Hotels near City Palace

City Palace Jaipur is unusual among Indian royal residences because part of it is still occupied by the Jaipur royal family. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II from 1729 onward, the complex blends Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles across a series of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The Chandra Mahal (Moon Palace), a seven-storey tower at the centre of the complex, remains the private residence of the current maharaja - you can peek into the ground floor but cannot ascend further.

The museum section houses an impressive collection of royal garments, weaponry, manuscripts, and miniature paintings. The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) contains two enormous sterling silver urns - each 1.6 metres tall and holding 4,091 litres - which Maharaja Madho Singh II used to carry Ganges water to London for King Edward VII's coronation in 1902. They hold the Guinness World Record as the largest silver objects ever made. Entry is 500 INR (5.50 EUR) for foreigners.

Pro Tip: The Peacock Gate (one of four seasonal gates in the inner courtyard) is the most photographed detail in the complex. Visit between 9:30 and 10:30 when sunlight illuminates the peacock mosaic work at its best angle.