Located on Jag Niwas Island in the middle of the Lake Pichola the Lake Palace is a mesmerizing view. It is spread across an area of 1.5 hectare of island. The palace was built by the Maharaja Jagat Singh. It was built as a royal summer palace retreat. However, later it got transformed into a five star palace hotel. However, the transformation has not plundered away the various royal features of the palace. You will truly enjoy your visit to the palace. Even if you are not so much inclined towards history then also a visit to the palace will be an enriching experience. The various architectural features of the palace are also something that has a lot of appeal towards the tourists. The unique themes that reflect the rich handicrafts and textiles of the Udaipur are something to watch out for.
On visiting the various rooms of the Lake Palace you will be mesmerized to see the pink stones, cusped arches, painted mirrors and the green lotus leaves. The palace is also equipped with recreation facilities for the guests. The swimming pool, conference center and the bar add to the attraction of the palace. There is also a 24 hours business center along with 8 meeting rooms.
Other attractions of the Lake Palace in Udaipur includes Sprint Mail, Internet connectivity, portable printers, laptops, multimedia computers, workstations and cell phones. The dining options inside the palace add to its features. Though these attractions are mostly part of the hotel but these features make it a great palace to visit as well.
History of Taj Lake Palace
Earlier known as Jag Niwas, Taj Lake Palace was a unique pleasure home of Maharana Jagat Singh III of the Mewar dynasty. If old tales are to be believed, the Palace has a fascinating story behind it.
In the year 1743, Maharana Sangram Singh II received a request from his young son, Maharana Jagat Singh if he can live in the summer Palace Jagmandir along with his women friends. Maharana Sangram Singh denied his request and further taunted his son if he wishes to live in an island palace why doesn’t he get one built for himself. Maharana Jagat Singh took the taunt seriously and got his a pleasure palace on the island which got completed in 1746. The Palace was named ‘Jag Niwas,’ i.e., the home of Maharana Jagat Singh.
The worldwide glory of the Taj Lake Palace was enhanced during an international movie sequence. The Palace has also been used in a crucial scene of a Hollywood movie named ‘Octopussy.’ The Palace gained massive popularity due to this James Bond movie.
Architecture of Taj Lake Palace
Taj Lake Palace has 65 rooms and about 18 grand suites showcasing its luxurious interiors. There are many other facilities available at this stunning heritage hotel such as the 24 hours fitness center, games room, shopping arcade, and business center as well. The rooms are decorated with intricately carved wooden furniture and lavish silk fabrics.
Every room offers a lake or garden view making you feel calm and composed. You can find a flat-screen TV and a DVD player in every room. The bathrooms are attached with a bathtub, shower, and all the necessary toiletries. You can avail butler service offered in every room.
There are two exclusive restaurants and a premium bar in the hotel premises. These select signature restaurants have a customized menu that serves finger-licking delicious cuisines.
1. Neel Kamal- This exceptional dining destination serves the real flavors of Rajasthan in a royal platter. The restaurant chefs have also picked a few North West frontier delights which are worth tasting.
2. Bhairo- Bhairo is an excellent rooftop restaurant that treats you to astonishing views and contemporary European dishes. The scenic view is further enhanced with the presence of a jharokha which overlooks the gorgeous Lake Pichola.
3. Amrit Sagar- You can spice up your evening at the Amrit Sagar bar. The bar serves a premium range of cigars, cocktails, signature martinis, wines, mocktails, cocktails, and sheeshas. The bar holds a royal collection of premium international drinks for the guests.
