Many buildings were built in early 1920's, around this
fortification, in the fashion of big mansions of Bombay,
by the relatives of the ruler. The founders of Chhota Udepur
are the direct descendants of the famous Hindu King Prithviraj
Chauhan, who bravely fought against the Muslim invaders
and was immortalized in 'Prithviraj Raso'- a romantic- heroic
ballad, narrating the love of Samyukta and Prithviraj.
After losing a gallant battle at Ranthambhore to Muslim
invaders, the Khichi Chauhan Rajputs moved to the hills
of Pavagadh via Malwa, established the capital at Mohan
near Narmada and finally shifted the capital to Chhota Udepur.
After 1822 AD treaty, with British, an era of peace prevailed
and many royal and public buildings were erected in the
town.
The town is situated at the edge of a big lake, with blooming
lilies and a boulevard with palm trees. The series of temples
along the lake dotting the skyline makes a perfect setting
for the colourful Tribal haat (market).
Among several temples at Chhota Udepur, the Jain derasar
and Kali Temple are worth visiting. The visit to the sprawling
18 acre palace campus is must for any visitor to Chhota
Udepur. The two palaces- Kusum Vilas Palace and Prem havan
Palace are the finest examples of early 20th century Indian
palace architecture.
Prime Attractions
Kusum Vilas Palace:
A famous architectural firm of Bombay - Bhatkar &
Bhatkar, designed the Kusum Vilas Palace in the early 1920's.
The design concept was to create a palace in a harmonious
fusion of the architectural style of Champaner with modern
amenities of an elevator and other functional requirements.
A large porch, arcaded façade and balanced architectural
treatment of the 5 storeyed central wing with receding volume,
capped with a dome lends majesty to the palace. The interiors
are a blend of east and west. The carved pilasters, friezes
gilded with real gold are replicas of such architectural
elements at Champaner.
The British-made elevator has a foyer at ground level,
enclosed by series of exquisitely carved stone 'jalis' bringing
in an ethereal light effect. The grand reception room on
ground floor has large doors, a carved false ceiling, French
furniture, Belgian mirrors and superb Italian marble statues.
The wall paintings by an Indian artist, depicting the picturesque
settings of Chhota Udepur and previous capital Mohan, are
most remarkable.
Kali Temple:
The Kali Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Kali and is
worshipped by the royal family.
Jain Derasar Temple:
The Jain Derasar is a typical example of plaster-decorated
buildings of Gujarat, imitating woodcarvings and figurines
in plasterwork, showing the influence of Victorian art.
The arcades, with decorated pillars, the figures with musical
instruments, their dressing, headgear and hairstyle painted
in an unconventional manner with bright colours, make a
beautiful composition.
Prem Bhawan:
The Prem Bhavan Palace in the same campus is now a heritage
hotel, offering excellent accommodation, food and package
tours to nearby interesting places. Other architecturally
beautiful royal buildings now used as public buildings and
government offices are Collector's office, Rani Mahal, college
and ITI building.
How to Get There
Air:
Nearest airport is Vadodara (102 kms).
Rail:
Railway Station is on Vadodara-Chhota Udepur line.
Road:
There are road linkages to Vadodara and Ahmedabad.
Local Transport:
Non-metered auto rickshaws
