An Elephant Howdah

A two compartment seat fastened to the back of an elephant.   The King or royal personage would sit in the front with a raised protective metal shield.  Behind sat a loyal bodyguard, disguised as a flywhisk attendant. 

Right The gilt covered Mahadol palanquin. 

Won in battle from the Governor of Gujarat in 1730.  This was used by the Maharaja and required 12 men to carry it.

The Phul Mahal (The Palace of Flowers) Was built in the early 18th century.  This exotically beautiful and opulent room, was dedicated to the arts of pleasure.   Nights would be passed with poetry, raga music and dancers dancing till dawn under the soft glow of the candlelight reflected off the mirrored ceiling.

The Moti Mahal (the Pearl Palace)

So called for the lime and crushed shell plaster work which gives the room a pearl like lustre.

Here the Maharaja held his most important Durbars, formal meetings on matters of state with his family, ministers, nobles and religious leaders.

The deep alcoves above the doors on the right are small secret balconies, where his queens could sit unnoticed and listen to affairs of state.  An opportunity for sober second thought?