City Palace, Jaipur

Jaipur, the glorious dream destination is far famed for its palaces, gardens, forts and museums. City palace, the symbol of courtly splendour, is the jewel in the crown of 'The Pink City'.

The City Palace that lies in the heart of the Jaipur city is a combination of the Mughal and Rajasthani style of architecture. The City Palace is one amongst the major landmarks of the city.

The structure was originally built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, though several changes were made by his followers. The monument houses a number of beautiful palaces and imposing halls, namely the Chandra Mahal, Badal Mahal and Mubarak Mahal. A famous temple, Shri Govind Temple and a museum, the City Palace Museum are also present inside the palace.

A visitor comes across the Mubarak Mahal as soon he steps in the first courtyard. It was constructed by Maharaja Madho Singh II in the 19th century. From here a splendid gateway leads the visitor to the Diwan-I-Khas, also called The Hall of Private Audience. It displays two vessels in silver which are mentioned in the Guinness book of World Records. The visitor can also see the Diwan-I-Aam, also called The Hall of Public Audience.

The major highlight of the City Palace is Chandra Mahal (Moon Palace). The paintings and the floral decorations make it truly magnificent. The drawing and the dining place are present in the Sukh Nivas (The Hall of Rest). The Shobha Nivas (The Hall of Beauty) is decorated with mirrors and mica.

The fifth floor is the Chavi Nivas (Hall of Images) and the sixth floor offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area. The seventh and uppermost floor is known as the Mukut Mahal (Crown building). When the visitor moves to Badal Mahal, he comes across the Govind Devji Temple, a must-see.

The City Palace, a symbol of courtly splendour, reminds one of the royal past of Jaipur,Rajasthan. A tourist to Jaipur cannot miss the fascination of seeing this monument of great historic importance.