Entry Fee:
The entry fee for City Palace in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India is as follows:
For Indians: INR 200 per person for entry to the palace and the museum.
For Foreign Nationals: INR 700 per person for entry to the palace and the museum.
There is an additional fee for taking still or video cameras inside the palace complex.
Visiting Timings of City Palace
The City Palace in Jaipur is open every day for visitors. The visiting hours for City Palace are as follows:
The palace complex is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
The last entry for visitors is at 4:30 pm.
Please note that the palace may have different timings for some of its sections, such as the museums and other attractions within the complex. It is recommended to check the timings of individual attractions before planning your visit.
About City Palace
The City Palace in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India is a magnificent palace complex built by the Kachwaha Rajput rulers of Jaipur in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is located in the heart of Jaipur’s old city, near the Hawa Mahal, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The palace complex is a perfect blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, and is a testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Jaipur.
The City Palace complex comprises several buildings, courtyards, gardens, and museums, which are a perfect example of the Rajput architecture and design. The palace was the seat of power for the rulers of Jaipur, and even today, a part of the palace is still occupied by the royal family. The palace complex houses several museums that showcase the history, art, and culture of Jaipur and Rajasthan.
One of the most impressive buildings in the palace complex is the Chandra Mahal, which is a seven-story palace that is still used by the royal family. The palace also has several courtyards, gardens, and other buildings that are worth exploring. The palace complex also offers stunning views of the surrounding areas, including the old city of Jaipur.
Overall, the City Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Jaipur, and it offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Rajasthan.
History of City Palace
The City Palace in Jaipur was built over a period of several centuries, starting in the early 18th century. The palace was the seat of power for the Kachwaha Rajput rulers of Jaipur, who commissioned the construction of the palace and continued to expand and embellish it over the years. The palace complex was designed by several architects, including Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, who is credited with designing the Jaipur city plan.
The construction of the palace complex was started by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727, and continued through the 19th century under successive rulers. The palace complex was built using a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, which is evident in its design and decoration.
Over the years, several additions were made to the palace complex, including the Mubarak Mahal, which was built by Maharaja Madho Singh II in the late 19th century to house a museum of textiles and costumes. Today, the City Palace complex houses several museums, including the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, which showcases the history and art of the Kachwaha Rajputs.
The palace complex has been the seat of power for the rulers of Jaipur for centuries, and even today, a part of the palace is still occupied by the royal family. The palace has also been the site of several important events in Jaipur’s history, including the coronation of the rulers of Jaipur and the reception of foreign dignitaries.
Architecture of City Palace
The City Palace in Jaipur is a magnificent blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. The palace complex is a collection of several buildings, courtyards, gardens, and temples, each with its unique architectural features.
The palace complex is divided into a series of courtyards, each of which is surrounded by beautiful buildings. The first courtyard, known as the Mubarak Mahal courtyard, is home to the Mubarak Mahal, a beautiful palace built in the 19th century in a blend of Rajasthani and European styles. The courtyard also houses several other buildings, including the Diwan-e-Khas and Diwan-e-Aam, which were used for official functions.
The second courtyard, known as the Pritam Niwas Chowk, is surrounded by four beautiful gates, each of which is adorned with intricate carvings and decorations. The gates represent the four seasons and are named after them.
The third courtyard, known as the Chandra Mahal courtyard, is the most magnificent of all. The Chandra Mahal, the tallest building in the palace complex, towers over this courtyard. The Chandra Mahal is a seven-story building, each floor with a unique name and purpose. The top floor of the Chandra Mahal offers a panoramic view of the city of Jaipur.
The palace complex also has several temples, including the Govind Dev Ji temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and the Shri Gobind Deo temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temples are built in the traditional Rajasthani style and are adorned with intricate carvings and decorations.
The City Palace in Jaipur is a beautiful example of the fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles and is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and history.
Light and Sound Show at City Palace
There is a light and sound show held in the City Palace complex every evening. The show is called “The Royal Splendor” and it showcases the history, heritage, and grandeur of the palace complex through a mix of lights, music, and narration.
The show takes place in the Chandra Mahal courtyard, which is beautifully illuminated for the occasion. The narration is in English and Hindi, and it takes the viewers on a journey through the history of Jaipur and the City Palace complex. The show also highlights the various architectural features of the palace complex and the significance of each building.
