City Of Palaces

Lavish palaces of this erstwhile princely state tell tales of royalty and extravagance.

Established at the same time as Jaipur, the 10 City Palace (royaljaipur.in) showcases a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. It once served as the ceremonial and administrative seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The palace complex includes gardens, courtyards, halls, royal residences, art galleries, and a museum displaying a slice of Rajputana glory. Floating in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake, Jal Mahal is a five-storey red sandstone structure, of which four storeys remain submerged. While entry is now restricted, one can still savour the sight of the Water Palace against the backdrop of the Aravallis from a pathway around the lake. One of the finest heritage hotels in the city today, Rambagh Palace (tajhotels.com) was once a royal hunting lodge. It was later turned into a grand residence for the Maharaja of Jaipur. Rajmahal Palace (relaischateaux.com) is another fine piece of architecture that has hosted important guests including Queen Elizabeth II, Jackie Kennedy, and more.

Above: The City Palace complex includes royal residences and art galleries;

( left) Jal Mahal on Man Sagar Lake.

( right) Rambagh Palace was once a royal hunting lodge;