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Places to Visit

Places to Visit at Jaisamand

Jaisamand is located in Udaipur district, away from the main city and is a retreat for people of the neighboring cities. There are many places of interest at Jaisamand that can make a day well spent. Here we are stating the places to visit at Jaisamand, for a fun and exciting trip!

Jaisamand Sanctuary

Places to Visit at Jaisamand
Source: Rajasthan Trip

Jaisamand Sanctuary is situated at a distance of nearly 51 km south-east of Udaipur and spread over an area of 160 square km. Jaisamand Sanctuary was introduced in the year 1957. This sanctuary is the habitat of innumerable species. The species include sloth bear, leopard, chital, chinkara, wild boar and a wide variety of the birds that breed here such as darter, open bill stork, pond heron, little cormorant and Indian Shag. The aquatic life and the amphibians are also found in the lake such as the fish and the crocodiles.

Best time to visit Jaisamand Sanctuary: November to April.

Jaisamand Island Resort

Places to Visit at Jaisamand
Source: Jaisamand island resort

The Jaisamand Island Resort is the sole resort in North West Region of the country to be built on a Private Island of 40 acres. Jaisamand Lake and the Sanctuary are rich in fauna with counts of over 300 bird species, which makes the place ideal for bird watchers too, who can enjoy bird watching while on their stay the resort. This resort has an idyllic location to enjoy the vastness and beauty of the lake.

Also, Jaisamand Lake is famous its quality of fish, which is sold in nearby places. Fried fish is a common delicacy of the Jaisamand region.

Jaisamand Lake

Places to Visit at Jaisamand
Source: Shubham Chouhan

Jaisamand Lake known as the second largest artificial lake in Asia. Located at a distance of nearly 51 km from Udaipur. About the history of this artificial lake, it is said that there was a small puddle or lake, which was called Dhebar Lake. Further, it is said that Maharana Jayasingh’s childhood name was Dhebar and the name of this lake was named after him.

Maharana Jaisingh later named this magnificent lake Jaisamand after his known name which means ‘Ocean of Victory’.

Later, this small puddle was converted into a huge lake forming a dam or wall by the Aravalis on the Gomti River. The Jaisamand Lake Dam is 300 Meters long and is a part of the Heritage Monuments of India. This dam has a Shiva temple, the lake also boasts of six interesting cenotaphs carved from marble on its embankment.

Places to Visit at Jaisamand
Source: Hotels in Udaipur

One can enjoy a boat ride that is ticketed.

Assistant Director of Tourism Department, Sumita Saroj had also announced setting up jetty and Houseboats and Catamaran Boats for the visitors to spend their stay in the middle of the lake. This will set off soon.

Roothi Rani ka Mahal

Places to Visit at Jaisamand
Source: wikimedia

Maharana Jaisingh built many grand palaces along the banks of the lake. This also included the small palace for his queen, Kamladevi. Also popular as Hawa Mahal, this palace is also known as Roothi Rani Ka Mahal and is quite fascinating. Constructed in A.D. 1680-1698, it was gifted to Maharana Jaisingh’s youngest queen Kamladevi. Legends say, being dismayed with Jaisingh, she left her palace to lead a segregated life, hence, the name came to be known as Roothi Rani-ka-Mahal. Roothi Rani Ka Mahal is a heritage structure which is now being maintained by the archaeological department to attract more tourists.

The place is developed as a trekking spot as well and is great for the same.

How to reach Jaisamand:

The lake is nearly 51 km away from Udaipur City can be reached by using road transportation.

Places to Visit at Jaisamand
Source: Shubham Chouhan

Best time to visit:

Can be visited any time of the year, but monsoon is the best time to visit Jaisamand. From July to August.

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Souvenirs from Udaipur: Shopping in the colorful markets of the City of Lakes

Shopping is always a fun and stress-relieving errand. While you’re on your voyage in the City of Lakes, you might as well like to shop for some Souvenirs from Udaipur. All you need is an eye to catch hold of some different stuff and mindset to bargain- there you go! You are so ready to dive into the shopping retreat. Udaipur has great markets and they retail some authentic Rajasthani products.

A quick tip: Binge on some roadside snacks to keep yourself full, you are gonna need energy to negotiate ladies!

