Udaipur - The City of Lakes and Palaces

India is country of naturally beautiful cities.India is a country of historically important cities.India is a country of religiously and culturally important cities. But what if you combine all three facets into one ??? Who will not like to visit such a city???

There are very few cities in the world which can combine all the three aspects, Udaipurx - The city of Lakes is one of them. It is a historic city with multiplicity of lakes making it extremely beautiful. Presence of various temples , sacred to both Hindu's and Jain's makes it an important religious centre.

Set amidst the Aravalli Ranges of Rajasthan, India, capital of Mewar empire for centuries, Udaipur, Rajasthan is regarded as one of the most romantic cities of the World , it also known as the 'Venice of East'. Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sounds creating amazing experiences - an inspiration for many of  the poets, painters and writers to create best of their works. Whether it is Oodeypore -the birth place of Bagheera- the lead character of Rudyard Kiplings The Jungle Book, or the backdrop of James Bond Film Octopussy, Udaipur have inspired many a creative individuals. Numerous international and Bollywood films have been shot in Udaipur, India including but not limited to James Bond in India, Gandhi, the Fall, Disney Movie The Cheetah Girls One World , Bollywood films like Guide, Eklavya The Royal Gaurd, Mera Saya, Kacche Dhaga, Fiza, Khuda Gawah, etc are filmed here apart from many a reality shows and serials like Swayambar of Rakhi Sawant and Rahul Mahajan, TV Serial Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata hai etc.

 Its a kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, which not only carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomising valour and chivalry but also provides you a romantic background to enjoy some of the best moments of your life.

History of Udaipur

Udaipur is one of the most beautiful of the cities in Rajasthan. The city was founded as the capital of Kingdom of Mewar by Rana Udai Singh after he lost Chittor, the erstwhile capital to Muslim Ruler Mughal Emperor in 1568. However the birth of city of Udaipur is considered to be 1557-58.

As per the Legend once Maharana Udai Singh was out hunting when he came upon a sage seated beside the Pichola Lake. The sage counseled the king to build his palace at the site he is standing so that the fortunes of his family can change. The Maharana kept his counsel and built a small shrine, Dhuni Mata, to mark the spot. It is now the oldest part of the City Palace of Udaipur. Udai Singh chose the site of Udaipur and built an artificial lake and named it Udai Sagar after himself. Later he hit upon a pond said to have been made in the 15th century by a banjara (gypsy).The gypsy for his bullocks cross over, had built a dyke upon a stream which was further extended by Maharana which resulted in one of the most picturesque man made lakes in Rajasthan - The Lake Pichola. It was named Pichola after the neighbouring village of Picholi.

 The first royal building to come up was a small palace built in 1559 on an overlooking ridge and called  Nochouki,  Other buildings and structures later mushroomed around the palace. The Palace in itself was extended by successive generations always allowing an architectural excellence quite unique to the Mewar dynasty. The city palace kept on expanding until it became one of the largest palaces in the world.

Subsequently more buildings, palaces, temples and gardens were added to the city, giving it a rich architectural and cultural legacy. 

Udaipur was ruled by Sisodia Kings, said to be the offshoot of Chauhans. They consider themselves as the direct descendant of Lord Rama and son of Sun. Udaipur was never acceded to Mughal Empire and remains independent untill  it became the princely state of British India in 1818. The most famous and loved leader of Rajasthan was the ruler of Udaipur, Son of Maharana Udai Singh, Maharana Pratap, who ruled Mewar from Udaipur from 1572 till 1597. Sisodia dynasty is the Oldest surviving dynasty in the world. 

Major attractions in Udaipur

Udaipur is the city of Palaces and Lakes. Some of the most beautiful Palaces have been built around some of the most beautiful lakes. Some of the important Palaces to be seen in Udaipur are : 

City Palace 

Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan, located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola built over three centuries starting from 1559 and built till early 18th century. City Palace, entirely built with granite and marble is a wonderful blend of Medieval, European and Chinese Architecture. The Palace has various towers, domes and arches, assortment of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens.

This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur and often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. City Palace has several gates also known as "Pols". 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate) the main gate to the City Palace complex takes you to the first courtyard. On passing 'Bara Pol', you come across a triple arched gate, known as 'Tripolia'. Between these two gates, there are eight marble arches or Toranas, where Kings used to weigh themselves with gold and silver. Across 'Tripolia', you would enter the 'Elephant Gate' or the 'Hathi Pol'. 

City Palace comprises 11 wonderful palaces, which were built by different rulers however the continuity of architecture was maintained. With the sheer glimpse of unique paintings, antique furniture and exquisite glass mirror & ornamental tiles work of these palaces. The Palaces are famous for different reasons, some of the palaces within city Palace complex are : 

Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace) known for the  figures of crystal and porcelain. 

Bhim Vilas is known for a fabulous collection of miniature paintings depicting the real life stories of Radha-Krishna. 

The 'Krishna Vilas'  has noteworthy album of miniature paintings portraying royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. 

Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) is celebrated for its lavish decor

Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors) is famous for its breathtaking mirror work. 

