Udaipur "The City of Lakes"

Udaipur is a very popular tourist destination and is very well known for its history, culture, scenic locations, and royal architecture. The city covers an area of 37 Square km and lies at an altitude of 1,962 ft. It is located in the southern region of Rajasthan and is filled with scenic, beautiful lakes and hence gets its name “The City of Lakes”. Its architecture, grandeur and royal treatment to tourists makes it one of the best tourist destinations in India.

Renowned as the ‘Venice of the East’, the city of lakes Udaipur is situated around purplish blue water lakes and is fixed in by rich green slopes of Aravallis. The celebrated Lake Palace, situated amidst Lake Pichola is a standout amongst the most delightful sights of Udaipur. It is likewise home to Jaisamand Lake, professed to be the second biggest man-made sweet water lake in Asia. The lovely City Palace and Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) add to the engineering excellence and glory of the city. The ten-day Shilpgram Festival which begins from 21 Dec to 30 Dec pulls in countless inspired by expressions and specialties.

Udaipur established by Maharana Udai Singh II as the new capital of Mewar Kingdom. It is situated in the fruitful, round Girwa Valley toward the southwest of Nagda, which the principal capital of Mewar.

Overview

The city of lakes is a crown of the state Rajasthan. Surrounded by the Aravali hills makes the city more beautiful. Rich in natural beauty, splendid temples, and awe-inspiring architecture makes it a perfect destination to explore in India. Its serene lakes the pride of Udaipur. It is surrounded by four lakes, Udaipur offers picturesque landscapes and forts. Added to the charm it is called as “Jewel of Mewar” to “Venice of East”. The esteemed Nathdwara temple is around 60 km from Udaipur.

The Mughal emperor Akbar took hold of Chittorgarh, and Udai Singh forced to flee and establish the city of Udaipur in 1568. In 1818, Udaipur continued the capital of the state of Mewar, later became a significant state of British India. Mewar was integrated into the state of Rajasthan after India’s independence in 1947.

Places to Explore

Udaipur is full of beauty, grandeur, and royalty. It is one of the most romantic places in India and many

places to see in Udaipur. It is a perfect conglomeration of culture, history, and traditions and the gorgeous city. “Udaipur is a wonderful honeymoon destination”. Tourism in Udaipur has been bustling for many years due to its beauty and architectural grandeur.

City Palace

City Palace Udaipur is amongst the top places to visit in Udaipur. It consists of several buildings, towers and is well recognized as a Palace Complex. City Palace has many features that attract tourists like the crystal gallery, the vintage car museum, Maharani Palace and the view of Lake Pichola. Visitors can also enjoy the Mewar Light and Sound Show organized in the evening. 11 enchanting palaces surrounded with wonderful paintings, ancient furniture, and exquisite mirror and flooring. The palace took the pride of having breath-taking mix of Indo, Chinese and European culture. Situated adjoining the shore of Lake Pichola has a mesmerizing view to see.

Lake Pichola

The gorgeous Lake Pichola is like another vital identity of Udaipur. It is a man-made lake and is 4 Km long. It is believed to be one of the most beautiful lakes. Visitors to Udaipur should definitely take a boat ride on Lake Pichola. The lake has two very famous islands namely Jagniwas and Jagmandir. “At Jagniwas Island, visitors can witness the Taj Lake Palace”, whereas, on “Jagmandir Island, they can visit the popular Jag Mandir”.

Lake Palace

Built on Lake Pichola, Lake Palace in Udaipur is one of the most visited places and is looked after by the Taj group. It is now known as Taj Lake Palace. Considered as one of the most romantic places in Rajasthan, Taj Lake has the beautiful Aravalli Ranges in its background. Built by Maharaja Jagat Singh II, Lake Palace is an example of unique architecture that comprises gold moldings and sculpted marbles.

Jagdish Temple

An Indo-Aryan Temple built by Maharana Jagat Singh, this temple is located near the Badi Pol entrance of the City Palace. There many small shrines other than the main temple. A large number of devotees gather up at the temple, especially to witness the Aarti that takes place every day. A splendid wonder of architecture with beautifully carved pillars and ceilings, huge halls and painted walls. Around two million rupees were spent on the construction of the temple. The upper portion of the temple is carved with elephants, horsemen, musician and dancers sculptures.

