Jaipur : The “City Palace” in Pink City is the former residence of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of the city of Jaipur. The Maharaja left behind many important buildings and forts in Jaipur as part of his estate. Built in the 18th century, the architecture of this palace is a fine example of the blend of Mughal and Rajputana styles.
To enter the City Palace, tourists have to pass through seven gates which still stand in their full grandeur. As you enter the premises of this palace, Mubarak Mahal is located which was once used to welcome guests.
Chandra Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Govind Dev Ji Temple etc. are the other main buildings of this palace. The rest of the palace has been converted into the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, which houses samples of the Maharaja’s royal clothes, weapons, pashmina shawls, Banarasi sarees, Sanganeri prints and royal embroideries.
The outer walls of the City Palace were built between 1729 and 1732 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh changed his kingdom from Amer to Jaipur due to lack of water. The main architect who prepared the design of this palace was Vidyadhar Bhattacharya who laid the foundation of this palace according to Vastu Shastra. Later, the Maharaja’s successor Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh built other buildings in the premises of this palace.
