Dubbed as the “City of Lakes” and the “Venice of the East,” Udaipur is a city like no other, filled with romance and beauty. Udaipur is a compelling blend of lakes, palaces and a deep cultural heritage, nestled in Rajasthan’s Aravalli hills. The city was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559 and served as the capital of the Mewar Kingdom. It’s a place with an unfading charm of its peaceful lakes, stunning architecture and rich history. Visiting Udaipur is not merely a holiday; it’s a visit to a kingdom of timeless grandeur and royal magnificence.
Top 10 Places in Udaipur
The most iconic landmark in Udaipur is the City Palace overlooking Lake Pichola. This architectural marvel was built by several Maharanas from the Mewar dynasty over four centuries. It’s a stunning complex of 11 palaces that has a museum offering a glimpse into the opulent lives of the Mewar kings through its vast collection of royal antiques, weapons and textiles.
The artificial freshwater lake offers the city its lighted charm, making it a focal point of Udaipur. The 14th century lake contains several islands and a palace, including famous ones such as the Jag Mandir and the Lake Palace, have been converted into a five-star hotel. Floating over the City Palace, the ghats and the surrounding hills with views that one’s breath away.
The beautiful island palace of Jag Mandir or the Lake Garden Palace, lies in the southern part of Lake Pichola. It was named after Maharana Jagat Singh I, completed its construction in the 17th century after its construction had commenced in the 16th century. Shah Jahan was believed to be inspired by the grandeur of Jag Mandir to build the Taj Mahal.
Sajjangarh Palace lies atop a hill within the Aravalli range, offering a stunning view of Udaipur’s lakes and landscape. Famously referred to as the Monsoon Palace, Maharana Sajjan Singh had it built in the latter part of the 1800s primarily to witness for the converging monsoon clouds. The white marble castle has Rajput architecture and the perfect spot for a glorious sunset snapshot.
The Jagdish Temple is a huge Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu lies near the City Palace in the heart of the old city. This Indo-Aryan temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh I in 1651 and is a work of art. Its towering spire, intricate carvings and beautifully adorned walls and ceilings are awe-inspiring. The temple is an important center of worship, having a beautiful idol of Lord Vishnu in black stone.
The north of Lake Pichola is Fateh Sagar Lake, another of Udaipur’s picturesque man-made lakes. It was built in the 17th century and later restored by Maharana Fateh Singh. Nehru Park is a popular restaurant garden, located on one of the three islands of the lake.
Also known as the “Courtyard of the Maidens,” Saheliyon ki Bari is another of Udaipur’s picturesque man-made lakes. Built in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for the ladies and their friends of the royal family. The garden features marble elephants, beautiful ponds, a kiosk and manicured lawns.
A stunning mansion was built in the 18th century by a prime minister of Mewar. Bagore ki Haveli lies on the Gangaur Ghat of Lake Pichola. The haveli has been converted into a museum housing artefacts, clothes and the lifestyle of the royals. The evening Dharohar cultural show displays classic Rajasthani folk music and dance.
Ahar Cenotaphs is also known as Ahar Mahasati, a large historical complex just a few kms away from the Udaipur city center. With 250 cenotaphs or chhatris, the cenotaphs were built over 350 years as the cremation ground of the Maharanas of Mewar.
Rajasthan’s north-western Indian state showcases traditional crafts and culture in Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts village located beside Fateh Sagar Lake. The village’s atmosphere displays its skills in weaving, embroidery, ceramics and other crafts.
Conclusion –
Experience the history, art and nature all in Udaipur tourism while exploring these above 10 tourist attractions, creating a complete picture of the city’s storied history.