Famous as the City of Lakes, Udaipur has an unmistakable romantic charm to it. This picturesque town sitting at the foothills of the Aravali Range is the perfect melange of imperial history, rich culture and scenic spots.
This destination—quite unlike any other in Rajasthan—must feature on your travel list if you are big on the idea of exhilarating getaways. When you get there, here are some of the top experiences to soak up for a genuinely fulfilling holiday experience:
Jaisamand Lake
About 48 km from Udaipur, sits this hidden gem tucked away in the folds of the mountains. It is the second-largest artificial lake in India that was built by Maharana Jai Sing in 1685 to help his people battle a severe drought. The reservoir sprawls over an area of 36 sq km and is flanked by an ancient stone dam that runs 1202 feet long. The expanse of blue waters as far as the eye can see surrounded by the hills and a prevailing sense of calm makes this destination a soothing balm for your city-battered soul.
Crystal Gallery
For most visitors, sight-seeing in Udaipur begins with a walking tour of the City Palace flanked by Lake Pichola. The palace premises harbours the Crystal Gallery, which is believed to be the single most extensive private crystal collection in the world. Housed inside the Darbar Hall of the building, the gallery is dotted with gigantic chandeliers, dinner sets, decanters and glasses, perfume bottles, and a one-of-its-kind crystal bed. This dazzling experience befitting the grandeur of Udaipur is undoubtedly one of the best ways to kick off your vacation.
Mewar Light and Sound Show at City Palace
Your trip is incomplete without a visit to the City Palace, that is the focal point of Udaipur’s identity. Built as a founding structure of the city, the palace today stands as a giant conglomerate of towering structures that include the Manek Chowk, Maharani Palace, Daawat-i-Khas and Daawat-i-Aam. It is best to organise your visit in the evening so that you can catch the Mewar Light and Sound Show after wrapping up your tour of the palace.
Boat Ride to Jag Mandir
Boat rides on Lake Pichola going all the way to Jag Mandir—a small island housing a tastefully built palace dating back to 1620 that now serves as a luxury hotel complete with a restaurant, bar, spa and al-fresco dining—are available from Rameshwar Ghat on the City Palace complex. The boat ride, especially during the evening hours when a pleasant breeze and lights twinkling in the distance escalate the experience by several notches, is a critical attraction in Udaipur. Top it up with an evening at Jag Mandir, exploring the Gol Mahal, taking a walk through the lush gardens and indulging in the most decadent Laal Maas in all of Udaipur.
Mansapurna Karni Ropeway Ride
The Mansapurna Karni Ropeway that was built to provide visitors with easy access to the legendary Karni Mata Temple has become a popular tourist attraction unto itself. Linking two hills on the banks of Lake Pichola, the cable car ride offers a panoramic view of the City of Lakes. The City Palace, Lake Pichola, Lake Palace, Lake Fateh Sagar, Sajjangarh Fort and the Aravali ranges in a single frame! It offers the most breathtaking view of the city undisputedly. Absolutely Instagram worthy!
Dinner at Ambrai
The banks of Lake Pichola on the opposite side of the City Palace is known as the Ambrai Ghat. Situated here is Udaipur’s only lake-side restaurant named after the ghat. The location of the restaurant offers a great view of the two palaces and the lake, especially at and after sunset—an idyllic location for spending a romantic evening with your significant other with the grandeur of Udaipur glistening in all its glory.