Udaipur is one of the most romantic and culturally rich cities in India and also known as the City of Lakes. One of the many attractions of this city the City Palace, the crown jewel of the city that represents royalty, heritage and architecture. So if you are visiting Udaipur, here’s an exhaustive travel guide on the beautiful City Palace.
Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II who laid the foundation of the City Palace in 1553. His hermit counselor told him the place would be an especially good site for a city, and he selected the spot for the palace on the shores at Lake Pichola. Over the course of 400 years, subsequent rulers contributed to the structure, creating an impressive amalgamation of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace served as both a home for the royal family and a fortress against enemies. Even now, parts of City Palace are owned by the descendants of the Mewar royal family, making it one of the oldest royal families in the world that still reside in their ancestral home.
The Beautiful Architecture and Structure of City Palace Udaipur
City Palace is an architectural masterpiece made up of granite and marbles. The palace complex is a mix of Rajasthani, Mughal, European and even Chinese styles. It includes multiple palaces in the complex, such as:
— Amar Vilas: The highest area of the palace, with a view of Lake Pichola all around
– Badi Mahal also known as the Garden Palace built over a 27-meter high natural rock formation
– Sheesh Mahal: Well known for attractive mirror work
– Krishna Vilas: Contains a series of miniature paintings representing royal processions and festivals
– Zenana Mahal: The palatial quarters of the queen, now the function halls for royal events
– Mor Chowk: Famous for its peacock mosaic work
The palace itself has wonderful balconies, towers, and cupolas overlooking the city and its lakes.
10 Facts You Did Not Know About City Palace, Udaipur
- The whole palace complex took more than 400 years to complete
- Spread across 5 acres of land, the palace complex is one of the largest in Rajasthan
- Portions of the palace have been transformed, such as the Fateh Prakash Palace, into luxury hotels
- The building is blend of Rajashthani, Mughal, European and Chinese architecture
- The palace features a museum that contains rare artifacts from the royal collection
- Mor Chowk has more than 5000 pieces of colored glass
- The palace has been featured in many Bollywood and Hollywood films including Jackie Chan’s Octopussy a James Bond film
- This is where you get the iconic view of the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir
- Every evening inside the palace grounds the Mewar Sound and Light Show takes place
- A part of the palace is still occupied by the royal family ensuring that the legacy lives on
What to See at the City Palace, Udaipur
— City Palace Museum: Showcases royal attire, arms and vintage images
– Mor Chowk: Check out the peacock mosaics
– Zenana Mahal: Learn about the lives of royal women
– Chini Chitrashala: Contains Chinese and Dutch decorative tiles
– Dilkhush Mahal: The Palace of Joy
– Suraj Gokhda: Balcony from which king spoke to his people
– Moti Mahal: A room covered in glass with mirrors
The palace area has something special to offer in each section so enjoy finding your way around.
City Palace, Udaipur Entrance Fee and Timings
– Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM Every Day
– Entry Fee:
Adults: ₹300
Children 5-18 years: ₹100
Camera Charges: ₹250
Museum entry: ₹250 ₹250 extra for adults
Price quotes may vary slightly so always check the current prices before you go.
Ideal Time to Explore City Palace, Udaipur
You would want to visit Udaipur in the winter months – October to March. When you have such nice weather it is ideal for travelling. Do not go in summer temperatures can exceed 40°C.
If you wish to see festivals the best time to visit is either the Mewar Festival in March-April or Diwali in October-November.
How to get to City Palace, Udaipur
– By Air: The closest airport to the palace is Maharana Pratap Airport located approximately 24 km away
– By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is located at a distance of 3 km and is well connected from all major cities
– Overview how to reach Udaipur – Udaipur is well-connected by road NH-8. There is access to buses, taxis and private cars
– Local Transport: You can easily reach the City Palace by auto-rickshaw, taxis or rented bikes
Near City Palace, Udaipur: Local Food
Local restaurants near the palace offer traditional Rajasthani flavors
– 1559-1600: Renowned for its historic ambiance and local cuisine
– Upre by 1559 AD: A rooftop restaurant overlooking the lake
– Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant: Serves genuine Rajasthani thali
– Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar and Bakery: Good for snacks and coffee
– Dal Baati Churma Gatte ki Sabzi
Udaipur is a paradise for shoppers. Address: Near the palace you can explore:
– Hathi Pol Bazaar: Known for miniature paintings and beautiful handicrafts.
– Bada Bazaar: A great spot to find traditional jewelry and mojris.
– Main Road (Footpath Stalls):
Explore roadside shops selling fabrics and turban accessories. Some sellers may quote high prices — bargain smartly.
– City Palace Road: Lined with stalls offering bags and phulkari work.
– Chetak Circle: Famous for puppets, brass items, and traditional lanterns.
Tip: Check out street vendors for the best deals — just be cautious of fake or overpriced items.
Photography Tips
– Try to go either early in the morning or late afternoon to have better lighting
– Wide angle shots of the whole building
– Will add mirror work and mosaics and arches and other details
– Shoot reflections in Lake Pichola from palace balconies
– If photography is strictly forbidden do not take photographs
Additional Tips
– Wear comfortable shoes there’s a lot of walking
– Carry water and sunscreen
– There are tours sign up for one to learn more
– Purchase combo passes if you plan to see several sights
– Be quiet and respectful in museum areas
Final Thoughts
An enthralling journey to Rajasthan royal jamaal City Palace Udaipur are more than just a monument. Its titanic architecture compelling history and endless views guarantee a lifetime experience. City Palace will leave you awe-struck whether you are a history buff ,a culture enthusiast or an inquisitive traveler
Udaipur Attractions
- Lake Pichola: You can’t miss a boat ride here
- Jag Mandir: An island palace on Lake Pichola
- Lake Palace Taj Hotel: The most romantic hotels in the world
- Jagdish Temple: This Indo-Aryan temple located near the palace is beautiful
- Bagore Ki Haveli: Famous for its cultural shows
- Fateh Sagar Lake: Enjoy a pleasant evening walk
- Saheliyon Ki Bari: A beautiful garden created for royal women
- Sajjangarh Palace Monsoon Palace: Great sunset view
All of these are worth your visit and will elevate the beauty of your trip to Udaipur. Don’t miss them.
Famous Tourist Places in Rajasthan