Udaipur is considered by many as the most romantic of Rajasthan’s magical cities. Founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the new capital of the Mewar Kingdom, Udaipur is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’. The city has several lakes, the most famous of them is Lake Pichola. Colourful markets, narrow alleyways and a generous sprinkling of palaces of the Sisodia dynasty, temples and old whitewashed havelis now restored to former glory, carry the flavour of a heroic past, epitomizing valour and chivalry. Udaipur entices you to slow down and savour its history and culture amidst its lakeside settings.
The City Palace, with its gloriously ornate royal rooms, and its museum full of royal treasures is often first on the list for visitors. The city deserves at least two days to soak in the dreamlike serenity of the lake and explore local markets, or venture to the several hilltop palaces and lookouts offering wonderful vistas of the city and the surrounding Aravalli Hills.
The famous Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola, is one of the most beautiful sights of Udaipur. The Jaisamand Lake is among the largest man-made lakes in Asia. The beautiful Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) is another gem of royal grandeur.
