Udaipur: Discovering the City of Lakes and Palaces
Udaipur, the city of lakes, is a stunning destination in Rajasthan, India that captures the hearts of visitors with its serene lakes, magnificent palaces, and colourful culture. Known as the "Venice of the East," Udaipur is one of the most romantic cities in India, making it a perfect destination for honeymooners, families, and solo travelers alike. The city is located in the Aravalli Range and surrounded by scenic hills, making it a picturesque and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Udaipur is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, with a variety of forts, palaces, and temples to explore, as well as an abundance of art and handicrafts. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, shopping, or simply relaxing by the lake, Udaipur is a destination that has something for everyone. In this travel blog, we will take you on a journey through Udaipur, sharing our experiences and insights about this enchanting city.
How to Reach Udaipur
By Air: Udaipur has its own airport, Maharana Pratap Airport, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Once you land at the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach your desired destination.
By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is the main railway station in the city, and it is well-connected to cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. You can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to reach your hotel.
By Bus: Udaipur is well-connected to major cities in Rajasthan and neighbouring states through a network of state-run and private buses. You can take a bus from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, or Delhi to reach Udaipur. The bus stand is located in the city centre, and you can easily find a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach your hotel.
By Car: Udaipur is well-connected to major cities via national highways. You can hire a cab or self-drive to reach Udaipur from nearby cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, or Ahmedabad. The roads are well-maintained, and the drive is scenic, making it a perfect road trip destination.
Places to Visit in Udaipur
City Palace
The magnificent City Palace in Udaipur is one of the largest royal complexes in Rajasthan. The palace was built over a period of 400 years and boasts a unique blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and European architectural styles. The palace houses several courtyards, gardens, museums and art galleries, and offers breathtaking views of Lake Pichola and surrounding hills.
Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola is one of the most picturesque lakes in Rajasthan and is surrounded by hills, palaces and temples. A boat ride on the lake offers stunning views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, Lake Palace and other landmarks. Sunset is the best time to enjoy the beauty of the lake.
Jagdish Temple
The Jagdish Temple is a 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in the heart of Udaipur. The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings, beautiful architecture and exquisite sculptures. The temple attracts a large number of devotees and tourists throughout the year.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari
Saheliyon-ki-Bari is a beautiful garden located in the northern part of Udaipur. The garden was built for the royal ladies and boasts several fountains, lotus pools, marble elephants and a small museum. The garden is an ideal place for picnics and relaxation.
Jagmandir Island
Jagmandir Island, also known as Lake Garden Palace, is a beautiful palace located on an island in the middle of Lake Pichola in Udaipur. It was built in the 17th century by Maharaja Karan Singh to provide a summer resort to the royal family. The palace is a fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles and is famous for its intricate marble work, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the lake and the city. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and explore the palace and its surroundings, including a museum and a restaurant. Jagmandir Island is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the grandeur of the Mewar dynasty and the beauty of Udaipur.
Fateh Sagar Lake
Fateh Sagar Lake is a scenic artificial lake located in the north-west of Udaipur. The lake offers several recreational activities such as boating, fishing and camel riding. The lake also offers stunning views of the hills and sunset.
Bagore ki Haveli
Bagore ki Haveli is an 18th-century haveli located on the banks of Lake Pichola. The haveli has now been converted into a museum that showcases the lifestyle, culture and art of the royal era. The museum also hosts cultural shows, puppet shows and dance performances in the evening.
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace
The Sajjangarh Palace is a hilltop palace located in the southern part of Udaipur. The palace was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh to watch the wildlife in the surrounding forests. The palace now houses a museum and offers breathtaking views of the Aravalli Range and the city of Udaipur.
Shilpgram
Shilpgram is a rural arts and crafts complex located on the outskirts of Udaipur. The complex showcases the rich and diverse culture and handicrafts of Rajasthan. The complex also hosts several cultural events, fairs and festivals throughout the year.
Vintage Car Museum
The Vintage Car Museum is located in the grounds of the Garden Hotel and showcases a stunning collection of vintage cars, including Rolls Royce, Cadillac, Mercedes, and MG. The museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts and history lovers.
Badi Lake
Badi Lake, also known as Jiyan Sagar, is a picturesque artificial lake located around 12 km from Udaipur. The lake is surrounded by hills on three sides, offering a serene atmosphere to visitors. Badi Lake is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation, and also offers boating and fishing opportunities. The lake is surrounded by a beautiful garden known as the Badi Mahal Garden, which is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the lake.
Maharana Pratap Smarak (Memorial)
Maharana Pratap Smarak is a prominent historical landmark located on top of the Moti Margi hill in Udaipur. The smarak or memorial was constructed to commemorate the valiant warrior Maharana Pratap, who was the 13th king of Mewar. The memorial houses a bronze statue of the great king riding on his loyal horse Chetak, and a small museum that displays some of his personal belongings and weapons used during his reign. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Udaipur city from the hilltop location, and the serene atmosphere adds to the peaceful experience. The smarak is a must-visit place for history buffs and those interested in the brave tales of the Rajputana dynasty.
Best Time to Visit Udaipur
The best time to visit Udaipur is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and cool. The temperature during this time ranges from 12°C to 27°C, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season from July to September brings moderate to heavy rainfall, and the summer season from April to June can be very hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 45°C. It is advisable to avoid visiting Udaipur during these months.
Shopping and Cuisines in Udaipur
Udaipur is a great place to indulge in some shopping and try out some delicious local cuisine.
Shopping in Udaipur is an experience in itself. You can find a variety of unique items like miniature paintings, handcrafted wooden toys, colourful textiles, silver jewellery, and traditional Rajasthani handicrafts. Some of the best places to shop in Udaipur include Bada Bazaar, Hathi Pol, and Rajasthali.
When it comes to cuisine, Udaipur has a lot to offer. Some of the must-try local dishes include dal-bati-churma, gatte ki sabzi, laal maas, and kachori. For sweet lovers, there are delicacies like ghewar and balushahi. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and street food stalls.
Udaipur is also famous for its rooftop restaurants that offer a panoramic view of the city while you enjoy your meal. Some popular places to dine in Udaipur include Ambrai Restaurant, Lake Shore Restaurant, and Jheel's Rooftop Restaurant.
Special Tip for Udaipur Trip
A special tip for a Udaipur trip would be to explore the city on foot or by bicycle. Udaipur is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are located close to each other. Walking or cycling not only helps you to explore the hidden alleys and markets of the city, but also provides a chance to interact with the locals and get a better understanding of the city's culture and traditions. Additionally, it's a great way to stay fit and active while on vacation. Just make sure to stay hydrated and carry a map or GPS device to avoid getting lost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Udaipur is truly a gem in the state of Rajasthan and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of India. Sometimes also known as 'White City of India'. From its magnificent palaces and temples to its tranquil lakes and gardens, Udaipur offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler. The city's vibrant markets and delicious cuisine further add to its charm, making it an all-round delight for the senses. So, plan your visit to Udaipur and immerse yourself in the magic of this enchanting city.
This article was originally published in April 2023 and updated in April 2023.
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