City Palace Udaipur
Built on the banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace in Udaipur is considered to be the largest royal complex in Rajasthan. The magnificent palace was built in the year 1559 by Maharana Uday Singh and served as the main seat of power, where the Maharanas lived and administered the kingdom from. Subsequently, the palace was made even more splendid by his successors, who added a number of structures to it. The Palace now has an assortment of Mahals, courtyards, pavilions, corridors, terraces, rooms and hanging gardens. There is a museum here as well that showcases some of the finest elements of Rajput arts and culture - from colourful paintings to the typical architecture found in Rajasthani palaces. Nestled in the bosom of the Aravallis, the granite and marble edifice of the City Palace stands in contrast to its quaint natural surroundings. The intricate architecture of the regal palace is a subtle mix of medieval, European as well as Chinese influences and is embellished with numerous domes, arches and towers
Lake Pichola
The Lake Pichola is an artificial lake located in the heart of Udaipur, Rajasthan. The oldest and one of the largest lakes of the city, the Lake Pichola observes lakhs of tourists because of its tranquillity and beauty. Flanked by lofty hills, heritage buildings and bathing ghats, it is a dream come true for peace and nature lovers. A visit to the Lake Pichola is incomplete without a boat ride, especially in the dawn. During evenings, it seems the entire place has been dipped in gold as you can see the heritage buildings and the pristine water turning golden with the sun's reflection. The enthralling views will take you to a different world of stillness and will also bring out your romantic side.Built by Pichhu Banjara during the ruling period of Maharana Lakha in 1362 AD, the Pichola lake is 3 miles in length, 2 miles in width and has a depth of 30 feet. Maharana Udai Singh, enchanted by the charm of the lake enlarged it and also constructed a dam on the shores of this lake.
Sajjangarh Palace
Located just on the outskirts of the city of Udaipur, perched atop a hill, Sajjangarh Palace is a former royal residence belonging to the Mewar dynasty, who ruled over this place for centuries. The palatial complex is named after its patron, Maharana Sajjan Singh, who ordered its construction and had it erected in 1884. It was originally intended to be a nine-storeyed astronomical observatory to note and assess the arrival and patterns of monsoon clouds, which could be easily perceived from the palace because of its location at a strategic vantage point at one of the hilltops of Aravalli, called Bansdara Peak. For this reason, it has also earned the name Monsoon Palace. It would have also created employment opportunities for the subjects.However, due to the premature death of Maharana Sajjan Singh, that did not turn into a reality. His successor Maharana Fateh Singh transformed it into a place of recreation. During his tenure and after that, the Monsoon Palace was primarily used as a hunting lodge for the royal family of Mewar and their guests.
Bagore Ki Haveli
Situated in the Gangaur Ghat Marg of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan, Bagore ki Haveli is an opulent gracious palace which was built in the eighteenth century on the waterfront of Lake Pichola. Boasting of over a hundred rooms which have elaborate exhibits done up in mirror and glass works, the haveli was built by the Prime Minister of Mewar Kingdom- Amar Chand Badwa. Beautiful paintings and murals from the mewar era adorn the walls of the palace; the Queen’s Chamber is the most popular of the lot which has on display two very gorgeous glass and mirror sculptures of peacocks. Restored and renovated time and again, the haveli has been finally converted into a museum that is thronged by not just regular tourists but also history buffs and culture explorers. The highlight of the haveli is the popular Dharohar Dance Show that is held here every evening which showcases the culture and folk tradition of Rajasthan.
Jag Mandir Palace
Jag Mandir Palace (or ‘The Lake Garden Palace’), is a glorious palace located on the southern island of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The palace is three-storied and the structure is made out of marble and yellow sandstone. It would be a delight to see eight life-sized elephants carved out of pure white marble that seems to guard the palace. It was completed in the early years of the 17th century by Maharana Jagat Singh. The construction was started in 1551 by Maharana Amar Singh and continued by Maharana Karan Singh where it was served as a hiding place for Shah Jahan and was finally completed by Maharana Jagat Singh I.On the trip to this palace, some of the most famous places to visit are Gul Mahal, where Shah Jahn lived with his family. This place is made in the style of Islamic architecture. A mosque was created here to serve the religious needs to Shah Jahan. Bara Patharon ka Mahal (made out of 12 slabs of marble), Kunwar Pada ka Mahal(palace meant for the enthroned prince), and the Zenana Mahal (chambers for the Royal ladies) are other must-visit pavilions.
