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Udaipur City Palace Museum Guide

A Look Inside the Udaipur City Palace Museum

The City Palace Museum is the jewel in the crown of the Udaipur City Palace Complex. It is here that you can immerse yourself in the history of the Maharanas of Mewar, and really get a feel for their culture and how royalty lived. The sprawling museum is actually a series of palaces, including the Mardana Mahal (palace for the royal men) and Zenana Mahal (palace for the royal women).

• Read From Vintage Cars to Crystal: 8 Udaipur City Palace Complex Attractions

Construction on the City Palace started in 1559, making it the oldest part of the City Palace Complex. The various rulers continued the work over four and a half centuries, in a number of phases, giving rise to the Mughal and British influences in the palace architecture.

In 1969, the City Palace was opened to the public as the City Palace Museum. This was done out of necessity, in order to generate income and maintain the building after India became a democracy, and royal rulers had to give up their states and fend for themselves. The Museum is now overseen by the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation. The annual World Living Heritage Festival, which takes place at the City Place, is also an initiative of this foundation to preserve Indian heritage and culture.

The current custodian of the House of Mewar, Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar, hasn't merely been content with restoring the City Palace to its former glory. Ongoing projects are underway to develop it into a world class museum.

Once such project is the exhibition of priceless royal family photographs. The interior of the Museum is also adorned with priceless artwork, which documents royal history before Udaipur got its first camera in 1857. A collection of personal portraits of Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar is on display as well. Recently, the world's first silver museum and gallery of royal musical instruments were added.

Being the largest part of the Udaipur City Palace Complex, the City Palace Museum stretches 33 meters high, 333 meters long, and 90 meters wide. Exploring the museum is like negotiating your way through a maze. There's a good reason for this. It was designed to hinder enemy attack.

Museum Opening Times and Tickets

The Udaipur City Palace Museum is open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m, except on the day of the Holi festival . Tickets cost 300 rupees for adults and 100 rupees for children. The price is the same for both foreigners and Indians. Audio guides can be hired for 200 rupees. Ticket counters are situated at the two City Palace entrance gates, at Badi Pol and Shitla Mata. Ticket sales close at 4.45 p.m.

More information is available from the City Palace Museum website and this PDF of Frequently Asked Questions .

It's important to note that the museum gets super crowded during festivals (particularly Diwali ), public holidays, weekends, and peak tourist season (from October to March). The lines are often very long and many visitors complain of claustrophobia inside some of the smaller rooms.

Visitors should also keep in mind that there are many stairs and narrow stairwells inside the museum. Those with limited mobility may not be able to access all areas.

Take this visual tour of the Udaipur City Palace Museum to discover some of its highlights.

Entrance and Torans

The main entrance to the Udaipur City Palace Complex is known as Badi Pol. After passing through the entrance, you'll find yourself in a courtyard. On the east wall, there are eight stone ornamental arches.

Known as "torans", these arches were constructed by Rana Jagat Singh I, during the period 1628 to 1652. They mark the spot where, on special occasions such as visits to holy places, the rulers were weighted against gold or silver. The equivalent value was distributed to the needy.

Head through Tripoliya, the triple arched gate made of marble, and you'll reach Manek Chowk.

Manek Chowk

Manek Chowk is perhaps the most recognizable feature of the Udaipur City Palace Museum. This huge grassy courtyard fronts the main entrance to the Mardana Mahal, Palace of Kings.

Constructed by Rana Karan Singhji from 1620 to 1628, Manek Chowk was used for public meetings, ceremonial processions, horse cavalry, elephant parades, and other festivals. The courtyard now has a beautifully laid out Mughal style garden, created in 1992. To this day, it's still used by the Mewar royal family for festivals and special celebrations.

The main entrance to the Palace building can be seen on the left of the photo. It's adorned with the Royal Crest of the House of Mewar. On the crest is a Rajput warrior and Bhil tribal, along with the rising sun. The motto is, "The Almighty protect those who stand steadfast in upholding righteousness". The sun symbol represents Surya the Sun God, whom the Maharanas of Mewar draw their linage from.

To the right of the palace building is the triple arched gate, known as Tripoliya. It was built in 1711, almost 100 years after Manek Chowk and Badi Pol (the big entrance), by Rana Sangram Singhji II.

Manek Chowk has very much stepped into the modern age now. There are book, clothing, and souvenir shops, as well as the Palki Khana restaurant. A sound and light show is also held there every evening. Find out more information about the Mewar Sound and Light Show , and ticket options.

However, with a little imagination, you can picture the days of old. A row of low level openings can be seen where the shopping arcade now lies. They housed elephants and horses. Elephants also used to be tied near the car park, where there are elephant beds and posts. Palanquins (covered hand carried chairs) were kept where the Palki Khana restaurant is now located.

If you're looking for a regal wedding venue, it's possible to get married in Manek Chowk.

Ganesh Deodhi

After walking through the entrance to the Palace of Kings and Udaipur City Palace Museum, the Assembly Hall opens to Ganesh Chowk.

