Udaipur is often referred to as the “Venice of the East” or the “City of Lakes”. Founded by Maharaja Uday Singh, the city is a harmonious mix of maharaja’s magnificent marble palaces, lakeside gardens, temples and havelis (traditional Indian dwellings), backed by lively bazaars in the ancient quarters. The city is proud of its artistic heritage and reputation as a city of the arts. Walking along the picturesque Lake Pichola at sunset, when the rays of the sun turn the waters golden, travelers will be able to see the divine beauty of nature and stunning images of the Rajput splendor. The dominant position in Udaipur is occupied by the City Palace overlooking Lake Pichola with romantic islands and palaces, where the family of the Great Maharaja still lives.
Sights of Udaipur.
The main attraction of the city is the luxurious palaces of the Rajput era. The city palace complex is completely made of white stone, only multi-colored frescoes and a golden sun face hanging over the entrance to the palace stand out on it – a symbol of the dynasty that ruled in Udaipur for several centuries. In Shambunivas Palace you can see an impressive green dance hall, from where you watched the dances of the raja and his entourage, and many unusual rooms with mirrored walls and ceilings, decorated with glass stained-glass windows in incredible color combinations.
By the way, the descendants of the Maharani still live in it. Jagmandir Palace is no less beautiful – there is a unique park and marble chambers decorated with mosaic ornaments, and 8 stone elephants guard the entrance to them.
You can get acquainted with the traditional crafts and art of the city in the Bagurka Haveli Museum, where, among other exhibits, clothes, musical instruments, and miniature paintings are presented. Folk music and dance performances are held here every evening.
The temples of Udaipur also captivate with their beauty and whiteness. To the north of the city palace is the Central Jayagdish Temple, dedicated to Vishnu, the creator of the universe. In front of the entrance, in a separate tower, there is a figure of gold – this is his assistant, the eagle man Garuda, devouring snakes and symbolizing the Sun.
There are many parks in Udaipur, and boats carrying tourists float on the lakes. Most of the parks are located around the third Fateh Lake. In addition to the usual relaxing holiday, here you can also look at the bas-reliefs illustrating various historical events.
Modern Nehru Park is located on an island in the middle of the same lake. In it, palm trees are spread, rose bushes are fragrant, fountains murmur soothingly. It can be reached by boat or pedal boat.
You can see the whole city in all its glory from the high hills surrounding Udaipur. By the way, the surroundings of Udaipur are a protected area, a fee is charged for visiting them. There is a museum on the mountain, where the species of animals and birds that are protected here are presented.
In the spring, Udaipur hosts a festival in honor of the arrival of spring, the cultural part of which is distinguished by colorful dances and songs, and an enchanting fire show crowns the event.
Cuisine and restaurants of Udaipur.
Cuisine in Udaipur is mainly Indian, including many delicacies, savory flavors and unusual seasonings. Indian cuisine is influenced by two religions at once – Hinduism and Islam.
Here you should try rice pilaf – biryani, and bread stuffed with almonds, dried fruits and sweet cream. In addition, local bread cooked in the tandoor is considered especially tasty, and curry, the most famous Indian cuisine, is cooked here just perfectly.
Of the restaurants, Hukam is especially popular, featuring a special variety of national cuisines and pleasant live music, and Aroma, where you can taste exotic Indian dishes in a romantic setting. In addition, it is worth visiting Jagdish Misthan Bhandar, a pastry shop where you can try and buy exclusive sweets to take away. The Mansapurna Karni Mata restaurant is located on top of a hill and is notable for a certain inaccessibility – you can get there only by climbing the cable car.
And do not forget the main rule of Indian cuisine – do not overeat. The heat here is usually such that one extra snack may not allow you to fully enjoy the beauties and sights of Udaipur.