A Guide To City Palace, Jaipur - Updated 2024

City Palace Jaipur
Deanna
Deanna 
Updated
| 3 min read

At City Palace, Jaipur tourists marvel at collections of traditional dresses, weaponry, and unique renderings of visual expression in various Indian traditions. Within the walled city is a complex of courtyards, palaces, temples, and gateways considered masterpieces of art and architecture. Established by the founder of Jaipur himself, the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, City Palace is a shining jewel and continues to be the pride and joy of Rajasthan. The Maharaja commissioned a Bengali architect, Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya, who based his design on Vastu Shastra (vāstu śāstra) –the science of architecture. The City Palace Complex is the home and enclave of Jaipur’s ruling royal family. You will learn from their website that some areas are public places where tourists are introduced to Mughal and Rajput architecture and their harmonious union. Learn about inspiring places to visit in this guide to City Palace, Jaipur.

Things to do / highlights

Jaipur, City Palace, Mubarak Mahal
Source: Photo by user Arian Zwegers used under CC BY 2.0

Mubarak Mahal

One of the most outstanding buildings inside the City Palace is a 19th-century stately home of reception named Mubarak Mahal. Today, it functions as the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum. The display halls are showcasing textiles and royal costumes of various types and styles. Look for the clothes worn by Sawai Madho Singh I, the Maharajadhiraja of Jaipur from 1880-1922.

Chandra Mahal

Each of the seven stories of Chandra Mahal has a name. If you can get your eyes off of the peacock gate, there are paintings and wall decorations that will vie for your attention. If you can head up to the roof for an unparalleled view of the city; it would be an unforgettable visit indeed.

Govind Dev Ji Temple

The high ceilings of the 18th-century structure and gold decor strengthen the divine ambiance of the holy shrine for Lord Krishna, a powerful incarnation of the Lord Vishnu. Govind Dev Ji Temple is a place worth visiting for its grandeur and mysticism.

What to eat

Laal Maas
Source: Photo by user VD used under CC BY 2.0

Regional dishes

The Sawai Mansingh Museum is home to Palace Café, which serves regional dishes as well as staple Indian food. The ambiance is lavish and complements the flavor of the food you will share with friends and family.

Reinvented Rajasthani favorites

Baradari restaurant in City Palace is proud not only of its menu but also its al fresco dining area. When it’s time for a repast, check out Baradari’s excellent savory selections.

Travelers tips

The 'Diwan-I-Khas' or the 'Hall of Private Audience' is a marble floored chamber located between the armoury and the art...

Posted by Ashwani Das on Tuesday, 14 August 2018

World's largest silver vessels at Diwan-I-Khas

Diwan-I-Khas, a chamber of marble which served the Maharajas of Jaipur as an audience hall is enough to take your breath away. Yet, there are two ornaments that will keep you preoccupied for a while–the Gangajelies. These are two sterling silver vessels made from 14000 silver coins. They measure 1.6-meter high (5.25 feet) and weigh 340 kilograms (749.57 pounds). The vessels in Diwan-I-Khas used to carry 4000 liters (1056.69 gallons) of drinking water from the River Ganges for Sawaii Madho Singh II on his 1902 trip abroad for the coronation of Edward VII of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions. They are listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest silver vessels in the world. Made by Jaipur silversmith in 1894 and 1896, each urn is a solid single piece because there was no soldering involved in their make.

Golden Throne at Diwan-I-Aam

The Takt-e-Rawal (Golden Throne) is the seat of the Maharaja during the public appearances. Palanquin bearers or elephants were assigned the task of carrying the throne when the Maharaja ventured out. The Golden Throne is one of the highlights of the red and gold hall of a public audience.

Weapon repository at Maharani Palace

The frescoed ceilings of the Maharani Palace adorn the halls exhibiting swords, daggers, and pistols. Interestingly, the museum that now serves as a weapons repository used to serve as the residence of queens of the ruling dynasties. Spend time on close scrutiny of 15th-century Rajput weaponry on display.

How to get there

Jaipur downtown & Hawa mahal
Source: Photo by user George Tziralis used under CC BY 2.0

Cab

Sightseeing in Jaipur can be tiring work, but you have the option to transfer from one destination by hailing a cab. You take a cab from anywhere in the city.

Rickshaw

To experience a traditional mode of travel dare to commission a rickshaw. City Palace is a popular destination being right in the heart of the walled city.

How to get tickets

Le City Palace (Jaipur)
Source: Photo by user Jean-Pierre Dalbéra used under CC BY 2.0

You can book a ticket for yourself and the members of your party from the official website. As soon as you log in you can select a date and book an e-ticket. Before booking, click on “Ticket Price.” A drop-down menu presents a table specifying ticket costs for adults, children, and adult discount categories (defense and police personnel with valid ID, and senior citizens).

For adults, ticket prices range from INR 200 (USD 2.80) to INR 3000 (USD 41.95) for various types of access. For example, the Museum ticket includes entry to all palace courtyards and galleries within the complex. Meanwhile, the Royal Spendour ticket, which is worth INR 3000 includes the services of a personal guide and an exclusive access to private areas of the Chandra Mahal. Make a list of what you want to see at City Palace, Jaipur and book your tickets afterward to avoid spending excessively.

City Palace Information

Chandra Mahal, Jaipur, Rajasthan (India)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user McKay Savage used under CC BY 2.0

City Palace, Jaipur

Address: Tulsi Marg, Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Official Website: City Palace, Jaipur

Department of Tourism: Visit Rajasthan

Jaipur City Palace, Hawa Mahal & Jantar Mantar Private Tour

Duration: 5 hours

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Deanna Kathrina, a pediatric physical therapist specializing in neurodevelopmental disability, serves as a teacher and advocate. As a lifelong learner, she enjoys the company of music and aspires...Read more

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