City Palace, Udaipur

City Palace, Udaipur Built on the banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace in Udaipur is considered the largest royal complex in Rajasthan. The magnificent palace was built in 1559 by Maharana Uday Singh and served as the headquarters of power from where the Maharanas lived and administered the kingdom. Subsequently, the palace was made even more magnificent by his successors and a number of buildings were added. Today the palace consists of a number of mahals, courtyards, pavilions, corridors, terraces, rooms and hanging gardens. There is also a museum here that displays some of the finest elements of Rajput art and culture - from colourful paintings to the typical architecture of Rajasthani palaces. Nestled in the lap of the Aravallis, the granite and marble edifice of the City Palace contrasts with its picturesque natural surroundings. The intricate architecture of the Royal Palace is a subtle blend of mediaeval, European and Chinese influences and is adorned with numerous domes, a...