City Palace Udaipur: Entry Fee, Timings, History & Must-See Attractions

Standing on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, City Palace isn’t just a palace. It’s a living chronicle of Rajputana grandeur spanning four centuries. As you approach, its cream-colored facade rising against the blue water creates a sight that has captivated travelers, royalty, and artists for generations.

City Palace represents something uniquely enchanting: a lakeside wonderland where 22 successive generations of Mewar rulers poured their artistic vision, creating a complex that blends Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European, and traces of Chinese architectural influences (Wikipedia). The palace facade stretches 244 meters along the lake and rises 30.4 meters at its highest point.

Parts of this palace are still home to the current Mewar royal family, making it one of the few royal residences in India where the legacy truly lives on. Walk through its eleven interconnected palaces and you’ll find the world’s largest private crystal collection, peacock mosaics crafted with 5,000 pieces of colored glass, and museum galleries showcasing centuries of royal heritage.

City Palace Udaipur — Quick Facts
Founded	1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II; expanded over 400+ years by 22 Mewar rulers
Dimensions	244 m long × 30.4 m high — Rajasthan’s largest palace complex
Museum Entry	₹400 adults · ₹150 children/students · ₹250 senior citizens
Crystal Gallery	₹550 adults · ₹350 children (5–12 yrs) · Separate ticket
Timings	9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily (Crystal Gallery closes 6:30 PM)
Best Time	October to March; arrive 9:30–11:00 AM for smallest crowds
How to Reach	2.4 km from Railway Station; 24 km from Airport

About City Palace, Udaipur

Where Is City Palace in Udaipur?

City Palace sits on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola in the heart of Udaipur’s Old City. The address: City Palace Complex, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001. You’re within walking distance of Jagdish Temple, the old bazaars, and several heritage havelis. The ridge position at 598 meters above sea level gives commanding views of Lake Pichola, the Lake Palace (Jag Niwas), Jag Mandir, and the Aravalli Hills.

Distance from City Palace to Major Attractions

Destination	Distance	By Car	By Auto-rickshaw
Lake Pichola Boat Point	1.3 km	8 min	5 min
Jagdish Temple	150 m	3 min	5 min
Bagore Ki Haveli	400 m (walk)	19 min	15 min
Udaipur Railway Station	2.4 km	10 min	15 min
Fateh Sagar Lake	5.6 km	20 min	18 min
Saheliyon Ki Bari	5 km	17 min	15 min
Kumbhalgarh Fort	84 km	2.5 hr	N/A
Maharana Pratap Airport	24 km	40 min	50 min

City Palace, Udaipur History

The story of City Palace begins in 1559, when Maharana Udai Singh II shifted his capital from Chittorgarh after it fell to Mughal emperor Akbar. Legend says a holy hermit meditating on the banks of Lake Pichola advised him to build his capital here. Taking this counsel to heart, Udai Singh II laid the foundation stone of City Palace in 1559 (Britannica).

What makes City Palace architecturally remarkable is that it represents 22 successive generations of Sisodia Rajputs building over more than 400 years. Each ruler added palaces, courtyards, and chambers while maintaining architectural harmony. This continuous process transformed the original fortress into an elaborate complex of eleven smaller palaces.

Multi-Generational Construction

• Maharana Udai Singh II (1537–1572): Founded Udaipur in 1559; built Rai Angan, the original foundation courtyard
• Maharana Karan Singh II (1620–1628): Built Karan Vilas with ornate glass and mirror work; added to Zenana Mahal
• Maharana Jagat Singh I (1628–1652): Completed Jag Mandir island palace; commissioned Jagdish Temple (150 m from palace)
• Maharana Sangram Singh II (1710–1734): Built Saheliyon-ki-Bari; constructed the Tripolia Gate
• Maharana Bhim Singh (1778–1828): Built Bhim Vilas featuring Mewar school miniature paintings
• Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874–1884): Added Mor Chowk peacock mosaics; commissioned Crystal Gallery from F&C Osler, Birmingham (1877)
• Maharana Fateh Singh (1884–1930): Built Fateh Prakash Palace; completed Shiv Niwas Palace
• Maharana Bhagwat Singh (1955–1984): Opened City Palace Museum in 1969

The Mewar Dynasty Legacy

The Mewar dynasty, established in 568 AD by Guhil at Nagda (Wikipedia), never fully submitted to Mughal rule, maintaining sovereignty through strategic resistance. This pride is visible in every corridor: battle scene murals, the Armoury’s weapons collection, and the continuous presence of the royal family to this day.

