Experience City Palace Udaipur: Entry Fee, Timings & Travel Guide

For travelers exploring the cultural riches of Rajasthan, Udaipur’s City Palace is an essential stop. With its commanding views over Lake Pichola and an architectural lineage stretching back to the 16th century, the City Palace Udaipur complex is more than just a photogenic landmark—it is a historical archive of Mewar royalty, art, warfare, and diplomacy. For first-time foreign visitors, it can also feel a little overwhelming.

The sprawling nature of the site, combined with different pricing tiers, guided tour options, and adjacent attractions like the Crystal Gallery and boat rides, makes it easy to miss out or miscalculate your visit. This guide is written with the first-time traveler in mind, aiming to answer common questions and simplify the experience so you can fully appreciate the grandeur of this Rajasthani masterpiece.

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What Is the City Palace, Udaipur?

The City Palace is a complex of palaces located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Construction began in 1553 under Maharana Udai Singh II, founder of the city, and continued over the next 400 years as subsequent rulers added to the structure. The result is a striking mix of Rajasthani, Mughal, European, and even Chinese architectural styles, fused together in a harmonious, if somewhat maze-like, structure.

It remains partly occupied by the royal family of Mewar, who have also transformed sections of the palace into public museums, luxury hotels (like the Shiv Niwas Palace), and cultural venues.

Why It Matters to Foreign Travelers

City Palace is more than a photo-op destination. For international visitors, it offers a unique lens into India’s princely history, artistic traditions, and evolving cultural identities. The preservation and presentation of art, weaponry, and royal correspondence inside the museum offer real insights into pre-colonial and colonial India, which are often overlooked in broader travel itineraries.

If you are someone who enjoys immersive travel experiences, or you’re visiting Udaipur for cultural tourism, the City Palace is a vital stop. However, to truly appreciate what it has to offer, understanding how to access and navigate the site is key.

Entry Fees for Foreign Tourists

One of the most common areas of confusion among tourists is the City Palace entry fee structure. Unlike a single-entry ticket model found at many global monuments, City Palace operates a tiered ticketing system, with different rates for different parts of the complex and various experiences.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the fees as of 2025 for foreign visitors:

General Entry – City Palace Museum

Entry Fee for Foreigners: ₹600 (approximately 7 USD)
Includes: Access to the main museum complex, which covers courtyards, galleries, armories, and heritage rooms.
Note: This is the core area most tourists visit. It contains major attractions such as the Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard), Zenana Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal.

Additional Experiences and Add-ons

Photography Fee (Camera/DSLR): ₹250
Video Recording Fee: ₹500 (usually for commercial or high-resolution cameras)
Audio Guide (in multiple languages): ₹200–₹300
Guided Group Tour: ₹300–₹500 per person (duration: 1.5 to 2 hours)
Private Guide (licensed): ₹700–₹1,200 depending on the group size and negotiation

Udaipur Travel Itinerary:

Special Exhibits and Areas

Crystal Gallery: ₹700 extra

Located inside Fateh Prakash Palace, this gallery contains a rare and elaborate collection of crystal furniture ordered from F&C Osler in England during the 1870s.

It’s one of the lesser-known highlights but worth it for lovers of unique design history.

Boat Ride on Lake Pichola (via City Palace Jetty):

Regular Boat Ride: ₹800–₹1,000 per person

Sunset Boat Ride: ₹1,200–₹1,400

Boat rides generally include a visit to Jag Mandir Island.

Evening Sound and Light Show (The Legacy of Honour):

₹700 for foreigners

Held in the palace courtyard, this 1-hour show narrates the history of Mewar in an engaging format.

Summary of Typical Costs for a Comprehensive Visit

If you plan to enjoy the full City Palace experience (museum entry, guide, Crystal Gallery, and a boat ride), expect to spend approximately ₹2,200–₹2,500 (25–30 USD). It’s important to bring cash, though most major areas accept cards and digital payments.

Best Time to Visit City Palace

Udaipur has a semi-arid climate, and temperatures can soar in the summer. The best time to visit is:

October to March (Winter Season): Ideal weather, though also the busiest period.
Morning Hours (9:30 AM – 11:30 AM): Cooler and less crowded.
Late Afternoons (after 3 PM): Good lighting for photography and fewer visitors than the midday rush.

Avoid visiting on national holidays or weekends if you prefer a quieter experience. Try to block out at least 2.5 to 3 hours for a proper exploration, especially if you’re interested in historical context or photography.

