Udaipur Travel Information, often referred to as the “City of Lakes” or the “Venice of the East,” is a picturesque and enchanting destination located in the state of Rajasthan, India. Nestled amidst the Aravalli mountain range, this city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a popular choice for tourists from all around the world.
One of the main attractions of Udaipur is its magnificent lakes. The most famous among them is Lake Pichola, which offers a captivating view of the surrounding palaces and hills. Tourists can take boat rides on the lake and visit the famous Lake Palace, a beautiful marble structure that appears to be floating on the water. Another must-visit lake is Fateh Sagar Lake, known for its serene ambiance and Nehru Park, located on one of its islands.
Udaipur Tourism is also renowned for its splendid palaces and forts. The City Palace, situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, is a majestic complex with a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace offers stunning views of the city and houses a museum displaying artifacts from the royal era. Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) are two other palaces worth exploring.
The old city of Udaipur, with its narrow winding lanes and colorful bazaars, is a delight for shopaholics and history enthusiasts. The markets offer a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani artwork. The city is also known for its miniature paintings and intricately designed silver jewelry.
With its stunning lakes, palaces, forts, markets, and cultural heritage, Udaipur provides a truly immersive experience for tourists. Whether you want to soak in the regal ambiance, explore the historical sites, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Udaipur Tour Packages promises a memorable and enchanting journey into the heart of Rajasthan.
History of Udaipur
The history of Udaipur dates back to the 16th century when it was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II, the ruler of the Mewar kingdom. Legend has it that Maharana Udai Singh II came across a hermit while hunting in the Aravalli hills. The hermit advised him to establish a kingdom in the fertile valley, protected by the surrounding hills. Impressed by the location, Udai Singh II founded the city of Udaipur in 1559.
Initially, Udaipur served as the capital of the Mewar kingdom, which had previously been located in Chittorgarh. The shifting of the capital to Udaipur was primarily due to its strategic location and the need for better defense against the Mughal empire. The city was built around Lake Pichola, providing natural fortification and a reliable water source.
During its early years, Udaipur faced numerous challenges, including invasions by the Mughals and other neighboring kingdoms. However, the rulers of Mewar, known as the Maharanas, were known for their valor and resilience, and they successfully defended their kingdom against external forces.
One of the most significant events in the history of Udaipur was the Siege of Chittorgarh in 1567-1568. The Mughal emperor Akbar attacked Chittorgarh, leading to its eventual surrender. Many of the Mewar nobles and warriors, including the legendary Rajput queen Rani Padmini, chose to commit Jauhar (mass self-immolation) to protect their honor. Following the siege, Udaipur became the primary center of power for the Mewar kingdom.
Over the centuries, the rulers of Udaipur continued to resist Mughal dominance and forge alliances with other Rajput kingdoms to safeguard their independence. They built grand palaces, forts, and temples, showcasing a unique blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The City Palace, Jag Mandir, and Lake Palace are some of the magnificent structures that still stand as testaments to Udaipur’s rich history and cultural heritage.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Udaipur came under British influence as part of the princely state of Rajasthan. After India gained independence in 1947, Udaipur became part of the newly formed state of Rajasthan within the Republic of India.
Places to Visit in Udaipur
Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes” and the “Venice of the East,” offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. Here are some must-visit places in Udaipur:
City Palace: This majestic palace complex is located on the banks of Lake Pichola and is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. It offers stunning views of the city and houses museums showcasing artifacts from the royal era.
Lake Pichola: One of the most famous lakes in Udaipur, Lake Pichola is surrounded by hills, palaces, and temples. Boat rides on the lake provide breathtaking views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and Lake Palace.
Lake Palace: Situated in the middle of Lake Pichola, this iconic palace appears to be floating on the water. It is now a luxury hotel, but visitors can still admire its exquisite architecture from the outside.
