Located atop Aravalli Hills in Udaipur, Rajasthan, is Monsoon Palace. Udaipur is known as the “City of Lakes” because of all the lakes that surround the area. The palace is situated on the peak of the mountain range overlooking the city and the lakes from a distance. It was originally built to see the oncoming monsoons, hence the name. The palace sits at 944 meters (3,100 feet) above the sea, with Lake Pichola at its base. This was meant to be a sanctuary of sorts, where Maharana Sajjan Singh could relax, hunt, and observe nature. Because of its beauty, the palace has solidified its place in pop culture, having been featured in the 1983 James Bond movie “Octopussy”. If you’re in the area and would like to experience this piece of Indian history, here is a guide to Monsoon Palace, Udaipur.
Things to do
Although the palace is more colloquially known as Monsoon Palace, the buildings official name is Sajjan Garh Palace and it was named after Maharana Sajjan Singh, who ruled until his death in 1884. It was rumored that he ordered the palace to be built here not only to see the oncoming monsoons but also to look out at his ancestral home. Monsoon Palace was originally built for the royals to observe and connect with nature, so this included plans to build the palace up to nine stories high and to have an astronomical center. Despite the grand plans set out by Maharana Sajjan Singh, they were never finalized because he died before they were finished.
Take a tour of Monsoon Palace
Although the palace is now showing its age, many people from all over still come here to tour the grounds and take in the sights. Monsoon Palace looks like something out of a fairytale, with white marble exteriors and views that cannot be beaten. The marble pillars have beautiful designs and themes and are also covered in flowers and leaves, giving it a very elegant and royal feel. Walking through the palace, you’ll be greeted in the middle by the courtyard that has a massive, ornamental staircase leading to the rooms and former quarters of the previous residents. Finally, check out the fort area, designed to withstand an attack with its high turrets and guard posts. For architecture enthusiasts, the palace is a perfect example of traditional Rajasthani architecture, with its domes and fountains.
Stay for the sunset views
Although no one lives here now, there is a reason why Monsoon Palace has remained a busy spot for tourists visiting Udaipur. The views here are incredible, so if you’re going to visit make sure to bring a camera. If it’s monsoon season, there is no better place to be, especially since the palace is named and built for this purpose. But, even if it isn’t, the sunset views here are some of the best you’ll see in Udaipur, or even in the entirety of Rajasthan, for that matter.
Travelers tips
Best time to visit
If you’re looking to visit Monsoon Palace because of its nickname, then do be sure to visit between the months of July to September. The rainy season lasts generally all through the summer, with the south of India typically receiving more rain. For Rajasthan, the monsoon season lasts until October in some cases, with mid-July being the usual beginning of monsoon season. Not only that, but it is also the coolest time of the year, with less humidity compared to other months.
How to get there
Public transportation
Udaipur is well connected to major cities, so if you’re coming in from outside the city, consider taking a train to Udaipur. There are trains connected here from Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and others. Udaipur Railway Station is 8 kilometers (5 miles) away from Monsoon Palace, so from here, you can consider taking an Uber or a cab.
Private vehicle
Parking is available on the grounds just outside the palace, making driving here a pretty viable option for those with a vehicle. For foreigners, rental options are available, with some pretty competitive prices on car rentals. However, the tight and narrow roads might make driving a hassle for those unfamiliar with the city.
Auto-rickshaw
Taking the auto-rickshaw is a great option to get in and out of the palace for a pretty cheap price. Since these are non-metered, you’ll have to negotiate a price beforehand, but it shouldn’t cost more than 100 INR (1.50 USD) for one way. They’re found all over the city and tend to congregate near landmarks and tourist spots.
Ride-hailing apps
Ride-hailing services are prevalent here with apps like Uber and Ola being good options. If you’re looking to get a good ride that requires no negotiation with the driver, an Uber will be more comfortable than an auto-rickshaw and less expensive than a taxi.
Monsoon Palace information
Monsoon Palace
Address: Sajjan Garh Rd, Udaipur 313001, India
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Cost: For Indian citizens: 0.15 USD (10 INR) | For foreigners: 1.15 USD (80 INR)
Official website: Monsoon Palace
Department of tourism: Visit Rajasthan
Private Evening Sunset Tour of Monsoon Palace/Sajjan Garh
Duration: 3.0 hour
History
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