Forts and Monuments

Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan
Built by: Maharana Udai Singh
Highlights: Chini mahal, Moti mahal, City Palace Museum, Bara Pol, Tripolia, Hathi pol, Zenana mahal
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Timings: 09:30 A.M. To 04:30 P.M.
Entry Fee: Rs. 30 per child, Rs. 50 per adult

Call it a museum, a royal residence or a luxury hotel, City Palace is Udaipur has all a travelers search for. The grand Palace was built in 1725 and is one of the largest of all the Palaces in Rajasthan. The construction of this marvelous architectural splendor was started by an erstwhile ruler, Udai Singh II, but was later completed by succeeding rulers.

Palace Architecture
History says that the magnificent City Palace is the result of the successful conglomeration of 11 palaces. Every nook and corner of the Palace presents the brilliant fusion of Medieval European and Chinese architectural style. One may not find impressive work in the exterior, but its interior is highly designed with luxurious apartments. Each one is marked by hanging gardens, octagonal towers, cupolas and balconies.

'Raj Aangan' is the oldest part of the Palace. It was built in 16th century and its major portion has been converted into museum. Tourist can also check out the work of Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles in 'Chini Chitrashala'. The later depicts interesting scenes like flight to Egypt and other taken from the holy Bible.

Tourist Attractions
On entering the City Palace complex through Hathi Pol, one will encounter its massive gates like Bara Pol and Tripolia. The Palace overlooks the pristine Lake Pichola. It beholds the attractions of antique furnitures, miniature paintings, furnished tiles work, glass mirrors, paintings depicting the mythic life stories of Radha and Krishna. Also, the eight carved marble arches- Toranas depicts the royalty of erstwhile rulers. It was used to weigh Maharajas against heap of gold and silver and was then distributed among the needy.

The City Palace Museum is sectioned with collections, that describes the past history of royal Rajasthan. Ranging from Armoury section to Mor Chowk, each corners calls for a closest glimpse.

In addition, City Palace is well-known for treasuring a number of beautiful palaces. Where one will find excellent mirror work in Manak Mahal, other will enjoy artistic glamor in some finest miniature paintings. Other Palaces like Moti Mahal, Chini Mahal, Bari Mahal and Zenana Mahal are added attractions. Also, many palaces like Fateh Prakash Palace, Shiv Niwas etc has been converted into heritage hotels.

Nearby Places to get around
Besides shopping in the colorful Jaipur bazaar, tourist can explore the nearby Jag Niwas Island and Jag Mandir Island. The Lake Palace on the former act as a best staying option for travelers visiting Jaipur.