Udaipur is a place that casts its spell on everyone who comes to discover its mesmerizing beauty. Considered as one of the most romantic places in India, the city of Udaipur hosts charismatic structures that are awe-inspiring. The royals, who created an oasis in the state of Rajasthan, are remembered for their panache and aesthetic appeal. It has been called “Venice of the East” and “The City of Lakes”. For being a center of enchanting attractions inculcated with cultural background and great history, Udaipur should be a mandatory travel destination on your list.
In order to reach Udaipur, you can take flights to Maharana Pratap Airport which is 22 km from the main city. Udaipur lies on a vast network of rail that connects it to major cities in India.
The true reflections of the royal Udaipur are seen in this exquisite symbol of amazing architecture. The City palace is amongst the top places to visit here. It was built by Maharana Udai Mirza Singh in 1559. The palace is a conglomeration of several buildings and towers. Standing on the east bank of Lake Pichola, it has architecturally inspiring courtyards, terraces, pavilions, hanging gardens and a lot more. The main highlights include the crystal gallery, vintage car museum, Daawat-i-Aam, Daawat-i-Khas, Maharani Palace and the view of Lake Pichola. One needs to take out a large chunk of time to explore all the features.
City Palace
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It is one of the prominent temples of Udaipur located in the City Palace complex. The temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651 and has an Indo-Aryan style of architecture. The interiors consist of intricate carvings and house a black stone idol of Lord Jagannath (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu).
Jagdish Temple
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This artificial fresh water lake is what holds the gems of Udaipur together. It is surrounded with palaces, temples and mansions which give it a status of royalty. It is a vital identity of Udaipur created in 1362 by Pichhu Banjara, which was later extended by Rana Udai Singh II in the 16th century. A cruise across the lake offers some vivid panoramic views, especially of sunset.
Lake Pichola
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The location of this palace is bound to get you mesmerized. It is situated on an island amidst Lake Pichola and was constructed to serve as a royal summer palace. It was built by Maharaja Jagat Singh II which is now a luxury 5 star hotel. The smooth white marble exterior gives it a tremendous glossy look which is a visual treat at night. The palace has a background of the Aravalli Hills which provide a picturesque view.
Lake Palace
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It is a 17th century structure which also stands amidst Lake Pichola which is another addition to the excellent places at Udaipur. It is an impressive set of structures with the central building being called Jagmandir. The tree-storey construction, made in yellow sandstone and marble, includes sections like Gul Mahal, a Garden Courtyard, Darikhana, Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Zenana Mahal – a southern extension to the Gul Mahal and, Kunwar Pada ka Mahal. It was built by Maharana Karan Singh to serve as a hiding place for Prince Khurram (popularly known as Shah Jahan). You can take the boat ride at Lake Pichola which leads to a visit here.
Jag Mandir
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It is also known as Sajjan Garh Palace and was built as an astronomical centre to keep track of the movement of monsoon clouds in the area and also served as the summer resort of the royals. It was built by Maha Rana Sajjan Singh in 1884. The palace is perched upon a hill which appears to be like a castle from fairy-tales. Situated nearly 1000 feet above the sea level, the views of Udaipur from here are breathtaking.
Monsoon Palace
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It is a magnificent artificial lake which was originally built by Maharana Fateh Singh in 1678. However, the lake got its name from Maharana Fateh Singh, who later made additions to it. Lake Fateh Sagar is one of the most exotic places at Udaipur. It adds to the charm of the city with its mild hues of structural reflections. A boat ride here is must to absorb the beauty of this lake.
Fateh Sagar Lake
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It literally means ‘The Garden of Maidens” and is a massive garden and a popular tourist joint in the city of Udaipur. It has fountains, kiosks, lotus pool and marble elephants. Saheliyon ki Bari was laid for a group of forty-eight young women attendants who accompanied a princess to Udaipur as part of her dowry.
Saheliyon ki Bari
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It is a stunning structure which offers a splendid view of Lake Pichola was built by Amir Chand Badwa, Chief Minister at the Royal Court of Mewar in the 18th century. It is known for its amazing architecture which offers a peek inside the life of the royals. Bagore ki Haveli has 100 rooms and each room has fine decoration with mirror work. You can also take a look at the jewellery boxes, dice-games, hukkas, pan boxes, nut crackers, hand fans, rose water sprinklers, copper vessels, and paintings of Mewar. There’s also a puppet gallery, and turban collection with the world’s biggest turban.
Bagore ki Haveli
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It is also known as Dhebar Lake and is renowned as one of the largest artificial lakes in India. The lake was built by Maharana Jai Singh in 1685. It spreads across 36 sq km which makes it quite massive. The lake serves to be an ideal place to contemplate with nature.
Jaisamand Lake
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It is located on the banks of Lake Pichola and serves as an apt place for capturing some gorgeous pictures. It is considered to be a romantic place with a tantalizing backdrop.
Ambrai Ghat
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Constructed by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century, the fort is the birthplace of the famous warrior and King of Mewar, Maharana Pratap. The near invincible structure is the highest and strongest forts in Rajasthan. The fort is protected by thirteen mountain peaks of Aravali. The fort is protected and surrounded by a thick wall of approximately 15 kms long. This is the second longest wall in the world after The Great Wall of China.
Kumbhalgarh Fort
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The state of Rajasthan is an amalgam of culture and history that has been passed down by those who ruled with great pride. Places like Udaipur stand as a symbol of royalty and luxury that has been derived from the mighty kings and queens. Free press Journal requests its readers to be a part in sustaining our heritage.
