Read More on City Palace
History
Architecture
The history of this palace is attached with the mighty Mewar kingdom, which had reached its heights near the territory of Nagda. The kingdom was founded by King Guhil, who laid the founding stone of the Maharana dominance in the year 568 AD. Subsequently, his successor Maharana Uday Singh II of the Sisodia branch inherited the Mewar kingdom at Chittor in 1537, but he feared the aggressive stance of the Mughals and for the sake of his Kingdom moved his capital to a region near Lake Pichola, naming the city Udaipur. The city is offered natural protection from the forests, lakes, and the mighty Aravalli Hills. On the advice of a hermit, the King decided to build a palace.
'Rai Angan' was the first structure of the Palace and it was finally completed in the year 1559. The palace went under many changes throughout its history of more than 400 years. The palace was under the control of the British until Indian independence in 1947, later on, the Mewar Kingdom was merged with democratic India in the year 1949.
Activities
- You should definitely visit Amar Vilas, it is an elevated garden area that has a wonderful hanging garden stylishly decorated with fountains, towers, terraces, and a square marble tub.
- You can also admire the collection of rare items such as crystal chairs, dressing tables, jewel-studded carpets, sofas, tables, chairs, and beds at the Fateh Prakash Palace that has been converted into a hotel.
- Built in 1909, the Darbar Hall is a newer addition and it was used as a venue for official functions in the Fateprakash Palace.
- You can also see an amazing collection of beautiful Chinese and Dutch tiles at Chini Chitrashala.
- If you are interested in seeing a collection of miniature paintings, then you should pay a visit to Krishna Vilas.
Tips for visiting
- In permitted areas, you are allowed to take pictures. The fee for photography and Videography is 200 INR and INR 500.
- You are advised to carry a water bottle, sunblock, and sunglasses.
- You need to be extra careful around the relics in the museum.
- During peak season and long weekends the place gets super crowded, so avoid visiting on these days.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the City Palace Udaipur would be during the winter season. Due to the larger size of the palace complex, it takes a lot of time to visit every part of the palace. In summers, you will not feel like completing your tour due to the heat.
Nearby Atractions
- The City Palace houses 11 wonderful palaces.
- The highest point of the Palace is the Amar Vilas.
- The City Palace in Udaipur is considered to be one of the largest royal residential complexes in Rajasthan.
- Maharana Uday Singh II constructed this palace after shifting his capital from Chittor.
Nearby market/ shopping places
Bapu Bazaar: It is among the popular markets in this tourist city. From here you can purchase items like books, electronic gadgets, bags, clothes, shoes, and crockery. Khadi products are the specialty of this market.
Bada Bazaar: Located close to Clock Tower, it is one of the oldest markets of the city. Various shops here offer traditional Rajasthani clothes, expensive gold and silver jewelry, Bandhani, cosmetics, and souvenirs.
Hathipole: The soul of this market are the Craftworks, traditional clothing, and designer footwear (Mojaris or juttis).
Interesting Facts About City Palace
- The City Palace houses 11 wonderful palaces.
- The highest point of the Palace is the Amar Vilas.
- The City Palace in Udaipur is considered to be one of the largest royal residential complexes in Rajasthan.
- Maharana Uday Singh II constructed this palace after shifting his capital from Chittor.