Udaipur one of the most happening
cities of Rajasthan which is also known as the city of lakes. Located in the
harsh terrain of the hills and ravines of Aravallis, is the most romantic
places in India. Udaipur is situated around the shimmering clear blue water
lakes, which whispers the mood of a bygone era.
The city was founded in 1567 AD by
Maharana Udai Singh on the advice of a sage. Udaipur was last of the
numerous Mewar capitals. It was in Udaipur that legendary Maharana Pratap
was born. He was obsessed with Chittaur and the past glories of the Sisodia
clan possessed his mind. Maharana Pratap left Udaipur to win back Chittaur
from the Mughals. But he failed in his attempts and Udaipur remained the
capital of Mewar till India got her independence. The memory of the failure
of noble Pratap gives Udaipur its pervading mood of nostalgic wistfulness.
Lake Pichola, Udaipur
Lake Pichola is surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and
has two island palaces- Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir.
The placid Lake Pichola, has a masonry dam, known as the Badipol, and the
lake is now four kms in length and three kms in width. Nevertheless, it
remains fairly shallow and actually dries up in severe droughts and one can
walk up to the island palaces from the shore.
Lake Fateh Sagar, Udaipur
Udaipur is known as the 'city of lakes'. The two most scenic and famous
lakes of the city are lake pichola and lake fateh sagar.
Lake fateh sagar, lies to north of pichola and was built by maharana jai
singh but it got the name of fateh singh who rebuilt its dam.
Both the lakes are breathtakingly beautiful and one can take a cruise on
their waters. The sunset over these lakes are moments to be cherished.
City Palace, Udaipur

The largest palace in rajasthan, udaipur's city palace stands on a crest
overlooking lake pichola. A blend of medieval european and chinese
architecture, the 1500-foot length of the palace has massive octagonal
towers surmounted by cupolas. Historically the residence of the maharajas of
udaipur, its luxurious apartments and roof gardens could take days to
explore.
Lake Palace, Udaipur
This former summer residence of the Royal family, has now been converted
into a fabulous hotel. With Pichola Lake surrounding the lake palace,
lapping and murmuring, rippling waves make the whole atmosphere very
pleasant. All the luxuries of the lake palace have been utilized in making
the hotel as attractive and comfortable as possible. This Lake Palace Hotel
is considered to be one of the best hotels in the world.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari, Udaipur
Saheliyon-ki-Bari or the 'Garden of the Maids of Honour', so called because
the royal ladies came here for a stroll. It is a well laid out garden, with
extensive lawns and shady walks. With flowerbeds lined along the picturesque
park, this small garden is located on the lakeside of the second major lake
of Udaipur - Fateh Sagar Lake.
The garden was constructed for forty-eight young ladies-in-waiting sent to
the royal house, as part of the dowry. This small ornamental garden was a
popular relaxing spot where royal ladies came for a stroll. The garden has
many fountains in its four delightful pools, sculpted kiosks and marble
elephants Its manicured lawns display a marvelous range of bougan villea and
five fountains release showers in tune with their titles namely, 'Welcome';
'Raining Cats and Dogs'; 'Rains in Midnight', 'Rains without Clouds';
'Gentle Shower in Mid Day'.
Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal Museums, Udaipur
This museum houses host of folk arts, which has rich collection of folk
dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments and
paintings. One can watch the puppet show from the world famous puppeteers
but fir this one has put in request in advance.
Pratap Memorial, Udaipur
Mainly popular for the bronze statue of the valiant hero, Maharana Pratap
which has been erected on top of the Modi Magri. Apart from this, there are
some Sunset point which should not be missed out.
Jagdish temple , Udaipur
dedicated to vishnu, this temple was built in 1651 by maharana jagat singh.
How To Get There to Udaipur
Air: The City of Lakes is well connected by air services. The Dabok
Airport is 21 kms from the city centre.
Rail: Udaipur is well connect with the major cities. The Palace On
Wheels covers this magnificent city during its eight day package tour.
Road: There are bus services from tourist places in Rajasthan ,
Gujarat and Delhi.