Gwalior’s Jai Vilas was dreamed into being by a Maratha king who was much-decorated for his chivalry by the British empire. It is believed that Jayajirao Scindia built the palace in 1874 at the cost of Rs 1 crore to commemorate an upcoming visit by the Prince of Wales; his descendants still live in a part of this palace. There are some great stories told about the opulence of its interiors. The crystal chandeliers in the 100-foot-long #Durbar Hall were so massive that elephants were suspended from the roof to see if it could take the weight. A tiny silver toy train zips around the dining table after a meal carrying brandy and cigars. All these treasures are now part of the HH Maharaja Sir Jiwajirao Scindia Museum, which showcases miniature paintings, ancient sculptures, heritage chanderi textiles and ornate carriages collected by the royal family over the years. Of the 400 rooms in the palace, 35 have been turned over to this museum.