Woodville Palace has an impressive history dating right back to 1866 when Sir William Mansfield, Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Army became the first resident of this charming and picturesque estate. It was later acquired by His Highness Maharaja Bhagvat Sinh of Gondal State in Western Indian as a gift for his daughter, Rani Leila Ba of Jubbal State. Her husband, Raja Rana Sir Bhagat Chand tore down the old structure and constructed a new building in 1938. Hundreds of expert artisans were commissioned to ensure the highest quality of craftsmanship. Rajkumar Uday Singh, grandson of the Raja Sahib opened a part of the mansion as a small hotel in April, 1977. Today, the palace is one of the classiest places to stay in Shimla.