Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace: Udaipur’s Hidden Gem
Perched high on a hill overlooking the beautiful city of Udaipur is the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, a hidden gem that offers panoramic views of the entire region. As a traveller who loves discovering offbeat destinations, I was excited to explore this historic monsoon palace and uncover its fascinating past. Did you know this is an incomplete dream project of a king who died young? Read on to explore this hilltop palace through my photos and words.
Built in the 19th century by the Maharana Sajjan Singh, the Monsoon Palace served as a retreat for the royal family during the monsoon season. The name derived from the King himself – Sajjan garh monsoon palace. Today, it stands as a museum showcasing the architectural marvels of the bygone era, and is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Udaipur from a unique perspective.
Explore the Monsoon Palace: Udaipur’s Museum in the Sky
There are so many WOW places in Udaipur, and with just a day and half in hand we were forced to choose between the sight seeing spots. We didn’t want to rush through all the spots just to mark them ‘seen’. So the evening was set aside for the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, located on Bansandra Mountain of Aravalli Range overlooking Fatehsagar Lake in Udaipur.
After our tour of Saheliyon ki Bari we set off for Sajjan garh Monsoon Palace. Distance from Udaipur to Sajjangarh is 5 km.
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace in Udaipur
Perched on the hilltop, the palace looked majestic and grand! Kings, in their days, would have gone all the way to their palace on horsebacks, I imagined. We reached the palace in our hired taxi. On the way we crossed the Sajjangarh wildlife sanctuary. It was the hunting grounds for Maharajas of Udaipur.
The driver who took over the role of a guide sometimes told us there were no wild animals, but you might get see some deer. True to his word, a herd of deer crossed our path.
Brief History of Sajjangarh Palace
Sajjangarh Udaipur, a grand palace, was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh of the Mewar Dynasty in the late 19th century. In fact the palace was named after him, Sajjan. Garh means fort – thus the name Sajjan garh – Fort of King Sajjan Singh. He was the 72nd ruler of the Mewar dynasty. He worked a lot for the smooth functioning of his kingdom after he became the King in 1874. He had ambitious plans for the palace.
Sajjan garh monsoon palace was designed by the British architect Samuel Swinton Jacob, and was intended to be a summer retreat for the royal family. Maharana Sajjan Singh, who ruled from 1874 to 1884, envisioned the palace as a retreat where he could enjoy the monsoon season and the breath taking views of the lakes and forests of Udaipur. The palace’s strategic hilltop location at an elevation of around 944 meters above sea level made it an ideal spot for this purpose.
The Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace was later used as a hunting lodge by the Maharajas of Udaipur, and was also used as a weather observatory by the Indian government.
Jharokha of Sajjangarh Palace
The Planned Observatory at Sajjangarh Fort
When Maharana Sajjan Singh built this in 19th century (it took 10 years 1874 – 1884), his intention was to use this as an observatory to watch the progress of the monsoon clouds over the surrounding regions. His plan was to construct nine floors observatory there. Unfortunately the King died young at a tender age of 26.
Maharana Fateh Singh, his successor, converted the palace into a place of recreation. They used the palace as a hunting lodge for the royal family of Mewar and their guests. This building ranked high among the constructions in that era.
A very old painting of an artist’s plan of the nine storey observatory. The palace now stands three floors tall. It is popularly called Monsoon Palace after the shooting of James Bond film Octopussy.
Octopussy, a James Bond film released in 1983 and starring Roger Moore as James Bond, includes several scenes shot in Udaipur. The monsoon palace was used as a filming location. The palace, perched on a hilltop and offering stunning views of Udaipur and its surroundings, adds to the film’s exotic and picturesque setting. In the movie, the palace is used as the residence of Kamal Khan, one of the film’s antagonists.
Architectural Details of Monsoon Palace Udaipur
Sajjangarh Palace, or the Monsoon Palace, is primarily constructed from white marble which enhances its aesthetic appeal and durability. The palace features intricate carvings and ornamental designs typical of the architectural style of the Mewar Dynasty.