'Chini Chitrashala' is renowned for its Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles. 

'Dilkusha Mahal' (Palace of Joy) is known for the murals and wall paintings. 

Bada Mahal is the exotic garden palace that stands erect on a 90 feet high natural rock formation. 

Rang Bhawan is the palace that used to contain royal treasure. There are temples of Lord Krishna, Meera Bai and Shiva, located right to the 'Rang Bhawan'. 'Mor Chowk' has exceptional glass mosaics of peacocks, set in the walls presenting the three seasons of summer, winter and monsoon. 'Laxmi Vilas Chowk' is an art gallery showcasing a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings.

'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of this Udaipur Palace and has wonderful hanging gardens with fountains, towers and terraces. City Palace is structured in a way that it offers a splendid view of the lake from all its Balconies, cupolas and towers

In 1974, a part of the City Palace and the 'Zenana Mahal' (Ladies Chamber) have been transformed into a museum.

Fatehprakash Palace:
Part of City Palace Complex, the erstwhile Residence of Maharana Fateh Singh (period of reign : 1884 - 1935) is now a luxury hotel run by HRH group and one of the more popular lake side hotel in Udaipur. The miniature paintings adorning the walls of the lobby is a sight to watch for the art lovers/

Lake Palace:
Located on the 1.5 hectare Jag Niwas Island in the middle of Lake Pichola, It is now a Luxury hotel with Taj Group called Taj Lake Palace Hotel. Built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1743 it was meant as a royal summer palace, It can be reached by boat only.

Jagdish Temple

Situated in the premises of City Place complex, Built in Indo-Aryan style of architecture Jagdish Temple is the biggest and most beautiful temple of Udaipur. Built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh, who ruled Udaipur during 1628-53, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the preserver of the Universe.

The temple is built in three stories with the central mast reaching 79 feets, it has some of the most beautiful carvings of sculptures depicting dancers, elephants, horsemen and musicians.The entrance is guarded by two stone elephants, followed by stone slab that is imprinted with the inscriptions with reference to Maharaja Jagat Singh. The main shrine of Jagdish Temple can be reached by taking 32 steps, where at the doorway yo will find a brass image of Garuda, a figure of half-man and half-eagle. This huge idol stands as if; it is guarding the doorway of Lord Vishnu. The main shrine houses the striking four-armed image of Lord Vishnu, carved out of a single piece of black stone. The main shrine of Lord Jagdish/ Vishnu is centrally located encircled by four smaller shrines. These shrines are dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Sun God, Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva respectively.It is located within walking distance of Udaipur Palace.

Jagmandir Island
Located on the southern island of Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir Palace is a beautiful three-storied Palace made in yellow sandstone and marble.It was built by Maharana Karan Singh ( ruled 1620-1628) as a hiding ground for Prince Khurram ( Shah Jehan ), when he had revolted against his father. It was under construction then and was later completed by Maharana Jagat Singh during his reign (1628-1652). Gulmahal, in Jag Mandir Palace, is the place where Prince Khurram lived with his family. Gul Mahal is made in the Islamic style of architecture, The hall has amazing interiors and is decorated with the Muslim crescent. To pray and offer Namaz, a mosque was also constructed in the complex of the Palace. Another attraction of this Palace is the courtyard, which is festooned with black and white tiles. Other pavilions that are worth mentioning are Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Kunwar Pada ka Mahal and the Zenana Mahal. Bara Patharon ka Mahal is made out of twelve solid marble slabs. Kunwar Pada ka Mahal was meant for the crowned prince. The Zenana Mahal offered several chambers for the ladies of the Royalty. Its museum still preserves the history of this island and its Palace .

A Dinner in the evening to this Island is a perfect idea to finish off a romantic day!!!.

Sahelion-ki-Bari (Garden of the maids of honour)
Sahelion Ki Bari' was laid for a group of forty-eight young women attendants who accompanied a princess to Udaipur as part of her dowry for Maharana Sangram Singh in 18th Century. The gardens set below the embankment of the Fateh Sagar Lake boasts of beautiful lotus pools, marble pavilions and elephant- shaped fountains which are fed by the water of the lake gushing through ducts made for the purpose. Each water channel has its distinct sound and the mingling of these sounds complement the ambience of the place.

 The lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions further enhance the romantic ambience of this magnificent garden.In the later years, Maharana Bhopal Singh built a pavilion of rain fountains. The thought was to form an illusion of rain dancing in cadence with dancing maids.  These fountains were imported from England and you can trace them along with the main reservoir of the garden. The main reservoir has four black marbled kiosks in its corners and one white marbled kiosk in its center. On the top of kiosks, these fountains are in the form of sculpted birds that spurts water from their beaks producing the rain effect.
The museum exhibiting the huge collection of royal households is another attraction of this garden. It has many ancient pictures and things of the bygone period. Sight of stuffed cobras and other animals will definitely add a tint of adventure to your trip.

Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum
Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum portrays the remarkable collection of over past 44 years, gathered by the Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal.This rare compilation varies from typical rural-dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments, folk deities and paintings.