Modern Transformation

After India’s independence in 1947, the Mewar royal family opened the complex as a museum in 1969. The Crystal Gallery finally opened to the public in 1994 after the crystal collection sat in crates for over a century (HRH Hotels). The current Maharana continues to reside in private sections, making City Palace one of the rare living palaces in India.

City Palace, Udaipur Architecture

City Palace is a masterpiece of architectural fusion, blending Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European, and Chinese influences. Built from granite and Makrana marble, the facade measures 244 meters along the lake and rises 30.4 meters (Wikipedia). It is Rajasthan’s largest palace complex.

• Rajput Elements: Massive defensive walls, jharokhas (overhanging balconies), chhatris (dome-shaped pavilions), and courtyard-based organization
• Mughal Influences: Cusped arches, formal gardens, pietra dura stone inlay, decorative jali (lattice) screens
• European Touches: Belgian crystal chandeliers, stained glass windows, Victorian-era furnishings, neoclassical columns
• Chinese Contributions: Decorative blue and white ceramic tiles, porcelain collection acquired through trade

Decorative Arts Excellence

Mirror Work (Sheesha Kaam): Extensive mirror work on walls and ceilings throughout the complex creates dazzling effects when light filters through jharokhas. Mor Chowk’s three peacock mosaics use over 5,000 colored glass and mirror pieces, each hand-set into lime plaster.

Frescoes and Murals: Painted murals depicting royal processions, festivals, battle scenes, and religious imagery cover walls throughout the palace, created by royal court painters over generations.

City Palace, Udaipur Timings and Ticket Price

City Palace is open 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, all seven days, no weekly closure. The Crystal Gallery hours are 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Visitor Category	Museum Entry	Crystal Gallery
Adults (Indian and Foreign)	₹400	₹550
Children / Students (5–18 yrs)	₹150	₹350 (5–12 yrs only)
Senior Citizens (60+)	₹250	₹550
Children under 5	Free	Free
Audio Guide	₹200/device	Included

Note: Museum ticket includes camera charges. Photography strictly prohibited inside the Crystal Gallery. Online booking available at www.eternalmewar.in up to 30 days ahead.

Best Time to Visit City Palace, Udaipur

Morning (9:30–11:00 AM) is optimal: soft light for photography, calm lake reflections, and smaller crowds before tour groups arrive. October to March is the best season (10–27°C, clear skies). Monsoon (July–September) brings reduced crowds and lush greenery but frequent rain. Summer (April–June) is the least comfortable but quietest period.

How to Reach City Palace, Udaipur

From Udaipur Railway Station (2.4 km): Taxi 10–15 min, auto-rickshaw 12–18 min, or Ola/Uber. From Maharana Pratap Airport (24 km): Pre-paid taxi or app-based cab, 40–50 minutes. Parking at the palace campus: ₹25 two-wheelers, ₹350 four-wheelers.

Must-See Attractions Inside City Palace, Udaipur

Crystal Gallery

Widely described as the world’s largest private crystal collection, the Crystal Gallery displays objects commissioned in 1877 from F&C Osler and Company of Birmingham, famous for the crystal fountain at the 1851 Great Exhibition (HRH Hotels). Maharana Sajjan Singh died in 1884 before the crystals arrived and they sat packed for over a century. The gallery opened to the public in 1994.

The collection includes full-size crystal beds, chairs, and dining tables from 24% lead-oxide crystal. A single chair weighs over 50 kg. Crystal chandeliers, tableware, perfume bottles, and figurines complete the display. The Mewar Crest is etched on many pieces. Entry ₹550 adults (separate ticket). Photography prohibited.

Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard)

City Palace’s most photographed courtyard features three enormous peacock mosaics, each crafted with 5,000 individual pieces of glass, mirrors, and semi-precious stones, representing Rajasthan’s three seasons (Mosaic Art Source). The Summer Peacock in greens and golds, the Monsoon Peacock in blues and silvers, the Winter Peacock in oranges and reds. Each piece was hand-cut and set individually into lime plaster.

Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace)

Despite the name, Manak Mahal features European-style crystal chandeliers, glass mosaic work, and traditional mirror work rather than actual rubies. The palace houses an impressive portrait gallery spanning early Rajasthani miniature style to later European portrait technique, covering successive Mewar rulers in ceremonial dress.

Badi Mahal (Garden Palace)

Built at the palace’s highest point, Badi Mahal offers City Palace’s finest lake views: unobstructed vistas across Lake Pichola, direct views of the Lake Palace (Jag Niwas), and Jag Mandir to the south. Western-facing terraces are ideal for sunset photography. The garden follows Mughal charbagh principles with historical gravity-fed fountain systems.

Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors)

The Sheesh Mahal continues the Rajasthani tradition of mirror palaces. The ceiling is completely covered with small mirrors in stars, flowers, and geometric designs. Even minimal light creates the famous “Palace of a Thousand Stars” effect. Try it with a mobile phone flashlight — a single light source multiplies into thousands of reflections.

Zenana Mahal (Women’s Palace)

The Zenana Mahal represents private quarters where royal women of the Mewar court resided. Architecture prioritized comfort: high ceilings, cross-ventilation, fountains, and elaborate decorative arts. Royal women held significant influence despite purdah, often serving as advisors and patrons of artistic projects. Today the section houses exhibits on traditional clothing, jewelry, and photographs of royal women’s lives.

Durbar Hall

The Durbar Hall served as the grand ceremonial space for formal court and state business. It features multiple massive Belgian crystal chandeliers, large-scale painted murals depicting court ceremonies and battle scenes, and an elevated throne platform. The hall witnessed royal coronations and meetings with British colonial officials.

The Armoury

The Armoury spans 400 years of Mewar military heritage: ceremonial swords with gold and silver damascening, battle-worn katars (push daggers), rhinoceros-hide shields, chain mail and plate armour, and early matchlock guns. Several weapons connect to the 1576 Battle of Haldighati where Maharana Pratap fought Mughal forces.

Manek Chowk

Manek Chowk measures approximately 30×40 meters with marble and stone paving. Three to four-story palace buildings enclose it with jharokhas above. Historically it hosted royal processions with elephants and horses, Holi and Diwali celebrations, and military reviews. Morning light (9:30–11:00 AM) creates dramatic shadows ideal for architectural photography.

Rai Angan

Rai Angan is the most historically significant courtyard in the complex — the first structure Maharana Udai Singh II built in 1559. This is the literal starting point of all 400 years of palace construction, built at the exact spot where the hermit advised the Maharana to found his capital.

Vintage Car Collection

The collection spans the 1920s through 1960s: Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost models, Rolls-Royce Phantom with custom coachwork, Bentley, Cadillac, and Buick. Several cars feature extended roofs for turbans and custom royal emblems. Many remain in working condition. Allow 15–45 minutes depending on your interest.

Bhim Vilas

Built by Maharana Bhim Singh (1778–1828), Bhim Vilas showcases early 19th-century Mewar school miniature paintings, mirror and glass work, and European-influenced decorative objects. Now housing museum galleries with period furniture and portraits from Bhim Singh’s era.

Dilkhusha Mahal (Palace of Joy)

Constructed in 1620, Dilkhusha Mahal (“Heart’s Delight Palace”) was conceived as a royal retreat from formal duties. Located near the Zenana quarters, likely used primarily by royal ladies. Known for its beautiful murals, vibrant colors, and airy spaces designed for comfort. Connected by passages to both Chandra Mahal and Badi Mahal. Now part of the City Palace Museum (opened 1974).

