Built in 1943, Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur is a wonderful amalgamation of a fascinating past and a luxurious present. It is, at the same time - a heritage hotel, a museum and the residence of the Royal Family of the present owner, Raja Gaj Singh. In addition to being of a historical landmark, the palace was commissioned in 1929, was built in order to provide employment to the drought and grief-stricken farmers of the area and thus took longer to complete.