Handicrafts

Hathi-Pol and the markets of the Old City of Udaipur are perfect for finding souvenirs that will always be reminiscent of your visit to the City of Lakes. you can buy beautifully carved wooden toys, puppets, copper and zinc metal showpieces. In addition to this, you can also get silver coated furniture, jewelry boxes, figurines, also glass inlay work (lanterns, hangings, small chandeliers etc.) which can serve as impeccable decoration pieces for your home.

Souvenirs from Udaipur
Source: udaipurtimes

The market selling Handicrafts is huge in Udaipur and one can actually shop a lot from the bazaars here.

Price Range: Depends what you are buying; can go up to several thousand.

Buy From: Antiques from Old City and handicrafts from Hathi-Pol

Mojaris

One thing to give you that ultimate Rajasthani feel is the Mojaris. They are usually made from using tanned leather. The embroidered and embellished are the ones you might swoon over! The market at Hathi-Pol has a number of shops adjacent to each other, in a row, having a variety of Mojaris.

Souvenirs from Udaipur
Source: shopkhoj

From Plain to textured, embroidered and with several designs, the Mojaris is a must buy item from Udaipur. Both for ladies and men, these serve as beautiful footwear that looks great when worn with ethnic apparels.

Price Range: Ranging from Rs. 100-120 it can go up to Rs. 500-700 or more depending on your bargaining skills.

Buy From: Hathi-Pol is the best place to buy Mojaris.

Miniature paintings

Udaipur has a huge number of miniature Rajasthani painting artists in the market. Pichwai and Phad paintings are also popular. As the name suggests, Miniature art is an intricate form of painting done on sheets as well as on ivory plates. These can be a great addition to your collection.

Souvenirs from Udaipur
Source: TrekEarth

You can have an in-depth knowledge of Miniature Paintings by clicking here

Price Range: From a mere 100-150 Rupees for small ones they can range up to lacs of Rupees.

Buy From: From Hathi-Pol to the entire Old city to other markets as well, you can find miniature art at art galleries, art houses etc.

Leather journals

There are a lot of people who love collecting journals from where ever they tour. For all such people, leather journals from Udaipur can be a great pick as a souvenir. From small cute ones to actually large journals, you can get them in various shapes and size. Some are embellished and have some kind of cutwork.Souvenirs from Udaipur

Price Range: From Rs. 80-100 to 1000 above

Buy From: Old City, Jagdish Chowk Market

Tribal Jewelry

These pieces of eccentric jewelry will be an apt gift for her. The tribal jewelry of Rajasthan is quite famous. The ones found in the Markets of Udaipur are really cool and authentic. You can buy massive and bold rings, neck pieces, anklets, bangles, bracelets, earrings and so much more. The similar ones can be found in Silver metal as well, but those are quite expensive.

Souvenirs from Udaipur
Source: travel triangle

Put in simpler words, the jewelry is one we say ‘Boho-Chic’ and Bohemian Jewelry and can be paired with any ensemble to get an eye-catchy look!

Price Range: The metal imitation ones start from some 100 bucks

Buy From: Old City, Jagdish Chowk Market, Hathi-Pol, Chand-Pol

Bandhej  

When in Rajasthan you gotta buy Bandhej. Bandhej is the outcome of the tie-and-dye process of coloring fabrics. These fabrics are then sewn into clothes and other forms of apparels. From the inexpensive Bandhej scarfs or ‘Dupattas’ they can go up to quite expensive cloth materials, sarees, bedsheets to many more.

Souvenirs from Udaipur
Source: fashionlivemedia

The authentic Bandhej can costs you a lot, while a bargain would not make a huge hole in your pocket.

Price Range: Scarfs/Dupattas are a good pick and can be bought within Rs. 500

Buy From: It is available in all the markets, especially, Bapu Bazaar, Maldas Street, Hathi-pol, Chand-Pol

Loads of photos and memories

The one thing that won’t cost you anything is the memories you make here. The city is beautiful and extremely peaceful. The scenic landscape can serve a picturesque backdrop for your snaps that you will cherish forever. Get yourself some memorable moments or things that keep your Udaipur visit alive.

