Udaipur：The Venice of the East

In 1829, Colonel James Tod labeled the city of lakes and palaces, Udaipur, as the most romantic spot on the continent of India and centuries later it still holds true. Set amidst the lush green hills of Aravallis, as a traveler you’ve myriad of experiences to pick from - be it the timeless forts and palaces of Mewar times, narrow archaic streets that echo of a bygone era, temples overlooking the azure Lake Pichola, this city will leave you mesmerised with its quaint appeal. From fairs and festivals to guided tours of the beautiful palaces and forts, there is a story behind this centuries old Mewar capital.

1. City Palace

Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, City Palace is one of the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. The majestic palace built solely from granite and marble boasts of towering domes, hanging gardens, along with 11 palaces within the City Palace itself. Situated within the premise of the palace complex is the Jagdish Temple, must-visit for those who want to immerse themselves in the spiritual experience of the aesthetics of this city. City Palace is an architecture lover’s delight - from mirror work to marble carvings and murals, silver inlay, coloured glasses and other exquisite detailing, this palace is a treat for your eyes.

2. Sajjan Garh Palace / Monsoon Palace

Built in late 19th century, by the Mewar King Sajjan Singh, this white colored fort gives a breathtaking view of Udaipur city along with scenic birdie view of Lake Pichola and Fatehsagar lake. Originally meant to be an astronomical centre, this place turned into a monsoon palace and a hunting lodge due to the early demise of the king. Its white domes sing of the glorious past of the Mewar dynasty. Sunset is one of the best times to visit this place.

3. Bagore Ki Haveli Museum

If you want to understand the culture of Mewar, this is the place you must visit. Built in the late 18th century, it was a royal residency, now it serves as a museum of over 100 rooms each with an antique collection telling the story of Rajput times. Every evening there is an hour long cultural event that features tribal dance, puppet shows, folk dance and stories of Mewar times.

4. Jagdish Temple

One of the largest temples in Udaipur, Jagdish temple is considered to be an Indo-Aryan architectural marvel. From beautiful wall carvings, elephant sculptures, the architecture of the temple is picturesque and inviting to everyone who visits.

5. Shilpgram

This is a crafts village which hosts 26 traditional village houses from Rajashthan, Gujarat, Goa, and Maharashtra along with their exquisite interiors and crafts exhibits. You can meet traditional dancers, musicians and artisans here who can show you their art if you request. In the month of December, there is a Shilpgram fair held in which hundreds of artisans across the country visit Shilpgram, a great time to visit this rural arts and crafts complex and become part of traditional art workshops.

6. Lake Pichola

Built in 1362, Lake Pichola is among the oldest and the largest lakes in Udaipur. It is surrounded by majestic palaces and forts on one side, Aravalli hills on the other end. Boat ride on this lake is almost on every tourist’s bucket list. This lake has two main islands situated on it, the Jag Niwas and the Jagdish Temple. If you like serene water and calming ambience, evening spent on the azure waters of this lake all be perfect for you.

7. Ahar Cenotaphs

Popular for being the cremation ground of Mewar rulers, Ahar Archaeological Museum houses antiques from 10th century. Earthen pottery of primordial people and unique artefacts along with rare collection of sculptures make this site a must-visit for history and archaeology lovers. In the cremation site, various cenotaphs of Mewar rulers are present. Marble columns with engravings that tell a story of their valiant past is a common site here.

8. Fateh Sagar Lake

After Lake Pichola, it is the Fateh Sagar lake which is the second largest artificial lake in Udaipur. Surrounded by the Aravalli hills, this lake consists of three small islands which are perfect place for picnics. Among the major highlights is the Nehru Park, largest island on this lake which boasts of a mini zoo. Udaipur Solar Observatory is built on another island site, considered to be one of the best solar sites in Asia.

9. Saheliyon Ki Bari

Built on the banks of the Fateh Sagar lake, King Sangram Singh gifted it as a present to the Queen of Mewar, this garden was a relaxing spot for queen and her maidens in the early 18th century. Now this beautiful garden is a popular leisure spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Udaipur. The place boasts of beautiful fountains, a lotus pool, sculptures made out of marble and granite.

10. Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal

If you’re interested in learning about the folk culture of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, this museum is a perfect place to visit. From puppet show performances to folk dances along with tribal paintings from all over India, Lok Kala Mandal is a delight to visit. Museum also provides an audio visual documentation for the visitors.

◎ Closing

Udaipur brings together the ancient rich heritage of Mewar culture along with the peace and serenity of a natural setting. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or plan to explore the city over a month’s time, this place will enamour you will its cultural heritage, intriguing past of Mewar stories and mesmerise you with the beauty of its lakes and forts, palaces where engravings reminisce of a past era of simpler times and uncomplicated life. Whether it is dinner at the lake side, sunset near the Monsoon Palace, going through the Wildlife sanctuary at Sajjan Garh, or just a calm evening boat ride on Lake Pichola or Fateh Sagar lake, a trip to Udaipur will be etched in your memories forever. If it isn’t the enchanting fortresses, or the picturesque view of intertwining lakes, or the mouthwatering taste of Rajasthani cuisines, that brings you back to Udaipur, it can be the simplicity and hospitality of the people of Udaipur, always ready to make you feel welcome and show you their cultural heritage. No matter which narrow street of Udaipur you take, at the end of the journey you will feel enchanted by the tranquility of the timeless streets.