The Pink City of Jaipur is a jewel in the crown of India’s cultural heritage. As you travel through the lively streets and indulge yourself in the rich tapestry of Rajasthani culture, prepare to be captivated by the royal City Palace of Jaipur. A splendid architectural masterpiece, the City Palace stands tall as the symbol of the grandeur and opulence of the bygone era.
In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the history, architecture, visiting hours, ticket price and other details, and tips for exploring the City Palace in Jaipur. Whether you are an avid history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler seeking an unforgettable experience, this iconic palace of Jaipur promises to leave an indelible mark on your journey through India.
City Palace Jaipur History
The history of the City Palace of Jaipur is steeped in the legacy of the royal Maharajas of Jaipur and dates back to the early 18th century. It was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur and a renowned ruler of the Kachwaha Rajput dynasty.
Construction of the palace complex began in 1729 and continued for several decades, with subsequent rulers adding their own contributions and expansions. The City Palace was strategically built near the fortified city of Amber or Amer Fort, the former capital of the Kachwaha Rajputs, to establish a new capital for the kingdom.
The City Palace served as the seat of power and residence for the ruling Maharajas of Jaipur, who governed the princely state of Jaipur. Over the centuries, the palace underwent numerous renovations, resulting in an exquisite blend of architectural styles, including Rajput, Mughal, and European influences.
The palace reflects the wealth, taste, and patronage of the arts. It served as a center of administration, housing various government offices, as well as a venue for grand celebrations and ceremonies.
The rulers of Jaipur were not only patrons of architecture but also avid collectors of art and artifacts. The Jaipur City Palace became a repository for a vast collection of precious artifacts, including manuscripts, royal costumes, weapons, paintings, and textiles. Today, these treasures are showcased in the museum sections of the palace, offering visitors a glimpse into the royal heritage of Jaipur.
This palace in Jaipur witnessed significant historical events and played a vital role in shaping the destiny of Jaipur. It served as a venue for important meetings with British officials during the colonial era and hosted prominent dignitaries and heads of state from around the world.
Despite the political changes and the end of the princely era in India, it continues to be a symbol of pride for the people of Jaipur and a major tourist attraction, showcasing its rich cultural heritage. It is among the best places to visit in Rajasthan.
Tourists coming to India usually visit it as part of the Rajasthan Tour Package or the Indian Golden Triangle Tour Package.
City Palace Jaipur Architecture (Getting Inside)
The architecture of the City Palace of Jaipur is a mesmerizing blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles, reflecting the diverse influences that shaped its construction over the centuries.
The palace complex is a harmonious fusion of exquisite detailing, ornate facades, grand courtyards, and elegant gardens, showcasing the artistic brilliance of the craftsmen of that era.
Below are the key features of its architecture:
Entrance Gateways:
The City Palace is accessed through grand gateways, including:
- Udai Pol
- Tripolia Gate
- Virendra Pol
These entrances are adorned with intricate designs, frescoes, and delicate carvings, setting the tone for the architectural wonders within.
Courtyards:
The palace boasts a series of beautiful courtyards, each with its unique charm. The most renowned among them are:
- Mubarak Mahal
- Diwan-i-Khas
- Pritam Niwas Chowk
These courtyards are adorned with stunning arches, pillars, and decorative elements, showcasing the opulence of the royal lifestyle.
Chandra Mahal:
The Chandra Mahal, also known as the Moon Palace, is a prominent structure within the City Palace Museum. It is a seven-story building that serves as the residence of the current Maharaja of Jaipur.
The Chandra Mahal features intricate latticework, delicate paintings, and luxurious interiors, offering a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of the royal family.
Mubarak Mahal:
The Mubarak Mahal, meaning the Auspicious Palace, is a splendid structure that now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum. This section of the palace displays a remarkable blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, with its grand archways, ornate ceilings, and beautiful courtyard.
Artistic Details:
The City Palace is renowned for its intricate artistic details. The walls and ceilings are adorned with stunning frescoes, murals, and mirror work. Intricate carvings, marble inlays, and delicate lattice work add to the architectural grandeur, showcasing the rich craftsmanship of the artisans.
Gardens:
The palace features beautifully landscaped gardens such as the Pritam Niwas Chowk, which is known for its four beautifully themed gardens representing the four seasons.
These gardens enhance the aesthetic appeal of the palace and offer a serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city.
City Palace Jaipur Timings 2023
Find the opening and closing timings of the City Palace of Jaipur, Rajasthan:
| Day of the Week | Opening Time | Closing Time |
| Monday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
- Time required to visit this attraction: 2 to 3 hours
City Palace Jaipur Ticket Price 2023 (Entry Fee)
Here are the details about the entry fee of City Palace:
- For Indians: INR 100
- For Foreign Tourists: INR 400
- For Students: INR 50 (for Indians), INR 250 (for Foreign Tourists)
City Palace Jaipur Photos
Here are some photos offering an inside view of the City Palace:
Best Time to Visit City Palace Jaipur
The best time of the day to visit the City Palace of Jaipur is during the early morning or late afternoon.
Here’s why:
1. Early Morning:
Visiting the Jaipur City Palace in the early morning allows you to beat the crowds and experience the serene ambiance of the palace.
The soft morning light adds a magical touch to the architecture, enhancing its beauty. Exploring the palace during this time allows for quieter moments and better opportunities for photography.
2. Late Afternoon:
Another ideal time to visit is in the late afternoon, as the temperature begins to cool down. The warm glow of the setting sun casts a golden hue on the palace, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
The late afternoon also offers the advantage of witnessing the palace’s illuminated facades, which come alive after sunset, adding to the grandeur of the experience.
