Udaipur, also known as the ‘city of lakes’ or ‘Venice of the East’ has held its heritage in the eyes of nature. And together woven, these two threads set your soul at peace in the 'white city’. The city still reflects the remembrance of Royal past and courage it has been carried out to date. One is advised not to miss the golden evenings in Udaipur as the sunsets here are unambiguously beautiful.
Here are few ‘must visit’ places which make this city's beauty unavoidable.
Lake Pichola
One of the magnificent man-made wonders in Udaipur is Lake Pichola. Surrounded by hills, temples, glorious palaces, and scared ghats, Lake Pichola offers a sense of bliss and peace. It is a true combination of urban cultural cultivation and history of nature. The Lake was constructed in 1362 AD and Rana Udai Singh II enlarged it later smitten by the beauty of the place. The lake has four islands, named Jag Mandir, Mohan Mandir, Jag Niwas, and Arsi Vilas. You will find many luxurious hotels and palaces located on these islands. They surely augment the beauty of the lake at night. Ornate arch bridges have been built on some locations, where the lake narrows, to connect the nearby banks.
Taking an evening boat ride is the best way to indulge Lake Pichola’s peaceful experience. The warming sun rays seem to brush this freshwater lake into a light golden nature’s wonder.
City Palace
Located on the east bank of Lake Pichola, City Palace is the most splendid palace in Udaipur. First built by Maharana Udai Singh II, this historically important palace then was consistently contributed by his successors of Mewara dynasty for the following 400 years. Situated amongst the Aravalli hills, it is a fusion of Rajasthani, Mughal and European architectural styles. A part of the palace has been converted into a museum which is open for the visitors. The palace beholds everything which magnifies its cultural and historical importance be it antique wall paintings or unique architecture.
There are many significant structures in the palace that leave one astonished by the palace’s rich history and construction. When illuminated at night the palace seems majestically beautiful that one cannot the eyes off. The flickering lights of City Palace brighten the darkness of Pichola Lake and enhance the view of the whole of the city.
Bagore ki Haveli
This historically majestic haveli is situated near Lake Pichola. The construction of Bagore Ki Haveli was done by Amirchand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar, in the 18th century. It is beholding the royal history and culture of Rajputs. The prodigious haveli has more than 100 rooms persevering the unique art of that time. Once, the pride of the Royal family has now been converted into a museum by the government but maintaining the heritage.
Bagore Ki Haveli is an epitome of rich and astonishing architecture. You can feel the essence of courage and beauty both at the same time. It seems that the haveli preaches about the royal charm in whatever passage or room you pass by. Ornately built walls and carvings, the gigantic paintings, brilliant glasswork, antique collections used by Rajputs such as jewellry boxes, copper vessels, hand fans, hukkas and many things to add to its grace. One should not miss the folk song and dance show in the evening, and noteworthy puppetry show.
Fateh Sagar Lake
Probably one of the most visited and beautiful place in Udaipur is Fateh Sagar Lake. Built in the 1680s, the lake consists of three small islands. These islands are beautifully maintained with green parks and fountains. Boating in the evening can be a very blissful experience to have. The hazel turned horizon will turn the evening Aurora into a delightful memory that you will always cherish.
Udaipur has a lot to offer to bring back your peace and soul to the ground. The grace of beauty is integrated with the city’s royal antiquity.