The duration of the show is about an hour, and it is usually held in the evening after sunset. The timings and ticket prices for the show may vary, so it’s best to check with the palace authorities for the latest information.
Facts About City Palace
Here are some interesting facts about the City Palace in Jaipur:
- The City Palace was built over a period of nearly two centuries, starting in the early 18th century.
- The palace complex covers a total area of over 7 acres and comprises several buildings, courtyards, gardens, and temples.
- The palace was the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur and served as the administrative and ceremonial center of the city.
- The palace complex is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, and it features intricate carvings, delicate murals, and beautiful marble work.
- The palace houses several museums that showcase the history, art, and culture of the region, including a collection of royal costumes, arms and armor, and manuscripts.
- The City Palace was built in stages by several rulers of the Kachwaha dynasty, and each ruler added their own architectural elements and decorative features.
- The palace complex includes several stunning courtyards, such as the Mubarak Mahal courtyard, which was used for ceremonial functions, and the Pritam Niwas Chowk, which is decorated with exquisite peacock motifs.
- The palace complex also includes the Chandra Mahal, a seven-story palace that was the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The top floor of the palace offers stunning views of the city.
- The City Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jaipur, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year.
- The palace has been featured in several Bollywood films, including “Bajirao Mastani,” “Jodhaa Akbar,” and “Shuddh Desi Romance.”
Tips For Visiting City Palace
- Plan your visit in advance: The City Palace is a large complex, and it can take several hours to explore it fully. Plan your visit accordingly and make sure to allocate enough time to see all the sights.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The palace complex involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Dress appropriately: As the City Palace is a cultural and historical attraction, it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing.
- Hire a guide: Hiring a guide is highly recommended to get the most out of your visit. A guide can provide you with insights into the history and architecture of the palace and make your visit more meaningful.
- Buy tickets in advance: To avoid long queues at the ticket counter, it is advisable to buy tickets in advance online.
- Respect the rules: There are certain rules and regulations that visitors are expected to follow while visiting the palace, such as not smoking or drinking inside the complex and not touching or damaging any of the artifacts or structures.
- Take plenty of water: The palace complex can get hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Make sure to take plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Take a camera: The City Palace is a photographer’s paradise, with stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful views. Make sure to take a camera to capture all the amazing sights.
How To Reach City Palace
The City Palace is located in the heart of Jaipur, and it is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
By air: Jaipur International Airport is located around 13 km from the City Palace. Taxis and cabs are readily available at the airport, which can take you to the palace.
By train: Jaipur Junction railway station is the nearest railway station to the City Palace. It is located about 4 km from the palace, and you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the station to reach the palace.
By bus: Jaipur is well-connected by bus to other major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. The main bus stand is located around 5 km from the City Palace, and you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus to reach the palace.
By taxi or auto-rickshaw: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available in Jaipur and can take you directly to the City Palace. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before boarding the vehicle.
Lesser Known Facts aboutCity Palace
- The City Palace complex includes not only the palace buildings but also a museum, a temple, and a garden.
- The City Palace was built over a period of several centuries, with each successive ruler adding their own touch to the structure.
- The palace was originally built using a combination of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.
- The palace complex is spread over a massive area of around 700,000 square feet.
- The palace has four gates, representing the four seasons.
- The palace houses the world’s largest silver urn, which was used to carry water from the Ganges river by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II during his trip to England in 1901.
- The palace was used as a location for the shooting of several Bollywood films, including Jodhaa Akbar and Bhool Bhulaiya.
- The City Palace has a collection of more than 2,000 weapons, including swords, daggers, and guns.
- The palace also has a collection of rare manuscripts and books, including the original copy of the Bhagavad Gita written on a single sheet of paper.
- The palace has several courtyards, each with its own unique architectural features and decorations.
Places To Stay in City Palace
The City Palace is located in the heart of Jaipur city and there are many accommodation options available near the palace. Some of the popular places to stay near the City Palace include:
- Taj Jai Mahal Palace: This is a luxury hotel located just 2.5 km from the City Palace. The hotel features beautiful gardens, a pool, a spa, and several dining options.
- Alsisar Haveli: This is a heritage hotel located just 1.5 km from the City Palace. The hotel features traditional Rajasthani architecture and offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
- Samode Haveli: This is another heritage hotel located about 2.5 km from the City Palace. The hotel features a beautiful courtyard, a pool, a spa, and several dining options.
