Introduction – The Jewel of Udaipur
City Palace (Raj Mahal), Udaipur is one of the most iconic monuments in Rajasthan, located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola. Constructed over nearly 400 years by the Mewar dynasty, the palace is a spectacular fusion of Rajasthani Rajput, Mughal, European, and Chinese architecture.
Built atop a hill in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II, the palace complex overlooks the shimmering Lake Pichola and provides breathtaking views of the Aravalli mountain range. With multiple palaces, courtyards, gardens, and galleries, City Palace is considered the largest palace complex in Rajasthan.
For travelers staying in Udaipur, the City Palace is a must-visit attraction. And if you’re planning your trip, staying nearby at Hotel Apricot One Udaipur by StayPe, just a short drive away, offers the perfect combination of comfort and proximity.
City Palace Udaipur Entry Fee & Timings
Entry Fees for City Palace
- Adults: ₹30
- Children: ₹15
- Camera Fee: ₹200
- Video Camera: ₹500
Entry Fees for City Palace Museum
- Adults (18+): ₹400
- Children (5–18 years): ₹150
- Children below 5 years: Free
City Palace Timings
- Open daily from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
👉 This makes it one of the most tourist-friendly monuments in India, welcoming visitors throughout the week.
Architecture of City Palace Udaipur
Built in granite and marble, the City Palace complex features an 801-foot-long façade rising 100 feet high.
Key Architectural Highlights
- Elevation: Located 1,962 feet above sea level.
- Blend of Styles: Combines Rajput, Mughal, European, and Chinese architecture.
- 22 Generations of Rulers: Contributions from multiple rulers, beginning with Maharana Udai Singh II.
- Palaces Inside: 11 smaller palaces built over time, each harmoniously designed.
Interiors
- Mirror work, murals, and marble carvings adorn the interiors.
- Colored glass, silver inlay, and ornate balconies reflect Mewar grandeur.
- Zigzag corridors were strategically designed to defend against surprise attacks.
Views from the Palace
- Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Lake Palace, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, and Neemach Mata Temple can all be seen from its terraces.
Key Attractions & Must-See Sites Inside City Palace
- Ganesh Deodi – The entry point, guarded by a majestic Ganesh idol.
- Rai Angan – The royal courtyard where Maharana Udai Singh II laid the foundation.
- Baadi Mahal (Garden Palace) – A unique garden built on a 90-foot-high natural rock formation.
- Amar Vilas Courtyard – The highest point in the palace with hanging gardens, fountains, and terraces.
- Badi Chitrashali Chowk – Known for exquisite wall paintings and artworks.
- Mor Chowk – Famous for peacock mosaics made of colored glass.
- Kanch ki Burj – A tower adorned with glass and mirror work.
- Moti Mahal – The Pearl Palace, rich in mirror work.
- Manak Mahal – Houses royal costumes and weapons.
- Surya Chopar – Featuring a stunning sun symbol.
- Zenana Mahal – The royal ladies’ palace.
- City Palace Galleries – Displaying paintings, silver artifacts, and royal collections.
- Toran Pol – Gateway for victory processions.
Facilities & Amenities at City Palace Udaipur
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Information Desks
- Audio Guides (English, French, German, Spanish)
- Lift / Elevator & Ramps
- Drinking Water & Washrooms
- Childcare Rooms
- Car Parking
👉 These facilities make the palace accessible for all kinds of travelers, including families and senior citizens.
Best Time to Visit City Palace Udaipur
- Morning & Evening: Avoid mid-day heat.
- October to March (Winter): Best season with pleasant weather.
- Festivals: Visit during Mewar Festival or Diwali for cultural experiences.
How to Reach City Palace Udaipur
- By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport (Dabok) is 22 km away.
- By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is 3.6 km from the palace.
- By Road: Autos, taxis, tongas, and buses are readily available.
- By Boat: Ferry rides from City Palace to Jagmandir cost around ₹400 per person.
Guides & Tours at City Palace
- Hindi-speaking guide: ₹300
- Museum guide: ₹200
- Audio guides: Available in multiple languages
Hiring a guide enriches your visit with legends and stories of the Mewar dynasty.
City Palace in Popular Culture
- Featured in James Bond’s Octopussy (1983).
- Appears in Bollywood movies and travel documentaries.
- Regularly showcased in Indian tourism campaigns as a symbol of Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
Where to Stay Near City Palace Udaipur
Hotel Apricot One Udaipur by StayPe
Just a short drive from City Palace, Hotel Apricot One by StayPe is the perfect stay option for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and affordable luxury.
Highlights of Apricot One
- 38 Contemporary Rooms – Deluxe King & Twin Rooms
- Rooftop Cafés & Garden Dining – Perfect for evenings after sightseeing
- Banquet Hall for 200 Guests – Ideal for events and weddings
- Swimming Pool – Relax after exploring the palace
- Walking Distance to Fateh Sagar Lake & Saheliyon Ki Bari
For those searching best 3-star hotels near City Palace Udaipur, Apricot One offers unbeatable location and service.
📍 Address: 5/B, Saheli Marg, New Fatehpura, UIT Circle, Udaipur – Rajasthan 313001
📞 +91 70969 15551
🌐 www.apricotonehotels.com
FAQs
What is City Palace Udaipur famous for?
Its grand architecture, royal history, museums, and panoramic views over Lake Pichola.
How much is the entry fee for City Palace Udaipur?
- ₹30 for adults, ₹15 for children, ₹200 for cameras.
- City Palace Museum: ₹400 for adults, ₹150 for children.
What are the timings for City Palace?
Open daily from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm.
How many palaces are inside City Palace?
The complex has 11 small palaces and courtyards, connected seamlessly.
Which is the best hotel near City Palace Udaipur?
Hotel Apricot One by StayPe, located near Fateh Sagar Lake and Saheli Marg, is among the best 3-star hotels near City Palace Udaipur.
Final Thoughts – Why City Palace is a Must-Visit
The City Palace in Udaipur is more than just a monument—it’s a living museum of Rajasthan’s royal legacy. With its architectural brilliance, museums, and panoramic views, it’s a highlight of every Udaipur trip.
When planning your visit, choose Hotel Apricot One Udaipur by StayPe as your stay. Located near Fateh Sagar Lake and Saheli Marg, it gives you the perfect base to explore City Palace and other attractions like Saheliyon Ki Bari, Jagdish Temple, and Bagore Ki Haveli.
✨ A trip to Udaipur is incomplete without the City Palace—and your stay is incomplete without Apricot One Udaipur by StayPe.
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