UDAIPUR

Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes,” is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The city, nestled in the lap of the Aravalli ranges, is one of the most famous tourist destinations of India. It is called the “Eastern Venice” because of the stunning lakes, mountains, peaceful temples, rich history, and majestic palaces. The city’s rivers and greenery make it a popular monsoon getaway.

HISTORY

Maharana Udai Singh II, who was a ruler of the Sisodia clan of Rajput, founded Udaipur in 1559. The royal city of Udaipur became the historic capital of the kingdom of Mewar in the former Rajputana agency, when Maharana shifted his capital from Chittorgarh to Udaipur after Emperor Akbar besieged Chittorgarh. Udaipur remained the capital city until 1818 when it became a British Princely state. After India gained Independence from the British rule in 1947, the Mewar province became a part of the state Rajasthan.

A popular legend is associated with how Udaipur was established by the Maharana. Once during his hunting expedition, Maharana Udai Singh met a holy sage in the Aravalli ranges. The sage counseled the Maharana to set up his kingdom in the fertile valley that would be protected by the high Aravalli hills. Assured by the sage that the city will be well protected, the Maharana established the city now known as Udaipur to be the capital of the Mewar Kingdom.

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FAMOUS ATTRACTIONS

LAKE PICHOLA

Lake Pichola is a stunning man-made freshwater lake nestled in the heart of Udaipur. The lake was created in 1362 AD, during Maharana Lakha’s reign. The lake’s beauty is said to have stunned Maharana Udai Singh so much that he built Udaipur around the banks of the serene and beautiful lake. In 1362 AD, Pichhu Banjara, a local tribesman, constructed a dam across the Ayad River, transforming the arid landscape into a serene water body. This was done to provide irrigation for the surrounding lands and to give easy access to fresh water for the inhabitants of the city.

Centuries later, Maharana Udai Singh II, who had set up the city of Udaipur around the banks of the lake, constructed a 15.24 meter high stone masonry dam in the Badipol area of the lake. This construction enlarged the lake and provided a more stable water supply for the people. Today, Lake Pichola is one of the most famous attractions of Udaipur, known for its picturesque beauty. There are four islands that surround the lake. There are boat rides available for visitors to enjoy the views around the lake. Well-maintained palaces and temples also surround the lake made on the island, which makes for a fun visit for tourists.

JAG MANDIR PALACE

Jag Mandir Palace is a palace built on an island in Lake Pichola and it is also called the “Lake Garden Palace”. The construction of the palace was started in 1551 by Maharana Amar Singh and was completed by Maharana Jagat Singh I in early 1600s. It is also named in his honor. The palace is an architectural masterpiece. The palace is situated on an island of Lake Pichola and provides an impressive view of its surrounding waters and hills. Tourists and visitors can stroll the palace’s garden and enjoy the breathtaking view all around them. The carvings and architecture of the palace are a beautiful blend of Hindu and Mughal styles. Now the palace is Udaipur’s most luxurious and finest hotel welcoming tourists for a wholesome experience.

CITY PALACE

The City Palace was simultaneously built with the city Udaipur by Maharana Udai Singh II and his successor Maharanas over a period of 400 years. The Maharanas lived and administered their kingdom from this palace, making it an important place in Indian History. The City Palace is a beautiful white palace complex built on a crest overlooking Lake Pichola. The complex encompasses 11 palaces and is built from granite and marble. Surrounded by fortified walls, combining medieval European and Chinese styles of architecture in its buildings. The palace is built on top of the hill, providing a beautiful panoramic view of Udaipur and is steeped in history. Visitors and tourists can enjoy diverse and colorful artwork like sculptures, paintings, hanging gardens, terraces and a museum consisting of unique antique artifacts.

SAHELIYON KI BARI

Saheliyon Ki Bari, also known as the “Garden of Maidens,” is a lush green oasis constructed for the Queen and her ladies-in-waiting and friends. It lies in the northern part of the city and was built and designed by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies. Visitors can enjoy beautiful fountains, a lotus pool, marble elephant and a garden with blossoming flowers.

SHOPPING

Udaipur is an interesting place to shop. It has big showrooms, small roadside stalls and various markets. You can buy various types of jewelry — precious as well as imitation, pottery, terracotta and brassware sculptures, Pichwai and Phad paintings, colorful clothes with handmade, batik and bandhani prints, mojari footwear and much more.

FOOD

Udaipur is renowned for its unique blend of flavors and spices and includes a variety of options for vegetarians as well as non-vegetarians. Some of the most popular dishes available are Dal Baati Churma, Lentils Kachori, and Onion Kachori, Ker Sangri, Malai Lassi, Mirchi Bada and much more. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Udaipur.

CONCLUSION

Udaipur is renowned for its captivating culture and royal history. It is a pleasant city for vacation and offers tourists a dynamic outdoor experience, delicious cuisine, decent weather, diverse shopping experience, lush greenery and boat rides on beautiful lakes.