Karauli City Palace

Karauli City Palace is a monumental heritage structure built over centuries from the 14th to the 19th century in the center of Karauli's walled city. Originally founded by Raja Arjun Pal in 1348 and later reconstructed by Raja Gopal Singh in the 18th century, it served as the residence of the Yaduvanshi rulers. The palace features intricate stone carvings, lattice work windows, colonial architecture, magnificent frescoes, and houses the Madan Mohanji Temple within its premises.

Visitors can explore the sprawling palace complex featuring ornate frescoes, delicate stonework, carved lattice windows, and royal architectural elements. The palace includes distinct areas such as the Diwan-e-Aam (public court), Diwan-e-Khaas (court for nobility from 1720), Barah-Dwari dance hall with twelve gates, and an ancient royal wrestling room called Akhada. Visitors can view beautiful murals depicting mythological scenes, colonial-style paintings, and enjoy panoramic views of the town and River Bhadrawati from the terrace.

The palace was originally built in 1348 AD by Raja Arjun Pal, who founded the city of Karauli. The current structure was erected by Raja Gopal Singh in the 18th century. The palace served as the residence of the Yaduvanshi Rajput rulers of Karauli State. Karauli developed a distinct school of miniature painting during the reign of Maharaja Har Bhaksh Pal in the early 19th century. The palace represents centuries of architectural evolution from the 14th through 19th centuries.

The palace is a multiutility space serving as a former royal court, residence, and place of worship with the Madan Mohanji Temple located within its premises. It showcases the Karauli school of miniature painting and traditional Rajasthani architectural practices. The palace features gulkari art (floral motif paintings resembling embroidery) and depicts various mythological themes including Krishna's sakhis, apsaras, and nature motifs.