City Palace, Udaipur

City Palace, Udaipur is a large palace complex on the eastern shore of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan, originally begun in the mid 16th century by Maharana Udai Singh II. It is the historic seat of the Mewar rulers and a major cultural landmark in the city.

Construction began when Udaipur was founded and the palace was extended and altered by successive Maharanas over several centuries, producing a layered complex of Rajput and later decorative styles. Portions of the complex now function as museums, while others remain in private or institutional use.

The City Palace stands on the banks of Lake Pichola in central Udaipur, Rajasthan, dominating the lakefront and the old city; it is immediately adjacent to major ghats and is accessible from Udaipur’s historic centre.

• Construction span: Construction began in the mid 16th century under Maharana Udai Singh II and the complex was enlarged by successive rulers over roughly four centuries, resulting in multiple architectural styles and internal courtyards.

What to See #

• City Palace Museum: The palace complex museum that displays royal artifacts, paintings and arms from the Mewar dynasty's collection.
• Mor Chowk (ceremonial courtyard): Mor Chowk, a ceremonial courtyard famous for its ornate painted peacock mosaics and decorated balconies used for royal ceremonies.