Spread as terraced floors, leading from wide stairways over a solid rock scaffolding and between rounded turrets on either side, the façade reflected on the river is as impressive as the interiors. An old lift chute is a feature retained for antique value, that adds a unique dimension to the view of the fort from the front. Inside, the design includes arches and columns, small courtyards that function as atria bringing in air and light. Every floor has a lounge and a terrace, the piece-de-resistance is of course the views from each and every floor. The terraces offer the best light of the sun for meditation, yoga and breakfast on winter mornings and to watch the sky reflected in various hues of orange over the river at sunset. The property is serviced by a lift from the river to the first floor and another from the first to the third floor. The Lounge on the first and second floors are open and airy places to sit and read or relax over tea time, surrounded by art and artefacts from the private collections of the owners.
The courtyard on the ground floor is a unique space, beautifully restored to retain its original features of rain water outlets along the slight roof, neatly scooped into the stone. The floor of the courtyard pattern in marble is flanked on either side by small alcoves, temple-like to house life size wooden figures of Radha and Krishna. Light streams down the atria during the day while at night the embellished feature walls and roofs of the lounge and sitting spaces glow from all the gold leaf painting. This is also the venue for musical performances in the evening while the terrace is perfect for dance performances under a star-lit sky.
The restoration brought out some of the quirks of an old palace. There are low height doorways that ensured when people enter a room, they enter with respect by bowing. The first historical restoration of the palace was the unique peacock and betel leaf symbol that has been used throughout the palace to showcase good luck. Look out for the secret staircase that opens up to the Chota Angan that is connected to one the suites. This was often used to sneak people in and out of the King’s chambers.
