City Palace Udaipur—History, Timings & Ticket Price

The City Palace Udaipur, located on the shores of the calm Lake Pichola, is a stunning representation of Rajasthan’s royal history. Built over four centuries, this renowned palace is Rajasthan’s biggest and combines wealth, legacy, and architectural excellence. As a must-see destination in Udaipur, it captivates visitors with its breathtaking views, beautiful artwork, and insight into the life of the Mewar family, one of the world’s oldest royal families.

City Palace Udaipur History

Maharana Udai Singh II, the creator of Udaipur, laid the foundation for the City Palace in 1559. Constructed to serve as Mewar’s new capital, it was strategically positioned in the Aravalli Hills to guard against attack. Throughout the years, successive monarchs enlarged and improved the palace, developing it into a vast network of interconnecting palaces, courtyards, and gardens. The palace has witnessed Udaipur’s growing history, from the establishment of the Mewar dynasty to the present.

City Palace Udaipur Architecture

The Udaipur City Palace is a stunning example of architectural fusion, blending Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The complex’s balconies, towers, domes, and arches reflect elegance and functionality. The interiors include intricate mirror work, bright paintings, and marble sculptures, while the exteriors provide stunning views of Lake Pichola and the surrounding hills.

Things to See in City Palace Udaipur

Toran Pole 

The main entrance of the Udaipur City Palace is ornamented with a stone arch known as a toran, which symbolizes victory Historically, people utilized this gate for ceremonial welcomes. Near Toran Pole Gate, you may find images of all Mewar Maharanas and their histories.

Ganesh Chowk

Maharaja Karn Singh created this Ganesh temple, and you can see glasswork on the walls that craftsmen brought from Belgium.

City Palace Museum Udaipur 

This City Palace Museum Udaipur exhibits a large collection of weaponry and equipment used by Mewar monarchs and soldiers over the years. This museum is a must-see for history buffs since it honors Maharana Pratap’s courage and legacy, as well as his courageous struggle against Mughal Emperor Akbar at the Battle of Haldighati.

• Swords and daggers are intricately made weapons, some of which contain valuable stones.

• Shields: Made of metal and leather, with elaborate carvings.

• Firearms: Showing the development of warfare, they include early muskets and pistols.

• Armor Sets: Made of metal to shield warriors in battle.

• Paintings represent Maharana Pratap’s life, including important events like the Battle of Haldighati.

• Portraits of Maharana Pratap, his beloved horse Chetak, and significant court officials.

• Display of Maharana Pratap’s sword, spear, and armor, which represent his power and heroism.

• Artifacts from the Mewar armory demonstrate Rajput military strength.

• A section dedicated to Chetak, Maharana Pratap’s renowned horse, who is remembered for his devotion and bravery at the Battle of Haldighati.

• Items used by Maharana Pratap and his soldiers provide insight into the warrior king’s life.

• Battleground and fortress models and maps. 

Laghu Kund

One of the chambers in the palace contains a bathtub named Lakhu Kund, which craftsmen made from single-stone marble. Every time a new king began his rule, he would sit in the tub, and the attendants would rain 100,000 silver coins on him.

Badi Mahal

The Badi Mahal, also known as the Garden Palace, is a beautiful architectural feature within Udaipur City Palace that sits atop a 90-foot-high natural rock formation. The mahal has a wonderfully designed garden with marble pavilions, fountains, and various plants, providing a peaceful escape. It offers beautiful views of Lake Pichola, the Aravalli Hills, and the city of Udaipur. They used it for royal leisure and celebrations, as well as a place for the kings and queen to spend time in nature.

Manak Mahal (Sheesh Mahal)

Manak Mahal, also known as the Ruby Palace or Sheesh Mahal, is a lesser-known but equally magnificent portion of Udaipur City Palace. ambiance. The craftsmen adorn the castle with mirror work, tinted glass, and vivid rubies imbedded in the walls, creating a lively and radiant atmosphere. The walls and ceilings are decorated with exquisite carvings and mosaic tiles, contributing to the opulent atmosphere. Small mirrors and reflecting glass pieces cover the walls and ceilings, shimmering when light shines on them and producing a captivating image. Artisans construct the Manak Mahal Gate of ivory.

Krishna Vilas, or Painting Palace

The Krishna Vilas, also known as the Painting Palace, is a key component of Udaipur City Palace, known for its superb collection of miniature paintings and artistic exhibits depicting the grandeur and culture of the Mewar dynasty. Krishna Vilas’ walls are covered with a large collection of miniature paintings depicting historical events, royal life, wars, and festivals. These paintings are realistic and bright, providing insight into the royal family’s lifestyle and culture.

Artists create the paintings of Krishna Vilas (Painting Palace) utilizing traditional Rajput miniature painting methods. Artists begin by drawing the pattern onto a prepared medium, such as paper or fabric, with delicate brushes. They paint exquisite details with natural mineral and plant colors, accentuating key features with gold and silver leaf. The technique involves layering colors, adding shade for depth, and fine details to characters, landscapes, and ornamental motifs. The paintings frequently feature imaginary contexts, royal life, and religious subjects, with vivid colors and intricate craftsmanship.

Badal Mahal

The Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds) is a gorgeous and quiet portion of Udaipur City Palace that is well-known for its breathtaking position and scenery. This palace is called after the clouds because it is located at a higher elevation, providing stunning views over Lake Pichola and the city of Udaipur.

The palace has open courtyards and balconies that enable pleasant breezes to pass through, adding to its appeal.

