Nestled on the purple ridges of Aravalli Hills, Udaipur – the City of Lakes, is a sheer romance of palaces, temples, havelis and amaranthine streets.
Venice of the East, as it is known, was established by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, it served as the last capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar. In Udaipur, find the perfect human counterpoint added to the city’s natural charms, best viewed from the ancient thoroughfare.
City Palace
Arguably the most beautiful and largest palace in Rajasthan, the grand edifice of City Palace has gained popularity for its intricate balconies, towers and vaults. Constructed by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1599, the huge edifice towers over Lake Pichola with a façade that is 244m long and 30.4m high. Though centuries have passed but the splendour created by Rajasthani, European, Chinese and Mughal architecture continues to be feast for an eye.
Lake Pichola
The gorgeous 4kms long man-made lake has two islands -Jagniwas and Jagmandir. One can take a boat ride from Rameshwar Ghat in the City Palace. Choose from Jagniwas Island to view the City Palace or Jagmandir Island for the revered Jag Mandir or Lake Garden Palace.
Lake Palace – Romance Redefined!
Synonymous to the city of Udaipur, Lake Palace stunningly sits on Lake Pichola amid the surroundings of Aravalli Hills. Built by Maharaja Jagat Singh II, the palace is reputed for its exquisite architecture that comprises gilt moldings, intricate jali and carved marbles. Popular as Taj Lake Palace, even if one cannot afford to stay here, a heritage walk is permitted.
Jagmandir
Built over an island of Lake Pichola, the impeccable structure of Lake Garden Palace, Jag Mandir is credited to Maharana Amar Singh, Maharana Karan Singh and Maharana Jagat Singh. Once the summer resort of the Mewar royal family, this place has earned a reputation for grand parties and wedding functions. Inside one will find Gul Mahal, Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Darikhana, Garden Courtyard, Zenana Mahal, and Kunwar Pada ka Mahal.
Monsoon Palace
On the outskirts of Udaipur, the palace built by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1884 is a majestic piece of architecture. Sitting atop a hill, its purpose was to monitor the clouds to predict monsoon. The white marble edifice has wide corridors with rooms within. From the windows, one can get a beautiful view of the city of Udaipur. The palace is surrounded by Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to Tiger, Nilgai, Sambhar Deer and various other animals.
Maharana Pratap Memorial
Witness a story of courage through the statue of Maharana Pratap in his memorial. Here he is riding on his loyal horse Chetak. This memorial was built by Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar in the beautiful Japanese Rock Garden. Take a walk around the garden to relax and take some pictures of Moti Magri and the city around.
Vintage Car Museum
Appreciate the cars used by the Maharanas of Mewar in the vintage car museum which was opened for public visit on 15th February 2000. Here one shall come across cars which are more than 70 years old. These cars are kept in the Mewar State Motor Garage and are in perfect condition.
Shilpgram Fair
Attend a crafts fair organized annually to endorse the art, craft, textile and handicrafts of Rajasthan. Located in the west side of Udaipur, it exhibits the embroideries, handicrafts, tie and dye and mirror work. Camel leather items are also available.
Udaipur Solar Observatory
Nestled in the island of the Fateh Sagar Lake, it is known to be the best solar observatory in Asia and one of the important places to visit in Udaipur. Taking advantage of the sun power of Rajasthan, the telescopes here are perfectly designed to capture the sharp images of the sun. The observatory is now being supervised by Dr. Arvind Bhatnagar and the Vedshala Trust of Ahmadabad; one might find a resemblance with the Big Bear Lake in California.
Other Attractions in Udaipur
Shopping
The city of Udaipur is a paradise for shoppers, thus offering a plethora of options for everyone. Choose from a wide range of precious jewellery, rare gems, meenakari products, miniature paintings, oxidized silver & copper items. Gemstone paintings and marble stone items are surely not to be missed.
Best places to go shopping
Mewar Festival or Gangaur (April)
One of the greatest festivals celebrated in Udaipur, it brings forth cultural activities such as Rajasthani folk dances and Rajasthani folk music performances. Images of Isar and Gangaur are taken in a procession till Lake Pichola.
Teej (July-August)
Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, Teej falls in the beginning of monsoon season. Married women worship the gods and pray to have a happy and harmonious married life. Swings are hung from the trees and decorated with flowers.
Holi (March)
A festival of colours, Holi attracts thousands of tourists who enthusiastically come to Udaipur to celebrate this colourful festival. Starting from Holika Dahan (bonfire depicting victory of good over bad), fireworks to splashing colours, Holi brings joy and celebration as it welcomes spring.
Shilpgram Utsav (December)
Dedicated to the famous art and craft of Udaipur, this 10-day festival showcases the finest handicrafts from Rajasthan, Goa, and Gujarat.
Winter: November to February is the best time to visit the city of Udaipur. The annual Shilpgram Crafts Fair is held during this time in Udaipur.
Summer: March to June months are quite extreme as the day temperature goes up to 45 and 40 degree Celsius; evenings though are quite pleasant. The colourful Mewar Festival takes place during March – April with a huge pomp and show.
Monsoon: July to October is when the mountain range surrounding Udaipur turns lush green and scenic. An off season, this is the best time to grab heavy discounts in luxury and budget hotels.
By Air
Maharana Pratap Airport is about 22 Kms from the heart of Udaipur city. The airport is well connected to Delhi, Jodhpur, Mumbai and Jaipur.
By Rail
Udaipur Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Ajmer, Khajuraho, Ahmedabad and Sealdah through Adi Udz Express, Bdts Aii Udz Express, Mewar Express and Annanya Express.
By Road
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) connects the city with the major cities. Udaipur is 80 Kms from Dungla, 116 Kms from Chittorgarh, 168 Kms from Bhilwara, 209 Kms from Raipur, 268 Kms from Jodhpur, 269 Kms from Ajmer, 283 Kms from Kota, 419 Kms from Jaipur, 565 Kms from Alwar.
Road/Self Drive
Planning a long drive? National Highway 8 (NH 8) connects Udaipur with Delhi and Mumbai. Either one can choose to drive himself, or otherwise a plethora of tour operators provide vehicles with chauffers.
