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About Udaipur

The city of udaipur owes its name to its founder Maharana Udai Singh. Udaipur can rightly be called as The Romantic City Of Lakes. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and the lakes make udaipur seem almost like a mirage in the desert. Udaipur is also known as the Venice Of The East. Pichloa lake, Fateh sagar lake, Jaisamand lake, Rajsamand lake, Udai sagar lake and Doodh talai in udaipur are some of the most beautiful lakes in rajasthan. The city of udaipur also boasts of several gardens that are truly a green retreat in the dry lands of rajasthan. Gulab bagh or Sajjan niwas garden in udaipur is the largest garden of rajasthan, Saheliyon ki bari is one of the most beautiful garden and a major tourist destination in the city and the Nehru garden set amidst the fateh sagar lake offers truly an eye-soothing view for any observer.
The city is also known for its Rajput-era palaces. Particularly famous is the Lake palace which entirely covers a small island in the pichola lake. Fateh prakash palace and City palace are also the beautiful palaces worth watching. Jagdish temple made in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture is one of the famous temples of udaipur located in the city palace complex. Its architecture comprises beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls and it is one of the major tourist attraction.
The city of udaipur also presents artifacts of the bygone age by the means of museums. City palace museum, Bhartiyalok kala museum, Shilpgram museum, Ahar museum and Vintage collection of classic car museum offers a glimpse of the items that used to be the part of the regal lifestyle. Other major attraction of the city are Maharana Pratap Memorial or Moti Magri, Bagore-ki-haveli, Udaipur solar observatory - Asia's only solar observatory, Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary, Sukhadia circle which is a landmark built on a traffic roundabout in udaipur. It is a three tiered fountain that is lit at night and is a popular place for the locals in evenings.
Udaipur houses some of the most luring hotels ranging from heritage and luxury hotels to economy and budget hotels with world class facilities, romantic escapades, traditional rajasthani hospitality and deft professional service. It is the personalized attention and royal treatment that makes one's stay in udaipur really worthwhile. Since there are so many lakes that has earned the city the title of "City Of Lakes", almost all the rooms in the hotels offer delightful views of serene and placid lake waters or spring green gardens that are always in full bloom.
This blog is a complete tourist guide as it covers all the major attractions of the city one would like to know about and has all the other necessary information with some of the best pictures one would like to view before visiting the place.

Saturday, May 31, 2008

A Shopping Spree Of A Lifetime

Pichwai Painting


Miniature Paintings




Traditional Painting


Finger Puppets





Handmade Paper Crafts





Kundan Jewellery

Mirror Work Handbag



Shopping in Udaipur is a rendezvous with bright colors, exquisite crafts, brilliant hues, warm people and a lot more that has to be felt and cannot possibly be described in mere words. In all, a glorious experience - shopping tours to Udaipur offer you the perfect opportunity to shop till you drop
Buy colorful folk toys, bewitching puppets, elaborate traditional attire, pottery, metal craft, traditional paintings, batiks, hand printed textiles and dyed saris during your shopping tours to Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.
Shop for the famous Pichwai paintings of Udaipur that were traditionally done in bright hues and were hung behind idols or images of Lord Krishna. Also shop for Phad paintings, tie and dye fabrics, kundan jewelry, silver jewelry, precious stones, bright turbans handmade paper crafts mirror work on fabric and more while on shopping tours to Udaipur in Rajasthan, India.
Tour the side streets near the City Palace Complex and shop for ethnic miniature paintings done in the original style of the Mewar School of Art. Visit the Nathdwara village during your Udaipur shopping tours and buy the most exotically sculpted or crafted idols of gods and goddess in terracotta, stone and metal.
Tour the famous bazaars of Udaipur during your shopping tours to this regal land. Some of the popular Udaipur bazaars are Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Chetak Circle, Bada Bazaar and Palace Road.

