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Famous places to visit in Udaipur | Popular Attractions in Udaipur

The city of Udaipur, one of the centers of regalia in Rajasthan, Sometimes referred to as the “white city” because of its white marble palaces was founded by Maharana Udai Singh. In a latest international poll Udaipur of India was crowned the best place to visit in 2009, in a world wide survey. The city is built around Lake Pichola, the lifeline of Udaipur. There are a number of other reservoirs and because of the abundance of water Udaipur does boast of some very fine gardens and parks. We shall cover some of the popular places that you should include in your travel itinerary.

Udaipur Palace

Reigning the banks of lake Pichola are a cascade of Palaces that have been erected by different rulers over a period of time starting from 1559 AD. A beautiful triple arched gate welcomes the visitors to the palace. You would be treated to a bountiful display of regal architecture comprising of many courtyards, gardens, terraces and corridors. Places of prominence in the palace compound are Suraj Ghokda where the rulers used to appear in hard times to boost the morale of citizens, Mor-chowk (Peacock courtyard) with its decorative walls of colored glass mosaic and paintings of Krishna at Bhim Vilas. Udaipur palace is now house to some old articles of historical importance, antique crockery, furniture, paintings and other decorative objects. One can enjoy a breath taking view of Udaipur city, Jag Mandir and world famous Lake palace hotel form the balconies.

Rose Garden (Gulab Bagh)

The gorgeous Rose garden that was laid out by Maharana Sajjan is spread over a sprawling 100 acre area and has an ornate display of exotic rose species,orchids, fruit trees and other flora. This is located to the east side of lake Pichola. The garden also houses Saraswati Bhawan Library that boasts of some prized collection of hand written books and manuscripts. If you are an animal lover too then the zoo in the garden has quite a large number of animals and birds to please you, particularly the big cats. There is also a museum with a fine collection of interesting artifacts, antique household items and some other articles of curiosity.

Dudh Talai – Rock Garden

This place used to be the bathing ground of the city in its glorious days. Rock garden is famous for its panoramic sunset view where the Sun drowns into the Pichola Lake. You would also be able to enjoy a grand view of Old Udaipur city and the city place. One modern attraction has been added to this delightful place in form a musical fountain. Rock garden is locally referred to as “Manikyalal Park”.

Jagdish Temple

Built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat singh this temple is a fine specimen of Indo-Aryan architecture. It is a triple storied shrine that links the double storied Mandap (hall) to the double storied sanctum. Built on a raised terrace the temple holds visitor’s attention very well. Jagdish Temple or Sri Jagannath Rai temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu and houses a imposing four-armed figure carved out of single black stone. The shikhar(spire) of the temple is a beautiful festooned structure that displays splendid stone works of dancers, musicians, elephants, horsemen etc. All the big lanes starting form Sheharpanahs (city wall) converge at the temple. A walk through these lanes will give you an idea of the rich culture of the Rajputs of Udaipur.