City Palace

This sprawling complex is the largest palace in Rajasthan. It was first built by Maharana Udai Singh, the founder of Udaipur in the 16th century, and expanded by successive rulers. Today, the palace is divided into several museums for which you can get a package rate at the City Palace’s entrance in Badi Pol. The City Palace museum is the first of these, and comprises of a series of mahals, courtyards and private chambers, connected by narrow passages. You’ll find traditional Mewari paintings, colourful mosaics, stained glass windows and beautiful mirror-work everywhere, with occasional breathtaking glimpses of the city and the lake outside.
In the Fateh Prakash Palace next door, the Crystal Gallery provides proof of the ruling dynasty’s love for luxury. It exhibits an array of crystal objects such as glasses, dinner sets, and even furniture pieces such as beds. These were made by the British manufacturer FC Osler & Co. and commissioned by Maharana Sajjan Singh between 1878 and 1881. The palace’s opulent Durbar Hall has glittering chandeliers, royal portraits and arms. Your ticket also entitles you to a cup of coffee and snacks in this palace hotel’s restaurant. Further away from the City Palace, the Vintage and Classic Car Collection exhibits vintage cars from the royal family’s collection. Highlights include a 1939 Cadillac convertible and a 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom II. These are housed in the former Mewar State Motor Garage. The tour also includes a boat ride and visit to the Jagmandir Island Palace, which has a heritage exhibition and an all-day café.