Introduction

Sajjangarh Fort, a 19th century summer resort built by Maharana Sajjan Singh, is perched atop Banswara Hill overlooking the emerald waters of Fateh Sagar Lake. Popularly known as Monsoon Palace, the fort lies about 5 kilometers (3 miles) to the west of Udaipur city. Surrounded by thickly wooded hills, Sajjangarh can be reached both by car and boat. The tall turrets of this white palace with guards regulating each of its towers are perceptible from a distance. The fort is best visited during the rainy season when it offers a glorious view of the city’s lakes, palaces and the surrounding countryside. Later, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary was built near the palace.

Sajjan Singh constructed the fort as an observatory to watch the progress of the monsoon clouds over the surrounding areas. Due to his untimely death at the age of 26, his dream of building a nine-storey observatory remained unfulfilled. At a height of 930 meters (3100 feet), take in breathtaking vistas of the serene lakes, snow-white palaces and the verdant greenery. Inside, you will come across a grand central staircase, many royal quarters, a bronze statue of the legendary Rajput warrior, Maharana Pratap, and a galley that once housed killed victims and invaders who had been poisoned or executed. Spend some time exploring the fort and enjoying the scenery, you might even spot wildlife such as spotted dear, nilgai, peacocks and migratory birds. To the left of the fort there is a hunting lodge or Shikarbadi of the royal family of Mewar.

Interestingly, the fort was also used as the home of Kamal Khan in the 1983 James Bond movie, Octopussy. If you are visiting the Monsoon Palace towards the evening, you will be in for a truly visual treat, what with the fort lit up like a fairytale castle against a colorful sunset sky.

Special Attributes

The fort offers a brilliant view of Udaipur's lakes and palaces.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Private taxi and boat

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be inside the fort and also enjoy the scenery from its ramparts.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

If you are visiting the Monsoon Palace towards the evening, you will be in for a truly visual treat, what with the fort lit up like a fairytale castle against a colorful sunset sky.

Type of site

Monsoon palace later used as a hunting lodge