The use of white marble not only enhances the palace’s beauty but also reflects the sunlight, creating a striking visual effect, especially during the monsoon season when the palace contrasts vividly against the dark clouds. The combination of white marble and the strategic hilltop location makes Sajjangarh Palace a remarkable and iconic structure in Udaipur.
The white marble exterior is huge contrast to the yellow walls inside the palace. The palace speaks volumes of the Rajasthani architecture that was prevalent then. High turrets, multiple pillars, gigantic domes and jharokhas dotted and enhanced the grandiose of the palace and provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss the grand central court with staircases leading up to multiple rooms and chambers on all sides. Intricate floral motifs and detailed carvings adorn the pillars and walls in the interior of the palace. It has an aura that that spells a charm on you!
The Sajjangarh Fort is located high on a hill. Their water requirements were taken care of with storage in an underground harvesting structure with a cistern of 195,500 litres capacity. But it still proved to be inadequate given Rajasthan’s arid conditions. One of the major reasons why the palace was abandoned eventually!
Sajjangarh Fort Entrance
Museum in Sajjangarh Fort
This palace was shut for a long time. Today it is owned by Forest Department of the state of Rajasthan. Only a few years back they decided to open it to public and tourists.
Ground floor of the palace is converted into a museum, with a wonderful collection and display of pictures, paintings and old maps. Though a section of the palace is in a dilapidated condition, lot of effort is being taken on the remaining parts to maintain its past glory.
Museum in Sajjangarh Palace
Like the palaces and forts of Rajasthan, the Sajjan Garh too has fascinating Rajput architecture. The high towers, turrets, arched balconies and pillars of Monsoon Palace are worth taking photos. The arched frames of the palace windows look great even today. However, don’t expect highly decorative interior like how you get to see in other palaces of Rajasthan.
Where the Queens would have sat once – Jharokha of Monsoon Palace
I got to see amazing views from Sajjangarh Palace. There were not too many tourists and the palace had a beautiful aura around it. It is said on a clear day one can get a splendid view of the entire city of Udaipur from this Monsoon Palace. All its lakes, palaces and forts.
On clear days the ancestral home of the Mewar’s in Chittorgarh too is visible.
View of Sajjangarh Palace Lawns
Stepping onto the wide terraces of the Monsoon Palace, I stood mesmerized by the breath-taking view of Udaipur’s landscape. These spacious platforms offer the perfect backdrop for capturing the city’s beauty in photos. Great place to wander around without the fear of getting lost at the same time soaking in the picturesque scenery that stretches as far as the eye can see. I must mention the terraces of the palace provide a simple yet enchanting experience.
From that height several lakes were visible. No wonder Udaipur is credited to be the City of Lakes. Most stunning view was that of Lake Palace in Pichola Lake. Rudyard Kipling mentioned this lake in his Letters of Marque (1899), “If the Venetian owned the Pichola Lake, he might say with justice, `see it and die‘”.
Lakes of Udaipur
When to visit Sajjan Garh Monsoon Palace?
I visited this palace twice, during my two different trips to Udaipur. The first time it was in the evening. The crowds at the entrance can be haphazard and irritating but the rewards of Sajjangarh sunset photos makes you forget all hardships. We were blessed with clear skies on that evening.
The next trip I made to Udaipur I went in the morning. There was hardly any crowd and I could loiter around the arched hallways of the palace rooms at leisure and that experience had a charm of its own. I got plenty of Monsoon Palace photos.
If you are a sunset photo collector then evenings are the best time to visit the hilltop Palace of Udaipur.
Sunset from Sajjangarh Palace
The view from the higher floors is mesmerizing and the sunset that day was spectacular. The sun seemed as if it would roll down the slope of Aravalli hills, but it did not. Like everyday, the sun sank deeper and deeper in to the hills till it was no longer visible.
Sunset over Aravalli Hills – Photo from Monsoon Palace Udaipur
How to reach Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace Udaipur
Unless you are an avid trekker the best way to get to the palace from foothill is to hire minivans, auto rickshaws and taxis.
