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Gulab Bhavan
Srinagar based Gulab Bhavan was one of those palaces which the local kings from Dogra Kingdom built to rule this area especially Srinagar before the British colonial rule. It was the residence of former Dogra Dynasty kings of Jammu & Kashmir. The notable aspect with this palace is location in the city’s eastern portion from where one can easily observe the adjoining Dal Lake and overview that.
History
Built in the year 1910 by the then King and ruler of this region, Maharaja Pratap Singh, the palace of Gulab Bhavan had been further developed and renovated over the period until and unless it became a hotel. Today this palace serves as a major luxury hotel in the Jammu & Kashmir state. His successor Maharaja Hari Singh had ruled Kashmir from this palace. It was during his period that he took the initiative for further advancements in the erstwhile palace. Once Maharaja Hari Singh shifted to Mumbai post India’s independence and the accession of Kashmir in Indian Union, this palace was converted into a luxurious hotel.
The conversion of this palace into a luxurious hotel named 'The Grand Palace' hotel in 1956 became the new revolution in independent India's Kashmir where ardent need was felt to introduce some of the best and luxury hotels to cater to the needs of large chunk of tourists and business visitors. Another revolution came in the year 2008 when this palace cum luxury hotel was taken over by another hotel and hospitality group, the Bharat Hotels Group.
It was a unique move indeed as initiative for the restoration of this famous palace took place thereafter and with that the hospitality sector saw a new dawn. This was the extension of this palace into a world class hotel that brought a completely new revolution for luxury living and solutions at par in the hospitality sector.
Architecture
Unique architectural beauty of Gulab Bhavan palace appealed everybody during the period it was occupied by the local Dogra kings. Such trend continued even while it was famous as 'The Grand Palace' as old and modern architect mingled for a grand outlook. Its rebranding as 'The Lalit Grand Palace' after being taken over by the new owners enhanced the appeal further. The development was awesome and ever impressive which is still observed there. Obviously this all was possible due to the appealing architecture and masterpiece which this palace portrays as luxury hotel. The architectural beauty of this palace turned luxurious hotel remains an unequal one where good chunk of visitors feel the treat every passing of the day.
Best Time to Visit
Visitors of erstwhile Gulab Bhawan and the present day 'The Lalit Grand Palace' needs to do thorough preparation for journey before arrival. The travellers must remain aware of the climatic conditions of the entire area before making a visit plan. At times the temperature drops down to even minus degrees during winters. The area hardly observes the hot summers so is it advisable to visit this place by keeping in view the weather condition. Make a tour plan for any time but make sure you are well prepared with the warm cloths if visiting during the winters. It is the time while Srinagar is literally covered by the snow.
Visitor Information
How to Reach
Air
Srinagar Airport caters to the important need of connecting this region with the rest part of the country through airways. Many flights operate from this airport to many other domestic destinations.
Rail
Srinagar is connected with the rest part of the country through railways by Srinagar Railway station from where trains for many destinations operate. Trains from many important cities arrive till Srinagar to ease the journey of those willing to visit this beautiful location as a tourist or those for the business purpose.
Road
Roadways link Srinagar with the nearby places through interstate buses. Travellers may also use their own private vehicles and drive till this sought after city. Intercity buses run from one part of the city to other to their ease travels.
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