City Palace Udaipur – Tickets, Timings, History & Complete Travel Guide

City Palace Udaipur is one of the most iconic and visited tourist attractions in Rajasthan, India. Situated on the eastern banks of the beautiful Lake Pichola, the City Palace complex represents the royal heritage, architectural brilliance, and cultural richness of Udaipur. Built over a period of nearly 400 years, City Palace Udaipur is a magnificent fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and continues to attract millions of domestic and international tourists every year.

This complete travel guide to City Palace Udaipur covers everything you need to know before planning your visit, including history, ticket price, timings, how to reach, best time to visit, photography tips, nearby places, and frequently asked questions.

About City Palace Udaipur

City Palace Udaipur is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan and stands as a symbol of the glorious Mewar dynasty. The palace overlooks Lake Pichola and offers breathtaking views of Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas (Lake Palace), and the surrounding Aravalli hills. The complex consists of several palaces, courtyards, museums, galleries, and gardens, all enclosed within a fortified structure.

What makes City Palace Udaipur truly special is its strategic location, artistic interiors, intricate mirror work, marble balconies, colorful glass windows, and beautifully decorated doorways. Today, a major part of the palace is converted into a museum, while some sections are still used by the royal family of Udaipur.

History of City Palace Udaipur

The history of City Palace Udaipur dates back to the year 1559 when Maharana Udai Singh II founded the city of Udaipur. After shifting the capital from Chittorgarh due to frequent invasions, Maharana Udai Singh II chose this scenic location surrounded by lakes and hills to establish his new kingdom. The construction of City Palace began during his reign and was later expanded by successive Maharanas of the Mewar dynasty.

Over the next four centuries, various rulers added new structures, palaces, and architectural elements to the complex. Despite being built at different times, the palace maintains a remarkable uniformity in design and aesthetics. City Palace Udaipur has witnessed numerous historical events, royal ceremonies, and cultural celebrations that shaped the legacy of Mewar.

Today, the City Palace Museum showcases royal artifacts, weapons, paintings, manuscripts, and personal belongings of the Maharanas, offering visitors a deep insight into the history and traditions of Udaipur.

City Palace Udaipur Ticket Price

The City Palace Udaipur ticket price varies for Indian and foreign tourists. Separate charges apply for museum entry, special galleries, and photography.

• Indian Adults: ₹300 – ₹400
• Foreign Tourists: ₹600 – ₹700
• Children (below 12 years): Discounted rates
• Student concessions: Available with valid ID

Additional charges may apply for still cameras and video cameras. Ticket prices are subject to change, so it is advisable to check updated rates before visiting City Palace Udaipur.

City Palace Udaipur Timings

City Palace Udaipur is open to visitors throughout the week.

• Opening Time: 9:30 AM
• Closing Time: 5:30 PM

Visitors are advised to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and explore the palace comfortably. The last entry is usually allowed one hour before closing time.

Architecture of City Palace Udaipur

The architecture of City Palace Udaipur is a stunning blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. Built primarily using granite and marble, the palace complex features massive towers, elegant domes, pillared balconies, and intricately carved arches.

Some of the most notable architectural highlights include Mor Chowk, Sheesh Mahal, Krishna Vilas, Zenana Mahal, and Badi Mahal. Each section of the palace has its own unique charm and historical significance.

City Palace Museum

The City Palace Museum is one of the main attractions within the palace complex. It houses an extensive collection of royal artifacts, miniature paintings, antique furniture, textiles, arms, and armor.

Visitors can explore various galleries such as the Armoury Gallery, Textile Gallery, and Painting Gallery, which display the rich cultural heritage of the Mewar dynasty. The museum provides an immersive experience into the royal lifestyle of Udaipur’s rulers.

How to Reach City Palace Udaipur

City Palace Udaipur is centrally located and easily accessible from all parts of the city.

• By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport is around 22 km away.
• By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station is approximately 3 km from City Palace.
• By Road: Well-connected by local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.

Best Time to Visit City Palace Udaipur

The best time to visit City Palace Udaipur is during the winter months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot, while monsoons offer scenic beauty but occasional travel inconvenience.

Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended for better lighting and fewer crowds.

Photography at City Palace Udaipur

Photography is allowed in many areas of City Palace Udaipur, although some sections may restrict camera usage. The palace offers stunning photo opportunities with panoramic views of Lake Pichola, ornate interiors, and architectural details.

Professional photography or videography may require special permission and additional charges.

Nearby Places to Visit

While visiting City Palace Udaipur, tourists can also explore nearby attractions such as:

• Lake Pichola

  Lake Pichola is one of the most famous lakes in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the 14th century, this scenic freshwater lake is surrounded by iconic landmarks like City Palace, Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir. Lake Pichola is best known for its boat rides, sunset views, and royal architecture, making it a top tourist attraction in Udaipur. A visit to the city is incomplete without experiencing the beauty of Lake Pichola.

• Jag Mandir
• Jagdish Temple
• Bagore Ki Haveli
• Fateh Sagar Lake

These places enhance the overall travel experience and can be covered in a single itinerary.

FAQs – City Palace Udaipur

• Q1. How much time is required to visit City Palace Udaipur?

  A minimum of 2 to 3 hours is recommended.

• Q2. Is City Palace Udaipur worth visiting?

  Yes, it is one of the most beautiful palaces in India and a must-visit attraction.

• Q3. Is photography allowed inside City Palace Udaipur?

  Photography is allowed in selected areas with additional charges.

• Q4. What is the best time of day to visit City Palace Udaipur?

  Morning hours are best for sightseeing and photography.

Conclusion

City Palace Udaipur is not just a historical monument but a living legacy of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. With its grand architecture, fascinating history, scenic surroundings, and cultural significance, it continues to captivate travelers from around the world. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or travel photographer, a visit to City Palace Udaipur promises an unforgettable experience.