City Palace
Largest palace complex in Rajasthan with museums, courtyards, and stunning Lake Pichola views
Overview
City Palace Udaipur, built over 400 years by successive maharanas, is Rajasthan's largest palace complex towering over Lake Pichola. This architectural marvel blends Rajasthani and Mughal styles with intricate peacock mosaics, beautiful courtyards, and ornate balconies. The palace still serves as residence for Udaipur's royal family while sections are open as museums showcasing royal artifacts, miniature paintings, crystal items, and vintage photographs. The complex includes Mubarak Mahal, Krishna Vilas, Moti Mahal, and the spectacular Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) with stunning glass and mirror work. Panoramic terraces offer breathtaking views of Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, and the Lake Palace.
Highlights
Mor Chowk - Peacock Courtyard with exquisite glass mosaics
Zenana Mahal - Queens' quarters with stunning frescoes
Crystal Gallery - European crystal furniture and chandeliers
Lake Pichola panoramic views from palace terraces
Vintage photograph collection of royal family
Miniature painting gallery - Mewar school art
Exploring City Palace Complex
Entry via Ganesh Deori Gate
Enter through main gate, purchase tickets and audio guide (₹200). Start at Manak Chowk courtyard
Mubarak Mahal & Museum
Royal artifacts, costumes, turbans, and textile collection. See Maharana Pratap's armor
Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard)
Most photographed spot - three peacock mosaics representing seasons. Stunning glass work
Moti Mahal & Krishna Vilas
Pearl Palace and Krishna's chamber with miniature paintings and royal portraits
Zenana Mahal Tour
Queens' palace with beautiful frescoes, paintings, and Belgian glass mirrors
Terrace Views
Multiple levels offer stunning Lake Pichola panoramas. See Lake Palace and Jag Mandir. Best photography spot
Crystal Gallery (Optional)
Separate ticket ₹700. Rare crystal furniture, beds, sofas ordered from England but never used
Visiting Information
Entry Fee:
₹300 for Indians, ₹700 for foreigners. Crystal Gallery ₹700 extra. Photography ₹250
Timings:
9:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily
Recommended Duration:
2.5-3 hours
Best Time to Visit
October to March. Visit early morning (9-10 AM) for best light and fewer crowds
Getting There
Via Debari Road to city center, then City Palace Road (40 min)
Public Transport:
Central old city location, easy to reach
Travel Tips
- •Audio guide (₹200) essential - palace has complex history and architecture
- •Combo ticket with Jagdish Temple and Bagore Ki Haveli saves money
- •Crystal Gallery worth extra cost - world's largest private collection
- •Visit Mor Chowk when sunlight hits (10-11 AM) for best glass mosaic photos
- •Multiple terraces at different levels - explore all for best lake views