One of the most romantic cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is also known as the city of lakes. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage. The City of Dawn, surrounded by the ancient Aravali Mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, is a brilliant kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples.

'Udaipur', known as the lovely lakeside capital of Mewar. The kingdom of Mewar, with which many legends of bravery are associated, was considered the most respectable of all Rajput princely states in Rajasthan. The Rulers of Mewar are still remembered for their bravery & courage they showed for protecting their motherland from external invaders. Udaipur's beauty and its remarkable past blossoms in the heart of the visitors for a long time.

The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure water lakes, hemmed in by the lush hills of the Aravalis. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sounds and experiences - an inspiration for the imagination of the poets, painters and writers. Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomising valour and chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the Lake Pichhola is an enticing sight.

Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar - a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 years. The foundation of the city has an interesting legend associated with it. According to it, Maharana Udai Singh, the founder, was hunting one day when he met a holy man meditating on a hill overlooking the Lake Pichhola.

The hermit blessed the Maharana and advised him to build a palace at this favourably located spot with a fertile valley watered by the stream, a lake, an agreeable altitude and an amphitheater of low mountains. Maharana followed the advise of the hermit and founded the city in 1559 A.D. Overlooking the aquamarine expanses of the Lake Pichhola stands the splendid City Palace - a marvel in granite and marble. Of the original eleven gates of the Udaipur City, only five remain. The Surajpole or Sun Gate on the eastern side is the main entrance to the city.

Exquisite Lake Palace of Udaipur, shimmering like jewel on Lake Pichhola are overwhelming in splendour. Several places of interest around Udaipur, including the majestic Chittaurgarh, the mountain fortress of Kumbhalgarh, beautiful Jain temples of Ranakpur, Eklingji and Nathdwara and the cool retreat of Mount Abu, make the visit to Udaipur a memorable one.

General Information :

• Area : Spans over 37 sq. Km

• Height : 577 meters above sea level

• Summer : 38'C to 29'C

• Winter : 28'C to 11.6'C

• Rainfall 61 cm

• Best Seasons : Sept-March

• Summer Wear : Tropical Light/Cotton

• Winter Wear : Warm/Light Woolen

• Languages : Hindi, Mewari, English

// Destinations

City Palace:

Standing on the banks of Lake Pichola, are massive series of palaces built from a period commencing from 1559 A.D. The balconies of the palace provide panoramic view of Jag Niwas (Lake Palace Hotel), Jag Mandir on one side and the city of Udaipur on the other. Its main entrance is through Tripolia Gate. The most eye catching places are Suraj Gokhada, Morchowk,,Sheesh Mahal etc.

Jag Niwas :
(Lake Palace) It is regarded as one of the most enchanting and beautiful palaces of the World! Built in 1754 A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh II as his summer abode, it stands as a marvel of Mughal Rajput architecture. The palace now has acclaimed fame as the luxury Hotel Lake Palace.

Jag Mandir:

In the middle of Lake Pichola is the island palace of Jag Mandir, where Prince Shahjahan, who built the Taj Mahal, sought refuge from his father. This three storied temple was completed by Maharana Jagat Singh I in 1652 A.D.

Jagdish Temple:

Built in 1651 A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh I with the imposing sculpture figures.It is the largest and most splendid temple in Udaipur and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is an exemplary example of Indo Aryan architecture.

Sahelion Ki Bari:

This Garden of Maidens of Honor, brings to the fore the unique lifestyle of the Royal Ladies who once strolled in these gardens. It was laid out by Maharana Sangram Singh in early 18th century and is famous for its Five Ornamental Fountains and the Lily Pond.

Dudh Talai:

A beautiful garden which embodies both stone and exotic plants is famous for its Sunset View of Lake Pichola. Built-on the banks of Lake Pichola it presents one with a panoramic view of Jagmandir, Jag Niwas , City Palace and Udaipur City is a single sight. It also has remarkable musical fountains.

Ahar:

Ahar, the ancient capital of the Sisodias who created the kingdom of Mewar. It is a veritable forest of chhatris-white marble cenotaphs, commemorating royal personages of Mewar. Nearby is a small archeological museum housing a rare collection of four thousand year old earthen pots and remains.