Perched high in the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake and the city beyond, Sajjangarh Fort, famously known as the Monsoon Palace, is one of the most atmospheric landmarks in Udaipur. This white marble hilltop palace was built to admire monsoon clouds and sunsets, making it a romantic and scenic destination.
If you’re in Udaipur and want to see the city from a unique perspective, Sajjangarh Fort promises an experience full of history, nature, and beauty. Whether you’re staying in a Budget Hotel in Udaipur or a nearby Luxury Hotel in Udaipur, a visit to this hilltop palace is a must.
1. History of Sajjangarh Fort
The fort was commissioned in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh of the Mewar dynasty. He originally intended it as a nine-storey astronomical center to track monsoon clouds, but it was later completed as a monsoon retreat and hunting lodge.
Perched at over 944 meters above sea level, it offers one of the most commanding views of Udaipur’s lakes, palaces, and sunsets.
2. Architecture and Design
Built with white marble and inspired by Rajput-Mughal architecture, the palace blends simplicity with grandeur. Though smaller in scale than the City Palace, its location makes it visually majestic.
Features of the architecture include:
Marble pillars and domes
Huge windows and balconies for monsoon observation
Fort-like structure with a rugged charm
Arched corridors and terraces open to the sky
Its minimal design was meant to withstand strong winds and rain during monsoon season while offering uninterrupted views.
3. The Best Sunset Point in Udaipur
Locals and tourists agree—Sajjangarh Fort offers the best sunset views in Udaipur. As the sun dips behind the Aravalli hills, the sky turns into a palette of orange, pink, and gold. The scene is unforgettable, with the lakes and city shimmering below.
To catch the sunset:
Reach the fort by 5:30 PM
Find a balcony or edge view early
Carry a camera or just soak in the magic
The panorama stretches all the way from Lake Pichola to Fateh Sagar, making it ideal for photographers and couples.
4. Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The road leading to the palace passes through the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, a forested reserve home to:
Panthers, jackals, and hyenas
Sambar deer and wild boars
Peacocks, parakeets, and other birds
There is also a biological park at the base of the hill that houses various rescued animals in open enclosures, offering a great detour for nature lovers and families with kids.
5. Entry Fee and Timings
Sajjangarh Fort Timings:
Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
Best time to visit: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM for sunset
Entry Fee:
Indian nationals: ₹30
Foreigners: ₹200
Camera: ₹20–₹50
You’ll also need to pay a vehicle entry fee to the forest department for the road leading up the hill.
6. How to Reach Sajjangarh Fort
The fort is located about 9 km from the city center. You can get there by:
Cab or auto from the old city or Fateh Sagar area
Rented bike or scooter (perfect for solo or couple travelers)
Tour packages that include transport and guide
From a Budget Hotel in Udaipur or a Luxury Hotel in Udaipur, it takes 20–30 minutes to reach the top depending on traffic and road conditions.
7. Tips for Visitors
Visit during cooler months (October to March) for clear views
Wear comfortable shoes—the palace has steps and terraces
Carry a light jacket; it can be breezy at the top
Avoid visiting in monsoon if visibility is poor, though the cloud views are magical if clear
Bring your camera or phone fully charged—you’ll want to capture everything
8. Combine With Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your day by pairing Sajjangarh Fort with nearby attractions:
Fateh Sagar Lake – Just below the hill, ideal for boating and café hopping
Saheliyon Ki Bari – A beautiful garden with fountains
Shilpgram – A rural arts and crafts village
Badi Lake and Bahubali Hill – For an offbeat, peaceful nature spot
This area of Udaipur is rich with natural beauty and culture.
9. Ideal for Pre-Wedding Shoots and Films
Thanks to its unmatched backdrop, Sajjangarh Fort has become a popular location for:
Pre-wedding photoshoots
Bollywood movie scenes
Travel vlogs and YouTube shorts
If you’re a content creator or couple looking for cinematic frames, this palace in the sky is picture-perfect.
Final Thoughts
Sajjangarh Fort isn’t just a palace—it’s a window to the sky, the city, and the soul of Udaipur. Whether you're gazing at the sunset, exploring its corridors, or watching clouds float over the lakes, every moment here feels regal and poetic.