Souvenirs from Udaipur
Source: andBeyond

I am sure, you will return home with lots of beautiful pictures and memories.

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Health & Fashion List

List of Salons in Udaipur

Whether you are new to the city, a tourist or a local, everyone needs a salon! Beauty and hair care services have hiked multifold and are growing day by day. Henceforth, I am listing the list of top 10 salons and makeover studios; an info that might come handy in this approaching wedding season. A lot of ladies might book an appointment today as they surf through the list of Best Salons In Udaipur 😛

Pinks & Peaches Makeover Studio

Pinks & Peaches is a high street makeover studio in Udaipur. Providing professional beauty and hair care services in the city, they have made their name. The professionally trained makeover artist Meeta Soni is the main woman behind all the makeovers.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Makeup services, Bridal Makeovers, Hair Styling & others

Address: 419, Sector -11, Hiran Magri, near Alok School, Udaipur

Phone: 7665416663

Bounce Salon

Started by Maya Choudhary in the year 2017, Bounce is rendering its superior services both to men and women at Ashok Nagar Main Road. The salon claims to use newer technologies in the field of beauty services.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Hair, makeup, nails, skin services

Address: Ashok Nagar Main Road, First floor Above Madame outlet, Udaipur

Phone: 7357833222

Shades Hair Studio

Shades Hair started in October 2010 providing the best skin and hair care services in the beauty industry in Udaipur. Situated at a very apt location, Panchwati, this salon fixes all your beauty, makeup, haircare related issues.Salons in Udaipur

Services: All hair and beauty services

Address: 56, Near Sukhadia Circle, Above the Liverpool Showroom, Panchwati, Udaipur,

Phone: 7821860550

Champion Salon

Durgesh Sen, Jamnesh Sen, Kamlesh Sen and Anil Sen are the pillars of this salon chain and their journey dates back to 1990 when Durgesh installed the first salon ‘Navran Salon & Spa’ at Hiran Magri in Udaipur. They have almost 6 branches – Champion gal’s spa, Champion family salon, champion hair salon and spa, champion kid’s salon, and Navrang Hair Salon and Spa.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Bridal Makeup, Shaving, henna treatment, massages, party makeup, groom’s makeup, eyebrows, facial and so much more.

Addresses:

  1. Champion Hair Salon & Spa

Near Kotak Mahindra Bank, 100 Ft. Road, Kankroli, Rajnagar

  1. Navrang Hair Salon & Spa

3/36, Behind SS Coaching, Sec. 5, Udaipur

  1. Champion Kid’s Salon

2-1, II Floor, Celebration Mall, Bhuwana, Udaipur

  1. Champion Family Salon

2/20, II Floor, Celebration Mall, Bhuwana, Udaipur

  1. Champion Gal’s Spa

MG College Road, Udaipur

  1. Champion Hair Salon & Spa

Shakti Nagar Main Road, Udaipur

Phone: 09829088841 / 09772688841

Prabhat Spa

Dating back to the year 2000, Ashok and Asha Paliwal started Prabhat Spa-Salon & Institute at Panchwati, became a much-recognized name in the City of Lakes. They provide top-notch services in the fields of beauty and hair. They have three more branches excluding the main branch.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Skin care services, nail art, Mehandi Art and Henna services, hair styling, makeup services and Spa services.

Addresses:

  1. Prabhat Spa Salon n’ Institute Head Office

103-104, Hitawala IV, Near Lok Kala Mandal Chougan Scheme, Panchwati, Udaipur

  1. Prabhat Hair & Beauty Studio
    Beside Lake City Mall, Ashok Nagar Main Road, Udaipur
  2. Prabhat Spa & Salon
    6-7, Chawala Restaurant, 100 Feet Road, Shobhagpura, Mewar Circle, Udaipur
  3. Prabhat Academy
    6-7, Chawala Restaurant, 100 Feet Road, Shobhagpura, Mewar Circle, Udaipur

Phone: 02942417623

Mayur Salon

Started in the year 1979, the Mayur salon was started by late Dinesh Chanra Sen, and now is run by his wife Asha Rani Sen, and his son Ajay. They have two branches locates at Chetak Circle and Hiran Magri-sec 5. The salon provides all the facilities in terms of beauty and hair and also has a Mayur Academy, where students are groomed for the beauty industry.Salons in Udaipur

Services: All kinds of hair, skin, spa services, bridal and groom packages.