- Umaid Bhawan Heritage House Hotel: This is a budget hotel located just 1 km from the City Palace. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a travel desk to help plan sightseeing tours.
- The Raj Palace: This is a luxury hotel located about 2 km from the City Palace. The hotel features beautiful gardens, a pool, a spa, and several dining options. It is also one of the oldest heritage hotels in Jaipur.
Places to Visit Within 10 km of City Palace
There are many interesting places to visit within 10 km of the City Palace in Jaipur. Some of the popular places to visit are:
- Hawa Mahal: Hawa Mahal is an iconic landmark located just 1.5 km from the City Palace. It is a five-story palace with a facade of pink sandstone and features 953 small windows or jharokhas.
- Jantar Mantar: Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory located about 2 km from the City Palace. It features several stone structures that were used to measure time, track celestial bodies, and predict eclipses.
- Albert Hall Museum: The Albert Hall Museum is a beautiful museum located about 3 km from the City Palace. The museum features a vast collection of art, artifacts, and historical objects from Rajasthan and other parts of India.
- Nahargarh Fort: Nahargarh Fort is a majestic fort located about 5 km from the City Palace. It offers panoramic views of the city and features several beautiful palaces, gardens, and temples.
- Jal Mahal: Jal Mahal is a beautiful palace located about 7 km from the City Palace. It is situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the lake.
- Birla Mandir: Birla Mandir is a beautiful temple located about 7 km from the City Palace. It is a white marble temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
- Jaigarh Fort: Jaigarh Fort is a beautiful fort located about 9 km from the City Palace. It features a massive cannon called Jaivana, which was once the world’s largest cannon on wheels. The fort also offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the city.
Places for Shopping Near City Palace
- There are several shopping options near City Palace, where you can find a variety of items such as handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and more. Some popular places for shopping near City Palace are:
- Johari Bazaar: This is a bustling market in the old city of Jaipur, famous for its exquisite jewelry and precious stones.
- Tripolia Bazaar: This is another popular market in the old city, known for its textiles, brassware, and lacquer bangles.
- Bapu Bazaar: This market is known for its colorful textiles, traditional Rajasthani clothes, and mojari shoes.
- Nehru Bazaar: This market is known for its leather goods, textiles, and handicrafts.
- Chandpole Bazaar: This market is known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, and street food.
- Kishanpole Bazaar: This market is known for its wooden furniture, block-printed textiles, and blue pottery.
- Sireh Deori Bazaar: This market is known for its traditional Rajasthani jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.
- These markets are located within a 2-3 km radius from City Palace and can be easily reached by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions about City Palace
Q: What is the City Palace in Jaipur?
The City Palace is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens located in the heart of the Pink City of Jaipur. It was the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Q: What is the entry fee for City Palace?
The entry fee for City Palace varies depending on the package you choose. For Indian nationals, the entry fee ranges from Rs. 130 to Rs. 500, while for foreign nationals, it ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,300.
Q: What are the visiting hours for City Palace?
City Palace is open to visitors from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
Q: Is photography allowed inside City Palace?
Yes, photography is allowed inside City Palace, but there may be restrictions on certain areas or exhibits. Videography may require a separate permit.
Q: What are some interesting things to see inside City Palace?
Some of the must-see attractions inside City Palace include the Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am, and the museum, which houses a collection of royal artifacts, weapons, and art.
Q: How much time does it take to visit City Palace?
It takes about 2-3 hours to explore City Palace and see all the major attractions. However, if you want to take your time and explore every nook and corner, you may need more time.
Q: Is there a dress code for visiting City Palace?
There is no specific dress code for visiting City Palace, but it is recommended to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for the culture and traditions of Rajasthan.
Q: Can I hire a guide inside City Palace?
Yes, you can hire a guide inside City Palace to learn more about its history, architecture, and culture. Guides are available in multiple languages and can be hired for a fee.
Is City Palace wheelchair accessible?
Yes, City Palace is wheelchair accessible, but some areas may be difficult to navigate due to steps and uneven terrain. Wheelchairs are available for rent at the entrance.
Q: Are there any restaurants or cafes inside City Palace?
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes inside City Palace that serve a variety of cuisines and snacks.