Vintage & Classic Car Museum Udaipur: A Royal Collection on Wheels

Introduction

Tucked away in the heart of Udaipur, near the famous Gulab Bagh and just opposite the City Palace complex, lies one of India’s most unique and royal automotive showcases—the Vintage & Classic Car Museum. Established in 2000 by the HRH Group of Hotels, this open-air museum presents a meticulously curated collection of more than 20 vintage cars, many of which belonged to the Maharanas of Mewar.

From elegant Rolls-Royces and flamboyant Cadillacs to horse-drawn carriages and antique service vans, each vehicle at the museum tells a story of royal grandeur, luxury, and Udaipur’s progressive history of embracing modernity without compromising tradition.

Whether you’re an automobile enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this museum offers a unique blend of nostalgia, heritage, and design marvels.

1. Historical Background

Royal Passion for Automobiles

The Maharanas of Mewar, especially during the 20th century, were among the earliest Indian royals to adopt and patronize Western automobiles. Their passion for cars wasn’t limited to transportation—it became an extension of their identity and diplomacy. Cars were used during royal ceremonies, parades, and even official meetings with British dignitaries.

When automobiles first arrived in India in the early 1900s, the Mewar dynasty quickly became one of their most prominent collectors. The museum, therefore, is not just a showroom but a timeline of how royalty evolved with the automotive age.

Inauguration

The museum was inaugurated on 15th February 2000 by Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, founder of the National Motor Museum in the UK. It was set up in the historic Mewar State Motor Garage, a semi-open courtyard structure that originally housed the Maharana’s working car collection.

2. Museum Layout & Exhibits

The State Garage Premises

The museum occupies the original Mewar garage, where the royal cars were once maintained and parked. The building still retains its colonial-era charm with arched gateways, iron beams, and sandstone flooring. Adjacent to the garage is the Garden Hotel, also managed by HRH Group, making this a perfect stop for heritage lovers.

Top Cars on Display

1. Rolls-Royce Phantom II (1934)
   1. One of the crown jewels of the collection, used by Maharana Bhagwat Singh.
   2. Still functional and used in ceremonial events.
2. Cadillac Convertible (1938)
   1. Used in royal processions and now displayed with original interiors and custom fittings.
3. Buick Super (1946)
   1. Renowned for its luxurious curves and retro appeal.
4. MG-TC Convertible (1946)
   1. A British sports car that reflects the Maharana’s cosmopolitan tastes.
5. Ford Model A (1930)
   1. One of the earliest cars used for administrative errands and short commutes within palace grounds.
6. Vauxhall-12 and Mercedes Benz (1970s models)
   1. Used during the transitional years post-Independence.
7. Solar-Powered Rickshaw
   1. A nod to the Maharana’s environmental consciousness—on display as a sustainable innovation prototype.
8. Horse-Drawn Carriages & Antique Fuel Station
   1. Carriages used before the advent of motorcars, and a Shell fuel station preserved from the 1930s.

Unique Highlights

1. Working Condition: Nearly all cars are in driving condition and maintained by an in-house mechanical team.
2. License Plates: Many vehicles still bear original Udaipur royal registration numbers.
3. Historic Car Documents: Original import papers, maintenance logs, and royal orders related to vehicle procurement are also on display.
4. Restoration Techniques: The museum occasionally hosts demonstrations and sessions on classic car restoration and preservation.

3. Cultural and Tourism Significance

The Vintage Car Museum isn’t merely a static display—it serves as a living legacy of Udaipur’s ability to blend heritage with modernization. It adds a unique dimension to Udaipur tourism, giving visitors insight into the luxurious lifestyle of Indian royalty during the 20th century.

The museum has also attracted Bollywood film crews, automobile journalists, foreign dignitaries, and car enthusiasts from around the world.

4. Entry Information

1. Timings: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (All days of the week)
2. Entry Fee:
   1. Indian Adults: INR 400
   2. Foreign Nationals: INR 700
   3. Children (5–12 years): INR 250
3. Photography: Allowed (No extra charges, but no tripods permitted)

5. Best Time to Visit

1. October to March: Ideal for comfortable weather and better lighting conditions for photography
2. Weekdays: Less crowded than weekends, offering a more immersive experience
3. Golden Hour (Late Afternoon): Enhances vehicle reflections and courtyard ambiance

6. How to Reach

1. From City Palace: A quick 3-minute drive or 10-minute walk
2. Auto-Rickshaw: INR 50–100 from central Udaipur
3. By Cab: All major cab services easily accessible
4. Parking: Available at the adjoining Garden Hotel