Thursday, May 29, 2008

The City Of Lakes





Lakes make a perfect backdrop to the romantic setting of Udaipur. Udaipur is truly famous for its beautiful lakes and watercourses. The city is popular by the phrase of 'the city of lakes'. Water is a basic necessity of life and lakes full of water give a sense of relief. The Picturesque lakes offering fabulous view of the mountains make Udaipur, a dream destination of every tourist. Since ages, these lakes have been providing water to the city dwellers.
In the evening, boat-ride in these watercourses leaves a soothing impact on the tangled nerves of the people. Lake Pichola, Udai Sagar Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, Rajsamand Lake and Jaisamand Lake are the five prominent lakes of Udaipur. Apart from these lakes, Doodh Talai, Badi Ka Talab and Kumharia Talab are other small lakes that form the part of watercourses in Udaipur.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Pichola Lake

City Palace On Lake Pichola


Boat Cruise On Lake Pichola


Jag Mandir An Island Palace On The Lake


Beautiful View Of The Lake


A Bridge On The Lake


Bathing Ghats On The Shores Of Pichola


Various Islands On The Lake


A Beautiful Sunset On The Lake

Pichola Lake is one of the most beautiful and picturesque lakes of Rajasthan, India. Located in the heart of the city, Pichola Lake is the oldest and one of the largest lakes of Udaipur. In 1362, the beautiful lake was built by Pichhu Banjara during the ruling period of Maharana Lakha. Talking about the dimensions of Pichhola Lake, it is extended to 3 miles in length, 2 miles in width and has depth of 30 feet.
The beauty of this lake has not separated anyone to attract towards it. The lake looks more enchanting with its scenic surroundings. Maharana Udai Singh must have been certainly captivated by the charm of this pristine lake with the perfect backdrop of lush green hills as when he founded the city of Udaipur, he enlarged this lake. He also constructed a dam made in stone that falls under the 'Badipol' region on the shore of this lake.
Pichola Lake is enveloped by lofty Palaces, temples, bathing ghats and elevated hills on all its sides. In the southern part of this lake, there is a hill that is known as Machhala Magra and one can see glimpse of Eklinggarh Fort from here. The City Palace of Udaipur broadens along the eastern banks of this lake. Built by Jagat Singh, Mohan Mandir is situated in the north-east corner of Lake Pichola.
Lake Pichola comprises several islands that accompany the calm waters of the lake. The world-renowned Lake Palace is perfectly located on the Jag Island of this tranquil lake. Even the Jag Mandir, another destination of tourists,is located on an island of this lake. Above all, a trip to Pichola Lake would be incomplete without a boat ride. The pristine blue waters of the lake leave a soothing impact on the spectator. At the time sun-set, a boat ride in this lake is sufficient to enthrall anyone.
Rudyard Kipling mentioned this lake in his Letters of Marque (1899), "If the Venetian owned the Pichola Lake, he might say with justice, `see it and die'". The beauty of Lake Pichola attracts people from all over the world. One can undeniably say for Pichola that once, if you see this lake, you would definitely fall in love with it. The mesmerizing beauty of Lake Pichola makes it worth visiting during your visit to Udaipur.

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Fateh Sagar Lake

Beautiful View Of The Lake Encircled By Hills


Decorative Boats At The Lake

Sunset View On The Lake


Serene Water Of The Lake
Fateh Sagar Lake is the second artificial lake of Udaipur, the first being Jaisamand lake. Located in the north of Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake lies just besides the entrance to Moti Magri Hill. Built in 1678 by Maharana Jai Singh, Fateh Sagar Lake got its name from Maharana Fateh Singh, who later made additions to it. Talking about the statistics of Fateh Sagar, the lake extends to the length of 2.4 km, 1.6 km. in width and deep to the extent of 11.5 meter. During the monsoons, the lake covers the total area of around 1 sq km.
Fateh Sagar Lake is well-planned with three intake channels and an overflow channel that is usually brought into play in the rainy season. Fateh Sagar Lake is embellished by three small islands, which can be reached by taking a boat ride in the lake. The largest island of the lake is developed into a park by the name of Nehru Park. The garden comprises a boat-shaped restaurant and a small zoo for children. This island park is the favorite picnic spot of Udaipur dwellers.
The second island is converted into a public park with brilliant water-jet fountains by the Government of Rajasthan.The third island addresses Udaipur Solar Observatory, which is the best solar observing site in Asia. Fateh Sagar Lake is quiet place where people usually come for relaxation and to lighten up amidst the serene waters of the lake. From the bottom of Moti Magri Hill, you can hire pedal boats or motor boats as per your convenience to enjoy a boat ride in the lake.
This pear-shaped lake is encircled by hills, with the exception of its eastern side, where a straight stone dam is to be found. You can enjoy this lake taking its circumference while driving through Moti Magri Road, Fateh Sagar Drive and Rani Road. This twisting route would present stunning views of the lake as well as the encompassing Aravalli Hills. Fateh Sagar Lake is a nice place to explore and tourists certainly come to enjoy the tranquil beauty of this lake.