At the east end, you'll find Ganesh Deodhi -- an ornate idol of Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles and Lord of success.

The idol, sculptured from marble, was made by Rana Karan Singhji in 1620. The fine glass inlay work around it is absolutely superb.

From here, the staircase climbs upwards to Rajya Angan, the royal courtyard. Of note, on the top of the staircase is the famous painting of Bapa Rawal, the founder of the Mewar Dynasty in 734. He is pictured accepting the trusteeship of the kingdom from his guru, Harit Rashi.

Pratap Gallery

Inside the Rajya Angan (royal courtyard) of the Udaipur City Palace Complex is a gallery devoted to the legendary warrior Maharana Pratap and his horse Chetak.

The gallery displays the original armor and weapons used by Maharana Pratap and Chetak during the great battle of Haldi Ghati in 1576, between the Rajputs and Mughals.

What's particularly fascinating is the elephant-like trunk worn by the horse. It served to disguise the horse as an elephant, to help avoid malicious attacks from other sword wielding elephants during the battle. Incredibly, elephants fought by holding mardana swords in their their trunks and slashing the enemy with them.

It was a wound from one of these swords that unfortunately killed Chetak, during the battle of Haldi Ghati. Legend has it that the horse reared up high and planted its hooves on the forehead of Imperial Mughal Commander Man Singh's elephant, while Maharana Pratap courageously attempted to slay him with a lance. Man Singh managed to duck, and the blow killed the mahout (elephant driver) instead. The horse was critically wounded in the melee that followed.

Badi Mahal, known as the Garden Palace, is the highest point in the Udaipur City Palace Museum. It was built during the reign of Rana Amar Singh II, in 1699. Its 104 intricately carved pillars have been made out of local marble. On the ceiling are cleverly fixed marble tiles, highlighting the amazing skill and craftsmanship of the local artisans.

Back in time, Badi Mahal was used for royal banquets on special occasions such as Holi, Diwali, Dussehra , birthdays of royal family members, and in honor of visiting dignitaries.

What makes Badi Mahal unique is its location. Despite being the highest point in the palace, it is actually at ground level. This has enabled plant life to flourish there. The courtyard is full of large shady trees, and is a peaceful place to relax and take in the palace surroundings. Its height also provides a great vantage point for viewing the town and Lake Pichola.

Badi Chitrashali Chowk

Badi Chitrashali Chowk lies between the courtyards of Badi Mahal and Mor Chowk, in the Udaipur City Palace Museum. It was constructed by Rana Sangram Singhji II, during 1710-1734.

The blue Chinese tiles, colored glass, and wall murals make Badi Chitrashali Chowk a bright and cheery place to be. Indeed, it was used as an entertainment space by the kings. Music and dance performances, and private parties were held there.

Badi Chitrashali Chowk is a particularly memorable part of the Udaipur City Palace because of its mesmerizing views. Step out onto the balcony on one side and be greeted by a panoramic vista across the city of Udaipur. Peer through a window on the other side, and you'll be looking right at the Lake Palace hotel and Jag Mandir on Lake Pichola. It's magical!

The ornate Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) is often referred to as the most spectacular courtyard of the Udaipur City Palace Museum. Five peacocks decorate the courtyard, which is also covered with beautiful glass inlay work. The kings held special audiences and dinners there.

Mor Chowk was constructed during the reign of Rana Karan Singhji. However, the glass inlay work and peacocks were added later, by Maharana Sajjan Singhji during 1874 to 1884. An astonishing 5,000 pieces of mosaic tiles have been used in creating the works of art.

The higher wall in the east of the courtyard sustained a great deal of weather damage over the years. In 2004, local artisans commenced restoring it and took 14 months to complete the task.

Mor Chowk is the last area in the Mardana Mahal (Palace of Kings). From here, a narrow passage will take you to the other half of the palace -- the Zenana Mahal (Queen's Palace).

It's also possible to get married in Mor Chowk.

Zenana Mahal and Chowmukha

An impressive part of the Zenana Mahal (Queen's Palace) is an open pavilion called Chowmukha. The Queen used to hold audiences here, with other royal ladies and ladies-in-waiting of the royal court, during special occasions and festivals. Banquets and other celebrations are still held there.

Chowmukha was built by Rana Sangram Singhji II during his reign from 1710-1734. The dome on top of the pavilion was added to commemorate the 1999-2000 millennium, and is known as the Millennium Dome.

To the east of the courtyard is the Osara, where royal weddings are solemnized. You can get married in the Zenana Mahal as well.

Zenana Mahal Interiors

Inside the Zenana Mahal, it's possible to walk through the queen's chambers. The rooms have been beautifully restored and feature arts and crafts, frescoes, balconies, and alcoves. There's even a swing!

Kanch ki Burj

Possibly the most ornate and opulent part of the City Palace Museum, Kanch ki Burj is one of the many structures added by Manarana Karan Singhji, during his brief reign from 1620 to 1628. The exquisite dome ceiling of this small chamber is covered in glass and mirrors.