Entry Fees for Indian Tourists

City Palace Museum Entry (General Access)

Ticket Price (Adult Indian): ₹300 per person
Children (Age 5–18): ₹100 per child
Children under 5 years: Free
Includes access to:
- Public areas of the palace museum
- Key galleries and courtyards such as Mor Chowk, Zenana Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Badi Mahal
- Historical exhibits on Mewar dynasty, weapons, costumes, and paintings

Photography and Videography Charges

Still Camera (Mobile/Point & Shoot): No charge (as of latest updates)
DSLR or Professional Camera: ₹250
Video Recording Equipment: ₹500 (permission may be required for high-end gear)

Optional Add-Ons and Experience-Based Tickets

To enrich your visit, City Palace offers several optional experiences that come with additional charges.

Crystal Gallery Entry (Inside Fateh Prakash Palace)

Ticket Price (Indians): ₹550 per person
Includes: Access to the rare 19th-century crystal collection, plus the elegant Durbar Hall with its grand chandeliers

Boat Ride on Lake Pichola (via City Palace Jetty)

Regular Day Ride: ₹450 for Indian adults
Sunset Ride: ₹700 per person
Includes: A short trip on Lake Pichola, views of Jag Mandir and Lake Palace, excellent photo ops

Note: Boat rides may be suspended during the monsoon or if lake levels are low.

Sound & Light Show (“The Legacy of Honour”)

Ticket Price (Indians): ₹200–₹250
Language: Hindi version typically at 8:00 PM, English versions earlier (check seasonal timings)
Duration: Around 1 hour
Location: Manek Chowk, within the palace complex

Should Indian Tourists Hire a Guide?

Guides are available at the palace entrance and charge lower rates for Indian visitors, generally starting at:

Group Guide (Hindi or English): ₹200–₹300 per group
Private Guide: ₹500–₹700 depending on duration and group size

Alternatively, many visitors opt for audio guides (available in multiple Indian languages) for ₹150–₹200.

Best Times for Domestic Tourists to Visit

While Indian tourists travel year-round, the palace can be especially crowded during:

Festival times (Diwali, Holi, Navratri)
Winter vacations (December–January)
Long weekends and public holidays

If you prefer a quieter visit, try arriving:

On weekday mornings (before 11 AM)
During shoulder months (September or March)

Entry Fees for SAARC Countries

Travelers from SAARC countries—which include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka—are offered concessional entry rates at many Indian heritage sites, including City Palace Udaipur. This is part of India’s broader cultural and regional cooperation policy and reflects efforts to promote cross-border tourism.

However, it’s important to know what you’re eligible for, how to prove it, and what’s included in the SAARC ticket when visiting the palace.

SAARC Discounted Entry Fee (with Valid ID)

City Palace Museum Entry (SAARC Nationals)

Ticket Price: ₹300 per adult
(Same as Indian citizens—subsidized compared to foreign visitor rates)
Children (Age 5–18): ₹100 per child
Children under 5 years: Free

Eligibility:

To claim SAARC pricing, you must present valid government-issued photo ID (passport preferred) from your country of origin at the ticket counter.

Note: Entry under SAARC pricing is not guaranteed without proper identification, and pricing may revert to the foreign tourist rate of ₹600.

What’s Included in the SAARC Ticket

The ticket gives you access to:

All standard galleries and exhibits inside the City Palace Museum
Key courtyards and architectural features like Mor Chowk, Badi Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and the Zenana section
Entry to main palace terraces offering views over Lake Pichola

Not Included (Add-ons Available for Purchase):

Crystal Gallery: ₹550
Boat Ride on Lake Pichola: ₹450–₹700 depending on time of day
Audio Guide Rental: ₹200–₹300
Guided Tour: ₹300–₹500
Sound and Light Show (Legacy of Honour): ₹250 for SAARC nationals

Other Considerations for SAARC Tourists

Language and Cultural Familiarity

Many SAARC country visitors find traveling in India relatively accessible due to linguistic and cultural overlaps. Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, and Nepali speakers will find it easier to communicate in local shops, restaurants, and even with guides.

If you’re from Sri Lanka or Maldives, English-language signage and guides are widely available.

Currency and Exchange

While Indian Rupees (INR) are the only accepted currency at the palace, ATMs are available in the Old City.
Most counters at the palace accept credit/debit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.

Visa and Entry Rules

SAARC travelers must comply with Indian visa policies, but e-Tourist visas are available to most citizens. Be sure to keep a digital or printed copy of your passport and visa during your visit.

Architectural features of City Palace Udaipur

The City Palace complex comprises several palaces and sections built over four centuries, each with its own personality and architectural features. Below are some of the key highlights you should prioritize.

Badi Pol and Tripolia Gate

Your journey begins at Badi Pol, the grand entrance that leads into Tripolia Gate—a triple-arched gate built in 1725. This marks the ceremonial entrance used by the Maharanas. The processions once held here are documented in paintings inside the palace.