Jag Mandir: Another beautiful palace located on an island in Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir offers a tranquil setting and captivating views. The palace has ornate architecture and picturesque gardens.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari: This delightful garden was built for the queen and her companions and features fountains, kiosks, marble elephants, and a beautiful lotus pool. It is a serene spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Jagdish Temple: Built in 1651, this intricately carved temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a significant religious site in Udaipur. The temple’s architecture and intricate stone carvings are a sight to behold.
Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace): Located on a hilltop, this palace offers panoramic views of Udaipur and its surroundings. It was originally built to observe monsoon clouds, and the sunset views from here are particularly mesmerizing.
Bagore Ki Haveli: This 18th-century mansion has been converted into a museum and showcases the lifestyle and artifacts of the royal era. It also hosts cultural performances like traditional dance and music shows.
Shilpgram: Situated on the outskirts of Udaipur, Shilpgram is a rural arts and crafts complex that showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Visitors can explore traditional huts, handicrafts, and cultural performances.
Vintage Car Museum: Car enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to this museum, which houses a collection of vintage and classic cars, including those once owned by the Maharanas of Udaipur.
These are just a few highlights of the many attractions Udaipur has to offer. Exploring the narrow streets of the old city, visiting local markets, and enjoying the vibrant Rajasthani cuisine are also experiences that should not be missed during a visit to Udaipur Travel Information.
Famous Shopping Markets in Udaipur
Udaipur is known for its vibrant markets that offer a wide range of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and artwork. Here are some famous shopping markets in Udaipur:
Hathi Pol Bazaar: Located near the City Palace, Hathi Pol Bazaar is a bustling market known for its textiles and handicrafts. You can find colorful fabrics, embroidered textiles, traditional Rajasthani garments, and home décor items here.
Bada Bazaar: Situated near the Clock Tower, Bada Bazaar is a popular shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. The market offers a variety of items such as clothes, jewelry, leather goods, miniature paintings, and handicrafts.
Bapu Bazaar: Known for its colorful textiles and traditional Rajasthani items, Bapu Bazaar is a lively market where you can find textiles, clothes, traditional footwear (juttis), handicrafts, and souvenirs. Bargaining is common here, so be prepared to haggle for a good deal.
Shilpgram: Located on the outskirts of Udaipur, Shilpgram is a rural arts and crafts complex that showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The market here offers a wide range of handicrafts, pottery, textiles, jewelry, and traditional artwork.
Rajasthali: Situated near the Jagdish Temple, Rajasthali is a government-run emporium that specializes in traditional Rajasthani crafts and textiles. It is a reliable place to find authentic and high-quality products, including textiles, hand-block printed fabrics, carpets, jewelry, and puppets.
Mochiwada Bazaar: This market is known for its leather goods, especially traditional Rajasthani shoes (mojaris). You can find a variety of handcrafted leather products, including shoes, bags, belts, and wallets.
Palace Road: Located near the City Palace, Palace Road is lined with shops that offer a range of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and antiques. It is a great place to explore and find unique souvenirs.
Ashoka Arts: Situated near Lake Palace Road, Ashoka Arts is a well-known store that specializes in traditional Rajasthani miniature paintings. You can find exquisite artworks depicting Rajasthani culture, wildlife, and historical scenes.
These are just a few of the many shopping markets in Udaipur. Exploring these markets will not only give you an opportunity to purchase unique Rajasthani items but also immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and craftsmanship of the region Udaipur Travel Information.
Festivals of Udaipur
Udaipur, the “City of Lakes” in Rajasthan, celebrates several colorful and vibrant festivals throughout the year. These festivals showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the region. Here are some of the major festivals celebrated in Udaipur:
Mewar Festival: Held in March or April, the Mewar Festival marks the arrival of spring. It is a three-day celebration that includes processions, cultural performances, folk music, and dance. The festival culminates with a stunning display of fireworks and a lively procession of decorated idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Shilpgram Crafts Fair: Organized annually during the last ten days of December, the Shilpgram Crafts Fair is a major event for artisans and craftsmen from across India. It showcases traditional arts, crafts, and cultural performances, allowing visitors to witness the diverse and rich heritage of Rajasthan.