Head through the antique ivory doors to Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), and you'll find yourself surrounded by mirrored walls and stained glass windows. It creates an astonishing array of reflections. This section was also built by Maharana Karan Singhji and used as his private residence. Maharana Jawan Singhji added to the ornamentation 200 years later.

City Palace Galleries

The captivating City Palace Museum galleries are filled with priceless regal memorabilia. Two of the most important ones are the Silver Gallery and Music Gallery.

The Silver Gallery contains numerous precious pieces of silverware used by the royal household. The highlights include a crib for newborn babies, chariot to carry religious idols when taken out in procession, a horse cart, and mandap pavilion for wedding ceremonies.

On display in the Symphony of Mewar Music Gallery, located in the Zenana Mahal, are many antique musical instruments belonging to Mewar kings.

As you exit the Udaipur City Palace Museum you'll pass though Toran Pol, a gateway which leads from Moti Chowk (where the main entrance to the Zenana Mahal is located) into Manek Chowk. It was constructed by Maharana Karan Singhji.

The structure hanging in front of the Toran Pol is traditionally touched by the royal bridegroom with his sword, before entering the bride's house on his wedding evening.

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City Palace Udaipur (Entry Fee, Timings, History, Built by, Images & Location)

City Palace Udaipur Entry Fee

• 30 per person for Adults
• 15 per person for Children
• 200 for Camera Fee

City Palace Udaipur Phone

02942 419021, 02942 415641.

City Palace Udaipur Address : City Palace Complex , Udaipur , Rajasthan , 313001 , India

Udaipur Tour Packages

City Palace Udaipur Timings

Boat rides & entrance fee of city palace udaipur.

One of the architectural wonders of Rajasthan, City Palace in Udaipur is the largest palace complex of the state. The most popular sightseeing place in Udaipur , City Palace stands magnificently on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola . Flanked by the Aravali mountain range, City Palace is worth admiring for its natural settings that offer a breathtaking view of the surroundings.

History of City Palace Udaipur

The History of City Palace is related to the kingdom of Mewar that has gone through several capital changes during the reign of its many rulers. The capital was first established in Nagda in 568 AD by Guhil, the first Maharana of Mewar. It was later moved to Chittor in the 8th century under the rule of Sisodias.

During 1537, the Mewar kingdom came under the rule of Maharana Udai Singh II. Due to war with the Mughals there was a risk of losing the Chittor fort. Hence, Maharana Udai Singh II chose a new capital for his kingdom near Lake Pichola that shielded the territory from its enemies, well surrounded by forests, lakes and the imposing Aravalli hills.

The construction of City Palace started under the reign of Maharana Udai Singh II and was enhanced subsequently by his successors over a period of 400 years. This palace is of great historical importance as it served as the administrative complex of the Maharanas.

The first royal structure that was built in the City palace complex was 'Rai Angan', the royal courtyard. After the death of Maharana Udai Singh II, his son Maharana Pratap took over Udaipur. During the Battle of Haldighati, Maharana Pratap lost the war to the Mughal emperor Akbar and Udaipur came under the rule of the Mughals.

After Akbar’s death, Mewar was handed over to Maharana Pratap's son and successor Amar Singh I by the Mughal ruler Jahangir. Udaipur once again fell into the attacks of Marathas in the year 1761. To protect Mewar from further attacks, Maharana Bhim Singh signed a treaty with the British in 1818 asking for their protection. After India’s independence, Mewar became a part of democratic India and kings of Mewar retained the ownership of the palaces in Udaipur.

Architecture of City Palace Udaipur

Built in granite and marble, City Palace complex is worth admiring for its perfect blend of Medieval, European and Chinese architecture. The several palaces in the complex stand magnificently behind the 100ft high and 801 ft long facade built exquisitely on the ridge of Lake Pichola.

Located at an elevation of 1,962 ft, the City Palace complex was built by the 22 generations of Sisodia Rajputs over an extensive period of time starting from the year of 1559. Udai Singh II and several other Maharanas have contributed significantly for the construction of this impressive complex. The complex comprises of 11 small palaces and other structures built homogeneously in its design.

The interiors of the palace complex are as commendable as its exteriors. The intricate mirror-work, marble-work, murals, wall paintings, silver-work, inlay-work and colored glass that adorn the balconies, towers and cupolas of the complex are worth admiring.

The terraces in the upper part of the complex offer a breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding Udaipur city. The palaces in the complex are connected by chowks and the corridors in the palace are built in zigzag manner to evade any surprise attacks from enemies.

The City Palace complex is enriched with many structures that can be reached through the main Tripolia (triple) gate which acts as the entry point to the complex.

Other structures within the complex are the Suraj Gokhda (public address facade), Mor-chowk (Peacock courtyard), Dilkhush Mahal (heart’s delight), Surya Chopar, Sheesh Mahal (Palace of glass and mirrors), Moti Mahal (Palace of Pearls), Krishna Vilas, Shambhu Niwas, Bhim Vilas, Amar Vilas (with a raised garden), Badi Mahal (the big palace), Fateh Prakash Palace and the Shiv Niwas Palace.