Addresses:

  1. Mayur academy

1st Floor, Mayur Complex, Opp.Narayan Seva Sansthan, Sector 5, Prabhat Nagar, Hiran Magri, Udaipur

  1. Mayur Salon

Chetak Marg, Opposite Sbbj Bank, Near Akashdeep Building, Udaipur

Phone: +91-9252213410 / 9828379484

Amrit’s Hair and Beauty

An old and trusted name in the field of beauty and hair is Amrit’s. Started back in the year the salon offers various services in the field. They also provide Beauty parlor training to students. The name Amrit’s is derived from Amrit Sen, the Proprietor of once famous Kanhaiya Hair Dressers in Udaipur. His son, Rakesh Sen looks after the hair care dept. of the Amrit’s salon.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Bridal makeup, hair styling, luxury body spa, makeover studio, bridal makeup, and all hair, beauty, skin, nails services.

Address: 1st Floor, Shyam Plaza, 15 Hazareshwar Colony, Hospital Rd, Udaipur,

Phone: +91-9314036360, 0294-2411360

New International Cosmetic Care (NICC)

Started with the motto to revolutionize the field of beauty and hair in the City of Lakes, NICC is the product of hard work of Dr.  Sweety Chabbra. Well-known for its beauty and makeup services, NICC is a great place to get your makeup done.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Total beauty and hair care

Address: Chhabra Niwas, Opp. M. B. College, Near Hotel Raghu Mahal, Udaipur

Phone: 0294-2411913

RNCC Salon

Started by Cosmetologists Rinku and Jia, RNCC is a well-known salon in Udaipur, offering multi-faceted services in the domain of makeup and hair. It is also an Institute for professional courses, advance beauty course guided by experts.Salons in Udaipur

Services: All types of skin treatments and all hair styling and cutting including hair loss treatment, anti-dandruff, radiant color treatment.

Address: 1-B, Mehta Bhawan, Near RTDC Kajri Hotel, Ashok Nagar Main Road, Udaipur

Phone: +91 9252628167 / 7014982707

Ambika’s Hair and Beauty Studio

A luxurious boutique hair and beauty studio running under the name Ambika’s Hair and Beauty Studio. Ambika, the main woman behind the salon, is a certified cosmetologist and travels across the globe for bridal makeup, fashion makeup assignments. She is trained in skin and makeup from New Zealand and London. Her place is a must visit!Salons in Udaipur

Services: Hair, styling, cutting, coloring, treatment, chemical haircare, skin treatments and care, Makeovers, bodywork – body spa etc.

Address: 308, Harsh Nagar near Eklinghnath garden before Rampura circle, Udaipur

Phone: +91-9116013212

If you have been to any of the above-mentioned salons or makeover studios, do tell me the reviews! Also, suggest us any name if we have missed it!

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Places to Visit

Places to have a romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day in Udaipur!

The week has already started and Valentine’s Day is around the corner. To make this day a super special one, I am listing some places which will give you an impeccable view of the city so you can fall in love all over again- both with Udaipur and your Bae! These places are sure to revive that spark!

Make sure to book your table in advance!

Jagat Niwas Palace

Source: Booking.com

This place is one of my favorites in Udaipur- isolated from the hustle-bustle of the city and dipped in tranquility. The ambiance is perfect for having a candlelight dinner with your beloved. Watch the birds returning to their nests and sunset from here and then dive into the pool of luscious cuisine.

Amber

Source: amberudaipur.com

A new addition to the restaurant league in Udaipur, Amber has a great location as it is situated close to the ghat next to Ambrai and overlooks the magical waters of Pichola. The one restaurant is known for its Mexican cuisine, this place can surely set your evening on fire!

Raas Leela

Source: RaasLeela

Superb food and quick service, Raas Leela situated adjacent to the majestic Leela Palace and at the banks of Lake Pichola, is a comfortable place to celebrate Love. The peaceful ambiance will have misty winds blowing on a winter evening and you and your partner will love it!