Gangaur Festival: Celebrated in March or April, the Gangaur Festival is dedicated to Goddess Gauri, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. It is predominantly a women’s festival, where they dress up in colorful traditional attire, sing traditional songs, and participate in processions carrying beautifully decorated idols of the goddess. The festival reflects the region’s devotion, marital bliss, and womanhood.
Teej Festival: Teej is a monsoon festival celebrated by women in Udaipur. It usually falls in July or August and is dedicated to the goddess Parvati. Women dress up in green attire, apply henna on their hands, and participate in processions. The festival is marked by traditional songs, dances, swings, and feasts.
Diwali: Like the rest of India, Udaipur celebrates Diwali, the festival of lights, with great enthusiasm. The city is adorned with thousands of lights, and people exchange sweets and gifts. Fireworks illuminate the night sky, and homes and temples are decorated with traditional oil lamps.
Holi: The vibrant festival of colors, Holi, is celebrated with great zest and joy in Udaipur. People come together to play with colors, dance to traditional music, and enjoy delicious sweets and snacks. It is a day of fun, frolic, and togetherness, Udaipur Travel Information.
Apart from these festivals, other significant celebrations in Udaipur include Raksha Bandhan, Navaratri, and Janmashtami. These festivals offer a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions and heritage of Udaipur and provide visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the festive spirit and hospitality of the locals.
Best Time to Visit Udaipur
The best time to visit Udaipur is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for exploring the city’s attractions. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons in Udaipur:
Winter (October to March): Udaipur experiences mild winters with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). This is the peak tourist season, as the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The days are sunny, and the nights can get chilly, so it is advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater.
Summer (April to June): Summers in Udaipur are hot, with temperatures soaring as high as 45°C (113°F) in May and June. It can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities during the day, but the evenings are relatively cooler. If you plan to visit during summer, it is recommended to carry light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated Udaipur Travel Information.
Monsoon (July to September): Udaipur experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. While the city gets a refreshing makeover with lush greenery, the rain can disrupt outdoor activities. However, if you enjoy the monsoon ambiance and don’t mind occasional showers, this can be a good time to visit. Do keep in mind that some tourist attractions may have restricted access or may be closed due to the rain.
Considering the weather conditions and tourist influx, the winter months of October to March are generally considered the best time to visit Udaipur. During this period, you can comfortably explore the city’s attractions, enjoy boat rides on the lakes, and indulge in outdoor activities without being bothered by extreme temperatures. However, if you don’t mind the heat and want to experience the city in a relatively quieter period, you can consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of September or April-May.
How to Reach Udaipur
Udaipur, located in the state of Rajasthan, India, is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible for travelers. Here are the different ways to reach Udaipur:
By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport, also known as Udaipur Airport, is located approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) from the city center. It is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Udaipur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid cab to reach your destination in Udaipur.
By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station is the main railhead in Udaipur, and it is well-connected to major cities in India. The railway station is a part of the North Western Railway zone. There are regular trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata to Udaipur. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach your desired location in the city.
By Road: Udaipur is connected to several cities in Rajasthan and other parts of India through a well-maintained road network. National Highways 8, 76, and 48 pass through Udaipur, making it easily accessible by road. You can opt for state-run buses, private buses, or hire a taxi to reach Udaipur. The road journey offers picturesque views of the Aravalli hills and scenic landscapes.
By Bus: Udaipur has a well-developed bus service, and Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates regular buses to and from major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. The bus terminal in Udaipur is located near the city center, and you can easily find buses to destinations like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, and Delhi.
Once you reach Udaipur, local transportation options such as auto-rickshaws, taxis, and hired cars are available for getting around the city and visiting various Udaipur Travel Information.
It is recommended to check the schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a hassle-free journey to Udaipur.