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City Palace | Crystal Gallery | Jagdish Temple | Lake Pichola | Fateh Sagar | Ahar | Sahelion Ki Bari | Sajjan Garh | Shilpgram | Sri Eklingji | Nagada | Haldighati | Nathdwara | Jaisamand Lake | Ranakpur Temples | Kumbhalgarh Fort | Chittorgarh | Festivals
Udaipur (City of Sunrise) is the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world and was established around 1567 A.D. The city's inherent romance and beauty and its remarkable past filled with episodes of heroism and splendour, continue to enthral the visitor even today. Surrounded by hills and mountains and set on the edge of three lakes which lead on to a fertile plain - it is a truly enchanting city. Narrow streets lined with vividly coloured stalls, gardens, temples and palaces mirrored in the placid blue waters of lake Pichhola, add to the magic of Udaipur.
LOCAL TOURIST SITES
CITY PALACE
The well-fortified City Palace is a majestic white monument perched high up on a hill, on the banks of Lake Pichola. Built in 1567, it is composed of 4 major palaces and several minor palaces that form a single façade. Its main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the Tripolia, built in 1725. The gate leads to a series of courtyards, corridors and gardens. The Rai Angan (Royal Courtyard) has a shrine, which is the oldest part of Udaipur. It is here that Udai Singh met an ascetic who suggested this site for Udaipur. The centrally located 17th century Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) gets its name from inlaid glass mosaics of peacocks on its walls. Other exotic rooms include the Krishna Vilas dedicated to the memory of a 16 year old princess's tragic suicide, the Zenana Mahal (Palace of the Queens) and the Chini Chitrasala, which has exquisite mosaics and blue and white ceramics. The Suraj Gokhada, the Balcony of the Sun, where the Suryavanshi Maharanas of Mewar, presented themselves in times of trouble to the people to restore their confidence, is another fascinating monument. To the west of main gate lies Khush Mahal (Palace of Happiness) and to its south lies Shambhu Niwas, built in the 19th century. The third palace is Shiv Niwas, which is now a hotel. This was followed by Fateh Prakash, which is also a hotel and known for its Durbar Hall and Crystal Gallery
We highly recommend a visit to the City Palace. A complete tour takes approximately 2 hours. Tours can be arranged with English, French, German, Italian and Spanish speaking guides.
30-minutes drive from the hotel
CRYSTAL GALLERY
The Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakash Hotel overlooks the grand Durbar Hall. It has a rare collection of Osler's crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877. It includes crystal chandeliers and crystal furniture like chairs, dressing tables and a bed. A visit is recommended.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
JAGDISH TEMPLE
Built in 1651 AD by Maharana Jagat Singh I and dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple has an imposing 79 ft high pagoda covered with sculptures of dancers, musicians, elephants and horsemen. It is the city's largest and most resplendent temple.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
LAKE PICHOLA
This 14th century lake was extended to create the city of Udaipur in the 16th century. With backdrop of the Aravalli ranges on the west, historic Palaces along the lakefront in the east and island palaces as jewels in the Lake Pichola, it provides one of the most picturesque settings in the world.
Boat rides can be arranged on the lake.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
FATEH SAGAR
Built by Maharana Fateh Singh, this elegant lake is surrounded by hills on three sides and a dam on the fourth side. A boat ride to Nehru Park, an island garden, can be arranged from the banks of the lake.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
AHAR
This was originally the ancient capital of Mewar, till Chittor was founded in the 8th century. It was chosen as the site of cremation for the Maharanas, following the founding of Udaipur. It has 19 cenotaphs or 'chattris' made of white marble, to commemorate the 19 rulers cremated here along with their queens, the most recent being in 1861. It is also an ancient archaeological site and a small museum displays its relics, some dating back 3000 years.
20-minutes drive from the hotel.
SAHELION KI BARI
Maharana Sangram Singh built this garden for his daughter because she had been ill for a long time and he wished to recreate the monsoon for her. This garden brings to the fore the unique lifestyle of the royal ladies, who once strolled through these gardens. This spectacular garden has numerous fountains in four pools, embellished with delicately chiseled pavilions and elephants. The fountains still work on the unique hydraulic system devised in 1700 A.D.
35-minutes drive from the hotel
SAJJAN GARH
Also known as the Monsoon Palace, it is located on top of a hill overlooking Lake Pichola and dominates the city's skyline. Built in the late 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh as an observatory, it has a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding lakes, rivers and Aravalli ranges. It is surrounded by wooded hillsides and was once a royal hunting ground.