You will see many local drivers who will take you up the winding road to the Monsoon Palace. Rickshaws and taxis charge around 200INR (rates may vary)to ferry passengers up the 4 km road to the gate of the Sajjangarh Sanctuary.
To reach till the foot hill of Monsoon Palace, you will get both public and private transportation from the city of Udaipur, which is only 5 km away. There is a spacious parking area next to the Monsoon Palace at the top of the hill. If you drive to the top, park here. The parking fee is included in the vehicle fee, with no extra charges.
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace Information
Tickets for individuals: Rs. 110 for Indians and Rs. 300 for foreigners.
Timings to visit Monsoon Palace: Open timings from 9 am to 5 pm. It is open on all days of the week.
Udaipur to Sajjangarh Fort Distance: 20 min (7.9 km) via NH58/NH76A and Sajjangarh Rd
Location: The Sajjangarh Palace is 10km away from central Udaipur City. It is in the outskirts of Udaipur city perched on a hilltop.
Address: Udaipur, Rajasthan 313011.
Coordinates: 24°35′38″N 73°38′20″E / 24.594°N 73.639°E
Lake Palace in Pichola Lake Udaipur
Sajjangarh Palace Tickets:
Entrance Ticket:
- Indian: 110 INR ($1.30 USD)
- International Visitor: 455 INR ($5.50 USD)
Vehicle Fee to Reach the Palace:
- Car: 305 INR ($3.60 USD) per vehicle
- Motorbike: 55 INR ($0.66 USD) each
- Shared Taxi (Forest Department): 106 INR ($1.30 USD) per person
Camera Fee:
- Indian: 890 INR ($10.70 USD)
- International Visitor: 1320 INR ($16.00 USD)
FAQ about Sajjangarh Palace Udaipur
Is it worth visiting the Sajjan garh Palace in Udaipur?
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is a historic palace significant for its unique architecture, stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and its role in the history of the region. It houses a museum with unique collections.
What are the best times to visit Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace?
The best times to visit Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace are during the monsoon season (July to September), when the palace and surrounding hills are lush and green, and during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is cool and dry.
What are some things to see and do at Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace?
Visitors to Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace can explore the palace’s beautiful architecture, including its unique blend of Rajasthani and European styles. They can also take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside, visit the nearby Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and witness beautiful sunsets over Udaipur.
How do I get to Sajjan garh Monsoon Palace, and is there a fee to enter?
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is located about 5 km west of Udaipur city, and can be reached by car, taxi, or local bus. There is an entry fee to visit the palace.
Are there any special events or festivals held at Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace?
The palace occasionally hosts cultural events and festivals, including traditional dance performances and music concerts.
Is photography allowed at Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace?
Photography is allowed at Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, but visitors must purchase a photography permit.
What are the nearby attractions to pair with a visit to Sajjan garh Monsoon Palace?
Nearby attractions and activities include visiting the nearby Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring the city of Udaipur, and taking a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
Conclusion: My Parting Thoughts
As I left Sajjangarh Palace, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of this historic monument. The panoramic views of Udaipur from the palace were truly breathtaking, and the museum inside was a treasure trove of fascinating artifacts and exhibits that offered a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
If you’re planning a trip to Udaipur, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Sajjangarh Palace – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
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(Updated post. This was published first on May 11th, 2009.)
Ohhh Sajjangarh palace is one of the many WOW places I missed while in Udaipure! We were there a bit a week but didnt get to see a lot because my husband got sick of stomach flue! Seeing and reading your post about Sajjangarh palace makes me a bit sad not to have seen the sunset from that palace because I am not sure we will ever go back to India! But I am so grateful for Internet and bloggers so we could easily just google it and read about it!?❤️
vwey interesting pics in this blog..the last one here is simply superb!
The view is breathtaking…I could stand there for hours just taking it all in!!
Oh my goodness, India has so many wonders and you delight our eyes with them.
Nice post – Interesting information about Udaipur. Definitely remember the palace from the Bond movie
That sunset picture is amazing. Rajasthan is fascinating too.
