City Palace

The majestic City Palace is situated in the city of Udaipur, under the state of Rajasthan, in India. It is a wonderful creation of architecture and the largest palace complex in the state. It is one of the most popular sightseeing places in the city of Udaipur which stands on the eastern banks of the wonderful Lake Pichola. The surrounding scenario of this palace is breathtaking. It is flanked by the Aravali mountain range. The view of the palace is eye soothing.

The palace has several domes, towers, and arches which adds a heritage site flavor to it. This is an excellent assortment of courtyards, Corridors, pavilions, terraces, and beautiful gardens. Visiting this palace is truly a feast of the eyes. If you love to travel, historical places are a must-visit place for you. If you have not visited this marvelous palace yet, then quickly make a plan to visit.

Attraction

The city palace Udaipur is a marvelous creation of architecture. It is one of the greatest palaces in the state of Rajasthan. Some of the parts of the palace have been turned into museums and galleries. Where many historical things are displayed. You can learn about the history of the Mewar kingdom while visiting this palace. This is a great place for photography. The scenario of the surrounding of the palace is mesmerizing. You would love to have a walk around the palace.

History

Mural painting of the Maharaja and his royal elephant at inner court of Udaipur's city palace.

The city palace of Jaipur has great historical significance. It is connected with the Mewar kingdom, which had reached its heights near the territory of Magda. In the year 568 AD Magarana dominance was established by Guhil. He was the founder of the kingdom.

In 1537, Maharana Udai Singh II inherited the Mewar kingdom at Chittor. But the threat of losing control of the kingdom to the Mughals and he was forced to move the capital to a region near Lake Pichola. Udaipur was flanked by forests, lakes, and Aravalli Hills and was safe from invaders.

Rai Angar was the first structure that was built here, from there the construction of this great palace started and was finally completed in the year 1559. Many changes were made to the existing structure from that time, which were spread over 400 years.

Rulers like Udai Singh II added a few to the structure which includes 11 small separate palaces. After the death of Maharaja, his son Maharaja Pratap succeeded him. But unfortunately, he was defeated by the Mughal king Akber at the Battle of Haldighati and Udaipur was under the control of the Mughals. But after the death of Akber, it was returned to Maharaja Pratap’s son.

Maharaja Bhim Singh signed a treaty with the British, accepting their protection, because of the increasing offenses by the Maratha force. Until Indian independence in 1947 the palace was under their control and the Mewar Kingdom was merged in 1949 with democratic India.

Inside/Outside Views

City Palace is a palace complex in Udaipur, in the Indian state Rajasthan. It was built by the Maharana Udai Singh as the capital of the Sisodia Rajput clan in 1559, after he moved from Chittor. It is located on the east bank of the Lake.

The main facade of the palace is quite striking and has a height of about 244 meters and 30 meters in width. The palace is homogeneous in design which is a unique feature of this palace and it is the construction of many structures because over time many additions were made to this palace.

Built with granite and marble, the interiors of the palace are exclusively decorated with intricate marble work, mirror work, silver work, inlay work, wall paintings, murals, and colorful glass. The elegant balconies, tall towers, and cupolas add another shine to the structure of the complex and make it more attractive. An evoking view of the city can be seen from the terrace of this place.

Inside the City, the palace is a labyrinth of long corridors which are designed to avoid surprise attacks by enemies. The entrance gate of this palace complex has an elephant gate, which is known as Hati Pol. At the entrance of this elegant palace, there is a beautiful Jagdish temple followed by Baru Pol or a big gate that leads the way to the courtyard. It leads to the triple gate or Tripoli.

This palace houses various luxurious apartments which overlook the entire view of the city of Jaipur. The Raj Angan or the royal courtyard is one of the oldest parts of this complex. It was built by Maharana Uday Singh.

The palace has 11 amazing palaces and most of them are now turned into galleries and the Mahals have been transformed into museums. The highest point of the palace where you can see hanging gardens with fountains, towers, and terraces is the Amar Vilas.

Structures in the City Palace, Udaipur:

Gateways
Amar Vilas
Badi Mahal
Fateh Prakash Palace
Durbar hall
Bhim Vilas
Chini Chitrashala
Choti Chitrashali
Krishna Vilas
Manak Mahal
Mor Chow
Rang Bhawan
Sheesh Mahal
Museum

How to Reach

By air: The closest airport to the City Palace is the Maharana Pratap Airport. Which is 27 km away from it. It is well connected with the other major cities of India. You can find local transport at the airport that can take you to the palace.

By train: You can easily reach Udaipur by train. The closest railway station to the City Palace Udaipur is the Udaipur railway station. It is located at a distance of 2.4 km away from the palace. It is also well connected with the other main cities of the country.

By Road: You can find local transport which can take you to the place.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, City palace Jaipur is a safe place for tourists. People from different places come to visit this palace. You will meet several kinds of people there. So, you must be careful. For your convenience, here is the local police station information for you:

Location: Chhota Chetak Road, Chamanpura, near Chetak Circle, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India

Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/a4qVmfN24Ud7Um136

Phone no: +91 294 242 7073

Que-02: Is photography allowed in this place?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed in the palace. You can carry your camera with you. But you have to pay a little fee for it. It is- Rs 250. This is a great place for photography

Que-03: Can a visitor carry a cell phone in City Palace, Udaipur?

Ans: Yes, cell phones are allowed in the palace. No charge is needed for that.

Que-04: When is the best time to visit City Palace Udaipur?

Ans: The best time to visit the City Palace, Udaipur is from October to March. During these months the weather of the city remains pleasant, cool and travel-friendly. It is the perfect time for sightseeing. So, you may go there in between these months.