It is an excellent place to view the sunset. The palace building is currently used by the Government of India and is a restricted security area. The hillside leading up to Sajjan Garh is a wildlife sanctuary.
45-minutes drive from the hotel.
SHILPGRAM
Literally meaning, 'Craftsmen's village', it depicts the enormous diversities in rural folk craft, art and culture in India. It comprises 26 huts set amidst rustic surroundings representing the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Goa and Daman. Musicians and dancers perform daily and there are camel rides. Authentic handicrafts of the region are sold as well.
60-minutes drive from the hotel.
SRI EKLINGJI
Located 30 km from The Udaibagh in a remote mountain pass on the way to Nathdwara. Chiseled out of sandstone and marble, the temple of Eklingji was originally built in 734 AD by Bappa Rawal, founder of the Sisodia clan and rebuilt in the 15th century. Eklingji, an incarnation of Lord Shiva is the principle deity of the people of Udaipur. The complex of 108 temples is built on the shore of a lake and enclosed by high walls.
A visit of the complex takes 45 minutes and is recommended.
60-minutes drive from the hotel.
NAGADA
Located 2 km north of Sri Eklingji, It has temples dating back to the 6th century, including the famous 11th century Sas-Bahu (mother-in-law-daughter-in-law) twin temples and the Adbhutji temple. Both temples are at the edge of a lake and submerged within the lake are several later structures.
A tour of the complex takes 45 minutes and is recommended. If combined with a visit to Sri Eklingi, it is a half-day excursion.
60-minutes drive from the hotel.
HALDIGHATI
The historic battle between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Emperor Akbar was fought here in 1576 AD. A chattri stands dedicated to the valiant horse of Maharana Pratap, Chetak, who died after seeing his master out of danger.
60 minutes drive from the hotel.
NATHADWARA
Located 40 km fom The Udai Bagh on the bank of the river Banas, it has the most celebrated Vaishnava shrine of Lord Krishna or Shri Nathji. It is a major pilgrimage destination and also a centre for traditional meenakari (enamel) work.
80 minutes drive from the hotel.
JAISAMAND LAKE
Located 67 km from The Udai Bagh, it was created in 1691 by Maharana Jai Singh and is the second largest manmade lake in Asia. On the banks of the lake are vast marble steps descending to the water, embellished with pavilions and sculpted elephants. There are 11 islands in the lake, some providing sanctuary to migratory birds. Its surrounding area is now the Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering 64 square km, it houses spotted deer, antelopes, gazelle and panthers.
90 minutes drive from the hotel.
RANAKPUR TEMPLES
Located 104 km from The Udai Bagh, this is one of the holiest Jain sites of India. Nestled on the banks of the river Maghai and surrounde by mountains, Ranakpur's beauty is accentuated by its seclusion. The main Chaumukha (four faced) temple was built in 1439 and is dedicated to the first Enlightened One, Adinatha Rishabdeva. An inscription in it traces its origin to the reign of Rana Kumbha. Erected on a raised platform, it is surrounded by 66 subsidiary shrines. It has 1444 beautifully carved pillars, of which no two are alike. We recommend a visit to these unique temples. Open from midday to 5 p.m. Camera, Leather clothing or accessories are not allowed on the premises.
2 hours drive from the hotel.
KUMBHALGARH FORT
An imposing fort set amid massive ramparts and surrounded by hundreds of temples, is the creation of one of Mewar's legendary heroes, Rana Kumbha. Its 36 km fort wall is said to be the second longest in the world, only surpassed by the Great Wall of China. The fort has seven grand gates and ramparts, one within the other.
We recommend a visit to this majestic fort. A tour takes approximately two hours and involves some uphill walking. It is a full day's excursion, which can be combined with a visit to the Ranakpur temples.
2 hours drive from the hotel.
CHITTORGARH
For 8 centuries it was the most important bastion of Rajput power and its occupation was the primary objective of any would-be ruler. It survived waves of Turkish, Afghan, Tartar and Mongol invaders and was attacked 3 times. Now deserted, it has 7 gates where many died fighting. The ruined palace of Rana Kumbha (1433-68) is its oldest building. The fort is dominated by two towers, the 12th century Kirti Sthambh (Tower of fame) dedicated to a Jain saint, and the 15th century Vijay Sthambh (Tower of Victory) built to commemorate a famous victory over the Sultan of Malwa. A visit is recommended. It is a full day's excursion and a tour of the fort takes 2 hours.
2 hours drive from the hotel.
FESTIVALS
Mewar festival
marks the advent of spring. It is held in March/ April suring the Gangaur festival in Udaipur. The two-day festivities are marked by boat processions – as well as a ‘Shobha Yatra’ wherein elephants, camels, horses and folk artists are out on the streets.
