City Palace of Udaipur

The City Palace of Udaipur is the largest palace complex in the city of lakes and is one of the major attractions of Sightseeing in Udaipur. A splendid structure in white marble and granite the palace was built by Maharaja Udai Sigh of Sisodia Rajput clique. Encircled by battlemented fort walls the palace nestles within itself a few imposing piece of architecture, beautiful gardens and lively fountains.

The City Palace of Udaipur has a fashion of architecture which is an amalgamation of Medieval and Chinese style. The entry to the palace is called the Hati Pol or the Elephant gate. One of the most exquisitely crafted temples of the city, the Jagdish Temple is situated within the palace. The Bara pol leading to the first courtyard is joined with the Tripolia or the triple gate. The striking eight Toraranas or arches carved in pure marble situated between the two gates are a big attraction of the palace. Folklore says that the kings were weighed with gold and siver under these arches after which the wealth was being distributed among the poor people.

The exterior of the City Palace of Udaipur is very rugged. But the interiors project a complete opposite look. The lavish apartments with lovely hanging verandahs, pretty gardens, small minarets and cupolas giving spectacular view of the lake.

The Raj Angan is said to be the oldest part of the palace. The Mor Chowk, Manak Mahal, Bhim Vilas, Suraj Gokhala, Zenana Mahal, Dilkusha Mahal, Laxmi Vilas Chowk and the Chini Chitra shala are the major points to be looked for inside the palace. The Moti Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal are especially worth watching for their splendid décor and mirror work.

The Hawa Mahal and a Bari Mahal which has a exotic garden built on a 90 ft high rock are superb. You can have a panoramic view of the Lake Pichola and the city from the top of Amar Vilas.