The complex also has facilities of a post office, bank and travel agency. There are a number of craft shops and an Indian boutique supported by World Wildlife Fund(WWF) that the tourists can visit on their trip to the palace complex.

The Mewar royal family owns the entire Palace complex and the structures in the complex are maintained by various trusts. The Fateh Prakash Palace and the Shiv Niwas Palace are now transformed into heritage hotels.

Image Gallery of City Palace Udaipur

Structures within the city palace complex.

The City Palace complex has a number of structures that boast of splendid architecture, making it a must visit tourist destination for history lovers.

The structures within the complex are:

1. Gateways

Also called as Pols, Gateways are the entry points to the palace complex. There are three major gateways to the complex. 'Badi Pol' (Great Gate) is the main entry point to the complex that leads to the first courtyard. After crossing the ‘Badi Pol’, one encounters a triple arched gate called as ‘Tripola’, the northern entry to the complex.

The two gates - 'Badi Pol' and ‘Tripola’ are aligned beautifully with eight marble arches or Toranas. According to the legends, the Maharanas used to weigh themselves against gold and silver here, which was later distributed among the local people.

Once through the ‘Tripolia’ gate, an arena near the Toran Pol is encountered where elephant fights were held in the past. These elephants were later chosen for war campaigns according to their prowess. Across Tripolia gate there is another gate known as ‘Elephant gate’ or the ‘Hathi Pol’.

2. Amar Vilas

Located at the highest point of the City Palace, Amar Vilas is an elevated garden that serves as the topmost court within the complex. Built in Mughal style architecture, Amar Vilas is the entry point to Badi Mahal, another alluring structure within the complex.

Adorned with beautiful hanging gardens, fountains, towers and terraces, Amar Vilas served as a leisure home for the Maharanas.

3. Badi Mahal

Also known as Great Palace/Garden Palace, Badi Mahal is the main palace in the complex that sits magnificently on a 89 ft high rock formation. Badi Mahal houses a swimming pool which was used for Holi celebrations in the past, and a hall that exhibits miniature paintings of 18th and 19th centuries.

The beautiful wall paintings of Jag Mandir, Lord Vishnu of Jagdish temple, and elephant fight scenes are some of the other attractions here.

4. Bhim Vilas

Bhim Vilas is another place worth visiting for art lovers. With a gallery consisting of miniature paintings of Lord Krishna and Radha illustrating their real life stories, Bhim Vilas is sure to mesmerise one and all with its skilled artwork.

5. Chini Chitrashala

The Chini Chitrashala is another place worth visiting for the vast collection of Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles that are pretty attractive.

6. Choti Chitrashala

As the name suggests, the 'Residence of Little Pictures' built in the early 19th century is home to a small gallery consisting of pictures of peacocks.

7. Dilkusha Mahal

Meaning the Palace of Joy’, Dilkusha Mahal was constructed in the year 1620. The beautiful murals and wall paintings in the complex are worth admiring for its artistic skills.

8. Durbar hall

Serving as a venue for official functions, Durbar Hall was newer addition to the palace complex. Built in the year of 1909 during the rule of Maharana Fateh Singh, the hall is adorned with large chandeliers that add to the grandeur of this place.

Durbar hall is a part of Fateh Prakash Palace and displays weapons and portraits of the Maharanas. Durbar Hall was earlier called as Minto hall, named after the Viceroy of India, Lord Minto who laid the foundation stone for this hall.

9. Fateh Prakash Palace

Now a luxury hotel, Fateh Prakash Palace has an interesting collection of crystal chairs, dressing tables, sofas, tables, chairs, beds, crockery, table fountains along with a jewel studded carpet. These items were ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the year 1877. However, he died before its arrival and the package remained unopened for nearly 110 years.

10. Krishna Vilas

Another compelling chamber for art lovers, Krishna Vilas has an admirable collection of miniature paintings displaying various events during the rule of Maharanas such as royal procession, festivals and games held during their reign.

11. Laxmi Vilas chowk

An art gallery displaying a unique collection of Mewar paintings, Laxmi Vilas chowk is worth admiring for its rare collections.

12. Manak Mahal

Meaning Ruby Palace, Manak Mahal is one of the most beautiful structures in City Palace. Once an enclosure for formal audience of Mewar kingdom, Manak Mahal is lead from the Manak chowk.

A raised alcove with mirror glass work inside is one of the most alluring sights here. A Sun face emblem on the facade of Manak Chowk can be seen here representing the Sun god worshipped by the Maharanas.

13. Mor Chowk

A part of the inner courts of the palace, Mor Chowk or Peacock square was built during the rule of Maharana Sajjan Singh, about 200 years later than the initial establishment of the palace. Three peacocks depicting the three seasons - summer, winter and monsoon magnificently adorn the walls of the Mor Chowk.

Decorated with glass and mirror mosaics, the three peacocks in Mor Chowk are crafted with around 5000 glass pieces glowing brightly in blue, green and gold colors.

