Udaipur

Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes” or “Venice of the East,” is a romantic and picturesque city in Rajasthan, India. Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills, it’s renowned for its stunning lakes, opulent palaces, intricate havelis, and vibrant bazaars, reflecting its rich Mewar heritage.

History: Udaipur was founded in 1559 AD by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Mewar dynasty. He shifted his capital from Chittorgarh to Udaipur for better strategic reasons and to escape frequent Mughal attacks. The city prospered under subsequent Maharana rulers, notably Maharana Fateh Singh. Udaipur remained the capital of the Mewar kingdom until its accession into the Indian Union in 1949.

Key Attractions:

• Lake Pichola: The heart of Udaipur, this artificial freshwater lake is undoubtedly its most iconic feature. It’s adorned with two islands, Jag Niwas (housing the Lake Palace) and Jag Mandir. Boat rides on Lake Pichola, especially at sunset, offer breathtaking views of the City Palace and surrounding hills.
• City Palace: A magnificent complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens, perched on the banks of Lake Pichola. It’s a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles and houses a museum showcasing royal artifacts, paintings, and historical items. Key areas include the Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard), Dilkhush Mahal, and Zenana Mahal.
• Jag Mandir: An island palace on Lake Pichola, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. It’s said that Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan found refuge here before becoming emperor and drew inspiration for the Taj Mahal.
• Jag Niwas (Lake Palace): Now a luxurious Taj Lake Palace Hotel, this stunning white marble palace appears to float on the waters of Lake Pichola. While guests only have access, its beauty can be admired from boat rides and the City Palace.
• Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of Maidens): A beautiful garden built for the royal ladies, featuring fountains, kiosks, a lotus pool, and marble elephants. It offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle.
• Fateh Sagar Lake: Another picturesque artificial lake, north of Lake Pichola. It also has islands, including Nehru Park (accessible by boat) and the Udaipur Solar Observatory.
• Monsoon Palace (Sajjan Garh Palace): Perched on a hilltop overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake, this palace offers spectacular panoramic views of Udaipur’s lakes and palaces, especially during sunset and the monsoon season.
• Bagore ki Haveli: A grand haveli located on the Gangaur Ghat, now converted into a museum. It showcases traditional Rajasthani art, costumes, and a famous evening cultural show (Dharohar Dance Show) that highlights local folk dances.
• Shilpgram: A rural arts and crafts complex showcasing the traditional village life, architecture, and crafts of Rajasthan and neighboring states. It hosts various festivals and cultural events.
• Ahar Cenotaphs & Museum: Located outside the city, this site contains a cluster of royal cenotaphs (chhatris) of the Maharanas of Mewar and a small archaeological museum with artifacts from the ancient civilization of Ahar.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Udaipur is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from approximately 10°C to 30°C, making it perfect for sightseeing, boat rides, and exploring the city’s charming streets. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, and are generally not recommended for tourists. The monsoon season (July to September) brings lush greenery and a romantic ambiance, but can sometimes be humid and disrupt outdoor activities.