Lake Fatehsagar

Fatehsagar Lake is situated in the north of Lake Pichola. “One of the major tourist attractions in Udaipur”, a boat ride on Lake Fatehsagar is a must-do activity for visitors. Nehru Park is the most famous of the three islands that the lake houses. The Nehru Park also comprises a zoo making it an ideal place for family outings. Surrounded by the Aravalli hills the lake Fateh Sagar has a magnificent view. The lake has three small islands. The largest of among is the Nehru Park with lush green gardens with a mini zoo and second is a public garden with fountains and the third one is Udaipur solar observatory.

Saheliyon Ki Bari

It is also known as ‘The Garden of the Maidens’ it is situated in the northern part of the city. Saheliyon ki Bari was one of those places where the maids could enjoy, sing, dance and indulge in rejoice. The garden is decorated with fountains a beautiful lotus pool. The garden is built by the king itself and gifted the garden to his queen. As per the matter of fact, it is said that the queen was accompanied by her 48 maids and in order to give them some pleasurable moments the garden was built. The garden has several relaxing spots for the queen and her maidens.

Vintage Classic Cars Museum

Vintage Classic Cars Museum showcases the royal car collection of the Maharaja” Placed in the former state garage 22 vehicles“, including a seven-seat 1938 Cadillac and 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom. The latter used in the famous James Bond movie, Octopussy, and the Cadillac convertible once used by Queen Elizabeth II to ply to the airport in 1961. The museum is situated at a short distance from City Palace and surely is one of the best places for sightseeing in Udaipur.

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh Fort is about two hours away from Udaipur. built by Rana Kumbha during the 15th century and is considered as the most important fort of the Mewar kingdom. It is believed that the great Mewar warrior Maharana Pratap born in this fort. Bounded by 13 mountain peaks, the Kumbhalgarh fort is built on the highest elevation from the sea level. It is spread to 36kilometers. The fort has the second longest wall around the world first being the “The great wall of China”. The enormous structure has magnificent temples and lovely palaces.

Kumbalgarh Fort ranakpur rajasthan state india — Image Source

Udaipur Solar Observatory

It is situated on an island in the famous Fateh Sagar Lake. USO is considered the best solar observing site in India. “Enclosed by water“, it offers a great atmosphere for solar observations. The only way to reach USO is via boat which definitely enhances the fun and adventure. One of the best solar observatories in Asia is located on the Fateh Sagar Lake. This observatory built as per the design of Solar Observatory at Big Bear Lake in Southern California. The laboratory founded by Dr. Arvind Bhatnagar built to do research in modern science.

Jaisamand Lake

Jaisamand Lake is famous for being the second largest in Asia. it is also known as Dhebar. In total, this lake comprises seven islands and it offers a wonderful place to relax and lighten up. Asia’s largest artificial lake until the Aswan dam built. The dam is 1202 feet in length and 70 feet bottom with 116 feet of height. There is a Lord Shiva temple located in the middle of the lake. Locals have confirmed the fact that the dam has already a Shiva Temple.

Karni Mata Ropeway

The Karni Mata Temple is on Machla hill-top. It gives a great view of the city and the beautiful Lake Pichola. This place holds a lot of religious importance and it can either be reached through a ropeway or a staircase of 1050 steps. “This temple is devoted to the female saint Karni Mata”.

Eklingji Temple

One of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. The magnanimous architecture of this temple surely leaves one spell-bound. The Shivling, garlanded by a silver snake, attracts the majority of the tourists. The main temple consists of heavy silver doors, depicting Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. The festival of Shivratri is celebrated here with huge enthusiasm.

Bagore Ki Haveli

It stands on the platform of Gangori Ghat with the Pichola Lake. The architecture of the mansion displays delicate carved and glass work the museum has conserved the premium mural paintings of Rajasthan and it also displays the costumes of the royal kings and modern art. The Queen’s Chamber showcases fascinating paintings of Mewar. This grand edifice has more than 100 rooms that comprise of well-kept balconies, terraces, courtyards and it looks marvelous in the night. Bagore Ki Haveli is a perfect place to explore the ancient lifestyle of the royals.

