Sunday, October 26, 2025

Exploring Udaipur City Palace: Step Into the Royal Heart of Rajasthan

Udaipur City Palace: A Royal Journey Through Rajasthan’s Timeless Wonder


The City Palace of Udaipur is one of the most magnificent and iconic royal complexes in India, located in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan. It stands majestically on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding Aravalli Hills.

Here’s a detailed overview:

General Information

  • Name: City Palace, Udaipur

  • Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

  • Built by: Maharana Udai Singh II

  • Construction started: 1553 CE

  • Architectural style: Blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European, and Chinese architecture

  • Current use: Museum and royal residence of the Mewar family

History

  • The palace’s construction began in 1553 CE when Maharana Udai Singh II, the founder of Udaipur, decided to shift his capital from Chittorgarh to a safer location.

  • Successive Maharanas of the Sisodia Rajput dynasty added various structures to the palace over nearly 400 years, resulting in a grand complex that still retains architectural harmony.

  • It served as the main seat of power for the Mewar kingdom, which was among the oldest dynasties in India, tracing its lineage to the legendary Sisodia clan.

Architecture and Layout

  • The City Palace is a series of palaces, courtyards, terraces, corridors, and gardens constructed on a hilltop.

  • Built with granite and marble, it stretches about 244 meters (800 feet) long and 30 meters (98 feet) high.

  • The palace complex includes several smaller palaces and structures such as:

    • Amar Vilas: The highest point of the palace, offering panoramic views of Udaipur.

    • Badi Mahal (Garden Palace): Built on a 27-meter-high rock formation, featuring beautiful gardens.

    • Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard): Famous for its intricate glass mosaics depicting peacocks — symbolizing the seasons.

    • Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors): Decorated with mirror work and colored glass.

    • Zenana Mahal: The Queen’s Palace, now part of the City Palace Museum.

    • Krishna Vilas: Houses miniature paintings depicting royal processions and festivals.

City Palace Museum

The City Palace Museum (also called the Maharana Pratap Museum) is open to the public and showcases:

  • Royal artifacts, weapons, armor, and paintings.

  • Vintage photographs and historical documents of the Mewar dynasty.

  • The Mewar Sound and Light Show held in the evening narrates the history of the Mewar rulers.

 Click here to see images of Udaipur City Palace

Fun Fact

The City Palace has appeared in several films, including:

  • James Bond’s Octopussy (1983)

  • Bollywood movies like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Guid

Udaipur City Palace Travel Guide 2025

Explore Rajasthan’s Royal Gem on the Banks of Lake Pichola

Overview

The City Palace of Udaipur is the crown jewel of Rajasthan’s “City of Lakes.” Built over nearly 400 years by the Mewar dynasty, it’s a dazzling blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architecture, perched above Lake Pichola with sweeping views of Udaipur’s old city and surrounding hills.

This guide will help you plan the perfect visit — from ticket info and must-see spots to photography tips and nearby attractions.

Best Time to Visit

  • Ideal Months: October to March (pleasant weather and festival season)

  • Avoid: April to June (very hot), July–September (rainy but scenic)

  • Best Hours: Arrive by 9:30 AM to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight

Entry & Timings

CategoryEntry Fee (Approx.)
Indian Adults₹300–₹400
Foreign Nationals₹700–₹800
Students₹100–₹200
Camera/Phone Photography₹250–₹300
Video Camera₹500–₹700

Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (daily)
Average Visit Duration: 2–3 hours

How to Reach

  • By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport (23 km from city centre)

  • By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station (3 km from the palace)

  • By Road: Well-connected by bus/taxi from Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Mount Abu

  • By Auto/Taxi: From anywhere in Udaipur city (10–15 minutes from main markets)

Highlights Inside City Palace

Here are the top sections you shouldn’t miss 

  1. Amar Vilas – The highest courtyard, offering the best panoramic views of Lake Pichola.

  2. Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) – Stunning glass mosaics of peacocks representing the seasons.

  3. Badi Mahal (Garden Palace) – A unique “garden on a hill,” surrounded by marble balconies.

  4. Zenana Mahal – The queen’s chambers, now part of the City Palace Museum.

  5. Sheesh Mahal – Sparkling mirror work and intricate glass designs.

  6. Krishna Vilas – Houses exquisite miniature paintings.

  7. City Palace Museum – Displays royal artifacts, costumes, weapons, and portraits.

  8. Sound & Light Show – An evening spectacle narrating the story of the Mewar dynasty.

Suggested Itinerary

Morning (9:30 AM – 12:30 PM)

  • Arrive early and buy your tickets at the main gate.

  • Start at the Tripolia Gate, leading to a series of courtyards and galleries.

  • Visit Mor Chowk, Badi Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal for the best interiors and photo ops.

  • Stop at the City Palace Museum — allow at least 45 minutes.

☕ Break: Enjoy coffee or breakfast at the Palki Khana Café inside the palace complex.

Afternoon (12:30 PM – 3:00 PM)

  • Walk through Amar Vilas for stunning views of Lake Pichola.

  • Explore the Zenana Mahal and Krishna Vilas for art and paintings.

  • Exit toward Manek Chowk — perfect for souvenir shopping or snacks.

🍽️ Lunch: Try Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant or Ambrai (Amet Haveli) for lakeside dining.

Evening (4:30 PM – 7:00 PM)

  • Return for the Sound & Light Show at Manek Chowk (usually starts around 6:00 PM).

  • Watch the sunset over Lake Pichola — one of the most romantic views in India.

  • Take a boat ride on the lake for views of the palace illuminated at night.

Photography Tips

  • The morning light is perfect for interiors and courtyards.

  • Use the Amar Vilas terrace for panoramic shots of Lake Pichola.

  • Don’t miss reflections of the palace in the lake during sunset.

  • Tripods are not allowed inside — use a steady hand or phone gimbal.

Nearby Attractions

AttractionDistanceHighlights
Jagdish Temple300 mBeautiful Indo-Aryan temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu
Lake Pichola Boat Ride500 mScenic sunset views
Jag Mandir Palace1 km (by boat)Island palace with cafés and gardens
Bagore Ki Haveli800 mEvening dance & cultural shows
Lake Palace (Taj Lake Palace)On Lake PicholaLuxury heritage hotel

Travel Tips

  • Buy a combined ticket if you plan to visit multiple palaces.

  • Carry cash for small purchases; card use may be limited at stalls.

  • Dress comfortably but modestly (light cottons are best).

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for pleasant temperatures and better light.

  • Keep at least half a day free for the City Palace and surroundings.

Final Word

Visiting Udaipur City Palace is like stepping into a living royal story — every courtyard whispers tales of bravery, beauty, and legacy. Whether you’re a history lover, photographer, or casual traveler, this palace will leave you in awe of Rajasthan’s timeless charm.

Thank You...!

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