Friday, May 23, 2008

Jaisamand Lake

Second Largest Arificial Lake In Asia





Marble Elephant On The Embankment


Carved Cenotaphs On The Embankment

Jaisamand Lake is renowned for being the second largest artificial lake in Asia. Located at a distance of 48 kms from the city of Udaipur, Jaisamand Lake is also known as Dhebar. In 1685, Maharana Jai Singh built this lake while making a dam on the Gomti River. This lake covers an area of 36sq km, stretches to the length of 14 km and width of 9 km. The lake is deep to the maximum of 102 feet and has a circumference of 30 miles.
Jaisamand Lake was the largest artificial lake in Asia, till the time when Aswan Dam of Egypt was not constructed. The dam on this lake is worth mentioning due to its massive size. It is 1202 feet in length, 116 feet in height and width of 70 feet at the bottom. The kings of Mewar were religious by nature and this is conformed by the fact that this dam has a Shiva temple. Centrally located, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Moreover, a summer palace of Udaipur Queens makes the perfect backdrop to Jaisamand Lake. The lake also boasts of six interesting cenotaphs carved from marble on its embankment. On the northern shore of the lake, there is a stunning palace with a courtyard and on its southern shore; there is a pavilion of 12 pillars. From the courtyard of the palace, you can see the dazzling view of Jaisamand Lake.
In total, this lake comprises seven islands and one of the islands is still inhabited by the tribe of Bhil Minas. Out of all, the biggest island is known as 'Babaka Bhagra' and the second one is known as 'Piari'. The lake has graceful marble steps descending to the water, you can enjoy boat ride in the calm waters of Jaisamand Lake too. This lake offers a wonderful place to relax and lighten up. Another feature of Jaisamand Lake that makes it a nice place to visit is a sanctuary.
Jaisamand Lake is close to the sanctuary that serves habitat to various types of birds, panthers, leopards, deer, wild boars and crocodiles. Once, these woods used to form the hunting ground of the erstwhile rulers of Mewar. In 1957, Jaisamand Sanctuary was built to cover an area of 62sqkm. This sanctuary hails a large variety of resident and migratory birds and animals. In the present date, it has been converted into a game sanctuary.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Rajsamand Lake

White Marble Embankment


Calm And Serene Water Of The Lake

Rajsamand Lake is one of the five popular lakes of Udaipur. Located 66kms in the north of Udaipur, Rajsamand Lake lies between Rajnagar and Kankroli. The lake is also known by the name of Rajsamudra Lake in Rajasthan. Rajsamand Lake was built by Maharana Raj Singh in 1660. Noticing the statistics, the lake stretches to the length of 4 miles and 1.75 miles in width. The lake has the approximate depth of 60 feet.
River Gomti is the main supplier of water to Rajsamand Lake. This lake also boasts of a glorious dam that was built in the 17th century. On the southern end of the lake, the huge embankment is all made in white marble. It has marbleterraces and stone steps that touch the waters of the lake. Here, one can also see the five toranas (weighing arches),where Maharana Raj Singh and his descendants organized the event of Tuladan (Kings used to weigh themselves in gold and then distributed it amongst the Brahmans).
On the embankment of the lake, there domicile nine pavilions or 'Nauchowki', which were constructed by Maharana Raj Singh. The beautifully carved pavilions are festooned with pictures of the Sun, chariots, Gods, birds and wonderful carvings. The history of Mewar is inscribed in 1017 stanzas, on twenty seven marble slabs, that are called as 'Raj Prasasti'. It has also been acclaimed as one of the longest etchings acknowledged in India.
If we turn the pages of Historical facts, Rajsamand Lake also made the seaplane base of Imperial Airways during World War II, for over six years. If you are visiting Kankroli, enjoy the fabulous scenery of Rajsamand Lake from Dwarkadhish Temple that is discussed in our section of Temples. While traveling to Kumbhalgarh, you can trace the most amazing site of Rajsamand Lake.
At the time of sunset, the waters of the lake glitter with the startling light of the sun. The vista appears marvelous at this time, when the orange shade of the departing Sun shades the waters of the lake. A quiet walk on the banks of Rajsamand Lake would take away all your stress and tension instantly. You would find this scene, definitely a sight, to behold forever.

