Honeymoon in Udaipur, the romantic city of India. Termed an oasis in the
desert, Udaipur is a pristine town sitting on the lush hills of the
Aravalis. The town which has also earned the titles like City of Lakes and
Venice of East, hosts some of the finest palaces in the Indian state of
Rajasthan. Udaipur is also the hub of performing arts, crafts and famous
miniature paintings.
City Palace
Stately City Palace, located on the banks of Lake Pichhola, is a marvel in
marble and granite. Constructed in the 18th century, City Palace is
encircled by impressively erected Jagdish Temple, which houses some
impressive sculpted figures and heavily embellished interiors and
Sahelion-ki-Bari or the Garden of Maidens, which has four pools and
delicately carved kiosks.
Lake Palace
Exquisite Lake Palace seems afloat on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichhola.
The palace was erected in the 17th century on a natural foundation of four
acers of rock. This palace have impressive courtyards lined with columns,
pillared terraces, fountains and gardens. The rooms are bedecked with cusped
arches, inland stones of pink, and green lotus leaves and painted mirrors.
Places to Visit
Udaipur is an assortment of exotic gardens filled with blossoming trees,
fantasy island palaces shimmering in mirror-calm lakes.
Pratap Museum :
Pratap Museum hosts some of the oldest sculptures and inscriptions. The
antique paintings of Mewar and the turban of prince Khurram who later sat on
the throne with the title Shahajahan have been displayed here.
Jagdish Temple :
The temple of Jagannath Rai, now called Jagdishji, is a major monument and
should be toured with care. Raised on a tall terrace, it is a tribute alike
to the tenacity of its builders and the resilience of the art and tradition
it represents.
Dudh Talai :
A beautiful laid out "Rock Garden" providing a vantage point
where one can enjoy sunset view in Lake Pichhola and panoramic view of old
city. Musical Fountain is an ancillary plus for the visitors.
Gulab Bagh & Zoo :
A spectacular rose garden laid out by Maharana Sajjan Singh, is situated
near the palace. Along with animals such as tigers, leopards, chinkara and
many wild animals, a library in the garden has a rare assemblage of ancient
handwritten manuscripts and books.
Pratap Smarak (Memorial) :
At the top of the Moti Magri or Pearl Hill, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake is erected the
memorial of the Rajput hero Maharana Pratap with a bronze idol of the
Maharana astride his favorite horse "Chetak".
Fairs
& Festivals
Shilpgarm Festival -
The 10 day festival is a treat for the visitor to a string of exquisite art
and craft. Shilpgram hosts the festival.
Mewar Festival -
Spring arrives with the Mewar festival. During the festival, one can drink to full the cup of Rajasthani
tradition and culture. For enjoying the culture of Rajasthan Mewar festival is the best time.
Shopping
While in Udaipur you can shop at Hathipole, Chetak Circle, Clock Tower, Palace Road and Bapu Bazaar. Several Handicraft emporiums have also been set up by the Rajasthan Government. Udaipur shops have an array of exquisite items to offer. Few Udaipur specials are dainty folk toys, brightly coloured garments, hand printed textiles, batiks, tie & dye sarees and fabrics. 'Pichwais' or wall hangings painted on cloth are famous all over the world for their vivid colours and themes. Udaipur craftsmen have put their art to full use in the metal images and chunky silver jewelery. In short Udaipur is a nice place to get your souvenirs.
How To Reach
Air
Udaipur Airport, located 25km from the City Centre, operates regular flights for major towns like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Jodhpur.
Rail
Railway network connects Udaipur with Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Jodhpur and Chittor. Jaipur also fells on the route of luxury train Palace On Wheels.
Road
Roads connect Udaipur all Rajasthani towns as well as Delhi and Mumbai.
