Udaipur casts its spell on everybody who gets close to it. The gorgeous City Of Lakes makes a perfect honeymoon destination, a cultural treasure and the face of Mewar. Experiencing Udaipur is all about reliving royalty and appreciating the city's regal beauty. Most of the attractions in Udaipur have been built and created by the Maharanas, and we must say that these wise rulers literally have done a marvellous job.
1. Fateh Sagar
The charm of Udaipur is incomplete without Fateh Sagar Lake, which is situated in the north of Lake Pichola and is connected to it through a canal and a small lake named Swaroop Sagar. It is also one of the major tourist attractions in Udaipur. A boat ride or a jet ski ride is a must to complete the thrill. The famous Nehru Garden is also situated in the middle of Fateh Sagar Lake. Lots of street food and snacks complete a fun filled evening. A must visit place!!
2. Jaisamand Lake
Jaisamand Lake or the Dhebar Lake is the largest fresh water lake in Asia and is located at about 52kms from the Udaipur City. It is spread in an area of 36 sq kms, which is humongous for a fresh water lake. There are a couple or monuments near the lake, like the Hawa Mahal and Roothi Rani Ka Mahal. Both of them gives some breath taking views of the Jaisamand Lake.
3. Lake Pichola
Another man made wonder in the city dominated by nature, Lake Pichola was created in 1362 AD. Rana Udai Singh II extended the lake in 16th century. The picturesque lake is surrounded by huge hills, magnificent palaces, temples and bathing ghats. The islands in Lake Pichola offer various tourist attractions and hence by cruising in Lake Pichola, you are sure to have an awesome time. Sunset views are stunning. Boat cruise offers lovely views of the town, particularly in the evenings as you watch the sun go down on your eyes, you will find the city lit up. The palaces look stunning with the lights on and it is a great view from the lake.
4. Sajjan Garh
If you are partial to the beauty offered by nature more than man made wonders, you are sure to love Sajjan Garh. The palace is small but the views are stunning. The palace is well maintained and the sunset view from here is awesome. It was constructed by Maha Rana Sajjan Singh in 1884. The aim of the king was to construct an observatory here to observe the arrival of monsoon as well as predict weather conditions. Owing to his untimely demise, the work was not completed. However, the views from here fascinate you beyond words. Nearly 1000 feet above the sea level, the views of Udaipur from here are breath taking.
5. City Palace
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City Palace was constructed in the year 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh. The palace is situated on the banks of Pichola Lake. It is a blend of European, Medieval and Chinese styles of architecture. City Palace houses 11 magnificent palaces and they were all constructed during various periods and by various rulers. The size of the palace is awe inspiring with the courtyards, terraces, pavilions, hanging gardens and a lot more. Everything about the palace is magnificent be it the architecture, the antiques inside and the exclusive paintings hanging on the walls.
6. Moti Magri
It is a hilltop that has the famous Maharana Pratap Memorial. The hill overlooks Lake Fatehsagar and also has one of the earliest palaces in Mewar called Moti Mahal, where once Maharana Udai Singh lived. The delightful Japanese Rock Garden and the Pratp Smarak are the highlight of Moti Magri. The height of the hill allows tourists to click some of the best pictures of the city. A light and sound show is also organized in the evening here showcasing the thousand years of rule of Mewar.
7. Sukhadia Circle
Unlike the food courts in many malls where customer first purchase food tokens, drop it at various food counters and then collect their food individually, at Bambiya Bazaar of Sukhadia Circle, the same procedure is followed by food vendors and not by customers. The mouth watering pani-puri, pav-bhaji, pizza, chaat and lots more will surely make your day an awesome one. If you are a foodie, then this should be in your must visit place!
8. Karni Mata Ropeway
A popular tourist attraction, Karni Mata Ropeway is enjoyed by almost everyone who visits Udaipur city. This cable car is installed between two mountains on the bank of Lake Pichola. Tourist admires the view from the Gondolas and clicks a lot of photographs as from here you can get the best view of Udaipur. Lake Pichola, Lake Fateh Sagar, City Palace complex, Sajjangarh Fort and the Aravali mountains on the other side of the lake can be seen from here clearly.
9. Badi Lake
The lake was built in the village of Badi, about 12 km from the city of Udaipur, by Maharana Raj Singh I (1652-1680) to counteract the devastating effects of a famine. He named it Jiyan Sagar after his mother Jana Devi. The lake is graced by many artistic chhatris (kiosks or pavilions). During the drought of 1973, the lake supplied water to the people of Udaipur. Devoid of any commercial activity, the Badi Lake gives a view of a never-ending expanse providing a serene and calm atmosphere to the visitors.
10. Shilpgram
If you are someone who likes to learn about culture, Shilpgram in Udaipur is the right place for you! This Craftsmen’s Village is situated at a distance of 3kms from the main city. Shilpgram is a wonderful place to see the different traditions and culture of India as this government-owned complex showcases the rural life of Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa. Other than buying the traditionally made items here, one can also enjoy horse and camel rides along with traditional dance and music.
Happy Travelling!!