7. Nearby Attractions

1. Gulab Bagh: A historic rose garden and zoo adjacent to the museum
2. City Palace: Udaipur’s grandest attraction, just opposite the museum
3. Jagdish Temple: A must-visit spiritual site, 10 mins away
4. Lake Pichola: Perfect for a post-visit sunset boat ride

8. Visitor Tips

1. Plan 45–60 minutes for a full walkthrough with time for photography
2. Check Engine Demos: Sometimes mechanics showcase vintage engine starts (subject to availability)
3. Buy Souvenirs: Miniature models, postcards, and automotive books available in the small gift shop
4. Pair with Lunch: Garden Hotel offers a traditional Rajasthani thali—a perfect culinary add-on to your vintage car experience

9. Fun Facts

1. The Rolls-Royce Phantom II is sometimes used for royal processions and even high-profile weddings
2. All vehicles are still registered with RTOs and insured under special heritage vehicle clauses
3. Film Appearances: Several cars have appeared in Bollywood films and documentaries
4. Eco-Friendly Touch: Solar power is used in parts of the museum premises

Conclusion

The Vintage & Classic Car Museum in Udaipur is more than just a display of beautiful machines—it’s a drive down history lane. Every vehicle has a personality, a legacy, and a role in the royal lifestyle of Rajasthan’s Maharanas.

For travelers seeking something beyond palaces and lakes, this museum offers an authentic and classy peek into Mewar’s love affair with mobility, style, and prestige. Whether you’re a car connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates timeless elegance, the museum is sure to leave you captivated.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this content is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the details, such as entry fees, opening hours, exhibits, and nearby attractions, these may be subject to change without prior notice by the museum authorities.

Visitors are advised to confirm the latest updates, including operational timings, ticket prices, and accessibility options, directly with the Vintage & Classic Car Museum or through official tourism channels before planning their visit.

🛠️ FAQs – Vintage & Classic Car Museum Udaipur

Q1. Where is the Vintage & Classic Car Museum located?
The museum is located near Gulab Bagh and directly opposite the City Palace complex in Udaipur, Rajasthan. It is part of the historic Mewar State Motor Garage premises.

Q2. What are the museum’s opening hours?
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, including weekends and public holidays.

Q3. What is the entry fee for the museum?

1. Indian Adults: ₹400
2. Foreign Nationals: ₹700
3. Children (5–12 years): ₹250
   Note: Children below 5 years can enter free of charge.

Q4. Are the vintage cars still functional?
Yes, almost all the vehicles on display are in working condition and maintained regularly by an in-house team of mechanics. Some are even used in royal events and weddings.

Q5. Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Yes, photography is allowed, and there are no extra charges. However, tripods are not permitted inside the museum premises.

Q6. How much time should I plan for the visit?
A complete visit typically takes 45–60 minutes, including photography and reading exhibit details. Visitors who enjoy vintage cars and history may take longer.

Q7. Can I see the engines or restoration work during the visit?
Occasionally, the museum hosts live demonstrations of engine starts or shares insights into restoration techniques—subject to availability on the day of your visit.

Q8. Is there a restaurant or food option nearby?
Yes, the adjoining Garden Hotel offers Rajasthani thalis and other traditional Indian dishes, perfect for a meal after your visit.

Q9. What’s the best time to visit the museum?

1. October to March: Pleasant weather and great lighting for photography
2. Weekdays: Less crowded compared to weekends
3. Late afternoon (Golden Hour): Ideal for photography due to ambient lighting

Q10. How can I reach the museum from central Udaipur?

1. Auto-rickshaw: ₹50–₹100 from central Udaipur
2. Walking: Just a 10-minute walk from City Palace
3. Cab: Available through major services like Uber, Ola, and local operators
4. Parking: Available near the Garden Hotel

Q11. Are there any nearby attractions to combine with the museum visit?
Absolutely! The museum is close to:

1. City Palace
2. Gulab Bagh & Zoo
3. Jagdish Temple
4. Lake Pichola

All within a 10-minute radius—making it a convenient addition to your Udaipur itinerary.

Q12. Can I buy souvenirs or memorabilia?
Yes, there’s a small gift shop where you can purchase miniature car models, postcards, and automobile-themed books.

Q13. Has the museum been featured in movies or shows?
Yes, several vintage cars from the museum have appeared in Bollywood films, documentaries, and luxury travel features.

Q14. Is the museum accessible for senior citizens or differently-abled visitors?
While the museum retains its historic architecture, it’s a single-level, open-air layout, making it fairly accessible. However, it’s recommended to check with staff in advance for any special arrangements.

Q15. Is the museum eco-conscious?
Yes, the premises use solar power in certain areas, and even feature a solar-powered rickshaw as part of their exhibit.