Udaipur Travel Guide
Travel to Udaipur - Heavenly Palaces Of Lake Pichola
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So romantic is Udaipur that it is known as the Venice of the East. Its network of interesting back streets lead down to the lovely Lake Pichola whose shores are graced with mansions and palaces, including the country’s most romantic palace hotel seemingly floating on Jag Niwas Island. Come to Udaipur for a look at the splendour of the Maharajas, enjoy some of the most stunning architecture in India and to relax in the most amazing of surroundings.
Maharana Udai Singh II founded Udaipur in 1568 after his citadel at Chittorgarh was sacked by Mughal Emperor Akbar. Legend says that Udai Singh was guided by a holy man meditating on the hill near Pichola Lake and told to establish his capital on this very spot. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, forests and lakes the location is stunning and this has only been added to by the lineage of Maharaja’s that followed who build sumptuous palaces around the lakes.
Attractions in Udaipur
The Lake Palace (now the Lake Palace Hotel) on Jag Niwas Island in the centre of Lake Pichola is the finest example of the architectural and cultural excellence that the Mewar kings developed, whilst the grand City Palace – a major draw in its own right - on the banks of the lake compliments the Lake Palace. They are both overlooked by the Monsoon Palace, Sajjan Garh, on the hill above the city.
Visit the ghats early in the morning, see Jagdish Temple, the Bagore ki Haveli (a splendid mansion), the Bartikaya Lok Kala Museum, dedicated to folk arts, the craft village of Shilpgram and the cenotaphs at Ahar.
Not too far away are the temples at Eklingi and Nagda, though the stunning Jain temple complex at Ranakpur are perhaps more dramatic and should not be missed. Kumbalgarh a couple of hours away is home to both an impressive fort and wildlife sanctuary
Activities in Udaipur
Allow around 3 days to explore Udaipur and its surroundings.
Relaxing
There are many places to relax and enjoy various views of the lake, perhaps from rooftop cafes. Shopping too is excellent here and there are some great souvenirs to be had with some friendly haggling.
Getting Around
Visit as part of an organised tour en route south to Mt Abu or west to Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. The town itself is best explored on foot, however you will need your own transport if exploring the more outlying sights such as Kumbalgarh, Eklingi and Ranakpur.
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