Beyond this gate, you’ll enter a sequence of courtyards, gardens, and chambers.

Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard)

Possibly the most Instagrammed section of the palace, Mor Chowk is famous for its exquisite glass mosaic work featuring three peacocks representing the seasons. This courtyard is not only visually stunning but also a brilliant example of Rajasthani decorative artistry.

Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors)

Known for its shimmering mirror inlay work, Sheesh Mahal offers a glimpse into the extravagant aesthetics favored by the Mewar rulers. Its ornate ceilings and reflective mosaics create a unique visual experience, especially under sunlight.

Zenana Mahal (Queen’s Palace)

This section of the complex was originally reserved for royal women and now houses part of the City Palace Museum. It includes collections of traditional costumes, jewelry, and miniature paintings from the Mewar school of art.

Badi Mahal (Garden Palace)

Situated on a natural 27-meter high rock formation, Badi Mahal or the “Garden Palace” offers panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the city. This airy space was used during festivals like Holi and includes a unique indoor garden.

Durbar Hall

Added in 1909 by Maharana Fateh Singh, this hall was once used for state functions and royal audiences. The room still contains large chandeliers and royal portraits and is adjacent to the Crystal Gallery.

Museums and Galleries

The City Palace Museum, officially known as the Maharana Pratap Museum, houses collections that offer insights into centuries of royal rule.

Key sections include:

Weapons Gallery: Display of daggers, swords, and shields used in battles.
Painting Gallery: Examples of Mewar-style miniature paintings, known for their vibrant color palette and storytelling.
Costume Gallery: Traditional royal attire, including ceremonial robes and turbans.

These exhibits help contextualize the visual grandeur of the palace by anchoring it in its social and political history.

Do You Need a Guide?

For foreign travelers unfamiliar with Indian or Rajasthani history, a guide can truly enhance the visit. Many architectural features and artworks have hidden stories that aren’t explained in the signs.

There are three main options:

Licensed Human Guide: Available at the main entrance. They usually wear a badge and can provide tours in English, French, German, or Spanish.
Audio Guide: Available for rent at the ticket counter. Good for independent travelers who want structure but don’t enjoy group tours.
Mobile App: Several apps offer self-guided City Palace tours. Just make sure they’re up to date with current palace layouts.

Whichever method you choose, having some form of guided information is recommended for getting the most from your visit.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

Wear Comfortable Footwear: You’ll walk on stone floors, climb steep steps, and possibly stand in long lines.
Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Refill stations are limited inside, especially in summer months.
Be Mindful of Dress Code: While there’s no strict dress requirement, modest attire is recommended out of respect for cultural norms.
Secure Your Belongings: Like any tourist destination, keep wallets and phones secure.
Photography Rules: Flash and tripods are restricted in some galleries. Check signs or ask guards before taking photos.

Getting to City Palace and Navigating the Old City

Arriving in Udaipur

Udaipur is well-connected to other parts of India through its airport, railway station, and road network.

Udaipur Airport (Maharana Pratap Airport): Located about 22 km from the city center. Domestic flights connect Udaipur to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Bangalore.
Udaipur City Railway Station: Serves trains from all over India. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available outside.
Long-Distance Buses and Taxis: Udaipur is connected via Rajasthan State Road Transport (RSRTC) and private operators.

From most hotels or transport hubs, City Palace is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or even on foot if you’re staying in the Old City.

Getting Around in Udaipur

Auto-rickshaws are the most common and economical. However, there are no meters, so you must negotiate fares before starting the ride.
Taxis can be arranged through hotels or apps like Uber and Ola (availability may vary).
Walking is a great way to explore the Old City, but expect narrow lanes, occasional cow traffic, and motorbikes.

Nearby Parking

If you’re driving or being dropped off, there’s a designated parking area near the Badi Pol Gate. From there, it’s a short uphill walk to the main palace entrance.

What to See Around City Palace

Once you’re done exploring the palace itself, don’t rush off. Some of Udaipur’s most charming experiences are just a short walk away.

Jagdish Temple

Located about 200 meters from the City Palace entrance, Jagdish Temple is a 17th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its Indo-Aryan architecture, detailed carvings, and peaceful energy make it a worthwhile visit.

Bagore Ki Haveli

Just five minutes from City Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli is a restored 18th-century mansion turned museum and cultural center. It offers a more intimate look at royal life, with rooms decorated in traditional styles and exhibits on Rajasthani art, costumes, and crafts.

Don’t miss the Dharohar Dance Show held here every evening. It features traditional Rajasthani folk dances and music. Tickets are usually ₹150–₹200 for foreigners and can be bought on-site.