Sun of Gold

A golden adornment in the shape of a sun, the Sun of Gold is located in the City Palace Udaipur and represents the Mewar dynasty, strength, power, and royal heritage. Crafted from solid gold and studded with beautiful stones, it represents divine favor and protection for the kings. Located in the palace’s inner chambers, it symbolizes the royal family’s link to the skies as well as their status. When light touches the sun’s beams, they provide a brilliant appearance, which adds to their symbolic and artistic worth.

Mayur Chowk

Mayur Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) at the Udaipur City Palace is famous for its magnificent peacock themes and multicolored mosaics that represent grandeur and beauty. The courtyard showcases elaborate tile work and vivid motifs that combine Rajput and Mughal architectural elements. The peacock designs are represented in brilliant blues, greens, and gold, providing the courtyard a regal and vibrant feel.

The monarch and his court originally utilized it for royal processions and gatherings. Peacock symbols represent the Mewar monarchs’ divine authority and majesty. It continues to be a popular tourist destination due to its artistic beauty and symbolic significance. 

Manek Chowk

Manek Chowk, located within Udaipur City Palace, is a large courtyard used for royal rituals, public meetings, and processions. It is surrounded by gorgeous arches, balconies, and gardens, reflecting the palace’s architectural beauty. Today, it hosts cultural events and light-and-sound displays, making it a popular destination.

Zenana Mahal

Zenana Mahal is a secret and isolated area of the palace reserved for the Mewar dynasty’s royal women. The Women’s Quarter has beautiful Rajput architecture with delicate carvings, arches, and jharokhas (overhanging covered balcony areas), allowing the women to observe the outside world without being seen.Craftsmen carefully constructed the windows with lattice screens (jali) to provide privacy and ventilation while also adding a decorative element.

The Udaipur City Palace has a complex known as Braj Vilas. This portion was largely utilized as a living and recreational space for the royal women, providing silence and comfort while keeping the imposing appearance of the City Palace.

The Ladies’ Quarter Museum highlights the history and lifestyles of the Mewar dynasty’s royal ladies.The museum exhibits antiquities, portraits, jewels, traditional royal clothing used by palace women, weaponry, a sculpture gallery, and musical instruments. It also includes historical records and artworks that give insights into their position in society and contribution to Udaipur’s cultural and political scene.

Chandi Ki Gallery is a prominent feature of the Women’s Quarter, recognized for its ornamental silver components and graceful design. Artisans embellish the gallery with silver-plated ornamental work, such as elaborate silver panels, mirrors, and excellent carvings, which contribute to the Women’s Quarter’s opulent atmosphere. The reflective quality of the silver increases the sense of grandeur.

The light and sound show in City Palace Udaipur

The “The Legacy of Honour” Light and Sound Show, hosted at the City Palace Museum in Udaipur, is a stunning cultural event. It brilliantly chronicles the Mewar dynasty’s 1,500-year history, bringing to life tales of courage, devotion, and sacrifice among Udaipur’s rulers. Using dramatic lighting, evocative sound effects, and compelling narration, the play transports spectators to the grandeur and customs of the Mewar kingdom.

The creators present the show in two languages: Hindi and English, appealing to both home and foreign viewers. They call the Hindi version “Yash Ki Dharohar.”The event, held in the large Manek Chowk courtyard of the City Palace, has a distinct vibe, with the beautiful palace serving as a background.

The hour-long concert tells tales of legends, such as Maharana Pratap’s heroic wars and the dynasty’s commitment to conserving its cultural legacy. It is a must-see for anybody hoping to learn about Udaipur’s rich past in a memorable, creative way.

How to Reach the City Palace Udaipur

City Palace Udaipur is easily accessible by road from anywhere in Udaipur. Public transportation is the best way to get to this place. Tourists can use local buses, autorickshaws, cycle rickshaws, or rent taxis/cabs.

City Palace Udaipur Timings

The city palace Udaipur timings are 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

City Palace Udaipur Ticket Price

• The City Palace Udaipur tickets for the complex are 50 Rs.
  
  
• The City Palace Udaipur Tickets The price for a full tour of the city palace is for adults—400 Rs.
  
  
• The Udaipur City Palace ticket price for children of ages 5 to 18 years is 150.
  
  
• The City Palace Udaipur entry fee for senior citizens is 250 rs.
  
  
• The City Palace Udaipur ticket price for students is 150 rs.
  
  
• You can access the City Palace by toy train, which is approximately 1 km from the Ticket Center, and the price for this is 50 Rs per person for one side.

Best Time to Visit City Palace Udaipur

The best time to visit City Palace Udaipur is during the winter months, from October to March. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the peak heat and crowds. Evening visits during festivals like Diwali or Mewar Festival can also be magical, as beautifully illuminated palace lights create a mesmerizing ambiance.

Conclusion

The City Palace Udaipur is more than simply a historical landmark; it is an experience that transports you back to the golden age of the Mewar emperors. From its beautiful architecture to its regal past, every part of the castle has a tale waiting to be told.

So, pack your luggage, take your camera, and set off on an incredible tour to behold the majesty of Udaipur’s City Palace!

Nearby Attraction

• Saheliyon Ki Bari – An ancient park with fountains, marble pavilions, and greenery designed for royal maidens.
  
  
• Sajjangarh Fort, also known as the Monsoon Palace, offers stunning panoramic views of Udaipur and surrounding lakes.
  
  
• Fateh Sagar Lake is a calm lake surrounded by hills, including Nehru Park and lovely boat excursions.
  
  
• 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.