Udaipur Solar Observatory, located on the island of Fateh Sagar Lake, is considered the best solar observation area in all of Asia. The observatory aims at conducting research in Modern Science and is surrounded on all sides by water, there are a number of telescopes that will give you the ability to observe the sun and other planets. Since the island is surrounded on all sides by water it provides a great atmosphere for solar observations. Clear pictures of the sun can be easily obtained on an island because on an island the air noise is less than on the usual field.
History of Udaipur Solar Observatory
The Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO) was established in 1975 by Dr. Arvind Bhatnagar, a prominent Indian solar physicist. Inspired by the Big Bear Solar Observatory in California, USO was strategically built on an island in Fatehsagar Lake, Udaipur, to benefit from the stability of the water, which helps reduce air turbulence and enhances the clarity of solar observations.
Dr. Bhatnagar’s vision for the observatory was to create a premier facility for solar research in India. Since its inception, USO has focused on studying solar phenomena such as sunspots, solar flares, and prominences, which are critical to understanding the Sun’s behavior and its effects on Earth.
In 1981, the observatory became a key station in the Global Oscillation Network Group (GONG), a worldwide network studying solar oscillations. Today, it is managed by the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad and remains a leading center for solar physics in India.
Places to visit near Udaipur Solar Observatory
Here are some popular places to visit near the Udaipur Solar Observatory:
Fatehsagar Lake – Surrounding the observatory, this serene lake offers boat rides and beautiful sunset views. You can stroll along its promenade or relax in nearby gardens.
Saheliyon Ki Bari – A lush garden built for royal women, featuring fountains, marble pavilions, and lotus pools, located a short drive from Fatehsagar Lake.
Moti Magri – A hilltop overlooking Fatehsagar Lake, with a statue of Maharana Pratap and a panoramic view of Udaipur.
City Palace – A grand palace complex showcasing stunning architecture, museums, and royal history, located around 4 km from the observatory.
Lake Pichola – Famous for its boat rides and scenic views, with landmarks like Jag Mandir and the Lake Palace situated on its islands.
These spots offer a perfect blend of nature, history, and royal architecture.
Best time to visit Udaipur Solar Observatory
The best time to visit the Udaipur Solar Observatory is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, the weather in Udaipur is pleasant, with lower humidity and temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. The clear skies in winter months also offer better visibility for solar observations.
Avoid visiting during the summer (April to June), as temperatures can soar above 40°C, which can make the experience uncomfortable. The monsoon season (July to September) is also not ideal due to increased humidity and occasional rain, which may impact observation conditions. Visiting in the winter allows you to enjoy both the observatory and the surrounding attractions in comfortable weather.
How to Reach Udaipur Solar Observatory
Reaching the Udaipur Solar Observatory is convenient due to its location in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Here are the primary modes of transportation:
By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR), approximately 22 kilometers from Udaipur city. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-arranged cab to the observatory.
By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India. From the station, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the observatory, which is about 5 kilometers away.
By Road: Udaipur is accessible by bus or car from neighboring cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad. Once in Udaipur, local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental services can take you to Fatehsagar Lake, where the observatory is located.
The observatory is a short walk from the lake’s edge, making it easy to visit.