How to Reach City Palace Jaipur?
To reach the City Palace in Jaipur, there are multiple modes of transportation available, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, and public buses.
- By Private Cab: By booking a taxi service with Indi Driver, you can go for Jaipur sightseeing and explore City Palace, as well as all the tourist attractions in the Pink City hassle-free.
- By Taxi or Auto-rickshaw: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available throughout Jaipur and offer a convenient mode of transportation. You can hire them directly from your location or through ride-hailing services.
- By Public Bus: Jaipur has a well-connected public bus system operated by the Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC). You can board a bus heading towards the city center or specifically inquire about buses that stop near the City Palace.
Here are the distances from various transportation hubs and tourist attractions in Jaipur:
| Place | Distance from City Palace (Approximate) |
| Jaipur Railway Station | 5.5 km |
| Jaipur Bus Stand (Sindhi Camp) | 3 km |
| Jaipur International Airport | 13 km |
| Hawa Mahal | 1 km |
| Jantar Mantar | 900 meters |
| Amer Fort | 9 km |
| Nahargarh Fort | 14 km |
Facts About City Palace of Jaipur
Here are some interesting facts about the City Palace of Jaipur:
- The City Palace is the official residence of the current Maharaja of Jaipur and a part of the palace complex is still occupied by the royal family.
- It is a remarkable blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Jaipur.
- The construction of the palace complex began in 1729 and continued over several centuries, with each ruler adding their own contributions and modifications.
- The City Palace of Jaipur houses an extensive collection of precious artifacts, including royal costumes, weapons, manuscripts, and ancient artworks, some of which date back to several centuries.
- The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) within the palace complex is adorned with intricate mirror work and houses two large silver vessels, known as Gangajalis, which are listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest silver objects.
- One of the palaces within the complex, known as Mubarak Mahal, served as a reception center for royal guests and now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, displaying a vast collection of textiles and artifacts.
- The City Palace has been a popular shooting location for numerous Bollywood and Hollywood films, adding to its cinematic charm.
- The City Palace becomes even more enchanting during festivals like Diwali and Teej when it is beautifully lit up and adorned with decorations, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Places to Visit in Jaipur Near City Palace
There are several popular tourist attractions located near the City Palace in Jaipur. Here are some of the top ones:
1. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
Located just a kilometer away from the City Palace, Hawa Mahal is a stunning palace with intricate honeycomb-like windows, offering a unique architectural marvel and breathtaking views of the city.
2. Jantar Mantar
Situated within walking distance from the City Palace, Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. It features a collection of large-scale astronomical instruments and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Nahargarh Fort
Perched on a hilltop overlooking Jaipur, Nahargarh Fort is a historic fort known for its scenic views, stunning architecture, and rich history. It offers a great spot for panoramic views of the city.
4. Amber Fort
Located around 9 kilometers from the City Palace, Amer Fort is a majestic fort and palace complex that showcases a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The fort is known for its ornate palaces, intricate carvings, and the popular Sound and Light Show.
5. Jal Mahal
Situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, Jal Mahal is a stunning palace that appears to float on the water. Although entry inside the palace is restricted, visitors can admire its beautiful architecture from a distance and enjoy the serene surroundings.
6. Albert Hall Museum
Located near Ram Niwas Garden, the Albert Hall Museum is the oldest museum in Rajasthan. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and arms.
7. Bapu Bazaar and Johari Bazaar
These vibrant markets near the City Palace offer a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and traditional Rajasthani items. Exploring these bustling markets is a great way to experience the local culture and shop for souvenirs.
8. Govind Dev Ji Temple
Situated within the City Palace complex, the Govind Dev Ji Temple is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is a significant religious site and attracts devotees from all over the country.
Best Hotels Near City Palace Jaipur
Here are some of the top hotels located nearby:
| Hotel Name | Distance from City Palace |
| Bloom Boutique – Chelon Haveli | 400 m |
| Zostel Jaipur | 850 m |
| Sukh Sagar Hotel | 600 m |
| Hotel Royal Sheraton | 800 m |
| Jaipur View | 1.1 km |
| Umaid Vilas Royal Heritage Haveli | 1.1 km |
| Jasoda Heritage Hotel | 1.1 km |
| LMB Hotel | 1.2 km |
| Jaipur Haveli | 1.3 km |
| Pandya Niwas | 1.4 km |
Jaipur City Palace FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs):
Yes, most portions of the City Palace is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its grand courtyards, museums, and galleries.
The City Palace is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Yes, guided tours are available at the City Palace, providing visitors with insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the palace complex. These tours can enhance the overall experience and provide a deeper understanding of the place.
There are no specific dress codes to visit the City Palace. However, it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious or sacred areas within the palace complex.
Generally, the City Palace is not open for night visits. However, during special events or festivals, there may be specific evening or nighttime programs organized at the palace.
The King of Jaipur is Maharaja Padmanabh Singh. He is the current titular head of the royal family of Jaipur and holds the ceremonial position, as the princely state of Jaipur no longer has political authority after India’s independence in 1947.
Maharaja Padmanabh Singh succeeded his grandfather, Maharaja Bhawani Singh, as the head of the Jaipur royal family.
Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
The City Palace Jaipur was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, in the early 18th century.
5.5 km
Popular Tour Packages
Indian Golden Triangle Tour Package
Golden Triangle With Udaipur Tour
Golden Triangle With Khajuraho Tour
Golden Triangle With Gwalior Tour
Golden Triangle With Pushkar and Ajmer Tour
Golden Triangle With Varanasi Tour
Popular India Travel Blogs:
Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan
