Sajjangarh Fort, also known as the Monsoon Palace, is a spectacular hilltop building located in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The fort, located at a height of 944 meters on the Bansdara top of the Aravalli Hills, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Udaipur, its lakes, and the surrounding countryside.
It was initially planned to be an astronomical observatory to track monsoon clouds, but due to the king’s death at a young age, the ambitious idea of a nine-story observatory was never achieved, and the palace was converted into a royal summer retreat and hunting lodge. Its strategic location provided a cool respite during the sweltering summers, allowing the royal family to watch spectacular sunsets and monsoon clouds wash across the hills.
Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur History
Maharana Sajjan Singh, the Mewar dynasty’s 72nd monarch, commissioned the palace in 1884. Maharana Sajjan Singh was noted for his innovative ideas and strong attraction to the environment. He had envisioned Sajjangarh as a nine-story astronomical observatory to study monsoon patterns and observe cloud movement. Unfortunately, the Maharana died at a young age; therefore, the authorities widened the ambitious project back to its current form.
Although they never built the astronomical observatory, the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace Udaipur served as a summer getaway and hunting lodge for the royal family.
Its lofty elevation made it an excellent site for catching fresh breezes and watching monsoon clouds drift across the Aravalli hills. The fort also had a strategic purpose, providing a vantage point for monitoring operations in the surrounding areas.
Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur Architecture
Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur is an excellent example of Rajput construction, blending majesty and efficiency. The palace is built of white marble, giving it a majestic and ethereal air. Its design has finely carved pillars, jharokhas (overhanging balconies), and domes that showcase Rajasthani workmanship.
One of the palace’s most notable features is its rainwater collecting system, which can hold up to 195,500 liters of water and exemplifies the architectural innovation of the period. The design has a central courtyard, apartments with big windows, and open terraces with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, which includes Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the distant Kumbhalgarh Fort.
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, Udaipur
Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur is also known as the Monsoon Palace since it was initially erected by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1884 as an astronomical observatory to track monsoon clouds.
Although the main proposal to utilize it as an astronomical observatory was never completely achieved, the palace was converted into a royal retreat during the monsoon season.
Visitors may enjoy spectacular views of Udaipur’s recognized lakes, the verdant Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and the distant plains below from its hilltop location. The sunsets here are especially beautiful, with the golden hues of the setting sun reflecting off the lakes and lighting the fort’s walls.
Sajjangarh Biological Park, Udaipur
The Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, previously a royal hunting park, is located at the base of Sajjangarh Palace, Udaipur. It was then transformed into a wildlife reserve.
The Sajjangarh Biological Park, which promotes animal protection, is located within the sanctuary. Families may explore and learn about the local wildlife at the park, which has well-maintained cages for a variety of species.
Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, situated near Sajjangarh Fort (Monsoon Palace) in Udaipur, Rajasthan, is a beautiful natural sanctuary of 5.19 square kilometers. It was established in 1987 and surrounds the Aravalli Hills, providing a protected environment for a wide variety of plants and wildlife. The Sajjangarh Biological Park is home to panthers, sambars, jackals, and wild boars, as well as over 100 bird species, including endangered vultures and the uncommon White-naped Tit. Popular for its gorgeous nature paths, the sanctuary provides tourists with a peaceful getaway and panoramic views of Udaipur’s landscapes, particularly during the monsoon season when the flora grows in full bloom.
Best Time to Visit Sajjangarh Fort, Udaipur
The best time to visit Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur is the rainy season (July to September), as it actually lives up to its name. The rains convert the surrounding hills into a lush green paradise, while the monsoon clouds add to the landscape’s dramatic splendor.
For those who prefer colder weather, the winter months (October through March) are also perfect. During this time, the sky is clear, providing uninterrupted views of the lakes and Udaipur city. Visiting in the evening allows you to see the breathtaking sunset, followed by the illuminated town below.
How to Reach Sajjangarh Fort, Udaipur
Sajjangarh Palace Udaipur is located around 10 kilometers from Udaipur City and is easily accessible by car. Visitors can rent a cab or take an auto-rickshaw from Udaipur. From the Sajjangarh Ticket Center to the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, you can drive your own car or rent a jeep for 120 rs per person on both sides.
Sajjangarh Fort Timings
- The Sajjangarh Fort timings are 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.
Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur Ticket Price
- The Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur ticket price is 159 Rs per person for Indians.
- The Sajjangarh monsoon palace ticket is 518 Rs per person for foreigners.
- The Sajjangarh Fort ticket price is 308 Rs for 4-wheelers.
- The monsoon palace Udaipur ticket price is 62 Rs for 2-wheelers.
- You can also take a public auto to reach SajjanGarh Monsoon Palace, whose price is 120 rs per person for both sides.
Sajjangarh Biological Park Timings & Ticket Price
- The timings of Sajjangarh Biological Park are 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. (Tuesday Holiday).
- The Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary Ticket Price for Indian visitors—43 Rs
- For foreign tourists—310 Rs
- For Indian tourists—17 Rs
- Camera fee—82 Rs
- Video camera fee—205 Rs
Conclusion
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, with its rich history, architectural brilliance, and breathtaking views, shines as a true gem in Udaipur’s crown. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful vacation, this majestic fort has something for everyone. A visit to the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is not only a historical adventure but also an opportunity to see Rajasthan’s amazing beauty from an unusual point of view.
Plan a vacation to Sajjangarh Palace to experience the charm of Udaipur’s regal history and natural grandeur.
Nearby Attraction
- Saheliyon Ki Bari – An ancient park with fountains, marble pavilions, and greenery designed for royal maidens.
- Jagdish Temple is a large 17th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful carvings and spiritual aura.
- Bagore Ki Haveli is a historic haveli on Lake Pichola that has been transformed into a museum featuring royal antiques, costumes, and vivid cultural performances.
- Jag Mandir Island Palace is a magnificent island palace on Lake Pichola, recognized for its superb design and peaceful atmosphere.
- City Palace Udaipur is a gorgeous palace complex that overlooks Lake Pichola and features museums, courtyards, and balconies.
The entry fee for Sajjangarh Fort, Udaipur, is 159 per person for Indians and 518 Rs per person for foreigners.
Visiting in the evening allows you to see the breathtaking sunset, followed by the illuminated town below. The best time to visit is in winter or the rainy season, when surrounding hills are lush green and the sky is clear, providing uninterrupted views of the lakes and Udaipur city.
The cost of a car that takes you from Tiket Center to Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace for both sides is 120 Rs. per person.
It was originally intended to be an astronomical observatory to track monsoon clouds, but owing to the king’s early death, the ambitious concept of a nine-story observatory was never realized, and the palace was turned into a royal summer retreat and hunting lodge.
