Mubarak Mandi is a palace complex located in the heart of the old walled city of Jammu in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Built over several centuries, starting in 1824, the complex served as the principal seat of the Dogra dynasty, which ruled the region as maharajas of Jammu and Kashmir until the mid-20th century. The palace was the Maharajas main seat till 1925, when maharaja Hari Singh moved to the Hari Niwas Palace in the northern part of Jammu. Overlooking the Tawi River, this sprawling complex showcases an impressive fusion of architectural styles, combining elements of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European baroque influences. The complex comprises multiple palaces, courtyards, and halls, including the notable Darbar Hall, Gol Ghar, Pink Palace, and Sheesh Mahal, each with unique features and functions. Successive maharajas added to the complex in size and building took more than 150 years.
Once the center of Dogra power and ceremonial gatherings, Mubarak Mandi now serves as a cultural landmark. A portion of the complex has been converted into the Dogra Art Museum, which houses a valuable collection of miniature paintings, royal artefacts, and manuscripts, offering insights into the region’s rich history. The palace complex has suffered significant damage over time due to natural disasters and neglect, prompting ongoing restoration efforts to preserve its architectural heritage. Mubarak Mandi remains an emblem of Jammu’s cultural and historical legacy and a prominent attraction for visitors to the region.
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The city of Jammu and the palace (1905) -
The palace seen from the Tawi River (1905)
