Rajsamand Lake Udaipur, also known as Rajsamudra Lake, is a picturesque reservoir located near the town of Rajsamand in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan, India. Constructed by Maharana Raj Singh in 1660, the lake was created to counteract the effects of a severe drought in the region. Spanning an area of approximately 7.7 square kilometers, it is one of the largest artificial lakes in India.
The lake is surrounded by lush hills and historical structures, including a striking marble embankment with intricately carved marble terraces and steps. This embankment features nine pavilions, known as “nauchowki,” adorned with beautiful sculptures and inscriptions detailing the history of Mewar. The serene waters of Rajsamand Lake reflect the surrounding beauty, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking tranquility and scenic views.
Rajsamand Lake is not only a vital water source for the region but also a significant cultural and historical landmark, embodying the architectural and artistic grandeur of Rajasthan.
History of Rajsamand Lake Udaipur
Rajsamand Lake, also known as Rajsamudra, has a rich and fascinating history tied to the legacy of the Mewar dynasty. The lake was commissioned by Maharana Raj Singh I in 1660 to provide relief from a severe drought that plagued the region. The construction of the lake was a monumental task that took 14 years to complete, involving the labor of thousands of workers.
Rajsamand Lake is situated near the town of Rajsamand in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan. It spans an area of approximately 7.7 square kilometers, making it one of the largest artificial lakes in India. The creation of the lake involved building a massive dam across the Gomati, Kelwa, and Tali rivers. The dam itself is an architectural marvel, made of white marble and adorned with beautifully carved steps, terraces, and pavilions.
The lake’s embankment, known as “Nauchowki,” consists of nine pavilions, each richly decorated with sculptures and inscriptions. These inscriptions provide a detailed account of the history of Mewar, including the genealogy of the rulers, their achievements, and significant events. The pavilions are also adorned with depictions of the sun, chariots, gods, and various Hindu deities, reflecting the artistic and cultural heritage of the region.
Rajsamand Lake holds not only historical significance but also cultural importance. It has been a source of inspiration for poets and artists over the centuries and continues to be a vital water source for the region. The lake’s serene beauty, combined with its historical and cultural relevance, makes it a cherished landmark in Rajasthan.
Structure of Rajsamand Lake Udaipur
The 4 miles long and 1.7 miles wide Rajsamand Lake is about 60 feet deep and is a pure marvel to look at. The embankment which can be found towards the southern end of the lake is constructed of white marble and is commonly known as the Nauchowki, which means nine pavilions. The stone steps of the Nauchowki, as well as the marble terraces, are equally striking and touch the water of the lake.
One can also find five toranas, or weighing arches, as well as some chhatris at the embankment. The Nauchowki is intricately carved and decorated with pictures of Gods, the Sun, birds, chariots and other fine carvings. The stone steps that lead to the waters of the lake are known as Ghats, and the history of Mewar has been inscribed on these 21 marble stones. This inscription is the longest engraving in the entire country and consists of a total of 107 stanzas that describe the glorious past of Mewar. This carving is referred to as the Raj Prasanti and dates back to the years 1675 and 1676.
Best Time To Visit Rajsamand Lake
The best time to visit Rajsamand Lake in Udaipur is during the winter months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The cool and comfortable climate allows visitors to fully enjoy the lake’s serene beauty and explore the surrounding attractions without the discomfort of extreme heat.
October and November mark the post-monsoon season, when the landscape is lush and green, and the lake is filled with water, reflecting the clear blue skies. This time is particularly picturesque, perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the scenic beauty of the area.
December to February is the peak tourist season, with many cultural events and festivals taking place in Udaipur and nearby regions. Visitors can experience the local traditions, music, and dance, adding a cultural dimension to their trip.
March heralds the onset of spring, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it another excellent time to visit Rajsamand Lake. While the days are warmer, the temperatures are still comfortable for exploring and enjoying the outdoor activities.
Overall, the winter months offer the best combination of favorable weather, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences, making it the perfect time to visit Rajsamand Lake.
Tips For Visiting Rajsamand Lake
- Since a visit to the Rajsamand Lake is only a short excursion of about 2-3 hours, it is best to visit the lake in combination with nearby tourist spots such as the Hanuman Mandir, Dwarkadhish Temple, Shree Chhapariya Bheru Mandir, Rameshwar Mahadev Mandir, Neelkanth Mahadev Ji Temple and Kalka Mata ka Mandir.
- Avoid visiting the lake during the monsoon as it tends to get dirty.
- There is no general store or restaurant nearby to buy tea or snacks, so make sure that you carry some light refreshments along if you intend to stay there for a bit longer.
How To Reach Rajsamand Lake Udaipur
Rajsamand Lake, situated near Rajsamand town in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan, India, is accessible by various modes of transportation. Here’s how you can reach Rajsamand Lake from Udaipur:
By Road: The most convenient way to reach Rajsamand Lake is by road. It is approximately 66 kilometers (41 miles) north of Udaipur city. You can hire a taxi or take a private car from Udaipur. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By Bus: Udaipur is well-connected by state-run and private buses to Rajsamand town. From Rajsamand town, you can take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Rajsamand Lake. Buses usually take around 2 to 3 hours to reach Rajsamand from Udaipur.
By Train: Although there is no direct train to Rajsamand Lake, you can take a train from Udaipur to Rajsamand Railway Station, which is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) away from the lake. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the lake.
By Air: The nearest airport to Rajsamand Lake is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, which is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Udaipur city and then proceed to Rajsamand Lake by road.
Local Transport: Once you reach Rajsamand town or the vicinity of the lake, local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws are available for transportation to the lake. It’s advisable to negotiate fares beforehand or use metered taxis where available.
Rajsamand Lake Udaipur is a popular tourist destination known for its historical significance and scenic beauty, making it worth the journey from Udaipur to explore its marble embankments, pavilions, and tranquil surroundings.
