Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes’, is an amazing tourist destination in Rajasthan. It is renowned for itsspectacular forts, beautiful lakes, splendid palaces, museums and colourful culture. It was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in the year 1559. Here is a list of top attractions in Udaipur.
City Palace: It is a beautiful palatial building and considered the largest amongst its type in Rajasthan. Situated on the banks of Pichola Lake, it was built by Maharana Udai Mirza Singh in 1559. The huge complex comprises of 11 palaces and displays a perfect amalgamation of the Mughal and the Rajasthani style of architecture. The Palace lies on top of a hill and offers a panoramic view of the entire city. There are numerouscourtyards, domes, corridors, pavilions, and hanging gardens in the palace, adding to its grandness and beauty.
Udaipur Map Photo Gallery
The Bara Pol is the main entrance gate to the palace. There is another huge gate called Tripolia which is triple arched. The interiors of the palace are enhanced by antique furniture, ornamental tiles, beautiful paintings and other artefacts. The Manak Mahal is decorated with shining crystal and porcelain statues whereasthe Bhim Vilas is adorned with paintings showcasing the life of the Hindu gods, Radha and Krishna. Jagdish Temple, the biggest shrine of Udaipur, is also a part of the City Palace complex.
Pichola Lake:It is a charming artificial lake that was developed in the year 1362. Maharana Udai Singh was so impressed by the lake surroundings that he decided to build the city of Udaipur on its banks. Over the next few years, temples, palaces, and mansions were constructed around the lake.
There are four islands on the Pichola Lake. Jag Niwas which houses the beautiful Lake Palace, Mohan Mandir, Jag Mandir which has also hasa palace, and the Arsi Vilas which was used as an ammunition depot. Arsi Vilas is home to wide variety of birds like tufted ducks, egrets, coots, terns, cormorants and kingfishers flock.
Fateh Sagar: It is an artificial pear-shaped lake built by Maharana Fateh Singh in 1678. The lake has sparkling blue waters and green surroundings, making it a heaven for nature lovers. Three small islands are situated in the lake. It is connected to two other lakes, Pichola Lake and Rang Sagar Lake, by a water canal.
Ahar: It is a popular historical site known for the cenotaphs of the Mewar rulers. It is located at 3 km from Udaipur and has 19 cenotaphs of the rulers who were cremated here. In addition to the cenotaphs, Ahar also houses an archaeological museum.
Bagore Ki Haveli:It is located close to the Pichola Lake. It is an old structure that was constructed by Amir Chand Badwa, the Minister of the Mewar Court. The exquisite carvings and the intricate glassworks are the major attractions of this 18th century haveli. The haveli was renovated by Maharana Shakti Singh in 1878 when he added three storeys to the main structure.
Udaipur is located at 260 km from Ahmedabad and is a popular weekend destination. Best mode of travel is hiring Ahmedabad to Udaipur cabs. You can book affordable outstation taxi in Ahmedabad through Savaari.com.