The pictures of Lord Krishna in the apartments in front of the Chowk are worth admiring. The upper level consists of a balcony surrounded with colored glass inserts and an adjacent chamber known as Kanch-ki-Burj consists of mosaics of mirrors decorating the walls. There is a small court inside the chowk known as Badi Charur Chowk which is used for private purpose.

14. Rang Bhavan

Once a place where royal treasure was kept is now home to the temples of Lord Krishna, Meera Bai and Lord Shiva.

15. Sheesh Mahal

The Palace of Mirrors and glasses is another beautiful structure in the complex built by Maharana Pratap for his wife Maharani Ajabde in the year of 1716.

A part of City Palace and Zenana Mahal or the Ladies Chamber was converted to a museum in the year of 1974 which is now open to the public.

In popular Culture

City Palace has found its place in many movies such as the James Bond film Octopussy and the Bollywood film Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela.

Manak Chowk served as a venue for annual Maharana Mewar Foundation Awards.

Best Time to visit City Palace

In order to avoid the crowds and the scorching heat, it is advisable to visit the City Palace during the morning and evening hours. The winter season from October to March is considered as the best time to visit City Palace as the weather is quite enjoyable during this time. Check our custom designed all inclusive Udaipur tour packages here..

How to Reach City Palace

Being a popular tourist attraction, a number of Autos, taxis, tongas and city buses ply from various parts of the city to the palace complex. Ferry rides from City Palace to Jagmandir can also be availed at a price of Rs. 400 per person. You can also book a private cab from top car rental companies in Udaipur to explore City Palace and other nearby places.

Entry Fees and Timings of City Palace

The entry fee to the City Palace is Rs. 30 for Adults and Rs. 15 for children. Rs. 200 is charged for Still Camera and Rs. 500 is charged for Video Camera.

City Palace Timings are from 9:30 am in the morning to 5:30 pm in the evening. It is open on all days of the week.

Entry Fees and Timings of City Palace Museum

The entry fee to the City Palace Museum is Rs. 250 for Adults (Above 18 yrs age) and Rs. 100 for Children (5 to 18 yrs age). There is no entry fee for children below 5 years of age. The camera fee is Rs. 250. For students coming in groups, the entry fee is Rs. 100 per student.

City Palace museum is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm on all days of the week.

Guides at City Palace

Tour Guides are available at the City Palace complex and a Hindi speaking guide will charge around Rs. 300 at the complex. The guides at the museum charge around Rs. 200. Audio guides are also available here.

A must visit tourist attraction in the City of lakes, City Palace is sure to mesmerise everyone with its splending architecture and great history. A trip to Udaipur is definitely incomplete without a visit to the magnificent City Palace. We at Udaipur Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA make sure you have a memorable trip to this wonderful city and create long lasting memories. For more details about various packages, places fill the Contact Us form and we will get back to you.

Location Map for City Palace Udaipur

UDAIPUR CITY PALACE – A SIGHTSEEING GUIDE

• February 1, 2022
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The Udaipur City Palace is a top tourist attraction and architectural marvel in Udaipur. Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, the opulent building is a seamless blend of Medieval, European, and Chinese architecture. Of all the palaces in Rajasthan, Udaipur is the largest, and arguably the most impressive. 

Building works for Udaipurs’ City Palace commenced in 1559, although renovations and additions continued well into the 19th century. Today, the complex is made up of a series of exquisite palaces, gardens, and courtyards. No sightseeing tour in Udaipur is complete without visiting the City Palace, which provides a fascinating insight into the cities history.

In this guide, we advise everything you need to know ahead of visiting the Udaipur City Palace. Including entrance fees, how to get there, what to expect & more. 

Udaipur City Palace – A Sightseeing Guide

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* Don’t leave home without any  backpacker essentials  with our free printable packing list.

How to Get There

Udaipur is an essential addition to any Rajasthan itinerary. It is one of the most popular tourist cities in the country and forms a part of our suggested one month in India Route . You can conveniently reach Udaipur via bus, train, or plane from all over the country.

Set peacefully upon the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace can easily be reached on foot if you are staying in the city. Alternatively, you can take a rickshaw or taxi which are easy to come by in Udaipur.  

Another way of getting around in Udaipur is to rent a scooter or bicycle; however, I only recommend doing so if you feel confident. Like most places in India, the roads in Udaipur are a rat race, so you need to have your wits about you at all times.

Bike rental shops are present throughout the city, and the average daily rental is 500 rupees ($7) per day for a basic scooter or bicycle. 

City Palace Udaipur Entry Fee

Complex Entrance Fee:   30 Rupees (0.5$)

City Palace Entrance Fee (Adults):  300 Rupees ($4.3)

City Palace Entrance Fee (Children):  100 Rupees ($1.4)

Any Camera:   250 Rupees ($3.5) – We managed to get away with this, so it’s worth trying your luck and hiding it in your bag!

Things to Know Before Visiting City Palace in Udaipur

Opening times .

The Udaipur City Palace is open to visitors 7-days a week from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm.  

