Introduction

The erstwhile residence of Jaipur’s royal family, a part of the palace has been opened to the general public as a museum. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built this ornate palace as a royal retreat in the early part of the 18th century. Now a museum to Rajasthan’s royal way of life, the museum features numerous treasures of the royal family, such as jewelry, royal attire, weapons, vessels, and other items of daily use. Along with the exhibits, the palace complex is a striking attraction. Its many palaces, gardens, gates, and royal halls are beautifully designed and intricately decorated. Complemented by the many treasures on display, the city palace brings its royal past vividly to life.

While the royal family still resides in a part of the City Palace, most of its palaces and halls are open for public viewing. Artistically designed gates open up to wide courtyards, often to well laid out gardens or temples. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built the main wall and outer structure, later generations made their own additions to the palace.

The first building in the complex is the Mubarak Mahal. Built in the 19th century and designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, this two-storey palace now houses an office and a library on the ground floor and the textile gallery of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum on its upper level. A wide range of royal attire including some bridal dresses, a rich Banaras brocade cloak belonging to Maharaja Sawai Raja Madho Singh II, Maharaja Sawai Raaja Maan Singh II’s polo suit, pashmina shawls, and traditional Sanganeri print textiles are on display here. To the north is the Sileh Khana or the armory with an extensive display of Rajput weapons.

The next notable building is the Diwan-i-Khas, an ornate hall with two columns of pillars and scalloped arches. Diwan-i-Aam houses the art gallery which is a must see for its unmatched collection of ancient Hindu manuscripts and miniature paintings in the Rajasthan, Mughal and Persian styles popular with the rules of Jaipur.

Other structures of note within the City Palace complex are the Peacock Gate where peacock themed embellishments have been used to depict different seasons, Govind Deo Temple, and Badal Mahal. To the northwest is the Chandra Mahal, currently occupied by the royal family and closed to the public.

City Palace is a beautiful amalgamation of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles in a wonderful, visual treat. Visitors can even enjoy a royal repast at the Palace Café located within the complex, shop for a souvenir at the Friends of the Museum bazaar, or enjoy the Rajasthani hospitality as puppeteers, snake-charmers and folk musicians entertain.

Special Attributes

The royal retreat of the Maharaja of Jaipur and a major architectural landmark.

Nuisance

Touts, hawkers, peddlers

Dressing restrictions

None, wear whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Buses, Taxis, Auto Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Limited exposure to the sun, as the museum exhibits are mostly inside the palace.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June

Facilities

A café and bazaar.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

The ticket to City Palace is valid for two days and includes the entrance fee to Jaigarh Fort. Audio guides in English and Hindi are available. Cost for guides: English - 200 INR; Hindi - 100 INR

Type of site

Monument/Museum