Upre

Source: UdaipurBlog

Known for its exquisitely romantic ambiance, Upre is a place you cannot miss! The place gives you ‘sitting on the cruise’ feeling. I don’t know many of you have been to Upre on a full moon night, but trust me it’s one hell of an exciting and beautiful view. Date and Upre go hand in hand.

Sunset Terrace

Source: Wedfine

One exotic and the extravagant location is resting in the City Palace Complex- the Sunset Terrace. Live music and the kingly City Palace behind you, a sight and night to remember. The food is delectable and the place is immensely beautiful and a must visit.

BMK

Source: TripAdvisor

Almost everyone in Udaipur knows and loves BlueMoon Kinaraz. Known for its beautiful location that overlooks Pichola and gives a magical view of the City Palace, at night this place becomes heaven. The special setup can be made on demand at the exclusive terrace of BMK and you can have a candlelight dinner and spend some quality time.

Chunda Palace

Source: ChundaPalace

Giving a totally different view, the restaurant at the Chunda Palace will take your breath away. Perfect for a dinner, the place serves the delicious dishes. The service is suave and the view, unimpeachable. What are you waiting for, book a table for two!

Vantage

Source: TripAdvisor

A beautiful new addition to the restaurants in Udaipur is Vantage, situated at Haridas Ji Ki Magri the place has a great view as it’s a rooftop restaurant. The interiors and ambiance are great to take your loved ones on a date they’ll never forget! Mild music playing at the back, this place gives a complete view of the city.

Tribute

Source: Gobymobile

This place has two sitting venues, one inside and another outside. Known as a spot bird watching, Tribute has a sumptuous cuisine and the humbleness and courtesy of the staff make you feel truly special. The place becomes a haven for nature lovers after the dusk and is a must visit on Valentines.

Swayamwar Restaurant, Shouryagarh Resort

Source: HungryDunia

Last but not the least, Swayamwar Restaurant at Shouryagarh Resort and Spa. This one of a kind restaurant is known for its revolving sitting. The place serves great taste and can be on your list of V-day venues undoubtedly. They have also a special setup for the Valentine’s as well.

Also, do tell what are your special plans for the V-Day or where are you taking your darling this year!

P.S.

Not just lovers, you can hang out with your best friend or your siblings or parents or any form of Love! The main thought behind writing this is that you take out some time for people you love. 😊

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News

Should Udaipur have a Film City?

In the year 2010, Mukesh Madhwani theorized the idea of establishing a Film City in Udaipur. Since then he has been working actively to turn his dream into reality. Recently, his concept has taken a new turn in its journey.

Eminent personalities of the state have come up supporting this idea as it has several benefits. Home Minister, Gulab Chand Kataria has stated that a detailed plan about the project should be made and requirements in terms of finance and land must be proposed through the PPP (Public-private partnership) Mode.  Similarly, Udaipur’s M.P., Arjun Lal Meena has said that the project has huge prospects in Lake City.

Higher Education Minister, Kiran Maheshwari U.D.H. Minister, Shrichand Kriplani Tourism Minister, Krishnendra Kaur Deepa Local M.L.A.’S Divisional Commissioner, Bhawani Singh Detha Shriji, Arvind Singh Ji City Mayor, Chandra Singh Kothari U.I.T. Chairman, Ravindra Shrimali Deputy Director, Tourism Department, Udaipur, Sumita Saroj and many others have supported the idea of establishing a Film City in Udaipur.

As per Mukesh, Lake city has been a venue for big events related to weddings, parties of big industrialists, political leaders, film actors etc. So, it can easily support investment from different quarters.

He also adds, that because of its unmatched natural ambiance, historical buildings and distinct culture it is already a favorite spot for film shooting. During the last 40 years over 500 Bollywood, Hollywood, South Indian and Rajasthani films and numerous serials and ads have been shot here.

mukesh madhwani

Keeping in mind the pros like having good neighboring states of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh with a decent connectivity with roads, rails, and airways add to the benefits. Also, not forgetting the scenic beauty for which the city is known for, Udaipur is indeed the first choice of tourists as well as filmmakers.

Apart from these, building a Film City shall also bring employment opportunities, boost tourism and open new gates to world-level exposure.

