City Palace
City Palace Jaipur is a palace complex, situated in the core of the Pink City Jaipur. The beautiful complex comprising numerous edifices, vast courtyards and attractive gardens, is a souvenir of the majestic history. The Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal are some of the significant structures in the complex. To preserve the valuable items of the bygone era, many compartments of the palace have been converted into museums and art galleries. To witness the beauty of the palace, thousands of visitors from across the world visit the City Palace every year.
The City Palace housed the throne of the Maharaja of Jaipur who headed the Kachwaha Rajput clan. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who ruled Amber from 1699 to 1744, initiated the construction of the city complex that spreads over several acres. He first ordered to erect the outer wall of the palace complex. The construction that was started in 1729, took three years to be completed. The palace complex was completely built in 1732.
The palace and its structures have been designed, combining the architectural elements of the Mughal, Europe and the Shilpa Shastra of India. A perfect blend of colours, designs, art and culture can be seen in every nook and corner of the palace.
Entrance Gates: One of the most striking features of the complex is its richly decorated gateways. There are in total three entry gates to the complex, namely Virendra Pol, Udai Pol and the Tripolia Gate.
Mubarak Mahal: Built with a fusion of the Islamic, Rajput and European architectural styles, the two-floored Mubarak Mahal was made to serve the purpose of a reception centre. Also known as the palace of welcome, it was designed and built by Maharaja Madho Singh II in the late 19th century.
Chandra Mahal: The seven-storeyed Chandra Mahal, also known as the Chandra Niwas, is located in the west end of the complex amidst beautiful gardens and a lake. Each floor of the structure has been given a name such as the Pitam-Niwas, Ranga-Mandir, Sukh-Niwas, Shri-Niwas, Mukut Mahal and Chabi-Niwas. The walls of the building have been ornamented with exclusive paintings, splendid works of mirror and floral adornments. However, the visitors can visit only the ground floor where manuscripts, carpets and some other goods from the royal treasure have been stored.
Pitam Niwas Chowk: While paving your way to the Chandra Mahal, you will walk through an inner courtyard, Pitam Niwas Chowk. The chowk has four entry points, also called as Ridhi Sidhi Pol; each has its own beauty and significance. The four gateways symbolise the four seasons and are dedicated to Hindu deities.