The architecture of City Palace Udaipur is a marvel in itself, reflecting the unique blend of Rajput and other architectural influences. Built with granite and marble, the palace features intricate carvings, frescoes, mirrors, inlay work, and paintings
that leave visitors awe-struck. Spread across an expansive area of 200,000 square feet, the palace boasts eleven palaces, courtyards, gardens, towers, and gateways that transport you to a world of opulence and grace.
As you enter City Palace
Udaipur, the Tripolia Gate welcomes you with its three arches leading to three different courtyards. This grand entrance, built by Maharana Sangram Singh II, is adorned with toranas featuring beautifully crafted elephants, horses, and warriors.
The
Bari Pol, another entrance gate, leads to the Manek Chowk or Pearl Courtyard. Maharana Amar Singh II constructed this gate, and it is graced by colossal elephant statues and a sun emblem representing the Suryavanshi lineage of the Mewar rulers.
Within
the palace complex, you'll discover the Manek Chowk, a vast courtyard that once witnessed royal ceremonies, processions, and festivals. Here, Maharanas were weighed against gold and silver, which were then distributed among the people, symbolising the
ruler's benevolence. The Manek Chowk also houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesh and a silver gallery displaying a stunning collection of silver artefacts.
Prepare to be mesmerised by the Sheesh Mahal, a palace of mirrors built by Maharana
Pratap. This iconic structure, with its intricate mirror work and paintings, takes you on a journey into a world of ethereal beauty. Its central hall, adorned with a marble throne, and four smaller chambers with niches and alcoves, showcase the pinnacle
of craftsmanship and artistic expression.
Discover the Dilkhush Mahal, a palace of happiness built by Maharana Karan Singh, renowned for its captivating paintings of flowers, birds, and animals. Its hall features a marble fountain, while its
balcony offers breathtaking views of Lake Pichola, a sight that will leave you spellbound.
The Moti Mahal, a palace of pearls, stands as a testament to Maharana Karan Singh's luxurious taste. Adorned with pearls and glass beads, this palace showcases
opulence and grandeur.
Marvel at the Krishna Vilas, a palace dedicated to Lord Krishna, built by Maharana Bhim Singh, featuring an impressive collection of miniature paintings that depict the life and legends of Lord Krishna.
The Durbar
Hall, built by Maharana Sajjan Singh, is a majestic hall of audience that enchants visitors with its regal aura. This grand structure hosts official functions and ceremonies, featuring a high ceiling adorned with crystal chandeliers, walls adorned with
paintings and trophies, and two enormous silver urns or Gangajalis that Maharana Sajjan Singh used to carry water from the Ganges during his visit toEngland.
And finally, while you visit your final destination in this regal journey, prepare to
be dazzled by the Crystal Gallery, a treasure trove of crystal objects ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh.