Udaipur

The incredible lake city of Rajasthan, Udaipur is nothing less than a dream in itself. The canvas of Udaipur is painted with some unmatched natural wonders fusing perfectly into the caretakers of history. Travelers visit here not only to turn the pages of royal history of Rajasthan but also to fall in love with the romance sprinkled in the air.

Udaipur remains a popular city to organize a Maharaja style destination wedding to feel the richness of Indian cultures. From a romantic boat ride on Lake Pichola to exploring its ancient bazaars, from its awe-inspiring palaces to picturesque lakes – everything about Udaipur is beyond imagination.

History

Renowned with the name of ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur had a fascinating history. The city was founded in the year 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the new capital of the Mewar kingdom. In the past, it was the capital of the kingdom of Mewar during the rule of Rajputs. Udai Singh shifted his capital from Chittorgarh to Udaipur after Akbar conquered Chittorgarh. Thereafter, Udaipur served as the capital till 1818.

Forts & Palaces of Udaipur

Udaipur is a charming destination to walk down the memory lanes of Rajasthan. It is dotted with some of the most priceless caretakers of history who still narrate numerous stories of bravery, romance, loyalty, and betrayal. The architecture of these forts and palaces here is beyond imagination.

Known for its romantic setting in the middle of Lake Pichola, Lake Palace looks like a pearly white gem. It was built between 1743 and 1746. Earlier it was known with the name of Jag Niwas. Today, the Taj Group manages this palace turned heritage hotel. Guests are transported to the palace by a boat ride over the pristine water of Lake Pichola. The palace features regal durbars, grand courtyards, pillared terraces, beautiful fountains and well manicured gardens.

Jag Mandir was a summer resort of the royal family. This three storied marvel has structures like Gul Mahal, Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Zenana Mahal, the Garden Courtyard and the Darikhana.

This is a splendid historical garden which was raised for the queen and her attendants to enjoy free time. It has been adorned with fountains and kiosks. Lotus pools, splendid pavilions and elephant- shaped fountains make this place nothing less than a dream.

Udaipur has rightly earned the status of City of Lakes. Lakes of the city make a perfect romantic backdrop which makes travelers fall in love with it. Most of them are nestling with high rising mountains which make them look extremely beautiful.

This artificial fresh water lake was created in the year 1362 AD. The lake acts ground to two islands, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir. From here you can relish views of some magical historical wonders, ancient temples, bathing ghats and much more. A boat ride on Lake Pichola is not to be missed experience in Udaipur.

This lake is known for being the second largest artificial lake in Asia. The lake consists of 3 islands namely Baba ka Magra, Piari and Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary. It also acts home to the tribe of Bhil Minas.

This is another popular lake adding to the beautiful outlook of Udaipur. It was built in 1660 by Maharana Raj Singh. Surroundings of this lake look highly impressive and it remains a must visit for some moments of peace.

Udaipur is one city that showers you with some of the best experiences of life. The city keeps you engaged with a range of activities which keep you glued to its roots. Here are some of the best things you can indulge in Udaipur.

This is a must do activity for every traveler visiting Udaipur. Enjoy a splendid boat ride on the shimmering waters of this magical lake to catch glimpse of some spectacular wonders of the past like Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas, Mohan Mandir and Arsi Vilas.

As the history of Mewar region is very intriguing, Udaipur was the capital of Mewar Kingdom, therefore enjoying the sound & light show at City Palace is always a fascinating experience.

Visit this ancient temple of the city to explore the deeply rooted religious values of locals here. The temple houses a stone idol of Karni Mata and remains busy with pilgrims all day long.

The City of Lakes also lets you enjoy a cable car ride to catch bird’s eye views of Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, City Palace Complex, etc. A night ride looks even more astonishing when the whole city shimmers like a golden star.

Udaipur is a dream of shopping lovers with some of the most colorful bazaars. The city is known for selling flamboyant handicrafts apart from stones jewelry, bright textiles, meenakari handicrafts, paintings, and much more. Hathi Pol Bazaar here is known for buying a variety of handicrafts apart from Rajasthani miniature paintings.

You can also visit Bada Bazaar to buy handmade shoes and Batik and Bandhani print Saris. Handicraft lovers can visit Chetak Circle known for selling puppets, wall decors, pen stands, traditional lanterns, and much more. Shilpgram of Udaipur has been set up like a rustic village where you get opportunity to buy everything from clothing to handicrafts and paintings to pottery items.