Udaipur

Udaipur, often called the 'City of Lakes' or 'Venice of the East,' is a city in Rajasthan, India, celebrated for its historic palaces, tranquil artificial lakes, and distinctive culture. Surrounded by the Aravalli Range, which separates it from the Thar Desert, Udaipur presents a picturesque landscape with a more temperate climate than other parts of Rajasthan. The city's allure stems from its harmonious blend of royal heritage and natural splendor, making it a cherished destination for travelers from near and far.

## The Founding of a New Capital Udaipur's story commences in 1559 when Maharana Udai Singh II of the Sisodia clan of Rajputs established the city. He relocated his capital from Chittorgarh, which faced frequent sieges by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Legend recounts that while hunting, Maharana Udai Singh II encountered a holy man who advised him to construct a palace at a favorably situated spot in the fertile Girwa Valley, assuring him it would be well protected. Following this counsel, the Maharana laid the foundation for Udaipur, forging a new capital naturally fortified by the Aravalli Hills.

## Centuries of Royal Expansion The City Palace, an expansive complex, began construction in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II and saw expansion over nearly 400 years by 23 generations of rulers, each adding their unique architectural contributions. This resulted in an intricate fusion of Rajasthani, Mughal, European, and Chinese influences. In 1567, to further safeguard his territory from Mughal incursions, Rana Udai Singh built a six-kilometer-long city wall with seven gates around Udaipur, an area still known as the old or walled city.

## A Princely State and Modern City Udaipur remained the capital of the Mewar kingdom until 1818 when it became a British princely state. After India achieved independence in 1947, Mewar province became a part of Rajasthan. Today, Udaipur stands as a significant city in Rajasthan, honored for its history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Begin your exploration at the City Palace, a grand complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens overlooking Lake Pichola. Its architecture displays a blend of styles, with highlights like the ornate Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) and the Zenana Mahal. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to admire the City Palace from the water and see the floating Lake Palace (now a hotel) and Jag Mandir. The Jagdish Temple, a 17th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, stands out with its intricate carvings and towering spire. For sweeping views of the city and its lakes, make your way to the Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Palace), particularly at sunset. The Saheliyon-ki-Bari, or Garden of the Maids, offers a peaceful retreat with its fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants. Do not overlook the Ahar Cenotaphs, a lesser-known site with dome-shaped monuments marking the cremation sites of Mewar Maharanas. For a glimpse into local arts and culture, visit the Bagore Ki Haveli, which also hosts evening folk dance shows.

The most agreeable time to visit Udaipur is during the winter months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from approximately 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from July to October, brings moderate rainfall and transforms the city into a lush green landscape, offering a romantic and serene experience, though humidity can be high. Summers, from April to June, are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 40-45°C, making daytime exploration challenging.

Udaipur is readily accessible by air, rail, and road. The Maharana Pratap Airport (Dabok Airport) provides connections to major Indian cities. The city also has a well-developed railway network. Within Udaipur, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and ride-sharing apps are common for navigating the city. Many areas, especially the old city, are best explored on foot. It is advisable to carry cash, as many local shops and some eateries may not accept credit cards. Bargaining is customary in local markets like Hathi Pol Bazaar. For a 3-4 day trip, you can comfortably explore the main sights. While Udaipur is generally secure, it is always wise to be aware of your belongings and avoid venturing alone at night.