone works of Jalis, Jharokas, Chhatris, Chhajas, murals and many other artistic stone carvings, colored glass work on windows and door panels. The campus also houses a Chhatri i.e. royal umbrella of Vijayaraji, the prince who loved this palace and passed away in 1948.
I still wonder how architects and craftsmen from places like Jaipur, Rajasthan, Bengal and Saurashtra, and local Kutchi artisan community, the Mistris of Kutch and Suthars came together to create such a marvelous palace!
For the Bollywood buffs, the song ‘Chand chupa baadal mein’ from ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’ by Sanjay Leela Bhansali was shot in Vijay Vilas Palace and even the popular dinner scene from the film was shot here. The song, ‘Saree ke fall sa’ from ‘R….Rajkumar’ was also at Vijay Vilas Palace. Now I am sure you’re going to check them out on YouTube. How about planning a trip here? Enjoy!
Planning to explore Kutch? Plan your Rann Utsav trip and reserve your Tent City stay.
About Vijay Vilas Palace
Vijay Vilas Palace is a striking early-20th-century royal summer palace set amid gardens on the coast at Mandvi, in the Kutch district of Gujarat. Built by the rulers of Kutch, it is one of the most photographed heritage landmarks in the region and a favourite stop for visitors exploring the best places to visit in Kutch.
History of Vijay Vilas Palace
Construction began in 1920 and was completed in 1929, during the reign of Maharao Khengarji III. The palace was built as a summer retreat for his heir, Yuvraj Vijayaraji, after whom it is named. After the 2001 Gujarat earthquake damaged the Ranjit Vilas Palace in Bhuj, the royal family made Vijay Vilas their principal residence for a time.
Architecture
The palace is a fine example of Rajput palace architecture, inspired by the royal buildings of Orchha and Datia. Built from red sandstone, it features a central high dome supported by pillars, Bengal-style domes on the sides, windows set with coloured glass, intricately carved stone jalis, and corner bastions. Craftsmen from Jaipur, Bengal, Saurashtra and Kutch created its murals and stonework. The grounds include water channels, marble fountains, a private beach, and a rooftop balcony with panoramic sea views.
Films Shot at Vijay Vilas Palace
The palace and its beach have featured in several well-known films, including Lagaan, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Commando, along with a number of Gujarati films — which is why so many visitors recognise it the moment they arrive.
Timings & Entry
Vijay Vilas Palace is open to visitors through the day, with a first-floor museum and a rooftop viewpoint. A nominal entry ticket applies, with separate charges for cameras and vehicles; as rates and timings can change, it is best to check the current details on arrival.
How to Reach Vijay Vilas Palace
The palace is in Mandvi, about 60 km (a 1.5-hour drive) south-west of Bhuj, and sits right beside Mandvi Beach. Buses and taxis run regularly from Bhuj; to plan a wider Kutch trip, see our guide on how to reach Rann Utsav and Kutch.
Combine Vijay Vilas Palace with Rann Utsav
Vijay Vilas and Mandvi Beach make a perfect day trip during a Rann Utsav holiday. Stay at the official Tent City in Dhordo for the White Rann and full-moon nights, and add a day for Mandvi. Explore Rann Utsav packages to plan your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who built Vijay Vilas Palace and when?
It was built between 1920 and 1929 during the reign of Maharao Khengarji III of Kutch, as a summer palace for his heir Yuvraj Vijayaraji.
Which films were shot at Vijay Vilas Palace?
Lagaan, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Commando, among other Hindi and Gujarati films, were filmed at the palace and its private beach.
Where is Vijay Vilas Palace located?
In Mandvi, on the Arabian Sea coast of Kutch, Gujarat — about 60 km from Bhuj and right next to Mandvi Beach.
Can I visit Vijay Vilas Palace during Rann Utsav?
Yes. It is an easy day trip from the Kutch region and pairs perfectly with a Rann Utsav stay between 1 November 2026 and 7 March 2027.