Ever wondered what it feels like to live like a Maharaja… even if just for a day? Welcome to City Palace Udaipur, where every courtyard, balcony, and glittering hall makes you feel like royalty. Including this in your Rajasthan holiday packages ensures a truly regal experience.
Built in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II and expanded by his successors, it is one of the largest palace complexes in Rajasthan. The architecture is a beautiful mix of Rajput, Mughal, European, and even Chinese design influences. Inside, you’ll find mirror-decorated halls, peacock mosaics, marble balconies, royal artifacts, and a museum showcasing Udaipur’s proud Mewar legacy.
So grab your camera, adjust your imaginary crown, and get ready to explore! Keep reading for timings, ticket details, must-see spots, and everything you need for your royal day out at City Palace (Raj Mahal Udaipur).
City Palace Udaipur Timings
City Palace Udaipur is open every day from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Sometimes the City Palace Udaipur timings can change during festivals or special events, so it is good to double-check before visiting.
City Palace Udaipur Ticket Price
Here are the basic City palace Udaipur ticket price:
- Adults: ₹30 per person
- Children: ₹15 per person
- Camera Fee: ₹200 for photography inside
Best Time to Visit City Palace
The best time to visit City Palace Udaipur is during the winter and post-monsoon months, from October to March. The weather stays pleasant, perfect for exploring the palace complex, walking through courtyards, and enjoying stunning views of Lake Pichola without the scorching heat.
If you prefer quieter surroundings and fewer crowds, plan your visit early morning (9:30 AM opening) or on weekdays. Sunsets here are absolutely magical and one of the best things to do in Udaipur, so visiting in the late afternoon lets you enjoy golden-hour photography and end the day with a beautiful lakeside view.
Try to avoid peak summer months April to June, as temperatures can cross 40°C, making it tiring to explore such a vast palace.
How to Reach City Palace Udaipur
City Palace sits right in the heart of Udaipur, along the eastern bank of Lake Pichola, and is easily accessible from every part of the city.
Reaching Udaipur
- By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport (22 km away) connects Udaipur to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Taxis and cabs are available from the airport.
- By Rail: Udaipur City Railway Station links the city to major destinations across India. You can take a taxi or auto from the station to the palace.
- By Road: Well-connected via highways to Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Jodhpur. Buses, car rentals, and taxis operate daily.
Reaching the Palace
- Taxi/Cab: Comfortable and ideal for families.
- Auto-Rickshaw: Budget-friendly and quick.
- Walking: Perfect if you’re staying near the City Palace area.
- Boat Ride: A unique and scenic option from Lake Pichola with beautiful palace views.
Key Attractions Inside the Raj Mahal Udaipur
Raj Mahal Udaipur is filled with stunning architecture, royal history, and beautifully preserved courtyards. Here are the top attractions you should not miss:
- Amar Vilas: The highest point of the palace with landscaped gardens, fountains, and spectacular views of Lake Pichola.
- Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard): Known for its intricate glass mosaic peacocks, each representing a different season.
- Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors): A dazzling chamber decorated with thousands of tiny mirror pieces that glow even in dim light.
- Zenana Mahal: The former residence of the royal ladies, now displaying traditional art and heritage exhibits.
- Manek Chowk: A grand courtyard once used for royal ceremonies and now a venue for cultural shows.
- Vintage Galleries and Armoury Museum: A collection of royal weapons, artefacts, and antique items from the Mewar dynasty.
- Badi Mahal: A garden palace uniquely built on a 27-meter high natural rock, offering sweeping views of the city.
- Crystal Gallery (inside Fateh Prakash Palace): A special gallery featuring rare crystal furniture and chandeliers imported from London.
City Palace Museum Details
The City Palace Museum is located inside the iconic City Palace Udaipur and has been welcoming visitors since 1969. It preserves the royal heritage of the Mewar dynasty through paintings, royal attire, weapons, and historic artefacts.
One of the highlights is a rare collection of over 28,000 photographic items, including early cameras and vintage glass-plate negatives. Exploring the museum gives a fascinating look into Udaipur’s regal past.
City Palace Museum Timings
You can visit the museum any day between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM, though entry closes at 5:00 PM. The only day it shuts its doors is Holi, when celebrations take over the city.
Around major events such as the Mewar Festival, you might find extended hours and special cultural displays, making it an ideal time to explore both the museum and Udaipur’s festive charm.
City Palace Museum Ticket Price
- Adults: ₹400
- Children (5–18 years): ₹150
- Kids below 5 years: Free entry
- Still Camera fee: ₹200
- Video Camera fee: ₹500
- Audio Guide: ₹200
History of City Palace Udaipur
The history of City Palace Udaipur begins in 1559, when Maharana Udai Singh II, the first City Palace Udaipur king, shifted the Mewar capital from Chittorgarh to Udaipur. What started as a royal residence gradually evolved into one of India’s largest palace complexes. Over the next 400 years, 22 generations of Mewar rulers continued expanding and beautifying the structure.
The palace showcases a mix of Rajput and Mughal architecture, with elegant courtyards, halls, and decorative art that reflect the pride and heritage of the Sisodia dynasty. Today, it stands as one of Rajasthan’s most iconic symbols of royal history.
The current City Palace Udaipur king is Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, the 77th custodian of the House of Mewar, who continues to preserve the palace and its legacy.
Hotels Near City Palace Udaipur
Staying near City Palace lets you explore the palace, nearby lakes, local markets, and Udaipur’s restaurants easily. If you are planning a 5 Days Rajasthan Tour with Udaipur, Jawai & Mount Abu Adventure, choosing accommodation near the City Palace makes it convenient to include this iconic landmark in your itinerary. Here’s a curated list of top hotels near City Palace Udaipur:
- Taj Lake Palace – Iconic floating palace on Lake Pichola with heritage interiors and private boat access. Cost: ₹30,000–₹1,50,000/night.
- Leela Palace Udaipur – Luxury suites with terraces, infinity pool, and guided City Palace tours. Cost: ₹25,000–₹1,20,000/night.
- Lake Pichola Hotel – Boutique hotel with rooftop views of the palace, cozy rooms, and easy access to local shops. Cost: ₹6,000–₹15,000/night.
- Taj Fateh Prakash Palace – Heritage rooms, royal décor, and direct access to City Palace Museum. Cost: ₹15,000–₹40,000/night.
- Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel – Boutique hotel with private balconies overlooking Lake Pichola. Cost: ₹10,000–₹35,000/night.
