Udaipur

Often called the ‘Venice of the East’, the lake city of Udaipur is surrounded by shimmering blue waters and nestled within the lush green hills of the Aravalli range. One of its most iconic landmarks, the Lake Palace, floats gracefully in the middle of Lake Pichola, offering one of Udaipur’s most picturesque views. The city also boasts Jaisamand Lake, considered the second-largest man-made freshwater lake in Asia. Architectural marvels like the City Palace and Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) further enhance Udaipur’s regal charm and splendour.

Udaipur is also noted for its rich deposits of zinc and marble. The Solar Observatory on Lake Fateh Sagar, built on an island, is India’s only island-based observatory and was modelled after the one at Big Bear Lake in Southern California.

The ten-day Shilpgram Festival, held annually from 21st to 30th December, attracts a large number of visitors with a keen interest in traditional arts and crafts.

Udaipur was founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the new capital of the Mewar Kingdom. It is situated in the fertile, circular Girwa Valley, southwest of Nagda, the original capital of Mewar.

Top 3 Attractions in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

01

Lake Palace

Lake palace

Now a luxury hotel, this stunning structure was originally known as Jagniwas and served as a royal summer palace. Constructed between 1743 and 1746 on an island near Jagmandir in Lake Pichola, the east-facing palace is a breathtaking sight. Its black and white marble walls are embellished with semi-precious stones and decorative niches. Elegant courtyards are graced with gardens, fountains, pillared terraces, and intricately carved columns.

02

Jag Mandir

Jag Mandir

Jagmandir is a magnificent palace built on an island in Lake Pichola, also known as the ‘Lake Garden Palace’. Construction began in 1620 and was completed around 1652. The royal family of Mewar used it as a summer retreat and a venue for grand celebrations. Notably, Prince Khurram—who later became Emperor Shah Jahan—was offered refuge here during his rebellion against his father, Emperor Jahangir. The palace left such a lasting impression on Shah Jahan that it later inspired the creation of one of the world’s greatest architectural marvels—the Taj Mahal.

03

Lake Pichola 2

Lake Pichola

Picholi was originally the name of a village that gave Lake Pichola its name. The lake is home to the islands of Jagniwas and Jagmandir, both featuring iconic palaces. Along its eastern banks stands the majestic City Palace. A boat ride on the lake during sunset provides a spectacular view of the shimmering waters and the grandeur of the City Palace, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Luxury

accommodation in Udaipur

Taj Lake Palace

Jag Niwas, constructed between 1743-1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II, the 62nd custodian of House of Mewar, was used as a summer retreat by the Mewar Royal family over years until Maharana Bhagwat Singh, Mewar of Udaipur in 1963 converted it into a heritage hotel. A jewel floating in the middle of Lake Pichola, Taj Lake Palace is a building made of marble locally sourced from Rajnagar, brought in by bullock carts travelling 66 kms to Udaipur. Architecture influenced from Mughals, predominantly lead by Mewari techniques this heritage hotel in Udaipur has 65 luxurious rooms and 18 grand suites. Restored to its pristine glory, this spectacular palace became world renowned when the James Bond film ‘Octopussy’ was filmed at it. It was the secluded lair of the film’s eponymous Bond Girl. 

This 5 star palace hotel in Udaipur at Lake Pichola continues the tradition of grand soirees and formal levees which were hosted here by the royal family of Udaipur. Known as the Venice of the East, the city of Udaipur, with its elaborate palaces, serene lakes, exotic temples and resplendent gardens, has a lot to offer.

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