Jaipur, popularly known as the ‘Pink City,’ is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Replete with historical landmarks, a rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant atmosphere, the city attracts travellers from all over the world and offers a great time to anybody who chooses to visit it. Whether visiting Jaipur alone or with your loved ones, you will have plenty to explore and discover. From mighty forts to beautiful museums, bustling markets and endless architectural marvels, a trip to the Pink City is bound to be fulfilling.
City Palace Jaipur is one of the most iconic tourist attractions of the city, and rightly so. The former seat of the Maharaja of the city, the City Palace Jaipur, is a massive complex that occupies almost one-seventh of the walled city. It is further divided into several buildings, courtyards and gardens. It is also home to a museum which showcases various exhibits and artefacts that form an essential part of the city’s heritage. The architecture of the City Palace is also one for the books as it combines the best of Rajput and Mughal styles and is packed with several beautiful attractions that should not be missed.
- City Palace Jaipur Ticket Price Adults: INR 400/- (Indian) & INR 700/- (Foreigners) { Composite Tickets}
- Child: INR 250/- (Indian) & INR 400/- (Foreigners) { Composite Tickets}
- City Palace Jaipur Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 10 PM for night visit
- Best Time To Visit: October To March
City Palace: History
City Palace Jaipur was established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh and was a former seat of the head of the Kachwaha Rajput Clan. The building was established when the capital was shifted from Amber to Jaipur in 1727, and the outer facade of the palace, which runs across several acres of the city, was constructed between 1729 and 1732. The palace went through several renovations and additions in the coming years.
Raja Man Singh II was the last ruler who presided over the city from the City Palace Jaipur. Today, part of the palace continues to be home to the city’s royal family.
Also Read: Amer Fort Jaipur
City Palace: Architecture
Made primarily from red and pink sandstones with hints of marble, City Palace was designed by two architects – Vidyadhar Bhattacharya and Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob. The massive structure combines Rajput, Mughal and European architectural styles and the intricate details on its walls, entrances and buildings are especially noteworthy. The construction incorporates classic Indian principles of Vastushastra and has three entrances – Tripolia Gate, ‘Udai Pol and Virendra Pol. These entrances have intricate artwork that portrays the different seasons and symbolises what lies beyond them. The complex is designed as a grid and has several courtyards with smaller arched palaces surrounding it. As you skip through the different courtyards, you can see several reminiscents of the past, including cannons and stone structures and the smaller palaces that have been converted into museums.
Some noteworthy aspects of the City Palace Jaipur include murals, mosaic artwork, honeycomb window panes and intricate stonework that combine the best of art, culture and design.
7 Things To See at City Palace
1. Chandra Mahal
Located at the west end of the City Palace, Chandra Mahal is a seven-story building with each floor having distinct names such as Ranga Mandir, Sukh Niwas, Pritam Niwas and Chawi Niwas. The entrance to the Mahal comprises a beautifully decorated peacock gate, and the inside is adorned with intricate paintings, Mughal-style motifs, ornamentations, decorative mirror work and floral artwork. The ground floor of Chandra Mahal is a museum where you can explore several exhibits, such as carpets and manuscripts of the royal family.
2. Mubarak Mahal
Now built into a museum, Mubarak Mahal has served as a reception area since it was constructed in the 19th century. Kashmiri pashminas, royal costumes, Sanganeri block prints, silk saris and ornamental clothes worn by Sawai Madho Singh I are displayed in this museum.
3. Diwan-i-Aam
Known as the hall of Public Audience, Diwan-i-Am is located between an art gallery and an armoury. The floors here are made of marble, and shimmering crystal chandeliers adorn its ceilings. The area also has two silver water vessels with a capacity of up to 4000 litres on display here.
4. Diwan-i-Khas
The hall of private audience, Diwan-i-Khas, has a red and gold ceiling and is one of the most aesthetically pleasing areas in the palace. This section has been converted into an art gallery where several miniature paintings, embroidered rugs, manuscripts of Hindu scriptures, Kashmiri shawls and carpets are displayed. You can also check out the Royal throne called ‘Takht-e-Rawal’ kept here.
5. Baggi Khana
This museum is one of the most interesting parts of the palace as it has an exquisite collection of palanquins, European cabs and old carriages on display. Victoria Baggi is one of the best attractions here, as the Prince of Wales gifted it to the royal family.
6. Maharani Palace
A former queen’s residence, Maharani Palace is now a museum with weapons used during the war on display here. The ceiling of Maharani Palace is decorated with precious and semi-precious stones.
7. Govind Dev Ji Palace
This temple on the premises is dedicated to Lord Krishna.
As you get ready to explore the grandeur of City Palace Jaipur, make sure to book a comfortable stay beforehand. The LaLiT Jaipur is one of the best hotels in Jaipur and has all the amenities you require to make your stay luxurious and memorable.