Lake Pichola and Gangaur Ghat

After the palace visit, many travelers enjoy unwinding by the lakeside. Gangaur Ghat, just a few minutes away, offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. It’s also a good spot to observe local rituals and ceremonies.

From here, you can also access boat rides on Lake Pichola, which usually pass by or stop at Jag Mandir and offer views of the Lake Palace (now a luxury hotel).

Crystal Gallery and Durbar Hall

If you missed these during your main palace visit, both are housed in the Fateh Prakash Palace (part of the City Palace complex). The Crystal Gallery, in particular, contains one of the world’s largest private collections of crystal furniture, ordered from England but never used due to the untimely death of the Maharana who commissioned it.

Where to Eat Near City Palace

Udaipur is known for its rooftop dining culture, and some of the best places to eat are within walking distance of the palace.

Palki Khana

Located inside the City Palace premises, Palki Khana offers a relaxed, Western-style menu with views of the palace courtyard. A bit pricier than local spots, but ideal for a break during your visit.

Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant

A short walk from the palace, this spot offers panoramic views of the lake and the City Palace. The menu features North Indian and continental options, and the staff are used to catering to foreign travelers.

Ambrai Restaurant

Situated across the lake (but accessible via auto or boat), Ambrai offers one of the best views of City Palace at night. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Grasswood Café

For a casual, budget-friendly meal or coffee, Grasswood Café is a popular spot among backpackers and digital nomads. Fresh juices, smoothies, sandwiches, and Rajasthani thalis are all available.

Shopping and Souvenirs

There’s no shortage of souvenir options near City Palace. While you’ll find plenty of typical handicrafts, there are also high-quality artisan stores worth checking out.

Popular Items to Buy:

Miniature Paintings: Udaipur is famous for its Mewar school of painting.
Silver Jewelry: Many local shops offer handcrafted pieces.
Block-Printed Textiles: Scarves, tablecloths, and garments using traditional methods.
Lacquer Work: Colorful bangles and decorative items.

Where to Shop:

Hathi Pol Bazaar: Traditional crafts, paintings, and textiles.
Shilpgram (10 km away): Rural arts and crafts complex, great for authentic souvenirs.
City Palace Museum Shop: Fixed prices and higher quality, though more expensive.

Tip: Bargaining is expected in most shops and street stalls, except for government or museum-run outlets.

Safety, Cultural Etiquette, and Helpful Tips

While Udaipur is generally considered one of the safest and most tourist-friendly cities in India, a few cultural and practical pointers can help ensure a smooth visit.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting temples or interacting with locals. Light cotton clothing is best for the climate.
Respect Photography Rules: In temples and private galleries, always check if photography is permitted.
Shoes Off in Temples: Always remove your shoes before entering places of worship.

Health and Hygiene

Drink Bottled Water: Stick to sealed bottled water to avoid digestive issues.
Hand Sanitizer: Always handy, especially if you’re trying street food.
Sunscreen and Hats: Essential if you’re walking around during midday.

Common Tourist Scams (and How to Avoid Them)

Unlicensed Guides: Always ask for ID or book through the official counter.
Overpriced Auto-Rickshaws: Negotiate or agree on the fare before starting the ride.
Street Vendors: Don’t feel pressured into buying; polite but firm refusals usually work.

Where to Stay Near City Palace

Staying close to the palace allows you to explore the city on foot and soak in the atmosphere of Udaipur’s Old Town. Options range from heritage hotels to budget guesthouses.

Heritage and Boutique Options

Taj Fateh Prakash Palace: Part of the City Palace complex. Offers luxury rooms with unbeatable views and history.
Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel: A beautiful heritage hotel on the lake with charming décor.
Amet Haveli: Located across the lake, great for romantic getaways.

Mid-Range and Budget

Zostel Udaipur: Budget-friendly and social, popular among backpackers.
Dream Heaven Guest House: Good value, rooftop views, and a relaxed vibe.
Hotel Udai Kothi: Mid-range comfort with traditional aesthetics and a pool.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your City Palace Experience

For many travelers, the visit to City Palace, Udaipur is the cultural and historical highlight of their Rajasthan trip. Its unique combination of architecture, artistry, and storytelling gives you a deep sense of the region’s royal legacy. But your experience depends heavily on planning.

Here’s a quick recap to ensure a great visit:

Plan your timing: Mornings or late afternoons are best.
Budget wisely: Factor in add-ons like guides and boat rides.
Explore nearby: Don’t miss Bagore Ki Haveli, Jagdish Temple, and the lakeside views.
Engage with context: Use a guide or audio device to understand what you’re seeing.
Take your time: Don’t rush through. The beauty is in the details.

With a bit of preparation and an open mindset, City Palace will not only meet your expectations—it just might exceed them.

Safe travels, and enjoy your time in the City of Lakes.

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