Shilpgram Utsav
is a 10-day festival in December where visitors can buy an array of exquisite art and crafts.
Udaipur (City of Sunrise) is the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world and was established around 1567 A.D. The city's inherent romance and beauty and its remarkable past filled with episodes of heroism and splendour, continue to enthral the visitor even today. Surrounded by hills and mountains and set on the edge of three lakes which lead on to a fertile plain - it is a truly enchanting city. Narrow streets lined with vividly coloured stalls, gardens, temples and palaces mirrored in the placid blue waters of lake Pichhola, add to the magic of Udaipur.
LOCAL TOURIST SITES
CITY PALACE
The well-fortified City Palace is a majestic white monument perched high up on a hill, on the banks of Lake Pichola. Built in 1567, it is composed of 4 major palaces and several minor palaces that form a single façade. Its main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the Tripolia, built in 1725. The gate leads to a series of courtyards, corridors and gardens. The Rai Angan (Royal Courtyard) has a shrine, which is the oldest part of Udaipur. It is here that Udai Singh met an ascetic who suggested this site for Udaipur. The centrally located 17th century Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) gets its name from inlaid glass mosaics of peacocks on its walls. Other exotic rooms include the Krishna Vilas dedicated to the memory of a 16 year old princess's tragic suicide, the Zenana Mahal (Palace of the Queens) and the Chini Chitrasala, which has exquisite mosaics and blue and white ceramics. The Suraj Gokhada, the Balcony of the Sun, where the Suryavanshi Maharanas of Mewar, presented themselves in times of trouble to the people to restore their confidence, is another fascinating monument. To the west of main gate lies Khush Mahal (Palace of Happiness) and to its south lies Shambhu Niwas, built in the 19th century. The third palace is Shiv Niwas, which is now a hotel. This was followed by Fateh Prakash, which is also a hotel and known for its Durbar Hall and Crystal Gallery
We highly recommend a visit to the City Palace. A complete tour takes approximately 2 hours. Tours can be arranged with English, French, German, Italian and Spanish speaking guides.
30-minutes drive from the hotel
CRYSTAL GALLERY
The Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakash Hotel overlooks the grand Durbar Hall. It has a rare collection of Osler's crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877. It includes crystal chandeliers and crystal furniture like chairs, dressing tables and a bed. A visit is recommended.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
JAGDISH TEMPLE
Built in 1651 AD by Maharana Jagat Singh I and dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple has an imposing 79 ft high pagoda covered with sculptures of dancers, musicians, elephants and horsemen. It is the city's largest and most resplendent temple.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
LAKE PICHOLA
This 14th century lake was extended to create the city of Udaipur in the 16th century. With backdrop of the Aravalli ranges on the west, historic Palaces along the lakefront in the east and island palaces as jewels in the Lake Pichola, it provides one of the most picturesque settings in the world.
Boat rides can be arranged on the lake.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
FATEH SAGAR
Built by Maharana Fateh Singh, this elegant lake is surrounded by hills on three sides and a dam on the fourth side. A boat ride to Nehru Park, an island garden, can be arranged from the banks of the lake.
30-minutes drive from the hotel.
AHAR
This was originally the ancient capital of Mewar, till Chittor was founded in the 8th century. It was chosen as the site of cremation for the Maharanas, following the founding of Udaipur. It has 19 cenotaphs or 'chattris' made of white marble, to commemorate the 19 rulers cremated here along with their queens, the most recent being in 1861. It is also an ancient archaeological site and a small museum displays its relics, some dating back 3000 years.
20-minutes drive from the hotel.
SAHELION KI BARI
Maharana Sangram Singh built this garden for his daughter because she had been ill for a long time and he wished to recreate the monsoon for her. This garden brings to the fore the unique lifestyle of the royal ladies, who once strolled through these gardens. This spectacular garden has numerous fountains in four pools, embellished with delicately chiseled pavilions and elephants. The fountains still work on the unique hydraulic system devised in 1700 A.D.
35-minutes drive from the hotel
SAJJAN GARH
Also known as the Monsoon Palace, it is located on top of a hill overlooking Lake Pichola and dominates the city's skyline. Built in the late 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh as an observatory, it has a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding lakes, rivers and Aravalli ranges. It is surrounded by wooded hillsides and was once a royal hunting ground.
It is an excellent place to view the sunset. The palace building is currently used by the Government of India and is a restricted security area. The hillside leading up to Sajjan Garh is a wildlife sanctuary.
45-minutes drive from the hotel.