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Udai Sagar Lake


Udai Sagar Lake is another striking lake that falls under the category of five lakes of Udaipur. Udaisagar Lake is located at a distance of about 13 kms in the east of Udaipur. The construction of this lake was started in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh and got completed in 1565. Udai Sagar Lake extends to 4 km in length 2.5 km in width and deep to the extent of 9 meters at the maximum. Actually, Udai Sagar Lake was the result of a dam that took its start in 1559.
Maharana Udai Singh constructed this dam on Berach River, to ensure adequate supply of water in his kingdom. Dam at Udaisagar Lake drains about 479 sq km of the country and covers an area of 10.5 sq kms. It has a storage capacity of 23.4 milli cubic meter. To manage the overflowing lake during rainy season, one channel has been made connecting to Berach River. Today, the water of this lake is used in the zinc smelter close to Debari. The lake usually has plenty of water with the exception of lean years.
In 1573, Maharana Pratap Singh was invited by Kunwar Man Singh on the banks of Udai Sagar Lake to talk about the surrendering terms and conditions to Akbar (Mughal Emperor). The invitation was declined by Pratap Singh and he even insulted Man Singh. This incident led to the Battle of Haldighati in 1576. Later, Maharana Raj Singh conquered the army of Emperor Aurangzeb near the embankment of Udai Sagar Lake. People visit this lake to enjoy the serene waters of this lake.

Saturday, May 17, 2008

Doodh Talai

Doodh Talai is a small lake that adores the south-east direction of Pichola Lake. Located in the southern side of Shiv Niwas Palace, Dudh Talai contributes to the waters of Lake Pichola. This stream adds to the picturesque triangle in the company of Pichola on one side, Doodh Talai on the second and M.L. Verma Garden on the third.

Friday, May 16, 2008

Jiyan Sagar(Badi Ka Talab)


Jiyan Sagar is another striking lake, located in the village of Badi. Built by Maharana Raj Singh, Jiyan Sagar was built to deal with the problem of famine in the area. The lake was named after Jana Devi, mother of Raj Singh. Jiyan Sagar is also known as Badi Ka Talab. It sprawls in an area of 155 sq. km. and the embankment of the lake extends to the length of 180 meters and width of 18 meters. Jiyan Sagar also adores three artistic kiosks (chattris).

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Swaroop Sagar


Swaroop Sagar is a small artificial lake that was created by Maharana Swaroop Singh. The lake was subsequently named after him. It is also known as Kumharia Talab. Located behind the famous Jagdish Temple, Kumharia Talab is near Chand Pol adjoining Rangsagar. The lake was actually built to provide water to the people of Udaipur. Kumharia Talab is connected with Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

The Garden City Of Rajasthan

Udaipur, the city of lakes, is also known as the garden city of Rajasthan. This romantic city, with the backdrop of picturesque lakes and lush green gardens, appeals to the aesthetic sense of any spectator. The very name of garden brings a sense of relief in the era of concrete jungles. In the bygone ages, the rulers of Udaipur designed a few gardens & parks to remain close with nature and serenity. The city of Udaipur boasts of several gardens that are truly a green retreat in the dry lands of Rajasthan.
The lakes and tropical climate of Udaipur city make it possible to generate gardens here. Gulab Bagh or Sajjan Niwas Garden is a fabulous garden full of unusual rose flowers. Nehru Island Park is outlined as an island in the Fateh Sagar Lake. Saheliyo ki Bari was constructed with a different concept and was meant for the pleasure of royal ladies. Guru Govind Singh Park (Rock Garden) offers a captivating view of the golden sky. As the Sun hides behind the Aravalli hills, one can observe the flickering Fateh Sagar Lake.
Aravali Vatika, Meera Park, Manikya Lal Verma Park, Nehru Municipal Children's Park, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadyaya Park and Moti Magri Park are some other interesting parks of Udaipur. Moti Magri Park and Manikya Lal Verma Park are famous for their sun-set views.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Sajjan Niwas Garden

