When people think about India’s grandest private homes, Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia in Mumbai often comes to mind. However, another Indian residence has an even more remarkable claim to fame: Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat, which is widely described as the world’s largest private residence.
A Royal Home in Vadodara
Built for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Laxmi Vilas Palace was completed in 1890. The sprawling property was created as the principal residence of the Gaekwad royal family of Baroda and combines Indo-Saracenic architecture with European influences.
Bigger Than You Might Imagine
The palace sits on an estate of more than 500 acres and is often described as roughly four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Architectural Digest has reported the palace’s total scale at about 30.5 million square feet.
Its vast grounds include gardens, a golf course and historic structures, while the interiors feature grand halls, stained glass, mosaics and extensive art collections.
A Blend of Indian and European Design
One of the palace’s most striking features is its architectural mix. Indian motifs sit alongside European craftsmanship, including Venetian mosaic flooring and Belgian stained glass. The property also houses an important collection of artworks, including works associated with Raja Ravi Varma.
Why It Is Trending Again
Laxmi Vilas Palace continues to attract attention through tours, heritage features and events held on its grounds. Its enormous scale and royal history have also made it a popular subject for social media and lifestyle content.
The palace offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s royal architectural heritage and shows that some of the country’s most extraordinary homes were built more than a century ago.