SHILPGRAM
Literally meaning, 'Craftsmen's village', it depicts the enormous diversities in rural folk craft, art and culture in India. It comprises 26 huts set amidst rustic surroundings representing the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Goa and Daman. Musicians and dancers perform daily and there are camel rides. Authentic handicrafts of the region are sold as well.
60-minutes drive from the hotel.
SRI EKLINGJI
Located 30 km from The Udaibagh in a remote mountain pass on the way to Nathdwara. Chiseled out of sandstone and marble, the temple of Eklingji was originally built in 734 AD by Bappa Rawal, founder of the Sisodia clan and rebuilt in the 15th century. Eklingji, an incarnation of Lord Shiva is the principle deity of the people of Udaipur. The complex of 108 temples is built on the shore of a lake and enclosed by high walls.
A visit of the complex takes 45 minutes and is recommended.
60-minutes drive from the hotel.
NAGADA
Located 2 km north of Sri Eklingji, It has temples dating back to the 6th century, including the famous 11th century Sas-Bahu (mother-in-law-daughter-in-law) twin temples and the Adbhutji temple. Both temples are at the edge of a lake and submerged within the lake are several later structures.
A tour of the complex takes 45 minutes and is recommended. If combined with a visit to Sri Eklingi, it is a half-day excursion.
60-minutes drive from the hotel.
HALDIGHATI
The historic battle between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Emperor Akbar was fought here in 1576 AD. A chattri stands dedicated to the valiant horse of Maharana Pratap, Chetak, who died after seeing his master out of danger.
60 minutes drive from the hotel.
NATHADWARA
Located 40 km fom The Udai Bagh on the bank of the river Banas, it has the most celebrated Vaishnava shrine of Lord Krishna or Shri Nathji. It is a major pilgrimage destination and also a centre for traditional meenakari (enamel) work.
80 minutes drive from the hotel.
JAISAMAND LAKE
Located 67 km from The Udai Bagh, it was created in 1691 by Maharana Jai Singh and is the second largest manmade lake in Asia. On the banks of the lake are vast marble steps descending to the water, embellished with pavilions and sculpted elephants. There are 11 islands in the lake, some providing sanctuary to migratory birds. Its surrounding area is now the Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering 64 square km, it houses spotted deer, antelopes, gazelle and panthers.
90 minutes drive from the hotel.
RANAKPUR TEMPLES
Located 104 km from The Udai Bagh, this is one of the holiest Jain sites of India. Nestled on the banks of the river Maghai and surrounde by mountains, Ranakpur's beauty is accentuated by its seclusion. The main Chaumukha (four faced) temple was built in 1439 and is dedicated to the first Enlightened One, Adinatha Rishabdeva. An inscription in it traces its origin to the reign of Rana Kumbha. Erected on a raised platform, it is surrounded by 66 subsidiary shrines. It has 1444 beautifully carved pillars, of which no two are alike. We recommend a visit to these unique temples. Open from midday to 5 p.m. Camera, Leather clothing or accessories are not allowed on the premises.
2 hours drive from the hotel.
KUMBHALGARH FORT
An imposing fort set amid massive ramparts and surrounded by hundreds of temples, is the creation of one of Mewar's legendary heroes, Rana Kumbha. Its 36 km fort wall is said to be the second longest in the world, only surpassed by the Great Wall of China. The fort has seven grand gates and ramparts, one within the other.
We recommend a visit to this majestic fort. A tour takes approximately two hours and involves some uphill walking. It is a full day's excursion, which can be combined with a visit to the Ranakpur temples.
2 hours drive from the hotel.
CHITTORGARH
For 8 centuries it was the most important bastion of Rajput power and its occupation was the primary objective of any would-be ruler. It survived waves of Turkish, Afghan, Tartar and Mongol invaders and was attacked 3 times. Now deserted, it has 7 gates where many died fighting. The ruined palace of Rana Kumbha (1433-68) is its oldest building. The fort is dominated by two towers, the 12th century Kirti Sthambh (Tower of fame) dedicated to a Jain saint, and the 15th century Vijay Sthambh (Tower of Victory) built to commemorate a famous victory over the Sultan of Malwa. A visit is recommended. It is a full day's excursion and a tour of the fort takes 2 hours.
2 hours drive from the hotel.
FESTIVALS
Mewar festival
marks the advent of spring. It is held in March/ April suring the Gangaur festival in Udaipur. The two-day festivities are marked by boat processions – as well as a ‘Shobha Yatra’ wherein elephants, camels, horses and folk artists are out on the streets.
Shilpgram Utsav
is a 10-day festival in December where visitors can buy an array of exquisite art and crafts.