Eklingji Temple
Eklingji Temple is one of the most popular temples of Rajasthan and is sited at a distance of 22 km to the north of Udaipur. Eklingji Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion and its brilliant architecture drives several tourists here every year. This double-storied temple looks magnificent with its pyramidal style of roof and uniquely carved tower. The outer walls of the temple are stretched with steps that lower touching the serene waters.Established in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal, Eklingji is purported to have been the ruling idol of Mewar rulers. On entering this hall, you would see a beautiful silver image of Nandi and inside the temple, there are two other images of Nandi carved in black stone and brass respectively. This temple is filled with an enthralling fragrance and is known for a striking four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) that is made out of black marble. Its height ranges around 50 feet and its four faces depict four forms of Lord Shiva. The Shivlinga garlanded by a silver snake is a major tourist attraction.
Fateh Sagar Lake
Fateh Sagar Lake is an artificial lake named after Maharana Fateh Singh of Udaipur and Mewar and built to the northwest of Udaipur. Built in 1687, it is the second-largest of the four lakes of Udaipur city. Boating here in the backdrop of Aravali is a must-do activity. Different types of boats are available at the service of the patrons, and you can choose your pick from the same. The sunsets here are incredibly picturesque, and you must visit this destination to witness the same! One can witness the circumference of the Fateh Sagar Lake by driving on the Moti Magri Road and get a fantastic view of the entire lake. The Fateh Sagar Lake is sprawled over one square kilometre and is divided into three distinct islands. The largest is called Nehru Park and houses a boat-shaped restaurant and a small zoo for kids. It also doubles as a famous picnic spot.
Ahar Museum
Ahar Museum, which essentially includes the Ahar Cenotaphs as well as the Ahar Archaeological Museum, is located in Ahar which is about 2km east of Udaipur, Rajasthan. This historical attraction is famous for being the cremation ground of the Maharanas of Mewar and for its beautiful architecture.Dating back over 350 years, the Ahar Museum is a site of archaeological interest since it consists of 19 marble cenotaphs or chhatris with intricate carvings. Each cenotaph is dedicated to a Mewar king; it stands on a raised platform and has columns that are topped off by arched domes. The architraves of the cenotaphs feature ornamentations representative of 15th century temples and also have an image of Lord Shiva along with a figure depicting the Maharana and his Satis. One can find the cenotaphs of Maharana Amar Singh, Sangram Singh, Sajjan Singh, Fateh Singh and others here.
Jagdish Temple
Dedicated to the preserver of the universe, Lord Vishnu; the Jagdish Temple is a grand and majestic structure that stands in the City Palace Complex of the breathtaking city of Udaipur in Rajasthan. Jagdish Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also known as Lord Laxmi Narayan and is reputed for being the most significant temple in the entire city of Udaipur. In fact, the gateway to this grand temple can be seen from the Bara Pol of the City Palace. Beautiful carvings, numerous appealing statues and an atmosphere of serenity make this place of worship an ideal choice for seekers of solace and faith.The main shrine houses the striking four-armed statue of Lord Vishnu, which is carved out of a single piece of black stone. The main shrine of Lord Jagdish is centrally located, encircled by four smaller shrines. These shrines are dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Sun God, Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva respectively. The atmosphere inside the shrine is enveloped with utter calmness and serenity and is an experience that you definitely should not miss.
Saheliyon Ki Bari
Saheliyon Ki Bari is a majestic garden in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. It is also known as the Garden or the Courtyard of Maidens. As the name suggests, it was made for the maidens who accompanied the Princess after her marriage to Maharana Sangram Singh. The mesmerizing Saheliyon Ki Bari is located on the banks of the Fateh Sagar Lake Udaipur. It has beautifully landscaped lush green lawns, canopied walking lanes and magnificent fountains. Most visitors think Saheliyon ki Bari is one of the best places in Udaipur to relax and rejuvenate with friends, family or even alone. The history, the traditional architecture and the regal vibe attract tourists from all over the world.Saheliyon ki Bari is an 18th-century monument which is considered of immense historical importance in India. It is beautifully landscaped with tall trees, lush green shrubbery and flower beds. The beauty of the garden increases two folds by the majestic fountains and gorgeous lotus pool with marble pavilions and statues. One can take a pleasant long stroll or relax and absorb the beauty of the location.
