Udaipur

Udaipur - Introduction

Amidst the Aravali hills of South Rajasthan, Udaipur is the most romantic city in Rajasthan, better known as the city of lakes. It presents an enchanting image of white marble palaces, breathtaking hilltop fortresses, green hills, placid blue lakes, and gripping legends of medieval chivalry and heroism.

Udaipur - History

The heartcentre of Mewar region in Rajasthan, the city was built by the Sisodia clan who ruled this region for almost 1200 years. Maharana Udai Singh, driven from the citadel of Chittorgarh by the pursuing armies of Mughal Emperor Akbar decided to build his new capital city on a hill overlooking Lake Pichola. The new city was laid down in 1559 AD. Surrounded by forests, guarded by Aravali Hills on all four sides and watered by Lake Pichola - the new city was more secure than the Chittorgarh - their old capital for 800 years. Udaipur today is one of the most picturesque cities in Rajasthan with its lakes, hills, and beautiful palace.

Udaipur - Tourist Attractions

The foundation of this enormous complex was laid by Maharana Udai Singh in the 16th century. This is a whole series of mansions added over a period of nearly three centuries. The approach to the palace complex is through Hathi Pol while Bari Pol brings you to the first courtyard. Some of the important attractions inside are temple of Dhuni Mata, Bari Mahal, Dilkhush Bagh, Krishna Vilas, Chini Chitrashala, Moti Mahal, Bhim Vilas, The Suraj Gokhada, and Manak Mahal.

The museum has a wonderful collection of old Rajput weaponry.

Shiv Niwas and Fateh Prakash Palace

The later additions to the palace are up against the lake shore. These two luxury palaces were the personal guest houses of the Maharana and now converted in to two grand heritage hotels.

Jagdish Temple

A classical Hindu style temple, near to the entrance of the city palace, was built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it has a black stone image of the Jagannath - lord of the universe.

Jagmandir

An unforgettable sight on Lake Pichola is the island of Jagmandir. This water palace was built by Maharana Karan Singh in 1622. The domed sandstone palace is decorated with fine marble and fountains and some splendid stone carvings, including row of marble elephants who seem to guard the island. Boats take one to the Jagmandir and the island offers real beautiful commanding views of the Lake Palace, the Monsoon Palace, the great City Palace and the town.

Hawa Mahal - Palace of Winds

Hawa Mahal adjoins the City Palace Complex and was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The most famous of Jaipur's landmark - it was built for the royal ladies kept in Purdah to watch at leisure without being seen the activities on the streets of Jaipur as well as royal possessions.

Jagniwas or Lake Palace

The Jagniwas Island was a creation, rising from the broad waters of Lake Pichola, by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 17th century. The Palace is built of granite and white marble on an area of nearly four acres. It seems to float like a dream ship on the blue waters of the lake. Once it was the summer palace of the rulers of Mewar, later converted into a hotel in 1960's by Maharana Bhagwat Singh.

The building was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob in the modern Indo-Sarcenic style & built in 1886 AD, when King Edward visited India as the Prince of Wales.

Other Important Attractions

Situated 11 km from Jaipur rises midst the dry wrinkled hill Amer, the magnificent old citadel - a labyrinth of massive walls & towers. It was the former capital of Kachhwaha's for seven centuries. The important attraction is Palace Complex with its Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Jas Mandir, and Sukh Niwas. The best way to reach Amber Fort complex is on the back of an elephant.

Other Attractions

Other important attractions in Udaipur are Bagore ki Haveli Museum, Arsi Vilas, Fateh Sagar Lake, Pratap Memorial, Natani ka Chabutra, Saheliyon ki Bari, and Ahar.

Nahargarh Fort or Tiger Fort was built by Rathore prince Nahar Singh in 1737. Important attractions are Hazari Burj and Madhvendra Bhawan.