City Palace Jaipur: Royal Heart of Jaipur

Set in the heart of Jaipur's walled old city, the City Palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings that has served as the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur since the 1720s. Commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, it blends Rajput, Mughal and European architectural styles into a harmonious whole of pink-and-cream facades, intricate jharokhas and ornate gateways. Part of the complex remains the private residence of the former royal family, while the rest is open to visitors as a series of museums showcasing royal textiles, weaponry, manuscripts and art. Standout sights include the seven-storey Chandra Mahal, the elegant Mubarak Mahal, the marble-columned Diwan-i-Khas with its giant silver urns, and the famous painted doorways of Pitam Niwas Chowk representing the four seasons. The palace sits within easy walking distance of Jantar Mantar and the Hawa Mahal, making it the natural centrepiece of any old-city walk. With its combination of living heritage, fine craftsmanship and photogenic colour, the City Palace offers one of the most rewarding introductions to Jaipur's royal past and to the artistry that earned the city its UNESCO World Heritage status.

Top Attractions

Chandra Mahal

The seven-storey centrepiece of the complex and still the private residence of the former royal family. Each floor has its own name and decorative theme, from mirrored chambers to floral frescoes and painted ceilings. Only the ground floor is generally open on standard tickets, while upper floors and the rooftop views are accessible on the special 'Royal Grandeur' tour. A royal flag flies overhead whenever the Maharaja is in residence.

Mubarak Mahal

Built in the late 19th century as a reception hall for guests, this elegant marble-and-sandstone building fuses Rajput, Mughal and European styles. Today it houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum's textile and costume galleries, displaying royal robes, Pashmina shawls, Sanganeri prints and even the voluminous garments of the famously large Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I.

Pritam Niwas Chowk

An intimate inner courtyard famous for its four exquisitely painted doorways, each representing a season and a Hindu deity. The Peacock Gate (autumn), Lotus Gate (summer), Green Gate (spring) and Rose Gate (winter) are among the most photographed spots in all of Jaipur. The gates lead toward the Chandra Mahal and reward visitors who arrive early to beat the crowds.

Diwan-i-Khas (Sarvato Bhadra)

The hall of private audience, an open marble pavilion where the Maharaja met dignitaries. Its biggest draw is a pair of giant sterling silver urns, recognised among the largest silver vessels in the world, crafted to carry holy Ganges water to England. The surrounding arcades and painted ceilings make it a cool, atmospheric pause between galleries.

Diwan-i-Aam (Art Gallery)

The hall of public audience now serves as an art gallery displaying illustrated manuscripts, miniature paintings, carpets and royal portraits. Highlights include illuminated copies of Hindu scriptures and a richly painted ceiling. It offers a quieter, scholarly counterpoint to the showier courtyards and is well worth slowing down for.

Sileh Khana (Armoury) & Nearby Jantar Mantar

The Sileh Khana holds one of India's finest collections of royal weaponry, from jewel-hilted daggers to swords, shields and guns. Just outside the palace's eastern edge lies Jantar Mantar, Sawai Jai Singh II's UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory with the world's largest stone sundial, a natural pairing for a half-day in the old city.

Food & Local Flavours

The lanes around the City Palace and Tripolia Bazaar serve some of Jaipur's most beloved street food and traditional Rajasthani sweets.

Practical Information

Interactive Map

Explore City Palace Jaipur on the map.