From its soaring towers and silver-crowned cupolas to the grand gates and glittering terraces, the City Palace in Udaipur, is a magnificent architectural marvel. Located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, this complex of 11 beautiful palaces was built over a period of 400 years and dazzles with its intricate architectural details and fascinating history. As you stroll through the series of courtyards, corridors, pavilions, and palaces, you can see intricate mosaics and ornate murals around every corner, relax in exotic hanging gardens, and reflect in tranquil temples filled with stunning statues. The City Palace is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, and the gleaming marble and granite buildings evoke the splendor of the Mewar rulers from centuries past. The grandeur of the architecture reflects a sweeping history, and visitors can learn more about the rich heritage of the City Palace in its informative museum. Read the guide below for more highlights of the City Palace, Udaipur.
Nishi's photos
Things to do
Interior of the palace
Construction of the City Palace began during the reign of Maharana Udai Singh II, and the palace was continually updated by his successors over the course of the subsequent 400 years. As such, the palace complex is a remarkable blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European, and Chinese design styles. There are 11 small palaces and structures within the City Palace, and each boasts unique architectural details and attractions like an ornate mirror, marble, and silver-work, colored glass ornamentation, and murals and wall paintings.
From the marble archways of the famous gates Badi Pol and Tripola, to the glittering glass mosaics in Mor Chowk, the City Palace amazes with its bounty of exquisite features. Explore structures like Badi Mahal, also known as the Great Palace or Garden Palace, which features a swimming pool and staggering wall murals. Art lovers will also love the collection of Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles in Chini Chitrashala as well as the miniature paintings depicting the stories of Lord Krishna and Radha in Bhim Vilas. Sheesh Mahal is renowned for its room of sparkling mirrors, while the lush garden of Amar Vilas, with its beautiful hanging gardens, fountains, and vistas is also a must-see. While visiting the upper terraces of the palace, take time to enjoy the wondrous vistas of Lake Pichola and Aravalli mountains, as well as the palace’s sun-drenched towers and cupolas.
Museum
Another must-see site is the City Palace Museum, which is housed in the Zenana Mahal, or Ladies Chamber. This museum highlights the culture and history of the Mewar dynasty, and houses many artifacts and historic photographs.
“Legacy of Honor” sound and lights show
If you visit the City Palace in the evening, a fantastic attraction is the “Legacy of Honor” sound and light show. This colorful spectacle is held at Manek Chowk between 7pm and 8pm, and tells stories and anecdotes related to the Mewar kingdom
What to eat
With its central location in the Old town of Udaipur, there are many restaurants located near the City Palace.
The cuisine in Udaipur is characterized by many dishes made from vegetables and lentils. Many seasonings are local to the state of Rajasthan, and curry flavors range from lentil to yogurt, with an extensive use of chili. Typical side dishes include beans known as sangria, as well as dried mango.
Travelers tips
Language
The primary language of Udaipur is Mewari. Rajasthani, Hindi, and English are also commonly used in the city.
Additional charges
While you’ll most likely want to capture photographs of all the magnificent architecture, travelers should be aware that the City Palace charges for the use of cameras (2 USD) and video recorders (7 USD). Phones however are free.
Guides
For a more in-depth exploration of the City Palace, you can visit the attraction with a tour guide. Most guides speak Hindi, and charge about 4 USD for a tour. Guided tours of the museum are also available and cost around 3 USD. Tickets can be booked via the official website in advance.
For a self-guided tour, visitors can rent one of the audio guides instead.
Wear comfortable shoes
With its series of winding corridors, spacious pavilions, ornate rooms, and expansive halls, the City Palace is vast, and you will be doing a lot of walking. As such, make sure you dress appropriately and wear comfortable walking shoes. Visitors with mobility concerns should also be aware that there are many narrow corridors and steep stairways that may not be accessible to everyone.
How to get there
Nestled on the banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace is located in Udaipur’s Old City and can be reached by public and private transportation.
Private car
For visitors arriving by private car, there are several public parking garages and lots nearby, including the City Palace Car Parking located along Bhatiyani Chohatta and the Lake Pichola Area Parking Complex on Asin Ki Haveli. Both parking lots charge for admission.
Public transportation
Guests can also reach the City Palace by train, bus, or ferry.
The closest train station to the palace is the Udaipur City Railway Station. From there, it is about a 1.5 mile (2.4 km) walk to the City Palace. Udaipur is accessible by bus from many nearby cities. The nearest bus stop is approximately 1 mile (2 km) from the City Palace.
Visitors can also take a ferry from Jagmandir to the City Palace. Ticket prices cost 6 USD per person.
In addition to public transportation, visitors can hail a taxi or a tonga to take them to the City Palace.
How to book tickets
Tickets can be purchased on-site at the City Palace entrance gates of Badi Pol and Sheetla Mata. Tickets are sold at both entrance gates, and start from 1 USD for adults. Children receive a discounted ticket price.
Additional tickets must be purchased for entry to the City Palace Museum, and are available on-site at the museum entrance. Tickets cost 4 USD per adult, with special discounts available for children and students.
City Palace information
City Palace
Address: Old City, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 1 USD
Website: Visit Udaipur
Tip from Trip101 local expert
"Please take a moment to appreciate this mersmerising piece of history in Udaipur- the Udaipur Palace. Built atop a hill, it provides a panaromic view of the city and its surroundings.
Featured in James Bond movie “Octopussy” and other major Bollywood movies, it is a treat to the sore eyes!
Best time to visit would be December to January.
Sharing some pictures of the architectural masterpiece"
History
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