Rising majestically on the shores of Lake Pichola, Udaipur City Palace is one of India’s most breathtaking royal fortresses. A marvel of architecture, a treasure trove of tradition and heritage, the palace is not just a mark of Mewar dynasty’s splendor, but a living test of Rajasthan’s imperial heritage. The City Palace is also closely associated with the heritage of the Mewar kings, who ruled one of the greatest and longest-lasting of Indian kingdoms.
Foundation of a Royal Legacy
City Palace originated in 1559 AD, when the 53rd king of the Mewar dynasty, Maharana Udai Singh II, founded it. Because of recurring attacks at Chittorgarh, the then capital of the Mewar kingdom, Udai Singh wanted a secure place to build a new capital. With the Aravalli Hills encircling it and overlooking the peaceful Lake Pichola, Udaipur was the most strategic location.
Maharana Udai Singh started building the City Palace on a hillside commanding the lake. One building that was started eventually evolved into the center of a colossal and ever-growing royal complex. New palaces, balconies, towers, and gateways were added by successive Maharanas during the next 400 years—each contributing to the grandeur of what we know today as the City Palace.
Royal Architecture Through Centuries
The City Palace is a unique architectural combination of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval European, and Chinese building styles. In spite of the efforts of numerous rulers across centuries, the complex possesses an impressive sense of architectural unity. Marble and granite stone work, carved balconies (jharokhas), domes, towers, and intricately decorated courtyards show the changing taste and art sense of the Mewar kings.
The palace spreads across five acres, standing tall at almost 30 meters high, and consists of 11 smaller palaces, each erected during another reign but sharing the same design. The palaces, albeit built at different periods, form a whole and unbroken complex.
The oldest and most important area of the palace is Rai Angan (Royal Courtyard), which is said to be constructed first during the reign of Maharana Udai Singh. The courtyard was where the king was blessed by a hermit who prophesied this area would make the Mewar kingdom prosperous.
Historical Highlights Within the Palace
Every section of the City Palace is a story of royal ambitions, rebellion, or cultural pride. Some of the most popular sections of the palace are:
- Badi Mahal (Great Palace): Constructed on top of a 27-meter high rock outcrop, the palace boasts breathtaking views of the city and lake. It was utilized as a recreational center by the Maharanas frequently.
- Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard): Adorned with stunning glass mosaics of peacocks describing the seasons, this space holds the Mewar perception of nature and beauty.
- Zenana Mahal (Queen’s Palace): Describing the seclusion of palace women’s lives, this space gives us some idea of life in the palace.
- Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors): Amongst the prettiest rooms abounding in small mirrors reflecting even the most minute of light, symbolizing the craftsmanship of those times.
Within, paintings, weapons, armor, and relics from centuries past of the royals exist. All have been left there as a reminder of Mewar legacy.
A Fortress of Pride and Resistance
The City Palace was not merely a throne of excesses of the royal family but also an icon of defiance. The Mewar kingdom, particularly under Maharana Pratap and others, resisted the Mughal expansion. Unlike other kingdoms of Rajputs who turned against them and joined the Mughals, the Maharanas of Mewar struggled to preserve their independence.
In spite of pressures exerted by mighty empires and subsequently British colonial forces, the City Palace continued to be the political as well as ceremonial center of the kingdom of Mewar. Its robust stone walls, concealed corridors, and raised position speak volumes about a palace of elegance and a fort of resilience.
Enduring Legacy
The City Palace remains a living testament to the Mewar royal legacy. Its history is not one of kings and queens but a testament to a people who believed in independence, richness of culture, and architectural splendor. Walking through its expansive courtyards, ascending its staircases, and peeking from its balconies, one still hears the murmurs of Mewar’s royal legacy—murmuring stories of valor, foresight, and uncompromising pride.
Best Accommodation In Udaipur
Hotel Yaduraj is considered to be the best accommodation in Udaipur, combining comfort and luxury that is second to none. Guests can choose from Deluxe, Super Deluxe, or very spacious Family Rooms-all designed to provide a very relaxing environment for the guests’ stay. There is an option of having your meals at the restaurant with indoor or outdoor seating, with mesmerizing views. The relaxing pool is another nice option. Put it all together, and you have quite probably the best hotel in Udaipur where one can stay in the city, whether for pleasure or for business.
