Considered one of the world’s best examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture, Albert Hall houses the Government Central Museum (the oldest museum in Rajasthan). Inside this striking building, you’ll find an extensive collection of international art, miniature paintings, and artifacts—there's even an Egyptian mummy.
The Basics
Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, an English architect who created Rambagh Palace, also designed this gorgeous building situated in Ram Niwas Gardens. He drew his inspiration for the Albert Hall from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. It was originally built to be a town hall, but instead serves as a museum filled with all sorts of jewelry, marble art, musical instruments, and paintings.
It’s possible to prebook admission tickets, some of which include round-trip transfers. Many Jaipur tours—including private car, walking, and biking excursions—stop here. The exterior alone is worth checking out, even if you don’t opt to go inside. A visit to the Central Museum is often paired with Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, Jaigarh Fort, and other sights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Photography is not allowed inside Albert Hall Museum.
- Drive by at night to see Albert Hall beautifully lit up.
- Parking is limited near the museum, though tour buses and cars can stop for a few minutes near the front for photo opportunities.
How to Get There
Albert Hall Museum is located south of the Pink City, about a 25-minute walk or 10-minute drive from the City Palace and Jantar Mantar or a 15-minute drive from the Bani Park neighborhood, where many of Jaipur's hotels are located. Most Jaipur city tours pass by the museum, though not all stop for those who want to go inside.
When to Get There
Albert Hall is open daily throughout the year, making it a good attraction to visit year-round. Many travelers who want to go inside the museum opt to come here later in the day, when bright sunlight makes visiting outdoor attractions and markets uncomfortable. Albert Hall’s façade is usually illuminated at night, making it a popular stop on night tours.
Indo-Saracenic Architecture
Albert Hall is an excellent example of Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture, a grandiose style that blends Mughal, Gothic Revival, and Hindu themes. Other popular examples of this architecture include Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Madras High Court in Chennai, South India; and the Brighton Pavilion in England.
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