Jai Vilas Palace, current residence of the Scindia family, is a splendour of different kind. Jai Vilas is an Italianate structure which combines the Tuscan and Corinthian architectural modes. Some 35 rooms have been made into the Scindia museum, and in these rooms, so evocative of a regal lifestyle, the past comes alive. It offers an unparalleled glimpse into the rich culture and lifestyle of princely India.

The imposing Darbar hall has two central chandeliers, weighing a couple of tonnes, hung only after ten elephants had tested the strength of the roof. Ceilings picked out in gilt, heavy draperies and tapestries, fine Persian carpets and antique furniture from France and Italy are features of these spacious rooms.  Eyecatching treasures include a silver train with cut-glass wagons which served guests as it chugged around on miniature rails on the tables, a glass cradle from Italy used for the baby Krishna each Janamashtami, silver dinner services and swords that were once worn by Aurangzeb and Shah Jahan.