Udaipur, the erstwhile historic capital of the Rajputs has a stronghold presence in Indian history and continues to hold its rightful place as one of India's most beautiful destinations. A confluence of painstakingly created monuments and man-made lakes along with the surrounding vegetation, makes Udaipur a must-see travel destination in India.
Udaipur located in Rajasthan has many popular tags associated with it such as the 'City of Lakes' owing to the many lakes that dot the city; the Lake Pichola, the Fateh Sagar Lake, the Udai Sagar Lake etc. It also has imposing palaces, delicately sculpted temples and gardens. Here is a look at some of the important places to see in Udaipur that are ideal monsoon spots this season.
Udaipur City Palace
Considered the most iconic symbol of the city, a trip to the Udaipur Palace shows travellers the true grandeur that was once associated with this capital city. Built by Maharana Udai Singh Ji, the palace is situated on Lake Pichhola's borders. The impressive trip to the palace begins at the entrance, which has an imposing triple-arched gate called the Tripolia. You can explore the many well-laid courtyards, gardens and the exquisite glass work done in the Mor-Chowk (Peacock Courtyard). The view from this monsoon spot in Udaipur takes on an enhanced vision during the rains.
Bagore Ki Haveli
Among the popular places to visit in Udaipur is the Bagore Ki Haveli. Built in the 18th century, this old building is a standing testament to the architectural finesse of the people of Merwar. Placed on the edges of Lake Pichola, this building underwent five years of restoration work and is now used as a museum and cultural centre. The interiors of the building lead to over 400 rooms where the royals used to spend their time, giving us a rare peek into the life of royal grandeur.
Monsoon Palace
As the name suggests, this is an ideal monsoon spot in Udaipur. Known in the past as Sajjan Garh Palace, it is best witnessed in the months of June, July and August. Owned by the Merwar family and only recently transferred to the government, it is a new public attraction. The Palace is also popular for the films that have been shot here. It overlooks the Udaipur City and lake, which brims with water and greenery during the monsoons.
Udaipur City Palace
The most outstanding icon of Udaipur City, The Udaipur Palace.
Photo Courtesy: Dennis Jarvis
Udaipur Palace Inner Courtyards
The inner courtyards of Udaipur Palace with intricate tile work.
Photo Courtesy: McKay Savage
Udaipur Palace Mor-Chowk
The Mor-Chowk or Peacock courtyard that gets its name owing to the multi-coloured glass-work that adorns the walls.
Photo Courtesy: McKay Savage
Udaipur Palace – Intricate Jali Work
The Mor-Chowk or Peacock courtyard that gets its name owing to the multi-coloured glass-work that adorns the walls.
Photo Courtesy: Josh Friedman
Bagore Ki Haveli
The old building still holds its charm!
Photo Courtesy: Manoj Vasanth
Bagore Ki Haveli
Cultural activities regularly take place at the Bagore Ki Haveli.
Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers
Monsoon Palace
The royals used this as their monsoon time palce, overlooking the Udaipur city and lakes.
Photo Courtesy: Tony Young
Monsoon Palace
The breathtaking view from the Monsoon Palace
Photo Courtesy: Justin Morgan
Monsoon Palace
Splendid view of the sunset from the Monsoon Palace
Photo Courtesy: Prashant Ram
Fateh Sagar Lake
Among the most popular artificial lakes in the country, Fateh Sagar Lake is a sight to behold at dusk.
Photo Courtesy: Maneesh Soni
The City of Lakes
Udaipur has four popular lakes and has earned the name of 'Lake City' of India.
Photo Courtesy: Girish Suryawanshi
Jag Mandir Island Palace
Situated in the Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir Palce is a popular tourist attraction.
Photo Courtesy: Manoj Vasanth
Jag Mandir Sculptures
The temple palace boasts of exquisite sculptures including those of the elephants guarding the outer walls.
Photo Courtesy: Henrik Bennetsen
Colourful Gods
Udaipur is filled with colour, even the gods are painted bright and happy!
Photo Courtesy: Josh Friedman
Cenotaphs in Udaipur
A silent testimony to the losses of history.
Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers
Heritage Stays at Udaipur
Travellers can experience history by staying at one of the many heritage buildings that have been converted to hotels.
Photo Courtesy: McKay Savage
Udaipur Architecture
The streets, the walls, the windows and doors are all examples of fine architecture!
Photo Courtesy: Ahron de Leeuw
Art In Udaipur
Every street in Udaipur sports some form of art, such as this vivid painting on a wall!
Photo Courtesy: Nevil Zaveri
Colourful Marketplaces
Selling many curios and other items, the marketplace in Udaipur is a riot of colour.
Photo Courtesy: Honza Soukup
An Unforgettable Journey
Udaipur has something for every travller, creating memories that will last forever!
Photo Courtesy: Manoj Vasanth
Fateh Sagar Lake
Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the most prominent symbols of Udaipur city. The lakes comes alive in the monsoon season, its glittering waters attracting travellers from across the world. Among the four lakes of Udaipur, Fateh Sagar Lake is a man-made lake with three small islands housing immaculate parks and amazing water-jet fountains. The Lake also witnesses the grand festival of Hariyali Amavasya Mela in the Shravan months of August-September.
Lake Pichola
Yet another key attraction during the monsoon season in Udaipur is Lake Pichola, a popular artificial lake that has four islands named Jag Nivas, Mohan Mandir, Arsi Vilas and Jag Mandir. There are many attractions to visit on these islands ranging from the famed Jag Mandir to the sanctuary that is an ideal attraction for bird-watchers.
Jag Mandir
Also called the 'Lake Garden Palace', Jag Mandir in Udaipur attracts tourists for its impressive architecture. The Palace has many imposing structures such as the Gul Mahal, The Garden Courtyard, Barah Patharon Ka Mahal, Zenana Mahal and Kunwar Pada Ka Mahal. The temple comprises of beautifully sculpted archways, elephants, cupolas, halls, suites and courts in an interesting mixture of Rajput and Mughal architecture.
How To Reach Udaipur
By Road: Udaipur is connected to both Delhi and Mumbai by the NH8 and covers a distance of nearly 700 km. State-run buses as well as private buses are available to Udaipur.
By Rail: Udaipur is well connected by a vast network of trains to all major cities. Some of the trains are Mewar Express, Gwalior-Udaipur Express, Bandra-Udaipur Express and Ananya Express.
By Air: The nearest airport is the Maharana Pratap Airport, located 20 km from Udaipur City. It connects to all major destinations in India.