Best Time to Visit

The best time of year for sightseeing in Udaipur is during the Indian Winter, which runs from October-February. You can expect a dry and cooler climate during this time, resulting in a far more enjoyable experience!

On the other hand, if you want to visit Udaipur City Palace without too many crowds, you’ll need to visit early during peak season. We always try to get to the popular tourist spots just before opening time, so we are first in line to get inside.

Due to narrow walkways within the Udaipur City Palace, it can become especially crowded and claustrophobic during busy times. With this in mind, I reiterate to arrive early to avoid spending most of your time queuing to navigate the complex.

Guided Tours

Guided tours of the City Palace are available in a multitude of languages, including English, French, and Hindi. Prices range from 300-500 rupees per group, depending on how many in the group.

Otherwise, audio guides are available for 200 rupees, but you’ll need an ID or a bank card to use as a guarantee. However, after exploring the palace independently, I would say that a guide isn’t necessary. 

Time Required

You will need to allow around 2-3 hours to visit the Udaipur City Palace, including travel time from the city.

Photography Tips

The City Palace in Udaipur is a hotspot for photographers; however, here are some things to be aware of before you visit.

• To use a tripod is forbidden in most tourist attractions in Udaipur.  You’re likely to be reprimanded by guards if you are caught using one.
• No drones allowed.
• The best time to avoid the crowds is to arrive just before opening time.
• Skilled pickpockets operate in Udaipur. Keep your equipment safe and secure when out of use. We recommend this super convenient photographers bag:  K&F Concept Lightweight DSLR Camera Backpack

Lake Pichola Boat Rides

While there are several ghats (docks) around the lake, boat rides from the City Palace are especially popular. I guess, largely due to convenience.  

Boat rides on Lake Pichola allow magnificent vistas of the city and surrounding mountain landscapes.   You’ll also get up-close-and-personal with the grandeur Taj Lake Palace Hotel , and have the option to get off at Jagmandir Island Palace .  

Below are the prices you can expect to pay for a boat ride from the City Palace. However, between you and me, I know you can get the same trip at a far cheaper rate from Lal Ghat . Boat rides on Lake Pichola are especially majestic during sunset.  

• Regular Boat Ride (Adults):  300 rupees ($4.3)
• Regular Boat Ride (Children):  150 rupees ($2.15)
• Sunset Boat Ride (Adults):  500 rupees ($7)
• Sunset Boat Ride (Children):  250 rupees ($3.5)
• Chartered Boat:  4000 rupees ($56)

Udaipur City Palace Light & Sound Show

The Light & Sound show, held every evening at the City Palace, is considered a top thing to do at night in Udaipur. However, although we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the reports tend to be underwhelming.

If you are interested in the history of Udaipur , perhaps you will enjoy it. But, there are plenty of other events to keep you entertained in the evening, such as Bagore Ki Haveli, if you want to give this one a miss. 

• Light & Sound Show (Adults):  250 rupees ($3.5)
• Light & Sound Show (Children):  100 rupees ($1.4)

Our Experience at the City Palace in Udaipur

Visiting the Udaipur City Palace was always a priority when planning our  2-Day Udaipur Itinerary . Not only were we allured by its beauty, but we were keen to learn about the history behind the Mewar Dynasty – the ancient rulers of Udaipur.

Unfortunately, we are sometimes useless at taking our own advice and didn’t arrive at the palace until 10.30 am. Of course, the complex was already buzzing with tourists by this time. But it was the price to pay for our lazy start.

Upon arrival, you will be ushered toward the ticket desk where you pay the entry fee plus any extras for cameras. We had two mobile phones and our digital camera with us at the time but assured the cashier we had nothing. Somehow we got away with it. Maybe she could tell we were penniless backpackers!

The fees for Udaipur Palace are expensive relative to other tourist attractions in India; however, we found this to be the case for most places in Rajasthan. Often, we agreed that some attractions just aren’t worth the money, but this isn’t the case for Udaipur City Palace. Of all the palaces in Rajasthan, this was our favourite.  

Sightseeing at Udaipur City Palace

Upon entering the grand medieval gates at the palace entrance, a stunning courtyard and striking marble architecture await. To the left-hand side of the gardens, you’ll find a beautiful view of the city, which is an interesting spot for taking photos.  

As you continue through the complex, you will encounter various galleries and museums, housing several fascinating artifacts. Most areas have information boards and plaques, so it’s easy to get the gist of what everything is all about.

Our favourite areas of the palace include the intricate courtyards and gardens. From the higher levels, you can see right out over the lake and the surrounding mountains. It could be a peaceful place were it not for other people continually shoving and pushing to get a closer look. I guess if you arrive earlier, this is avoidable.  

Nevertheless, we found the Udaipur City Palace to be both beautiful and educational. If you are planning a visit to Udaipur, it should be a priority on your sightseeing tour.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Whether you are looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget, Udaipur is in no shortage of great accommodation options.    If you are yet to arrive in this magnificent city, here are some recommendations for you to consider:

Hostel  –  Gypsy Child Lake Hostel  – One of only a few hostels in Udaipur, Gypsy Lake Child is the top choice thanks to its unrivalled location.  Boasting incredible views of Lake Pichola, guests can enjoy the sunset from the rooftop.

