City Palace, Jaipur

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II commissioned the astronomical observatories known as Jantar Mantar, blending science and architecture. Today, the largest and best-preserved in Jaipur still houses instruments that chart the sky with precision.

On World Meteorological Day, we look at the Digamsa Yantra, which measures the azimuth, or horizontal angle, of celestial bodies. The observer uses strings tied to a k**b on the pillar with the other end attached to weights suspended over the wall. This setup helped track the Sun, Moon, planets, and even wind patterns, showing how astronomy and environmental observation were connected centuries ago.

Gangaur stands as one of Jaipur’s most significant festivals.

Dedicated to Goddess Gauri, it unfolds with devotion, ritual, and a grandeur that fills the city. Princess Diya Kumari () and Princess Gauravi Kumari () lead the rituals alongside other women, while the procession after that moves from the Palace to Tripolia, winding through the streets as crowds gather to witness and seek blessings.

Here’s a glimpse into how this much-anticipated festival came alive this year.

The Palace’s architecture is defined by its many layers of detail.

Every courtyard and gallery reflects a thoughtful balance of planning and artistic expression. Arches, symmetry, and miniature paintings shape each space, where tradition and craftsmanship come together to create a rich experience for visitors.

Image 1: Sarvato Bhadra
Image 2: Pritam Chowk
Image 3: Sabha Niwas
Image 4: Entrance, City Palace, Jaipur
Image 5: Udai Pol
Image 6: Chhavi Niwas, accessible as part of the Royal Tour

The architecture of City Palace, Jaipur is often admired for its scale.

But the same attention extends to smaller details — most visibly in its doors and the crafted handles that complete them.

The Palace complex extends beyond its galleries into spaces worth exploring.

The Palace Atelier (), the museum store, brings together thoughtfully curated pieces inspired by the history of the city and the royal legacy. The PDKF Store () extends the work of the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation () to a wider audience. At Friends of the Museum (), visitors can witness live demonstrations of craft by master artisans, many of whom are national award recipients.

These spaces offer a closer, more personal way to experience Jaipur’s living heritage during your visit.

Image 1: The Palace Atelier
Image 2: The PDKF Store
Image 3: Friends of the Museum

Polo has long formed part of Jaipur’s royal and cultural life, shaped over decades by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, His Highness Brigadier Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh, and now by His Highness Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh ().

Two trophies exemplify this enduring association. The first is the Sirmour Cup, won in 1931 by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, marking Jaipur’s association with the princely state of Sirmour, both within and beyond the polo field. The second is the Bhawani Singh Cup, instituted in 2013, which honours the legacy of His Highness Brigadier Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh. Its silver surface features polo players in relief, capturing the movement and intensity of the game.

Both trophies, set within the larger history of polo, are displayed in the Chandra Mahal Gallery and can be viewed as part of the Royal Tour.

Image 1: His Highness Brigadier Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh Cup, 2013, and Sirmour Cup, 1931. On display in the Chandra Mahal Gallery.

Image 2: Detail of the H.H. Brigadier Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh Cup.

Image 3: Portraits of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, His Highness Brigadier Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh, and His Highness Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh playing polo. On display in the Chandra Mahal Gallery.

Image 4: Detail of the Sirmour Cup.

Chandra Mahal is home to some of the Palace’s most beautiful spaces, each with its own character.

Shobha Niwas, the “beautiful abode,” glows with coloured glass and mirror work. Chhavi Niwas is known for its calming shades of blue and finely painted walls. Sri Niwas, the “exalted abode,” is adorned with delicate mirror inlay and floral motifs.

Together, they reflect a thoughtful balance of architecture and art, with sweeping views of Jaipur beyond.

Accessible as part of the Royal Tour.

Image 1-2: Shobha Niwas
Image 3-4: Chhavi Niwas
Image 5-6: Sri Niwas

Open courtyards form an essential part of the Palace’s architectural language.

Pritam Niwas Chowk introduces this experience with its four richly decorated gates, each distinct in its own way. The Sarvato Bhadra follows, with its balanced layout, measured symmetry, and the iconic Gangajalis from the time of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II. Lastly, Mubarak Mahal, built on the same architectural principles, brings together Indo-Saracenic design and today houses the Textile Gallery. Each of these spaces leaves its own lasting impression on visitors.

Image 1-2: Pritam Niwas Chowk
Image 3-4: Sarvato Bhadra
Image 5-6: Mubarak Mahal

A visit to the Palace is not only a journey through history, but also an unforgettable culinary experience.

From the multi-cuisine offerings and rich architecture of Baradari (), to the diverse menus and curated cocktails at The Sarvato (), and unhurried moments over tea and snacks at The Gallery Cafe, each space carries its own mood that leaves a lasting impression.

From the arms and armour of Sileh Khana and the ceremonial halls of Sabha Niwas, to the historic transports of Rath Khana, and the diverse range of art and cultural traditions preserved in the Painting & Photography and Textile Galleries, each space within the City Palace Museum, Jaipur () reveals a distinct dimension of power and courtly life.

To truly experience their depth and variety, explore them with curiosity and time to engage.

Image 1: Power & Diplomacy, Sileh Khana
Image 2: Sabha Niwas
Image 3: Painting & Photography Gallery
Image 4: Textile Gallery, Mubarak Mahal
Image 5: Rath Khana