Malcha Mahal, also known as Wilayat Mahal, is a Tughlak era hunting lodge in the Chanakyapuri area of New Delhi, India next to the Delhi Earth Station of the Indian Space Research Organisation. It was built by Firuz Shah Tughlaq, who reigned over the Sultanate of Delhi, in 1325.
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As a travel enthusiast, I explored the mysterious Malcha Mahal, a haunting historical landmark in Delhi that's not your typical tourist destination.
Location and Access
The nearest metro station is Dhaulakuan on the airport line. It's close to one of Delhi's most visited centers, and from the entry gate on Sardar Patel Marg, you'll need to walk about 1 km through an intriguing forest surrounded by huge cactus plantation bushes. The sudden appearance of the Malcha Mahal structure amid these bushes is genuinely puzzling and slightly intimidating.
Historical Background
This is a Tughlaq-era hunting lodge built in 1325 by Feroz Shah Tughlaq. Interestingly, the palace was given to a mysterious family claiming royal descent in 1985, after Indira Gandhi intervened in their housing situation.
Architectural Details
The palace is a fascinating Tughlaq-era structure built of sandstone with some remarkable architectural features: Nine chambers. Main entrance on the east side. Plinth height of 1.5m. Continuous arches forming an alley. Central hall with unique ventilation. Decorative parapet with medallions and rain water spouts.
The Haunting Aspect
Local legends suggest the palace is haunted by the spirit of Begum Wilayat Mahal, who allegedly committed suicide by swallowing crushed diamonds. The last family member, Prince Ali Raza, died in 2017, leaving behind a mysterious legacy. The big question remains: Why did this royal family live in such desperate conditions?
Visitor Experience
The mahal attracts paranormal enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. A rusty signboard warns potential intruders with a grim message: "ENTRY RESTRICTED, CAUTIOUS OF HOUND DOGS, PROCLAMATION: INTRUDERS SHALL BE GUNDOWN".
Pro Tips
The sudden appearance of the Malcha Mahal is an experience you must see to believe. Bring a camera and ghost-hunting equipment if you're feeling adventurous. Be prepared for an eerie, isolated environment..
Accessibility
The nearest bus stop is Hotel Diplomat, just a 9-minute walk away
Warning: This dilapidated structure is definitely not for the...
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Malcha Mahal, also known as Malcha's Palace or Bistdari Mahal, is a historic hunting lodge located in the Malcha neighborhood of New Delhi, India. The palace has a fascinating history and is known for its association with the tragic life of the last surviving member of the royal family of Oudh (Awadh), Princess Wilayat Mahal.
Princess Wilayat Mahal, along with her children, sought refuge in Delhi after the princely state of Oudh was annexed by the British in the 19th century. They were granted a small piece of land in the Malcha area, where they built the Malcha Mahal in the early 20th century. The palace served as their residence and a reminder of their royal heritage.
After the death of Princess Wilayat Mahal, her descendants continued to live in the palace under extremely secluded and isolated conditions. Over time, the palace fell into disrepair, and the family faced financial hardships. They lived in relative seclusion, disconnected from the outside world.
The Malcha Mahal gained attention and intrigue due to its mysterious and haunted reputation. Rumors circulated about paranormal activities and the presence of ghosts in the abandoned palace. However, it is important to note that such claims are often based on legends and urban myths rather than factual evidence.
In recent years, the Indian government has taken steps to restore and preserve the Malcha Mahal as a heritage site. The palace and its surroundings are now protected under the jurisdiction of the Delhi Forest Department. Access to the palace is restricted, and it is not open to the general public. However, visitors can catch glimpses of the palace from a distance while exploring the nearby forested area.
Malcha Mahal remains an intriguing landmark in New Delhi, evoking curiosity and fascination due to its historical significance and the enigmatic stories...
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Malcha Mahal, also known as Wilayat Mahal, is a Tughlak era hunting lodge in the Chanakyapuri area of New Delhi,India next to the Delhi Earth Station of the Indian Space Research Organisation. It was built by Firuz Shah Tughlaq, who reigned over theSultanate of Delhi, in 1325. It came to be known as Wilayat Mahal after Begum Wilayat Mahal of Awadh who was reportedly given the place by theGovernment of India in May 1985. On 10 September 1993, Begum committed suicide at the age of 62 by consuming crushed diamonds.
The building is now mostly in ruins, it continued to be inhabited by the Begum's daughter Sakina Mahal, and son Prince Ali Raza until recently, both are now deceased.
History
Malcha Mahal is located in Malcha, one of the historical villages around Raisina Hill. Malcha, along with Raisina, Todapur, Aliganj, Pillanji, Jaisinghpura, and Kushak villages was moved by theBritish during the construction of capitalNew Delhi in 1920s, especially the Viceroy's House, which is now known as the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Inhabitation by Wilayat Mahal
Wilayat Mahal, self-proclaimed great granddaughter of the last Nawab of Awadh Wajid Ali Shah, was reportedly allotted the Mahal in May 1985 by thePrime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi (d. October 31, 1984) after nine years of protest living in a waiting room at theNew Delhi railway station as compensation for her ancestral property in Awadh which was seized when Wajid Ali Shah's kingdom was annexed...
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