Budget Private  –  Jagat Villa Guesthouse  –  We can personally recommend Jagat Villa Guesthouse, for affordable, clean & comfortable private rooms.    Located just a 5-minute walk from Pichola Lake, you have great restaurants and shopping opportunities right on your doorstep.

Luxury  –  Taj Lake Palace  – It doesn’t get more luxurious than the Taj Lake Palace.  Located in the middle of Pichola Lake, we could only look on in awe of this enchanting complex.  If you are prepared to splash some cash, a stay here would be a once in a lifetime experience.

For more places to stay in Udaipur,  you can check the latest prices HERE.

Are you looking for the best lakeside accomodations only? We’ve got you covered from hostel to luxury in this article here.

More on Udaipur

Are you planning a trip to Udaipur?  Check out our other articles to help plan your trip.

• The Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days or More
• 18 Amazing places to see in Udaipur in 2 days
• Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Udaipur
• 7 Awesome Sunset Spots in Udaipur
• Karni Mata Temple – A Sightseeing Guide
• Monsoon Palace Udaipur – A Sightseeing Guide
• Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur – Sightseeing Guide
• The Best Lake Facing Hotels in Udaipur

Did you enjoy our Sightseeing Guide for Udaipur City Palace ?

Well, that concludes  Sightseeing Guide for Udaipur City Palace .   We hope you enjoy your time in this magical country. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, through our contact us page. Don’t forget to follow us on  Instagram here  where we share further travel advice & inspiration.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

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• Heritage & Culture

Your Top Guide To The City Palace Udaipur

Let’s take a journey in the sands of time and discover the Mewar dynasty’s rich architectural and cultural marvels.

City Palace Udaipur is a stunning beauty located at the eastern bank of Lake Pichola, in Udaipur the city of Rajasthan. It was built for almost 400 years, which was the outcome of many rulers of the Mewar dynasty. The palace complex is an amalgamation of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles and it features many beautiful courtyards, impressive gardens, and museums. The palace is one of Udaipur’s most visited attractions and throws light on the lifestyle of the royal family of the Mewar Dynasty.

Book Now: Private Full Day Udaipur Sightseeing Tour with Optional Guide

Table of Contents

City Palace Udaipur Timings, Location, And Other Information

Timings: 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM

Location : No: 44/1 K.H Road, Double Rd, Lal Bagh, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560027

Entrance : Badi Pol

Time Required : 2-3 hours

City Palace Udaipur Ticket Prices 

Indians – INR 400 for Adults, INR 150 for Children, INR 250 for Sr. Citizens, and INR 150 for Students.

Foreigners – INR 400 for adults, INR 150 for Children, INR 250 for Sr. Citizens, and INR 150 for Students. 

Best Time To Visit City Palace Udaipur 

The finest time to visit Udaipur City Palace is between September and March when the weather is nice and comfortable. The temperature during this period normally ranges from 12°C to 27°C and the humidity levels are not high. The months of December and January are the most comfortable ones, with cold nights and sunny days.

The monsoon season from July to September is also an excellent off-season time to visit Udaipur. The city has moderate to heavy rains during this period causing waterlogging and flooding in some places. The monsoon season might be challenging, but it is the best time to enjoy nature’s vibrant greenery and beauty.

Suggested Read: The Best Time to Visit Rajasthan

Transportation Information

The city of Udaipur is well-connected by air, rail, and land. The Maharana Pratap Airport, which is 20 km from the city center, has direct flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur. The Udaipur railway station is centrally located in the city and is well-connected to major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. In addition, Udaipur is also well connected by road with regular buses serving Udaipur and major cities in Rajasthan and other districts.

Things To See And Do 

When in City Palace Udaipur, you can involve yourself in an incredible number of activities and experiences which, most of the time, generate fun and excitement.

Explore The Palace Complex

Begin your tour by taking a walk around the palace complex and get lost in its magnitude. The City Palace Udaipur interior is a breathtaking beauty – Get lost in the palace’s charm admiring its great architecture, minute carvings, and wonderful courts whilst strolling through it. Walk through the royal rooms, environment, majestic halls, and ornate decorations that portray the splendor and beauty of the Rajput and Mughal eras.

Visit The City Palace Museum

Inside City Palace Udaipur lies the Museum which houses the beautiful legacy of Udaipur’s historical and cultural past. The museum has an incredible collection of artifacts which include swords, armor, beautiful paintings, regal clothes, body ornaments, and antique furniture. Allow yourself to wander through the exhibitions, taking notice of the delicate artistry and absorbing the diverse stories behind each display.

Marvel At The Crystal Gallery

Be sure to visit the Glass Palace, and specifically the Crystal Gallery, which is a unique location from the City Palace complex. In this gallery, visitors are admiring the kaleidoscope of the crystal glassware that includes furniture, chandeliers, and various aspects of decoration. Be amazed at the exquisite handicraft that showcases the radiant beauty of the crystal artworks.

