Lallgarh Palace, Bikaner

The Palace has a surprisingly harmonious blend of east and west and is considered among the most remarkable royal residences built during the 19th century. Its Architect, Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, valued the contribution of local Indian craftsmen. The result is a grand structure with classical Mughal and Rajput touches adorning the exterior, and British-inspired interiors, complete with billiard, smoking, and card rooms. It is said to be Jacob’s finest creation.

The exterior of Lallgarh Palace is covered with impossibly delicate stone carving and has the distinctive hue of the red sandstone of the Thar Desert. The cupola's domes and balconies were carved by local craftsmen with such delicacy that even today the solid red sandstone has the fragile appearance of lace.