Location | Udaipur
Monsoon Palace: A Sunset Haven Atop the Aravallis
Perched majestically atop the Bansdara Peak of the Aravalli Hills, the Monsoon Palace, officially known as Sajjangarh Fort, offers the most spectacular panoramic views of Udaipur, its famous lakes (Pichola and Fateh Sagar), and the surrounding countryside. Built in the 19th century, this towering white marble palace was designed not just as a royal retreat but also as a unique observation deck to track the movement of the monsoon clouds—a priceless vision that earned it its popular name.
History & Architectural Significance
The palace was conceptualized and commissioned by Maharana Sajjan Singh of the Mewar Dynasty in 1884. His grand, albeit unfinished, plan was to build a nine-story astronomical center. Following his untimely death, the project was scaled down and completed by his successor, Maharana Fateh Singh, serving as a monsoon resort and a hunting lodge for the royal family.
The palace is constructed primarily of pristine white marble, giving it a luminous, ethereal glow, especially at sunset. It features classic Rajput architectural elements like high turrets, domes, and jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies). The palace houses a remarkable system of channels and reservoirs designed to collect and store rainwater, showcasing the foresight of its builders.
Why Visit The Monsoon Palace
| Sunset Spectacle | This is arguably the best spot in Udaipur to watch the sun set. The golden light bathing the palace and the panoramic view of the lakes and city below is a truly unforgettable, picture-perfect moment |
| Panoramic Vistas | Enjoy a 360-degree view encompassing Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, the City Palace, and the sprawling Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary |
| A Monsoon Marvel | True to its name, the palace is most stunning during the rainy season, when the hills turn a vibrant green and the structure seems to float among the clouds and mist |
| Architectural Beauty | Explore the elegant Rajput architecture, featuring white marble, intricate floral carvings on the pillars, and beautiful domes (jharokhas) |
Visitor Information
| Location | Bansdara Peak (approx 5 km from Udaipur) |
| How To Reach | Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the base of the hill. Vehicles can take you up the scenic, winding road to the palace gate (Note: there is a small toll/vehicle fee for the sanctuary road) |
| Entry Fees | Applicable as per ASI guidelines |
| Best Time To Visit | Monsoon (July to September) for maximum greenery | Winter (October to March) for clear, pleasant weather |
| Best Time Of Day | Late Afternoon (1600 hrs onwards) to witness the sunset |
| Timings | 0900 hrs to 1800 hrs (daily) |
| Useful Tip | Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a camera |
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