Discover Udaipur, a city steeped in history, renowned for its Royal-Era charm and scenic splendor. A must-visit for history, nature, culture, and architecture enthusiasts, this romantic destination captivates millions with enchanting lakes and ancient palaces, offering a glimpse into a regal past.
Nestled in the royal kingdom of Rajasthan, Udaipur, a popular global tourist destination, boasts lush green surroundings, ancient mountains, and picturesque lakes at its center, earning it the title of “The Lake City.”
Designated the “Venice of the East,” Udaipur is a place of eternal beauty and enchantment. A visit to Udaipur will leave you pleasantly surprised, capturing your senses and creating a sense of belonging. In 2018, it was named the No. 1 City in Asia and secured a spot among the world’s top 10 beautiful cities in the ‘World’s Best Awards’ by the renowned travel magazine Travel+ Leisure.
Udaipur, the romantic city with a legendary origin, served as the capital of Mewar rulers from 1559 when Maharaja Udai Singh II moved the capital from Chittorgarh. It retained its status as the Mewar Kingdom capital until it became a princely state in British India. A perennial favorite of royals, Udaipur boasts a rich cultural heritage seamlessly blending traditions with modern advancements.
The city showcases vibrant folk dance and music, enhancing its cultural tapestry. Adorned with seven lakes, including Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola, Swaroop Sagar Lake, Rangsagar, and Doodh Talai Lake, the city exudes a majestic charm. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Romantic Lake Palace, Grand Royal City Palace, Beautiful Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Palace), Jag Mandir, and more.
Framed by majestic mountains, historic buildings, and enchanting palaces, Lake Pichola is a dreamlike spectacle. Witness the crystal-clear blue waters set ablaze by the morning sun—a magical sight. Equally mesmerizing is the play of shadows on the water as the sun sets, with twinkling stars reflecting on the ripples alongside lights from the surroundings.
Nestled at the heart of Udaipur, Pichola is among the city’s oldest and largest lakes, dating back to 1362. Built during Maharana Lakha’s rule by Pichhu Bajanara, the lake’s beauty is said to have inspired Maharana Udai Singh to establish a city on its banks. Enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh II, the lake, stretching 4 km in length and 3 km in width, was expanded by flooding Picholi village, from which it derives its name.
Built by a Udaipur king to relish sunset views, this legendary lake features a bird sanctuary, hosting a variety of species like egrets, cormorants, coots, tufted ducks, terns, and kingfishers. Arched bridges elegantly connect its shores. With the majestic City Palace gracing its eastern banks, the lake is the premier destination for unforgettable boat rides in Udaipur.
Nestled among the green hills of the Aravalli range, Fateh Sagar Lake, shaped like a pear, offers serene tranquility in Udaipur. Constructed in 1678 by Maharana Jai Singh and later expanded by Maharana Fateh Singh, this lake stands as one of Udaipur’s largest lakes.
Perched on an island in Lake Pichola, Udaipur’s Lake Palace is a globally renowned romantic haven. Surrounded by the picturesque lake, with the majestic Hills on one side and soaring palaces on the other, it offers a heavenly view.
Once a summer retreat for rulers, the palace boasts courtyards adorned with columns, pillared terraces, fountains, and gardens, with walls crafted from black and white marble embellished with semi-precious stones.
On the east bank of Lake Pichola, the City Palace of Udaipur, a monumental complex built in the 16th-century, showcases a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Enter through the majestic triple-arched gate, the Tripolia, leading to courtyards, partitions, terraces, corridors, and gardens. Now a museum housing royal artifacts, paintings, and decorative features, the palace provides a panoramic view of the city.
The Monsoon Palace, or Sajjan Garh Palace, in Udaipur, originally built as an astronomical center to monitor monsoon clouds, also served as the summer retreat for the royal families of Udaipur.
Perched on Bansdara peak in the Aravalli hill range at 944 m (3100 ft) above sea level, this stunning white marble palace offers breathtaking views of the city’s lakes, palaces, and countryside.
Jag Mandir Palace, also called as the “Lake Garden Palace,” graces an island in Lake Pichola. Constructed by rulers of the Mewar kingdom, in the 17th century. Used as a summer resort and pleasure palace by the royal family, the palace adds to the scenic beauty of the lake.
The Crystal Gallery, established by Maharaja Sajjan Singh (1893-1947), stands as the world’s largest private collection of crystals. Showcasing precious crystals from around the globe, the gallery features fountains, dresses, dining tables, sofa sets, and the unique centerpiece—a crystal bed. Notably, it houses the world’s only crystal bed and rare crystals ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh from F&C Osler and Co. in England in 1877.
To truly witness Udaipur, a ride on the Ropeway is a must. This cable car, the first in Rajasthan, connects the Karni Mata Temple to the city park and provides the most breathtaking views of Udaipur. From the sweeping vistas of Lake Pichola to iconic landmarks like the City Palace and other heritage buildings, the ropeway offers an unparalleled experience. Ensure it tops your list of things to do in Udaipur.
Discover Udaipur’s marvel, the Vintage Car Museum, showcasing the world’s most elegant and luxurious cars once owned by royal families. Housed in the Mewar State Motor Garage, the collection boasts 22 unique cars, including gems like the seven-seater 1938 Cadillac, the 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom, and the Cadillac Convertible. Notably, these cars remain in perfect working condition, with many customized to cater to the unique preferences of the royal family.
Located around 25 km from Udaipur, the Eklingji Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands as one of India’s most renowned temples.
Situated in Eklingji (Kailashpuri), the temple, which lends its name to the town, is a marvel of conception and execution. The 50 ft. high Shikhar boasts a circumference of 60 ft., and the ancient temple, over 1300 years old, occupies a wide, sprawling campus.
Udaipur’s vibrant market is a paradise for all interests, offering exquisite jewelry, colorful traditional attire, wooden handicrafts, and miniature paintings. It’s a shopper’s delight in the bustling heart of the lake city.
Udaipur’s Maru potters are renowned for crafting exquisite terracotta plaques using traditional hand-forming techniques. After firing in a kiln, the plaques undergo a nine-day drying process before receiving a final touch.
A visit to the local potter’s point offers a memorable opportunity for visitors to engage in this ancient art form. Interact with local artisans, immerse in their lifestyle, and enrich your Udaipur trip with a unique hands-on experience.
Indulge in the exclusive cuisine of Rajasthan, synonymous with the heritage town of Udaipur. The iconic dal-baati-churma captures the essence of Rajasthan’s flavors in a single meal. Try Mirchi Vada, a local Udaipur snack featuring potato-stuffed chili coated in gram flour. Experience the burst of flavors with Udaipur’s Pyaaz Kachori—a spicy onion-filled fried pastry.
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