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Udaipur, known as the “Kashmir of the East” or the “Lake City”, is one of the most beautiful cities in Rajasthan. The heart of the city, the City Palace, is located on the banks of Lake Pichola. Established in 1559 by Maharana Uday Singh, this palace is not only a symbol of political prosperity but also of valor, art and culture. After being the capital of the Mewar royal family for centuries, the palace is still a living example of Rajput pride.

Establishment and History

The City Palace was established by Maharana Uday Singh II in the 16th century with the selection of Udaipur as the new capital of the Mewar kingdom. His son Maharana Pratap fought the Battle of Haldighat and fortified the capital founded by his father. The subsequent kings also contributed significantly to the renovation and expansion of the palace. Each generation added its own section and today the palace has become a magnificent palace complex.

Journey from habitation to heritage

Initially, the City Palace was only a residential house for the king and his family. But after the 20th century, some parts of it were converted into heritage hotels. Shiv Niwas Palace and Fateh Prakash Mahal are now functioning as luxury hotels, where tourists from all over the world can experience the royal lifestyle.

Magnificent fusion of architecture

The architecture of the City Palace is a beautiful blend of Rajput, Mughal and European styles. The palace is decorated using white and yellow Sangha marble, polished granite and colored glass. The palace has small balconies, jharokas, realistic grand doors and sculptural decorations.

Main Sections of the Palace

• A. Amar Vilas: The highest part of the palace from where the entire Pichola Lake and the Aravalli Mountains are visible. There are beautiful gardens, tanks and magnificent fountains for water showers.
• B. Mor Chowk: Mor Chowk is the colorful part of the palace in which three peacocks made of glass pieces are visible - representing spring, summer and monsoon.
• C. Bhim Vilas: Here you can see paintings of Radha Krishna's love stories. These paintings based on mythological stories are painted very beautifully.
• D. Zanana Mahal: This area built for queens and women is very secure and beautiful. Paintings and materials depicting the lifestyle of women have been placed here.
• E. Fateh Prakash Mahal and Shiv Niwas: Today both of these work as heritage hotels. Here, luxurious hotel facilities are available for Indian and foreign guests.
• U. Durbar Hall: Where the Maharana used to hold court in the past, today royal attire, weapons, paintings and decorations are seen.

Relationship between Lake and Palace

The Pichola Lake further enhances the beauty of the palace. The reflection in the lake from the balconies of the palace is the most captivating sight. The Jagmandir and Lake Palace on the lake are also clearly visible from the palace.

Conservation and Management

The City Palace is managed by the "Mewar Foundation". Maharana Arvind Singh Mewar is the president of this foundation. He also receives local and international assistance for the conservation of the palace.

Folklore and Stories

The City Palace has great importance in local folklore. According to beliefs, there are mysterious caves under the palace which were used to hide from enemy attacks. According to some stories, Maharana Pratap was hiding here when there was a fear of a Mughal attack.

Tourism and Visits

Lakhs of tourists visit the City Palace every year. Separate zones have been created here for audio tours, traditional tour guides and photography. Especially foreign tourists prefer to stay here to experience the Rajasthani royal culture.

Palace in the film and TV industry

Many Hollywood and Bollywood films have been shot in the City Palace. Such as “James Bond: Octopussy”, “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani”, “Guide”, “Ram-Leela” etc. Due to these films, the popularity of the palace has increased globally.

Festivals and Political Events

Mewar festivals, Diwali, Holi and royal weddings are celebrated in a grand manner in the palace. During such occasions, the palace is illuminated with lights and the entire Udaipur is painted in royal colors.

Entry Fee and Timings

• Entry Fee (including museum): Rs. 300 to 500
• Photography Charge: Rs. 250+
• Timing: Daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Assistance for Tourists

There is a ticket counter, catering, a royal handicraft store for buying clothes and cultural shows. Audio tours are available in various languages ​​that explain the history of the palace in detail to the tourists.

Today's City Palace

Today's City Palace is no longer just a building of history, but a center of living culture. The royal family still lives in a special part of it. The culture is being preserved in the palace and its pride is also advancing with the new generation.