City Palace In Udaipur

History of City Palace

Immerse yourself  in the history of Mewar and its royal emeperors, and grab a chance to delve into the majesty of this place. Though, the construction of the City Palace started in the year 1559, the work continued for over four and a half centuries. Hence, the architecture of the palace has British and Mughal influences. Eventually, the City Palace was opened as a museum to the public in the year 1969 post independence in order to generate income for royal rulers. The palace is now under the process of getting converted into a world-class museum.  

Architecture of City Palace

Built on a hilltop, the City Palace, Udaipur is surmounted by towers, cupolas, and balconies. The facade of this palace is around 244 meters long and 30.4 meters high. Explore this palace for a panoramic view of this city, and have a mesmerizing experience. What’s more? At the City Palace, you will get to view a number of royal palaces inside the complex. Each of these palaces has its own architectural brilliance as it blends Mughal and Rajputana architecture. Stroll around the Fateh Prakash Palace and view luxury artifacts like crockery, dressing tables, crystal chairs and others. You can view more crystal and porcelain items in Ruby Palace or Manak Mahal.

Attractions of City Palace

Entrance and Torans: As you explore this magnificent attraction, you can view plenty of gates at the City Palace that are called "Pols". The main entrance gate is the 'Bara Pol', then there is the triple arched gate called 'Tripolia'. If you walk in between these gates, you will see eight marble arches or ‘Toranas’. When you cross the 'Tripolia' gate, you will enter the 'Hathi Pol'.

Manek Chowk: One of the most recongnizable features of the City Palace is Manek Chowk. This sprawling grassy courtyard was earlier used for public meetings, horse cavalry, ceremonial processions, and other events and festivals. This courtyard now houses shops for books, clothing, and souvenirs. It also has restaurant named the Palki Restaurant.

Ganesh Deodhi: Ganesh Deodhi is an ornate ideal of Lord Ganesh, sculptured from marble. As the assembly hall opens to Ganesh Chowk, the beautiful sculpture with its fine glass inlay work leaves everyone spellbound.

Besides the above attractions, there are a few of other places that might entice you. If you are an art lover, then Bhim Vilas has some unique miniature paintings that portray the story of Lord Krishna and Radha. Another artistic piece of work is the Sheesh Mahal that has some intricate mirror work.  Next, head to the Krishna Vilas housing miniature paintings that depict games, royal articles, and festivals of the raja-maharajas. At the Chini Chitrashala, you will be floored by the majestic Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles. Do also visit the Dilkusha Mahal that is known as the ‘Palace of Joy’ due to its wall paintings and murals. And, pay your reverences at the Jagdish Temple in this palace.