The Largest Garden Of Rajasthan


Beautiful Fountains




A Small Zoo At The Garden




Sajjan Niwas Garden is the largest garden of Rajasthan, sprawled over 100 acres of land. During 1850's, Maharana Sajjan Singh took the initiative to built this beautiful garden. Sajjan Niwas Bagh is celebrated for its numerous varieties of roses. Due to abundance of rose flowers, this garden is also known as Gulab Bagh or Rose Garden. Situated right beneath the banks of Pichola Lake on Lake Palace Road, Gulab Bagh is an interesting park in the southeast of City Palace complex.
Innumerable array of roses, which are not common in the lands of India, makes the garden different from others. The arrangement of flower beds forms the highlight of this garden. Gulab Bagh is a peaceful garden, a virtual forest of flowers, on the rim of the city area. Residents of Udaipur usually visit this place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this beautiful garden. If you love nature and want to observe it closely, Rose Garden is the best way to explore nature's splendor.
The soothing vistas with unusual rose beds, robust trees, orchids and spacious lawns leave any visitor in a delusion. While you are enjoying this beautiful scenery, you can leave your kids to enjoy their much loved amusement.It is a toy train in the premises of the garden that would be cherished by your child. The garden also comprises a small zoo that has number of animals like chinkara, leopards, tigers and birds.
Apart from the natural beauty, Sajjan Nivas Garden has something more to offer you. It is a library that was constructed by Maharana Fateh Singh. The Library is known as Saraswati Bhawan Library. This library houses books related to history, archaeology, Indology and several manuscripts that date back to the early medieval period. Gulab Bagh also encompasses a museum, which was originally known as Victoria Hall Museum. It is famous for its collection of antiques, curios, royal household items and other interesting relics from the past.
Once, this beautiful garden was regarded as one of the largest urban parks in India. Till date, the garden has not lost its charm. Tourists from all over come to visit this spectacular park of 19th century. It is actually a paradisiacal pleasure and one of the best gardens of Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Monday, May 12, 2008

Saheliyon Ki Bari

Main Entrance Of The Garden


Fountain Along The Passage


Beautiful Gardens


Marble Elephants Around The Fountain


Fountain With Trees All Around


Fountain During The Day





Lotus Pool


Fountain At Night

Saheliyon Ki Bari is one the most beautiful gardens and a major tourist destination in Udaipur. The garden is famousfor its lush green lawns, marble art and fountains. English translation of Saheliyon Ki Bari means "Garden of maids". This renowned garden is located on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake, presenting a green retreat in the dry lands of Rajasthan. Garden of maids was built in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies.
As per the legends, the garden was designed by the king himself and he presented this garden to his queen. Actually,the Queen was accompanied by 48 maids in her marriage. To offer all of them, pleasurable moments away from the political intrigues of the court, this garden was made. This patterned garden used to be the popular relaxing spot of the royal ladies. The queen with her maids and female companions used to come here for a stroll and spend their time in leisure.
Due to this fact, the garden got its name. The superb architecture of the garden provides a breath-taking view to any observer. The garden is embellished with numerous fountains in its four water pools, chiseled kiosks and marble elephants. It is also celebrated for its lotus pool and bird-fountains. The lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions further enhance the romantic ambience of this magnificent garden.
In the later years, Maharana Bhopal Singh really liked this place and built a pavilion of rain fountains. The thought was to form an illusion of rain dancing in cadence with dancing maids. The Kings used to enjoy around the pools and fountains of this garden. These fountains were imported from England and you can trace them along with the main reservoir of the garden. The main reservoir has four black marbled kiosks in its corners and one white marbled kiosk in its center. On the top of kiosks, these fountains are in the form of sculpted birds that spurts water from their beaks producing the rain effect.
The museum exhibiting the huge collection of royal households is another attraction of this garden. It has many ancient pictures and things of the bygone period. Sight of stuffed cobras and other animals will definitely add a tint of adventure to your trip. Above all, you can stroll through the shady lawns, where the bunch of bougainvillea will bend down to greet you. Today, Saheliyon ki Bari has become the pleasure park for the recreation of Udaipur dwellers.
Garden of Maids is actually a place to visit by any visitor to this city. The crystalloid fountains, lotus pool, marbled elephants sprinkling water and many more attractions provide truly a picturesque sight to behold.

Saturday, May 10, 2008

Nehru Island Garden

View Of The Garden From Fateh Sagar Lake


View From The Top
This oval shaped island garden is situated amidst the Fateh Sagar Lake. In order to reach this romantic garden, you have to take a boat ride in the lake. The lush green garden with its water fountains, flower gardens and a lily pond offers truly an eye-soothing view for any observer. The garden also comprises a restaurant where you can enjoy the lip-smacking dishes along with the scenery of green Aravalli hills.