Soneri Mahal

The last Palace in the city, Soneri Mahal, is about 6 kilometres away. It is 2 kilometres from the famous Bibi Ka Maqbara. History says that the name of this Palace comes from the golden paintings that used to hang on the walls. The paintings are no longer there, leaving behind the two-story, roomy house with Rajput-style architecture. It is one of the must-visit places to visit in Aurangabad for history and architecture lovers.

Soneri Mahal Architectural Highlights

The building of the Palace is in the Rajput style. The Sunheri Mahal also boasts a stunning stone and lime entry adorned with arches. It sits in a park and includes a large rectangular gate called Hathikhana, meaning "the place of elephants." 

Builders designed the domes in the gate in an Islamic style. The house had cut plaster and five lions that looked like shiny mirrors, but we no longer have them. The walls of the compounds are damaged very badly, but the entrance is still there.

Exhibits and Artifacts

The Palace has a museum inside that shows sculptures, pottery, household items, antiques, and the remains of old castles in the area. The Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University has this museum on its grounds. The Ajanta and Ellora cave events are now being held at Soneri Mahal in Aurangabad.

Many popular musicians, dancers, and artists come to the Palace for the four-day event. The building looks even more impressive with all the lights and decorations that sparkle. With its fine features and well-kept garden, the Sunheri Mahal is the perfect example of beautiful architecture and is often featured in Aurangabad tour packages for culture and heritage lovers.

Soneri Mahal History

The Soneri Mahal was built by a Bundelkhand Chief who went to the Deccan with Aurangzeb between 1651 and 1653 AD. It cost ?50000 to build. The Nizam of Hyderabad bought it in 1934 for INR 26,400. Workers closed the arches with plaster and bricks when they turned the Palace into a regional museum in the 1970s. Officials opened the museum in 1979 and made changes in 2001, such as adding a pond.

Visiting Tips

•    If you want to go while the weather is beautiful, the best time to go is between October and March. Stay away from hot afternoons in the summer.

•    Timings and Fees: It's usually open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Check the most up-to-date times and ticket prices before you go.

•    You can take pictures inside the museum, but don't use flash to protect the artefacts.

•    Footwear: Since there will be some walking, wear shoes that are comfy.

•    Bring Water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if you're going during the day.

•    Museum rules say that you shouldn't touch the objects on display and that you should be quiet inside the museum.