Skip to content
Published September 20, 2023 by

The City Palace of Jaipur: A Jewel in the Pink City

 



The City Palace of Jaipur: A Jewel in the Pink City




The City Palace of Jaipur is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rajasthan, India. It is a sprawling complex of buildings, courtyards, and gardens that was built over a period of 200 years by the Rajput rulers of Jaipur. The palace is a beautiful blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, and it is home to a treasure trove of art, history, and culture.

History of the City Palace

The City Palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the early 18th century. Jai Singh was a powerful ruler who founded the city of Jaipur and made it the capital of his kingdom. He was also a keen astronomer and mathematician, and he commissioned the construction of the Jantar Mantar, an observatory that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II


The City Palace was built on the site of an earlier fort, and it was designed to be a fortified residence for the royal family. The palace complex is surrounded by high walls, and it has a number of gates that were used to control access to the palace.

The palace was built in stages over a period of 200 years, and it reflects the changing tastes and styles of the Rajput rulers. The earliest parts of the palace are built in the traditional Rajput style, with red sandstone walls and intricate carvings. Later additions to the palace are more Mughal in style, with white marble and inlaid mirrors.

The Different Parts of the City Palace

The City Palace is divided into a number of different parts, each of which has its own unique character. The most famous part of the palace is the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds. This five-storey building is made of red sandstone and has a latticed facade that allows the royal women to view the street below without being seen.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Mubarak Mahal, or Palace of Pleasure. This building is located in the zenana, or women's quarters, of the palace. It is decorated with intricate carvings and has a beautiful garden.

The City Palace also houses a number of museums, including the City Palace Museum, the Textile Museum, and the Arms and Armour Museum. These museums display a collection of art, artifacts, and weapons that tell the story of the Rajput rulers and the history of Jaipur.

How to Visit the City Palace

The City Palace is open to the public and can be visited from 9:30am to 5pm. The entry fee for Indians is INR 130, and the entry fee for foreigners is INR 500. Photography and videography are allowed in the palace complex, but there is a separate fee for these activities.

The best way to see the City Palace is to take a guided tour. There are a number of different tours available, including English-speaking tours, Hindi-speaking tours, and private tours.

Tips for Visiting the City Palace

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the palace complex.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the palace.
  • Be respectful of the palace and its surroundings.

The City Palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history and culture. It is a beautiful and fascinating place that will transport you back in time to the days of the Rajput rulers.