What an incredible spot. That sunset is so dreamy.
i love this palace..infact i just love Udaipur 🙂
This would be a very nice place to visit. Thanks for sharing such treasures with us
Very impressive photos.That’s a beautiful sunset.
Absolutely stunning!!!! And so informative!!! Your final shot is amazing! Thanks for stopping by and for your kind comment…I am honored…and so glad I had the opportunity of returning your visit…I wouldn’t have wanted to miss your post for anything! Terrific! ~Janine
What a fabulous looking palace! Great shots.
What a view!! You find the most amazing places, Indrani, and I am learning so much about your country through your blog. You know I’m weak for India, so a big thank you from Africa!!
Amazing snaps of beautiful palace. Missed it on my last trip. May be next time!
Beautiful pictures. I just could not take my eyes off the last one.
I think if I go to India, i’d have to stay a few months there..just too many beautiful things to see. tks for sharing
You know that India has always been one of my dream trips. Have read up on it a few years ago (Discovery Insights and Lonely Planet as guide) but have yet to actually do it. There are just too many places to go, too little time… Sigh! But I will, one day step foot in your part of the world. You have ignited my passion to see India once again. 🙂
I love the second to last photo – stunning view! Maybe because I’ve just looked at photos of Florence on Erin’s blog, but from the outside the building looks very Italian.
wow. your pics never really fail to impress me. great job. 🙂
Thanks for another interesting visit to a fascinating site. The sunset picture is gorgeous.
Great outpost of a observatory.
The view must surely be fantastic!
Thanks for the pics.
Why couldn’t the next king just complete it? It would have been a great sight from atop all the floors of the observatory if it had been completed…. Silly Kings!
Destination Infinity
Very nice – what a beautiful country.
Wow! I’m visiting an Indian palace today. 🙂
It must have been a vibrant place.
The sunset was beautiful. And that third picture of the building is just so beautiful.
The palace look so amazing. Love the scenery taken from the window.
nice pics…your blog too is a WOW place!
great post Indrani..almost a very real tour of the Sajjangarh Palace. The sequence of shots is amazing.
the last pic is soooooooooo beautiful. postcard material. great job.
I just love your posts of India, they are always facinating.
Fantastic post. I haven’t been to India. Thanks for sharing.
Great pictures and interesting trivia – about the plans for the observatory and the shooting of Octopussy.
This is a nice place to visit. I hope I can in the future.
Note: Thanks for dropping by to my site. This is the only time I have a free time to dig to all my visitors and say a personal thanks (this is for the weekend snapshot last week)…i know my comments are sooooo late.
Your photos are wonderful, Indrani. This is a world worth seeing. Thank you for sharing.
You always show us such wonderful historic places, and this time a beautiful sunset as well!
More great history and architecture! What an incredible view – too bad he didn’t live to enjoy it…
Always fascinated by your posts, both text and photos.
It is beautiful. It looks quite modern next to some of the other buildings you have posted photos of!
Its realy WOW!!
Another fantastic post 🙂
Very beautiful architecture 🙂
But you now
I’am a lover from sunsets, its
WOW !! WOW !!
It is unbelievable,
something I have never seen,
its a very colorful,beautiful,wonderful..
sunset, its your best shot
(I think)…
Such an interesting post and great photographs.
What a magnificent place. I’m with you on seeing few places well, than many places as seen. Thanks for sharing.
i do enjoy your treks into the vast countryside that is india. always a great adventure to view and this is no exception. beautiful shots and enjoyed the back story.
have a wonderful week.,
Indrani, you’ve made a splendid sequence of images! I like the palace, the view from the arcades and the charming sunset. Those are beautiful places indeed!
Very interesting post.
Thanks for sharing.
Mary Elizabeth @ Now and Then
You are seeing such amazing places. I love the architecture.
Again a very interesting and informative post! Thank you Indrani!
What a great and fascinating post, Indrani! And your photos are fabulous! I do see what mean about the sunset! And what a beautiful, interesting building. Thanks as always, for sharing the fun and the beauty.
Marvellously captured images… great job…
That’s a wow if there ever was a wow of a spot. Thanks so much!