Vintage Car Museum, Udaipur – A Royal Collection of Classic Cars

History of the Vintage Car Museum

The Vintage Car Museum was established in 2000 to preserve and display the royal car collection of the Mewar dynasty. The cars were originally stored in the Mewar State Motor Garage, which was part of the Garden Hotel complex owned by the royal family.

The idea to convert the garage into a museum was conceived by His Highness Rana Shri Arvind Singh Ji Mewar, who aimed to showcase the rich automotive legacy of his family and promote Udaipur as a cultural tourism destination.

The museum opened to the public on February 15, 2000, and has since become one of Udaipur’s most popular tourist attractions, offering a rare opportunity to see vintage cars that once carried the Maharanas of Mewar.

Highlights of the Vintage Car Museum Collection

The Vintage Car Museum features an impressive collection of 22 vintage cars, including Rolls-Royces, Cadillacs, Mercedes-Benz models, and rare utility vehicles. Each car is meticulously maintained, reflecting the royal grandeur and elegance of a bygone era.

Key Highlights of the Collection

1. 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II – The most famous car in the collection, this elegant black and yellow Rolls-Royce was featured in the James Bond movie “Octopussy” and was used as a royal ceremonial vehicle.
2. 1939 Cadillac Convertible – A stunning open-top Cadillac used by the Maharajas during royal processions and special occasions.
3. 1938 Cadillac Saloon – A luxurious sedan with plush interiors and advanced engineering for its time.
4. Rolls-Royce 20 HP – A classic model used for state visits and ceremonial occasions, showcasing timeless elegance and regal charm.
5. Vintage Mercedes-Benz – A beautifully preserved Mercedes-Benz convertible used by the royal family for leisurely drives.
6. 1946 Buick – A robust vintage car known for its classic design and powerful engine, used as a royal family vehicle.
7. 1937 Opel Kapitan – A rare German classic car, reflecting European automotive influence on Indian royalty.
8. Horse-Drawn Carriages – Antique carriages used for royal weddings and ceremonial processions, reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of the Mewar rulers.
9. Vintage Shell Petrol Pumps – Authentic vintage fuel pumps from the era, preserved to maintain the historical charm of the garage.

The pristine condition, historical significance, and regal elegance of these classic cars make the Vintage Car Museum a delight for car enthusiasts and history lovers.

Best Things to Do at the Vintage Car Museum

• Explore the Royal Car Collection – Admire the stunning collection of vintage cars, including Rolls-Royces, Cadillacs, Mercedes-Benz models, and classic horse-drawn carriages.
• Photography – Capture detailed photographs of the beautifully restored cars, vintage fuel pumps, and historical artifacts.
• Learn About Automotive History – Discover the evolution of automobile engineering and design through the museum’s informative displays and historical anecdotes.
• Dine at the Garden Hotel Restaurant – Enjoy a royal dining experience at the Garden Hotel, located within the museum complex, known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine.
• Shop for Souvenirs – Buy vintage-themed souvenirs, mini car models, and memorabilia at the museum’s gift shop.

How to Reach the Vintage Car Museum

The Vintage Car Museum is located near Gulab Bagh in the Garden Hotel complex, just 2 km from Udaipur City Palace. It is easily accessible from different parts of the city.

• By Car/Taxi: A 10-minute drive from Udaipur City Palace or Lake Pichola.
• By Auto-Rickshaw: A convenient and affordable mode of local transport.
• By Foot: The museum is within walking distance from Gulab Bagh and Doodh Talai Lake.

Best Time to Visit the Vintage Car Museum

• Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: ₹400 for Adults (Indians), ₹800 for Adults (Foreigners).
• Best Season: October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
• Best Time of Day: Morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
• Special Note: Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, as weekends are typically busier.

Nearby Attractions

After exploring the Vintage Car Museum, visit these nearby attractions:

• City Palace (2 km away) – The grand royal residence of the Mewar dynasty, known for its architectural beauty and panoramic views of Lake Pichola.
• Lake Pichola (2 km away) – A scenic lake offering boat rides and stunning sunset views.
• Gulab Bagh (Adjacent) – A historical garden with lush greenery, a zoo, and a toy train ride.
• Jagdish Temple (2 km away) – An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings.

Cafés & Restaurants Near the Vintage Car Museum

• Garden Hotel Restaurant (Within the Museum Complex) – A heritage restaurant offering authentic Rajasthani cuisine and royal dining experience.
• Natraj Dining Hall – Famous for its traditional Rajasthani Thali and vegetarian dishes.
• Jheel’s Rooftop Café (2 km away) – A lakeside café known for its coffee, snacks, and beautiful views of Lake Pichola.
• Upré by 1559 AD (2 km away) – A fine dining restaurant with panoramic views of Udaipur’s lakes and palaces.

Essential Travel Tips for the Vintage Car Museum

• Photography is allowed, but avoid touching the vintage cars.
• Hire a guide to learn about the history and stories behind each car.
• Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the museum and taking photographs.
• Visit the Garden Hotel Restaurant for an authentic royal dining experience.
• Respect the historical significance of the museum by maintaining silence and cleanliness.

Feature	Details
Location	Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Built In	18th Century by Maharaja Madho Singh I
Architectural Style	Rajput and Mughal
Material Used	Red Sandstone
Floors	Five (Four submerged underwater)
Entry Fee	Free (No entry inside the palace)
Timings	Open all day for viewing
Best Time to Visit	Sunrise or Sunset
Nearby Attractions	Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Kanak Vrindavan Gardens
Photography	Allowed