The origin story

City Palace, the residence of Jaipur's royal family, owes its magnificent existence to the vision and ambition of Jaipur's esteemed ruler, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Between 1729 and 1732, the Maharaja oversaw the construction of this captivating complex, hand-in-hand with the establishment of the entire city of Jaipur. 

This bold move represented a significant shift in the region's power dynamics, as the town of Amer and its iconic Amber Fort had long served as the capital and royal seat. However, as the population grew and water resources dwindled, the Maharaja recognised the need for a new, more expansive home for his dynasty. 

Enlisting the expertise of two extraordinary architects - Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya and the renowned British engineer Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, the Maharaja ushered in a new era of Rajput grandeur, with the City Palace and the city of Jaipur standing as enduring testaments to their brilliance. 

Today, this architectural marvel continues to captivate visitors worldwide, offering a glimpse into the rich history and cultural sophistication of Rajasthan's royal lineage.

Inside the City Palace

As you step through the grand Virendra Pol and into the first courtyard of the City Palace, the striking presence of Mubarak Mahal greets you. This cream-coloured, stand-alone haveli was once the reception hall, adorned with intricate carvings, ornamental arches, and elegant pillars. This exquisite building houses part of the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum today.

To the right of it lies the enchanting Rajendra Pol, a marble gateway that beckons you to venture further into the palace's grandeur. Passing through this beautiful entryway, you'll find yourself in Diwan-E-Khas, the central courtyard. This awe-inspiring space feels like a movie set, from the dripping crystal chandeliers to the immaculate marble floors and luxurious red stone archways.

The royal residence in Jaipur truly comes alive during the festive season, transporting you to an enchanting world of royal traditions and celebrations. One of the highlights is the Teej festival, where a grand procession winds through the palace carrying an idol of the revered Goddess Parvati. The palace courtyards resonate with festivities on the auspicious occasion of Dussehra, when royal men worship their age-old armoury. Then there is Gangaur, a festival significant for the maiden and married women who worship Maa Gauri (a form of Goddess Durga) on this occasion. 

Not to mention, you can also plan your trip around the festivals of Holi, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti, offering a window into the soul of Rajasthan while allowing you to soak in the rich cultural heritage that has been meticulously preserved over the years.

Into the lives of the royals

Towering over the City Palace complex is the lavish Chandra Mahal, or 'Moon Palace,' a seven-level architectural marvel that houses a treasure trove of private royal spaces and breathtaking vistas over the Pink City of Jaipur. A part of this opulent building still serves as the residence for the present-day royal family. 

On the first floor, you can explore the main branch of the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, which showcases a rare collection of the royal family's prized possessions - from ancient weaponry and manuscripts to exquisite carpets, blue pottery, and Indian artwork. 

However, to get a deeper insight into the lives of the royals, one must ascend to the upper levels. The second floor is home to the iconic Sukh Niwas, commonly known as the 'blue room,' a fully furnished royal dining hall adorned in a bright blue colour with intricate white detailing. 

The third and fourth floors house the mesmerising Rang Mandir, or 'Mirror Room,' and the stunning Shobha Niwas, the 'Hall of Beauty,' where you can marvel at the breathtaking mirror work, embellished tiles that grace every inch of these palatial spaces. 

Higher still, the fifth-floor Chavi Niwas was once the Maharaja's private resting place, while the sixth-floor Shri Niwas and the seventh-floor Mukut Niwas, known as the palace's 'crown', offer unparalleled views over the city.

While a standard ticket allows access to the first floor, the 'Royal Splendour' ticket allows access to other exclusive areas. 

Beyond the royal residence

While the City Palace is undoubtedly a precious gem of Jaipur, the Pink City also boasts several other captivating attractions. Towering majestically across the Maota Lake stands the imposing Amber Fort, the former seat of power for the Rajput dynasties that once ruled over this region. Just a short distance from the City Palace lies the Jantar Mantar observatory, which is a testament to the region's scientific prowess and houses a collection of remarkable astronomical instruments. And, of course, no visit to Jaipur would be complete without exploring the bustling bazaars that line the streets surrounding the City Palace, from where you can take in the beauty of Hawa Mahal while sipping a cup of coffee in a rooftop cafe. Together, these captivating sites create a tapestry of cultural riches that seamlessly complement the grandeur and allure of the City Palace itself.

Embark on a captivating journey through the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal past at the magnificent City Palace, which invites you to learn about the lives of Jaipur's royals at its best.