Fateh Prakash Palace

Named after Maharana Fateh Singh (1884–1930), Fateh Prakash Palace is the complex’s most recent major addition, built in the early 20th century with electric lighting, plumbing, and European architectural elements. Today it operates as a luxury heritage hotel and houses the Crystal Gallery.

City Palace, Udaipur Restaurants

1. Palki Khana (Inside Palace Complex)

Located within the palace complex, Palki Khana serves traditional Rajasthani specialties: Dal Baati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, Laal Maas, and Safed Maas alongside North Indian and Continental options. Complete Rajasthani Thali sets and extensive vegetarian menu. Air-conditioned heritage interiors.

2. The Sunset Terrace, Fateh Prakash Palace

Direct sightlines to the Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) floating on the water, with candlelit tables and contemporary Indian cuisine with global influences. Price range: ₹2,500–4,500 per person. Advance reservations essential. Perfect for special occasions and anniversary dinners.

3. Ambrai Restaurant (0.2 km)

Iconic lakeside restaurant at Hanuman Ghat (62, Ambrai Rd) with illuminated City Palace views at night. Open-air seating on Lake Pichola’s edge. Authentic Rajasthani specialties alongside North Indian and Continental cuisine. Live music on select evenings. ₹1,500–3,000 per person. Reservations recommended for lakeside tables.

Shopping Near City Palace, Udaipur

• Bada Bazaar (2 km): Traditional textiles, ethnic clothing, handicrafts, jewelry. Best 10:00–11:30 AM or 4:00–6:00 PM.
• Clock Tower Market (2 km): Local handicrafts at better prices, more authentic bargaining.
• Bandhani (Tie-Dye): ₹500–5,000 depending on fabric
• Kundan and Meenakari Jewelry: Traditional Rajasthani gold-plated styles
• Mojari (Traditional Shoes): Handcrafted leather, popular souvenir
• Kathputlis (Puppets): Traditional Rajasthani string puppets

How Much Time Is Required to Visit City Palace?

Visit Type	Duration	What’s Covered
Quick Visit	1.5–2 hours	Highlights: Mor Chowk, Sheesh Mahal, lake view
Standard Visit	2.5–3.5 hours	All major courtyards, museum, photography
Extended Exploration	4–5 hours	Everything + Crystal Gallery (45 min) + Vintage Cars + dining

Hotels Near City Palace, Udaipur

• Budget (₹1,000–2,500/night): Treebo Trend Udai Niwas By The Lake (0.5 km, ₹1,200–2,200) · The Lake View Hotel (0.6 km, ₹1,500–2,500)
• Mid-Range (₹2,500–5,000/night): Jaiwana Haveli (0.4 km, ₹3,000–5,000) · Hotel Devraj Niwas (0.5 km, ₹2,800–4,500)
• Heritage (₹1,000–5,000/night): Shree Jagdish Mahal Heritage Hotel (0.3 km, ₹1,800–3,500) · Hotel Boheda Palace (0.8 km, ₹2,500–4,500)
• Luxury (₹6,000+/night): Taj Lake Palace (island, ₹25,000–80,000+) · The Oberoi Udaivilas (3 km, ₹35,000–1,00,000+)

Places to Visit Near City Palace, Udaipur

• Jagdish Temple (150 m): 17th-century Vishnu temple completed in 1651. Free entry. 15–30 minutes.
• Lake Pichola Boat Rides: 1-hour tours from Rameshwar Ghat (200–300 m from palace). ₹400–600 shared. Sunset cruises most popular.
• Bagore Ki Haveli (400 m walking): 18th-century haveli with 100+ rooms. Evening Cultural Show at 7:00 PM daily.
• Saheliyon Ki Bari (5 km): Garden of Maidens built in the 18th century with fountains and lotus pools.
• Kumbhalgarh Fort (84 km): UNESCO World Heritage Site with the world’s second-longest wall.
• Chittorgarh Fort (112 km): Historic Mewar capital before Udaipur; UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For a complete overview of everything Udaipur offers, see our guide to Things to Do in Udaipur covering 30+ activities, itineraries, and insider tips.