Introduction

City Palace is Rajasthan’s largest palace complex and stands on the east bank of the serene Lake Pichola. The palace offers grand sweeping views of Lake Palace hotel and Jag Mandir on one side, and Udaipur city on the other. Built of marble and granite in 1725 by Maharana Udai Singh, the palace today is home to the 74th Maharana of Udaipur, Shri Arvind Singh and his family.. A fine blend of medieval Indo-European architecture, you will be amazed by the sheer lavishness of its courtyards, overlapping partitions, terraces, corridors and lush green gardens.

Explore Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) that has peacock mosaic in glass adorning the walls, depicting the three seasons, summer, winter and monsoon. Head to Manak Mahal or Ruby Palace and browse its collection of crystal and porcelain figures. Admire the frescoes at Dilkhush Mahal (Palace of Joy) and the motley collection of Mewar paintings at ‘Laxmi Vikas Chowk’. Don’t miss Sheesh Mahal or Palace of Mirrors that is studded with glistening Belgian mirrors.

At a height of 90 feet (27 meters), atop a ridge are the Hawa Mahal and Bari Mahal with a sprawling garden. Though the highest point of the palace is Amar Vilas, with its exotic hanging gardens complete with fountains, towers, terraces and a stunning view of Lake Pichola’s turquoise waters. Shiv Niwas, the erstwhile guesthouse of City Palace and Fateh Prakash Palace, have now been converted into heritage hotels. When at City Palace, also tour the in-site museum, Pratap Museum, housing an impressive collection of old sculptures and inscriptions.

Special Attributes

The opulence of the palace is what strikes you most. Besides, it is Rajasthan's largest palace complex.

Nuisance

None, you can completely be at peace with yourself and the surroundings.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

City Palace is a popular landmark and easily approachable from Dabok Airport, railway station and bus stand. In Udaipur, the most common mode of transportation is rickshaw, tonga and the state transport buses.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers, especially history lovers

Exposure

Since you will be exploring the palace, you will hardly be under the bare sun. Still, it is advisable to carry along your sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

Light shows are held in the evening hours and separate entry ticket for this is available at the gate. A guide is available to show you around the palace at Rs. 100

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Do not touch the artifacts displayed in crystal gallery

Type of site

Historical palace with an in-site museum