Things to do in Udaipur

Short Helicopter Joyride in Udaipur: You can get picked up from your hotel and start your ride from the airport. Enjoy the thirty-minute ride in a well-equipped helicopter to get an enlarged view of Udaipur. It is an amazing experience to see the incredible city.

Trekking: You can start the trek early in the morning from Morvanya village and hike through the scenic landscapes across the region. It is a 10 Km trekking trail in Udaipur and you will get to see diverse flora and fauna along the way.

Walking tour of the city: On this tour, you’ll get to witness Udaipur’s ancient glory and cultural history. marvelous steps of the Gangaur Ghat on the banks of Lake Pichola, the greatness of the restored royal architectural beauties some of the attractive features of this tour. You can explore the markets, interact with the locals & goldsmiths.

Heritage walk: Walking through the lanes of Udaipur, visitors can easily witness its royal past. Forts, palaces, gardens and the lakes in this city showcase its beauty making it one of the cultural capitals of India. You can interact with the locals, and learn more about its history, enjoy shopping in the local markets.

Cycling in Udaipur city: Start with a cycle ride through the back streets of the old city and get an introduction to the City of Lakes, Palaces, Forts, Gardens, and Temples. You will be dropped at your hotel at the of the cycling tour.

Visit forts of Udaipur: Many forts in the city that attract everyone’s attention due to their architectural perfection. Some of them are:

City palace

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Sajjan Garh fort also was known as Monsoon Palace

Festivals and Fair In Udaipur

The Mewar Festival is celebrated in the month of March or April at the onset of the spring season.

Gangaur Festival: It is one of the famous festivals in Udaipur. Celebrated in honor of goddess Gauri, it is a spring festival where the devotees offer prayers to the goddess. All the women and girl keep fast of a day during the day and eat only once a day. They create idols of lord Gauri and Lord Shiva with clay and do some prayers.

Shilpgram Fair: Shilpgram Fair, celebrated during winters, is a colorful art festival that showcases the rich and varied talent of the locals of Udaipur. It highlights the exquisite works of art, craft, and culture in its 10 days long fair. The festivals of crafts held in Udaipur to promote art and culture of the state. Shilpgram festival is a perfect destination for handicrafts and mirror work. The hand-woven clothing and camel leather products the major attractions in the fair.

Hariyali Amavasya Fair: Fatehsagar Lake and Sahelion Ki Bari also famous for its Hariyali Amavasya fair. This fair is celebrated for two consecutive days wherein one day is dedicated to women only while families can enjoy on the other day. On this festival, people worship Lord Shiva and pray for a fertile monsoon season for farming. Here a huge puja is organized in Jaipur for this festival.

Climate

Months from September to March make the ideal time to visit Udaipur. If you want to enjoy the city in its full glory, the best time to visit Udaipur would be during the winters.

Udaipur observes summers during Mid-March-June, Monsoons during July-September and winters during October-March.

Summer

During the summer season, the temperature in Udaipur ranges between 28.8 and 38.3 degree Celsius. Under such high temperature, it is not preferable to visit this city. In the summers, one cannot enjoy the landscape of Udaipur.

Monsoon

Udaipur has a tropical climate due to its location in the desert area. The arrival of Monsoon brings a sense of relief after the scorching summers. The city receives a medium amount of rainfall, which makes the place very humid.

Winter

In winters, the temperature touches maximum of 28.3 degree Celsius and a minimum of 11.6 degree Celsius. In such conditions, Udaipur experiences a pleasant climate in winters.

How to reach Udaipur

Udaipur is accessible from all the major cities of India including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur.

By Air

Maharana Pratap Airport is located in Dabok at a distance of 22 Km from Udaipur. Many domestic airlines connect the Udaipur to major cities of India like Kolkata, Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai.

By Train

Rajasthan Railways connects Udaipur with all the other cities of the country. There are frequent trains which ply from Udaipur connecting Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi.

There are many luxurious trains that the tourists can enjoy in Udaipur. Some of them are:

Palace on Wheels

Maharajas’ Express

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

By Road

Commuting by road is quite easy and economical in Udaipur. Udaipur Bus Stand provides regular bus services and connects Udaipur with nearby cities like Jaipur, Chittorgarh, Indore, Kota, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, and M0unt Abu. Rajasthan Roadways provides bus facility and AC coaches for the convenience of passengers. Taxis and cabs are also available for transportation.