The City Palace of Udaipur stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Pichola and is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Seen from the lake, its white towers, balconies and domes rise high above the water – one of the most romantic sights in India.
History:
Construction began in 1559 under Maharana Udai Singh II, who founded Udaipur as the new capital of Mewar. Over the next four centuries more than twenty Maharanas added palaces, courtyards and gardens, yet the complex still looks remarkably harmonious. Part of it is still used by the royal family, and part has become a museum and heritage hotels.
What to see:
- Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard), with three famous peacocks in glass mosaic, one for each season.
- Badi Mahal, a garden palace built on a natural rock, higher than the other buildings.
- Sheesh Mahal and Manak Mahal, decorated with mirror work and glass.
- The museum, with paintings, weapons and memories of Maharana Pratap, the hero of Mewar.
- The Crystal Gallery in the Fateh Prakash Palace, with a collection of crystal furniture ordered from England in the 19th century.
Good to know:
Allow two to three hours. Combine the visit with a boat ride on Lake Pichola towards Jag Mandir and the Lake Palace – the view of the City Palace from the water, especially at sunset, is the highlight of a stay in Udaipur.