Bagore Ki Haveli
Bagore Ki Haveli is an ancient building the platform of Gangori Ghat in the vicinity of Pichola Lake. Built in the eighteenth century, by Amir Chand Badwa, Chief Minister at the Mewar Royal Court the mansion boasts of delicate carved work and excellent glass work.When Amar Badwa died, the building came under the possession of Mewar State.

In 1878, the Haveli was abode of Maharana Shakti Singh of Bagore, who further incorporated three stories to the main structureand hence it came to be known as Bagore Ki Haveli (Mansion of Bagore). Now converted into a museum, it portrays the patrician culture of Mewar. It showcases premium mural paintings of Rajasthan designed in Mewar, the costumes of the royal kings and modern art, exclusive stuff of Rajputs like jewellery boxes, dice-games, hukkas, pan boxes, nut crackers, hand fans, rose water sprinklers, copper vessels and other items of the erstwhile rulers. The Queen's Chamber showcases fascinating original paintings of Mewar. Beautiful peacocks created with small pieces of colored glass captivate the onlooker with sheer admiration. Today, this grand building has more than 100 rooms with well-arranged balconies, terraces, courtyards and corridors.

Maharana Pratap Memorial
Situated at the top of Moti Margi or Pearl Hill overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake, Maharana Pratap Memorial is a historic site that is dedicated to the gallant Maharana Pratap.The memorial comprises a life-sized bronze statue of Maharana Pratap balanced on his loyal and favorite horse, Chetak. This outstanding statue has also been picturised for various Bollywood movies.

Other Important places to visit in Udaipur are :

- The Lakes of Pichola, Fatehsagar, Swaroop Sagar, Udai Sagar, Jaisamand Lake.

-Gulab Bagh Garden and Zoo

-Sajjan Garh Palace or the Monsoon Palace

-Vintage Collection of Classic car museum, at hotel Garden

-Haldighati Museum

Udaipur can be a base for excursions to very famous forts and temples , some of which are listed Below :

-  Eklingji Temple (2 kms from Udaipur)- Built in 734 AD,  is dedicated to unique form of Lord Shiva, the temple in itself is a collection of 108 smaller temples

- Nagda Temples: (2 kms from Eklingji) : It is famous for its Sas-bahu and Adbudji temples.with exquisite stone carvings.

-Nathdwara (48 kms from Udaipur) : Famous for temple of Srinathji, a 14th century incarnation of Lord Krishna

- Ranakpur Temples (located 98 kms from Udaipur): It is widely known for its marble Jain temple, said to be the most spectacular of the Jain temples with 1444 pillars, none of the two pillars resembling each other.

-Chittaurgarh Fort (113 kms from Udaipur)- 07th Century Fort, is one of the grandest and most invincible forts of Rajasthan.

- Kumbhalgarh Fort (82 kms from Udaipur) - 15th century fort built by Rana Kumbha with over 300 temples.

- Mount Abu (180 kms from Udaipur) - Only hill station of Rajasthan, boasts of beautiful Dilwara Jain Temple, Nakki Lake and is home to Brahamakumari Ashram.

Entrance Charges to the Monuments in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

For Foreign Nationals ( in INR)

City Palace     Adult :INR 250, Children ( below 12 years): INR 45
Crystal Gallery     Adult :INR 550, Children ( below 12 years): Nil
Lok Kala Mandir  Adult :INR 30, Children ( below 12 years): Nil
Shelion Ki Bari     Adult :INR 10, Children ( below 12 years): INR 10
Shilp Gram     Adult :INR 55,Children ( below 12 years): INR 55
Moti Mangri     Adult :INR 15, Children ( below 12 years): INR 15
Fountain             Adult :INR 15, Children ( below 12 years): INR 15
Pratap Smarak     Adult :INR 10, Children ( below 12 years): INR 10

For Indian Nationals ( in INR)

City Palace     Adult :INR 50 , Children ( below 12 years): INR 45
Crystal Gallery     Adult :INR 550, Children ( below 12 years): Nil
Lok Kala Mandir  Adult :INR 30, Children ( below 12 years): Nil
Shelion Ki Bari     Adult :INR 10, Children ( below 12 years): INR 10
Shilp Gram     Adult :INR 15,Children ( below 12 years): INR 15
Moti Mangri     Adult :INR 15, Children ( below 12 years): INR 15
Fountain              Adult :INR 15, Children ( below 12 years): INR 15
Pratap Smarak     Adult :INR 10, Children ( below 12 years): INR 10

How to Reach Udaipur, India

By Air

Maharana Pratap Airport  located near Dabok , 22 kms from the city is connected with direct flights to  Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Jodhpur. 

By Rail

Udaipur Railway Station located at a comfortable distance from the city is connected with direct trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Agra and Khajuraho. 

By Road

Udaipur is well connected by road to major cities in India. It is well connected by road from all sides, Jaipur to Udaipur is just 375 kms , Udaipur to Jodhpur is 296 kms and Udaipur to Ahmedabad, state capital of Gujarat  is 260 kms .