Shalini Palace

Shalini Palace is named after Princess Shrimant Shalini Raje of Kolhapur. Located in this city of Maharashtra state, it costed about Rs eight lakhs to build. The Palace is situated on the west banks of the scenic Lake Rankala whose perimeter is about 2.5 miles (4.0 km) and is encircled by tall palm trees, plush greenery and wonderful gardens. Surrounded by tall palm trees and lush green lawns this palace offers visitors a magnificent place of interest in Kolhapur which at the same time provides a wonderful backdrop to the lake.

The palace has currently been converted into a 3-star hotel. Hotel Shalini Palace is a stunning traditional structure encircled by plush foliage. The hotel comprises of luxurious rooms with facilities like cable TV, phone, miniature fridge, closets, baggage shelf and a single couch space. All the accommodations are equipped with attached bathroom with hot and cold water source. The hotel has excellent multi fare restaurant with a range of splendid Indian, Chinese and local choices. The hotel has perfect meeting services. Other than that, a club house is available for visitors to laze about and unwind. Other amenities include room-service, laundry facilities, cleaning service; car rent facility and car parks ability.

History

Built in 1931-34 and named after Princess Shrimant Shalini Raje of Kolhapur, the Shalini Palace cost about Rs Eight lakhs.

In 1987, this palace was converted into the only palace hotel in the state. You can enjoy the reflection of the palace on a moonlit night on the Rankala Lake as well as its serene beauty during sunset.

Architecture

Shalini Palace is made of exquisitely etched Italian marble and black stone. The grandeur is enhanced by the addition of rich ornamental wooden entrances which are fixed with carved Belgian glass embedded with the crown of the Kolhapur Maharaja. Regal black stone arches lead to verandah and porch. The stained glass arches and the giant clock tower are refurbished back to their original style.

The main door has Belgium glass and the inscription work on it reflects the majesty of the Royal family of Kolhapur. The columns made of black stone as well as the entrance porch are an architectural masterpiece.

The regal black stone arcs creating the porch and the entranceway are awesomely stunning. The discolored glass arcs & the massive tower clock are reinstated to their original splendor. To watch the image of the Palace in the calm waters of Rankala from the Sandhyamath cliff is an enthralling experience.

Best Time to Visit

The hotels are open all year round and due to Kolhapur's pleasant climate anytime's good to visit.

Visitor Information

The majestic black stone arches forming the verandah and the porch are breathtakingly beautiful.  The Palace hotel is surrounded by a beautiful garden. In front of garden is 'Rankala lake' where boating is available. This lake was constructed by the Chatrapati of Kolhapur. It is said that its deep area was created due to quarries of stones which were used for construction of the Mahalaxmi temple. There are different types of birds around.

The 'Vada Pav' over here is famous in Kolhapur.

In the garden, there are some special amenities available for children to play. It is a nice place to stroll in the evening. Jotiba temple and Panhala fort are easily visible from here which gives a panoramic view.

How to Reach

Hotel Shalini Palace is located at Kolhapur on the west bank of the picturesque Rankala Lake in Maharashtra.

By Air

Distance from Kolhapur Airport: 17 Km (30 Minutes by car).

By Rail

Distance from Kolhapur Railway Station / Main S T stand (CBS): 4 to 5 km (by auto 15 minutes).

By Road

Distance from Rankala Stand (Gangavesh): 5-10 minutes.

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