Situated in the state of Rajasthan, the City Palace is one of the main attractions of Jaipur. Built by the Kachhwaha ruler of Amber, Maharaja Jai Singh II in the early 18th century, the City Palace is an impeccable blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal forms of architecture. The huge palace complex which houses some fine structures, courtyards, beautiful gardens and buildings, occupies one seventh of the pink city. A lot of additions inside the palace complex were made by members of the royal family during subsequent years. Some of the most impeccable structures inside the palace include the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Badal Mahal, Sri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum. The mahals of the palace are decorated with beautiful pillars, carvings and some of the finest inlay work There are two main entrances to the palace from Jaleb Chowk and Tripolia Gate. The palace, laden with lush gardens, beautiful fountains and variety of plants and flowers is one of the most visited monuments in the historical city of Jaipur. The palace, a must see on your trip to the walled city, stands proudly giving a glimpse into the glorious past of the erstwhile maharajas.
Mubarak Mahal
The huge structure you come across while entering from the tripolia gate side, is the Mubarak Mahal. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II in the 19th century. The building is an artistic combination of Indian, Mughal and European architecture. A gateway leads to the Diwan-i-Khas, a place for the maharaja to meet important people. The two huge silver vessels placed here were used by the maharaja to take holy water along with him to England. The Diwan-i-Aam was the place where common people could meet the maharaja.
Chandra Mahal
The Chandra Mahal is an impressive seven storeyed building, a part of which is used as a residence by the members of the royal family, even today. The Sawai Man Singh II museum, which has a vast collection of some of the finest art, carpets and clothes of the 15th century, is situated on the first and second floors of the mahal. Sukh Niwas or the resting hall is decorated with Mughal miniatures, silverware and gold studded ventilation holes. The Shobha Niwas and the Chhavi Niwas make up the fourth and fifth floors of the palace. The top floor is known as the Mukut Mahal or crown building. The palace also has a museum containing a vast collection of art, carpets and clothes worn by the people of the royal family. Other attractions inside the palace complex include the Badal Mahal and Sri Govind Dev Temple.
How to Reach
Chandra Mahal - JaipurThe City Palace is situated at Jaipur in Rajasthan in the northern part of India. Jaipur is situated at a distance of about 300 km. from Delhi and is well accessible through air, rail and road transportation.
By Air - The Sanganer Airport connects Jaipur to the main cities of India including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Udaipur. A flight connection is also available to Dubai.
By Rail - Jaipur is connected by many trains to neighbouring cities and the states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
By Road - Jaipur can be accessed through the well built highways. Many private and state transport services run A/c and non A/c buses connecting Jaipur to the main cities of India. A/C coaches are recommended during the summer season.