Standing proudly on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace in Udaipur is one of India’s most majestic architectural wonders. A symbol of Mewar’s royal legacy, this sprawling palace complex combines Mughal and Rajasthani styles and offers panoramic views of the lake and the city. Visiting City Palace is not just a sightseeing activity — it's a deep dive into the grandeur, courage, and culture of Rajasthan's royal history.

Whether you’re staying at a Budget Hotel in Udaipur or enjoying opulence at a Luxury Hotel in Udaipur, a visit to City Palace is an experience you simply cannot miss.

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1. A Brief History of City Palace

Construction of the City Palace began in 1559 under Maharana Udai Singh II, the founder of Udaipur. Successive Maharanas continued to expand it over 400 years, resulting in a massive palace complex comprising balconies, towers, courtyards, and domes.

Despite the many hands involved in its construction, the palace maintains remarkable architectural consistency. It has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the British Raj, and Udaipur’s transition into modern India.

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2. Architectural Splendor That Tells a Story

The palace complex is a blend of Rajput military architecture and Mughal-style decorative techniques, made with marble and granite. Intricate mirror work, marble carvings, inlaid tile work, and stunning wall paintings adorn every hall and corridor.

Don’t miss:

• copyright mosaics in the Mor Chowk

• Delicate mirror work in Sheesh Mahal

• Antique furniture and royal artifacts in Zenana Mahal

• The panoramic view of Lake Pichola from the upper terraces

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3. Key Attractions Within the City Palace

a. Badi Mahal (Garden Palace)

Also known as the Garden Palace, Badi Mahal sits on a 90-foot-high natural rock formation. It features exotic tiled walls, a central garden courtyard, and a bird’s-eye view of the city.

b. Crystal Gallery

Housed inside Fateh Prakash Palace, this gallery boasts the world’s largest private collection of crystal furniture ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh from England in the 19th century.

c. Durbar Hall

Used for royal functions and official court meetings, this grand hall is adorned with massive chandeliers, royal portraits, and weapons from the Mewar dynasty.

d. Jagdish Temple (Just Outside the Palace)

While technically not part of the palace, this nearby temple is worth a visit for its intricate Indo-Aryan architecture and spiritual ambiance.

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4. Museum Experience: A Walk Through Mewar’s Legacy

The City Palace Museum, managed by the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation, offers a captivating look into royal life — from ancient weapons and costumes to silver urns and ceremonial relics.

Highlights include:

• A royal elephant saddle (Hauda)

• Vintage photos of Udaipur’s royal family

• Traditional attire and jewelry

• Rare paintings and manuscripts

The museum tour is self-paced but guided tours are available if you want deeper insights.

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5. Boating and City Palace Views

After exploring the palace, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, which offers mesmerizing views of the City Palace’s facade. The palace looks even more magnificent from the water, especially at sunset when the structure glows in golden hues.

Tip: The boat ride also passes by Jag Mandir and offers great photo ops with the palace in the background.

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6. Sound and Light Show

In the evening, don’t miss the Mewar Sound and Light Show, held at Manek Chowk inside the palace. Narrated by actor Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar, the show chronicles the 1500-year-old history of the Mewar dynasty in both Hindi and English.

Timings:

• Hindi show: 8:00 PM

• English show: 7:00 PM

Why Watch: It brings history alive through lights, music, and storytelling, making it a favorite for culture lovers.

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7. Entry Timings and Ticket Information

Opening Hours:

• Palace and Museum: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

• Crystal Gallery: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Ticket Prices:

• Entry fee varies for Indian and foreign tourists

• Additional charges for photography and camera use

• Boat rides and sound show have separate ticketing

Note: Try visiting early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy soft natural light for photos.

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8. Nearby Places to Visit After City Palace

• Jagdish Temple – A few steps away, ideal for spiritual seekers

• Ambrai Ghat – Great for sunset views of the City Palace

• Bagore Ki Haveli – A historic mansion turned museum and folk dance venue

• Shopping in Bada Bazaar – Perfect for handicrafts, souvenirs, and silver jewelry

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9. Dining Near City Palace

Several rooftop restaurants around the palace offer scenic views of the lake and City Palace façade.

Recommended:

• Upre by 1559 AD

• Ambrai Restaurant

• Jheel’s Café (budget-friendly with lakeside charm)

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10. Where to Stay for Easy Access

To explore City Palace and nearby attractions comfortably:

• Budget Hotel in Udaipur: Centrally located, ideal for walking to major sites and experiencing local markets.

• Luxury Hotel in Udaipur: Offers lake-facing suites, royal ambience, and guided tours to the palace.

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Final Thoughts

The City Palace of Udaipur is more than just a tourist attraction — it is a living testimony to the courage, culture, and opulence of the Mewar dynasty. Walking through its grand corridors, peeking into royal chambers, and witnessing breathtaking views, you don’t just see history — you feel it.