Enjoy Panoramic Views

Go to any of the palace’s vantage points where you can see the heavenly foothills from the terrace. Let your eyes be filled with the beautiful spectacles of Lake Pichola, Aravalli Hills, and the surroundings. This is very ideal for photography, especially at the right time of the day.

Attend Cultural Performances

Explore the vibrant culture of Udaipur by witnessing cultural performances at City Palace. The palace hosts many regional traditional music and dances, which all demonstrate the region’s artistic heritage. Get swept away by the blissful music, eye-catching dances, and beautiful clothing that transport you to the culture of the great state in northern India.

Indulge In Local Cuisine

Once you have explored the Udaipur palace, spend the rest of the evening in one of the palace’s restaurants or cafes indulging in a delicious culinary experience. Enjoy authentic Rajasthani dishes and beverages, ending with local desserts. The Royal Palace makes your dining experience authentic and luxurious.

Also Read: Feast At The Best Restaurants In Udaipur

Shop For Souvenirs

Also remember to look at the shopping area of the palace where you can find various handicrafts, textiles, and arts. Take the chance to explore the shops and gift yourself amazing souvenirs that you can keep and reminisce about your visit to the City Palace.

Suggested Read: The Exquisite Beauty of the Palaces in Udaipur you can’t miss

The City Palace Udaipur remains a great monument that reflects the deep cultural and architectural legacy of Rajasthan. The palace is like a world in itself where people can enjoy its every nook and corner, whether it be exploring the lavishly decorated rooms and courtyards, or delving into the palace’s rich history. The Crystal Gallery, with its enthralling crystal collection, leaves one spellbound with its charm. Watching the local cultural performances enables visitors to fully participate in and appreciate the rich Rajasthani arts and customs.

Lastly, indulging in the local cuisine and strolling the shopping areas inside the palace certainly add to the general impression. A trip to the City Palace gives one a chance to admire and reflect upon the magnificence and splendor of royal life, and it is a must-visit place when in Udaipur.

The Hindi tour guides at the City Palace complex charge around INR 300 and the guides at the museum charge around INR 200. There are also audio guides available there.

The city of Udaipur is named the “Romantic City” due to its dreamy ambience with Aravalli hills in the background and Lake Pichola which is charmingly spread in front. The royal aura and breathtaking eminence of the city’s palaces, including the City Palace and the Lake Palace, are captivating. The rides by boat in the calm waters of Lake Pichola are not just romantic but also offer beautiful views for couples.

Photography is allowed in City Palace Udaipur which costs around INR 250. Then, on the other hand, there are some areas and sectors where photography is strictly prohibited for security and confidentiality reasons. Moreover, if you want to shoot professional photography or a commercial one, you must obtain permission from the authorities beforehand and pay additional fees.

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Udaipur Tour Guide

The majestic, historic city in Rajasthan, Udaipur, woos thousands of tourists from all parts of India and other nations yearlong. The charming city, replete with some grandiose palaces, mansions, and beautiful lakes, has become a major tourist hub in the state. Its culture and culinary delights are no less enticing. To explore this iconic city of Rajasthan, you should hire a suitable Udaipur trip guide . When you hire a veteran local tour agency in Udaipur, covering all major attractions is easier. An agency offering Udaipur city tour guide services will ensure you face no hassles. That is why you need the services of the Udaipur Tour Guide . We offer customized Udaipur tour packages.

+91 88904 46767

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Udaipur local guides

Choosing the apt time.

Based on your budget and priorities, pick the right time for a tour in Udaipur, and this is where we can help you. Our Udaipur local guides can be of use. We advise tourists accustomed to colder climates to pick a time between the months- of October to February. If you can cope with hot and humid weather, our Udaipur tour guides will ask you to visit during the famous Gangaur festival, which takes place in April.

Self guided walking tour Udaipur

Picking the right transport.

Udaipur is well connected with major cities in Rajasthan, but what matters more is how to commute once you reach the city. Opt for the self guided walking tour Udaipur packages if walking around a new place is something you really prefer. Of course, you can opt for our Udaipur tour packages that involve cabs and auto rickshaws as the means of transport. Nowadays, you can avail of app-based cab services while exploring Udaipur.

Local guide in Udaipur

Indulging in popular tourist activities.

A tour in Udaipur is not limited to exploring the grand mansions and vast lakes. A seasoned tour agency like us will aid you in Udaipur Sightseeing and guide you about popular tourist activities. Enjoy a hike in the hills or go horseback riding. You may ask a local guide in Udaipur , offered by us, about places to buy miniature paintings as souvenirs. The irresistible handicrafts will leave you spoilt for choice. Keep some time to experience the yummy local Mewari cuisine.

Udaipur Tour Guid

Udaipur sightseeing.

Jagdish Temple

City palace

Bagore Ki Haveli

Saheliyon ki Bari

Lake Palace

Monsoon palace

Fateh Sagar Lake

Udaipur city tour guide.

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