Narmada Kothi, Royal palace in Barwaha, India.
Narmada Kothi is a palace in Barwaha with European architectural features, a striking yellow interior, and deep red exterior that overlooks the Narmada River. The building has multiple floors and sits on a reinforced embankment designed to protect it from flooding.
Maharaja Holkar of Indore State built this palace during British rule as a private retreat for the royal family. The project emerged during an era when Indian princes regularly incorporated European architectural styles into their residences.
The palace shows how Indian rulers blended European design elements into their own homes while maintaining local connections. The yellow interiors and deep red exterior reflect this style mix that was fashionable during the colonial era.
The building now serves as an administrative center and is not designated as a tourist attraction, so visitors should check ahead about access. Entry may be restricted since it remains an active government office.
The property sits on a reinforced embankment beside the Khandwa-Indore Road Bridge, which protects it from the river's seasonal floods. This engineering solution allowed the palace to remain standing despite its precarious riverside location.
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