“The city of lakes”.
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Where is Udaipur?
The city of Udaipur is located in the southernmost part of Rajasthan, near the Gujarat border. It is surrounded by the Aravali Range of mountains, which separate it from the Thar Desert. Udaipur is known for its historic forts, palaces, museums, galleries, gardens, and architectural temples. Together with its traditional fairs and festivals.
Getting there
Our journey from Pushkar to Udaipur was by super luxury State bus.
Our accommodation
During our time in Udaipur, we chose to stay at the White House Udaipur Homestay.
Nice clean rooms with a seating area, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with private bathrooms and free toiletries. Continental breakfast is available for an additional charge.
Places of interest
City Palace
The City Palace complex is located on the east bank of Lake Pichola. It is the largest of its type in the state of Rajasthan. Built on top of the hill it provides a panoramic view over Lake Pichola, several historic monuments, the city, and the surrounding area. There are a number of gateways that provide access to the palace complex.
The main entry from the city is through the Great Gate (Badi Pol). which leads to the first courtyard. The road between this gate and the palace is lined with shops and kiosks owned by craftsmen, book-binders, miniature painters, and textile dealers. Adjacent to the Tripolia gate is an arena, the Manak Chowk, where elephant fights were staged to test their prowess before embarking on war campaigns.
Lake Palace
Formally known as Jag Niwas, the palace is a former summer residence of the Royal Dynasty of Mewar. Now a hotel, the Lake Palace is located on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola.
Jag Mandir
Situated on one of the two natural islands in Pichola lake. The royal family used the palace as a summer retreat and pleasure palace for holding parties. The palace served as a refuge for asylum seekers on two separate occasions. Approached only by boat from the Bansi Ghat jetty next to the Lake Palace, the Jag Mandir featured as one of the main locations for the 1983 James Bond film, Octopussy.
Jagdish Temple
Situated just 150m from the Great Gate of the City Palace in the centre of Udaipur. Jagdish temple is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Old City. Built on a raised platform with magnificently carved pillars. This temple has huge airy halls with painted walls adorned with vibrant colors and intricately decorated ceilings. There are two massive stone elephant statues at the entrance.
The main temple is adorned with statues of horsemen, elephants, musicians, and dancers of the era the temple was established. The main temple has a brass image of Garuda, a half-man, half-eagle figure. There is also a statue of God Jagannath, which is carved out from one piece of black stone, making it a stunning piece of artwork. But the main shrine is the striking four-armed image of Lord Vishnu.
