City Palace Udaipur Visitor Guide: Heritage, Timings & Ticket Information

Nestled on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, City Palace Udaipur is one of Rajasthan’s most iconic landmarks. A symbol of grandeur, legacy, and architectural brilliance, this majestic palace complex reflects the glory of the Mewar dynasty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, the City Palace offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, artistic excellence, and royal lifestyle experiences.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the rich history of City Palace Udaipur, its entry timings, ticket fees, and some practical tips for visitors to make the most of their tour.

The Historical Legacy of City Palace Udaipur

The foundation of City Palace was laid by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, the ruler who also founded the city of Udaipur. Perched atop a hill, the palace overlooks Lake Pichola and provides panoramic views of the surroundings, including Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas, and the Aravalli ranges.

Over nearly 400 years, successive Maharanas added several structures to the palace complex, resulting in a fusion of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval European, and Chinese architectural styles. The City Palace isn’t a single structure but a complex of palaces, courtyards, gardens, temples, and museums.

Some notable rulers who contributed to its construction include Maharana Pratap Singh, Maharana Karan Singh, and Maharana Fateh Singh.

Architectural Grandeur and Layout

The City Palace is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Built primarily in granite and marble, it features intricately carved balconies, towering domes, cupolas, expansive courtyards, and decorated archways.

Key Attractions Within the Palace:

• Badi Mahal (Garden Palace): A beautiful palace built on a 27-meter-high natural rock formation, surrounded by a garden with a swimming pool from the royal era.
  
• Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard): Known for its elaborate glass mosaics of peacocks representing the three seasons.
  
• Zenana Mahal (Queen’s Palace): Now converted into a museum showcasing royal heritage.
  
• Krishna Vilas: Houses a collection of miniature paintings depicting royal processions and cultural festivals.
  
• Fateh Prakash Palace & Shiv Niwas Palace: These are now luxury heritage hotels within the complex.
  
• City Palace Museum: Officially known as the Pratap Museum, it offers a rich display of royal costumes, weapons, silver artifacts, vintage photos, and more.
  

Each section of the palace tells a story of valour, opulence, and spiritual devotion that defined the Mewar rulers.

City Palace Timings

If you’re planning a visit, it’s essential to align your timing for the best experience. The palace is open throughout the year, with some exceptions on festival days.

Visiting Hours:

• Opening Time: 9:30 AM
• Closing Time: 5:30 PM\
• Last Entry: Around 4:30 PM

To explore the palace thoroughly, allocate at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit. Arriving early in the morning is ideal to avoid crowds and capture great photos in the soft daylight.

Entry Fee Details for City Palace Udaipur

The ticket prices for the City Palace are divided between general entry and museum access. Separate charges apply for professional cameras and guided tours.

Entry Fees (as of 2025):

Category	Fee (INR)
Adults (Indian)	₹300
Children (5-18 years, Indian)	₹100
Foreigner (Adult)	₹700
Children (5-18 years, Foreigner)	₹400
City Palace Museum Access	₹250 (Extra)
Camera/Video Charges	₹250-500

Note: Charges may vary during special exhibitions or guided heritage walks. Online booking is available on the official Udaipur City Palace website and select travel platforms.

Best Time to Visit City Palace

Udaipur has a semi-arid climate, so choosing the right season ensures a more comfortable visit.

Ideal Season:

• October to March – Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing.
• Monsoon (July to September) – Scenic beauty around Lake Pichola and fewer crowds.

Avoid the peak summer months (April to June) as daytime temperatures can soar above 40°C, making walking through the palace tiring.

How to Reach City Palace Udaipur

The City Palace is centrally located and well-connected through various transportation options.

From Udaipur Railway Station:

• Distance: ~3.5 km
• Mode: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, or Ola/Uber available

From Maharana Pratap Airport:

• Distance: ~24 km
• Mode: Prepaid taxi or app-based cab services

If you’re staying near Lake Pichola, Hanuman Ghat, or Lal Ghat, the palace is within walking distance.

Tips for Visitors

• Hire a local guide or audio guide. The palace has intricate details and stories that are best understood with context. Guides are available at the main entrance.
  
• Photography: Mobile photography is allowed, but cameras may attract extra charges. Drones are strictly prohibited.
  
• Dress comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes due to extensive walking.
  
• Avoid weekends and holidays: Plan your visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
  
• Carry water: Hydration is essential, especially in warmer months.
  
• Check cultural shows: Sometimes, traditional dance or light and sound shows are organized during peak season evenings—worth checking schedules in advance.
  

Nearby Attractions to Combine With Your Visit

After touring the City Palace, you can extend your Udaipur experience by exploring nearby gems:

• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: A sunset boat ride offers majestic views of the palace from the water.
  
• Bagore Ki Haveli: Just a 5-minute walk, known for its folk dance performances.
  
• Jagdish Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located nearby.
  
• Gangaur Ghat: Popular for photography and local festivities.
  
• Shilpgram: A rural arts and crafts complex just 4 km away.
  

Conclusion

The City Palace of Udaipur is not just a monument but a vivid storytelling canvas of Rajasthan’s regal past. With its blend of history, architecture, and culture, it offers a truly immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or family, the palace complex welcomes every traveller with timeless charm and grandeur.

Before you go, don’t forget to check the latest entry fees and timing updates on the official website or local tourism platforms. Make sure to include this stunning palace in your Udaipur itinerary—it’s the heart of the city’s soul and heritage. For a comfortable and hassle-free visit, consider booking a taxi service in Udaipur to explore the palace and other nearby attractions with ease.