“One can never do enough for Udaipur,” says Mukesh Madhwani upon asking why he wants to set up a Film City in Udaipur.

Truly, one can never settle with such a zeal to serve!

If a Film City opens in Udaipur, would it be a feather in the city’s cap? What are your thoughts about the opening of a Film City in Udaipur? Tell us in the comments below!

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News

Gauravi Singhvi from Udaipur swims 48 Km, Makes a new record!

14-year-old, Gauravi Singhvi from the City of Lakes has swum for nine hours from Juhu Beach (Khar Danda) to Gateway of India at the southern tip of the metropolis (Mumbai). Gauravi entered the sea waters in Mumbai at 3:30 am today (6 Feb 2018) and achieved her target by 12:30pm.

Gauravi told the Mumbai Media that she will swim from Khar Danda on the west coast to the Gateway of India which is 48 kilometers. She also stated that she started participating in different swimming competitions from Class 3 and practices day and night.

Gauri Singhvi from Udaipur swims 48 Km, Makes a new record!
Gauri Singhvi swimming
Source: ANI

Earlier, in March 2017, she was the first girl to explore the route from Sea Link near Worli Koliwada to Gateway of India which was a distance of 36 km.

Gauravi is a resident of Udaipur and has always been passionate about swimming and wants to swim the English Channel and also the Arabian sea.

Her coach Mahesh Paliwal said that Gauravi practices regularly for 8-10 hours and after today’s challenge she will be practicing for the English Channel.

Way to go girl!!!

Gauri Singhvi from Udaipur swims 48 Km, Makes a new record!
Source: ANI
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News

3-4 February 2018: Udaipur hosts a 2-day Literary Fest

A 2-day state level literary event is being hosted in the City of Lakes!

Young and talented youth from Rajasthan are taking part in the conference which is organized in collaboration with Rajasthan Sahitya Academy. The writers are gathering from various districts like Barmer, Nagor, Sirohi, Jaipur, Dholpur, Baran, Dungarpur, Rajsamand, Chittorgarh, Churu, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Sriganganagar, Hanumangarh.

‘राजस्थान में युवा लेखन’ (young and budding writings of Rajasthan) is the topic around which young writers would discuss the forms of contemporary writing. About 80 young writers of less than 35 years of age are participating in this event.

The event inaugurated at 10 am on Saturday (3 February 2018) in the academy auditorium. Youth activist Pravin Ratlia was invited as the chief guest and Bhagwan Sahay Jatwa, Secretary of Udaipur’s Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), was the special guest on this occasion.

The closing ceremony will be held at 11 am on Sunday (4 February 2018), in which UIT Chairperson Ravindra Shrimali and Maharana Pratap Agriculture and Technology University Registrar Priyanka Jodhavat will be guests.

  • On Saturday, Poetry recitation and storytelling sessions are being hosted in which lectures by experts and letter reading by the young writers will be the main attraction.
  • On Sunday, there will be lectures, recitations on various fictional prose genres.

During this two-day event, senior writers from all over the state, like Sawai Singh Shekhawat from Jaipur, Kundan Mali of Udaipur, Surendra D. Sini of Churu, Malay Penari of Udaipur, Naveen Nandana, Jyotipunj, Surendrasinh Rao, will works in close liaison with the young writer attendees.

Hindi News Source: Patrika

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List

The Prominent Churches of Udaipur

Places of worship in Udaipur is something everyone must know. Here we are listing the major churches in Udaipur.

Rajasthan Pentecostal Church

The Rajasthan Pentecostal Church was established by Late Dr. Thomas Matthew, an Apostle of North India. It was in the year 1963 that he started the church; earlier the church was under the Shepherd Memorial, and it was 1987 when it got its own building and management at Rani Road.Churches of Udaipur

Since then, the daily meetings and prayers are conducted at the church, which is Independent for its own practice.

By 2005, there were over one thousand local churches that had been birthed as a result of the work that began in Udaipur by Late Dr. Thomas Matthew. Also, till 2005, Late Dr. Thomas Matthew was pastor of the church. On the 24th November 2005, en route Punjab to preach, he passed away in his sleep, after him Pastor Paul Thomas Mathews took over.

The church has a great architecture, able to accommodate almost 500 devotees at a time.

Rajasthan Pentecostal is of the Protestant churches of the city. The church also helps in the field of education and healthcare. It has educational institutions and hospitals, St. Matthew’s School at Rani Road is one of the institutes.Churches of Udaipur

The Rajasthan Pentecostal Church is affiliated to Filadelfia Fellowship Church of India (Regd.), a national fellowship of 1600 affiliated churches.

Address: Opposite Sanjay Park, Rani Rd, Malla Talai, Udaipur


Shepherd Memorial Church

The Shepherd Memorial Church is carved in the Scottish architecture and is the oldest church in Udaipur. The first worship was offered in this Church after sanctification on 05 July 1891.Churches of Udaipur

It was built by the Scottish Missionary and a Medical Doctor from Aberdeen, Scotland, Rev. Dr. James Shepherd (02 Feb 1847 — 29 Mar 1926) who with the great help of the then State Executive Engineer Mr. Campbell Thompson constructed the church. The church is named after Dr. James Shepherd. It is said that the land for the construction of the church was given to Dr. Shepherd by the Maharana of Udaipur.

Campbell Thompson also constructed lake Fateh Sagas Dam, Railway Line to Chittorgarh, Victoria Memorial Hall (Saraswati Library in Gulab Bagh).Churches of Udaipur

The church is located near Chetak Circle, also known as Church of North India. Shepherd Memorial is a protestant and an independent church and nearly 300 people can pray together in the church. In its earlier days prayers were conducted by Dr. James Shepherd after whom the clergy has changed 18 times and now prayers are being conducted by Rev. Jitendra Nath since 2016.

Address: Shepherd Memorial Church, Church of North India, Chetak Circle, Udaipur


Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral

As per a source, there is a story behind the establishment of this church. A devotee of Our Lady in Germany sent a statue of Our Lady of Fatima to India and remained in Ajmer unopened from 1964 to 1967 in the Bishop’s House.Churches of Udaipur

Bishop of Ajmer helped the Tridium management of Udaipur in fulfillment of their want of a life-size statue of Lady Fatima, where the statue was never opened from its cover. The Tridium Management welcomed to take it.

It is said that Late Rev. Fr. Avito Coutinho expressed amazement seeing the statue which arrived from Ajmer. He was spellbound by the beauty of the statue and immediately decided to take it for their worship. It was kept in a cover till it found a decent place for worshipping, which later on came to be the church where it is now.Churches of Udaipur

In its initial days the statue of Our Lady of Fatima was kept in a newly constructed block in St. Paul’s school campus then it was shifted permanently in the Our Lady Fatima Church.

The church has a huge hall for prayers in which 500 devotees can pray. Also, it is the largest church in Udaipur and has beautiful interiors.

There are many institutions which come under the management of the church, as follows:

  1. Mary’s Sr. Sec. School
  2. Teresa’s Sr. Sec. School
  3. Paul’s Sr. Sec. School, Udaipur
  4. Teresa’s Sr. Sec. School
  5. Asha Dham
  6. Missionaries of Charity
  7. Maitri Sadan
  8. Teresa Hospital
  9. Prerna Press

Address: Opposite St. Paul’s Sr. Sec. School, Bhopalpura, Udaipur


St. Gregorios Orthodox Church

The church at St. Gregorios celebrates its Foundation Day in January 1987. It was created as a parish of Malankara Orthodox Church but the Church was named after St. Geevarghese Mar Gregorios of Parumala who is the Patron Saint of the Church building.

A statue of the Patron Saint of is also erected inside the prayer hall, of the Church. It is an orthodox church, and the infrastructure is similar to the churches in Syria.

Churches of Udaipur
Source: Udaipurtimes

Malankara Syrian Christians’ history dates back to their origin when St. Thomas, the Apostle of Jesus Christ, came to India in 52 A.D. A major section of the parent body of St. Thomas Christians constitutes the Orthodox Church under the Catholicos of the East with headquarters at Devalokam, Kottayam. Today, the Church is running a number of Schools, Charitable Institutions like Old Age Homes, Orphanages, Hospitals, etc. all over the country.

The Church can occupy as much as 200 devotees at a time. The Diocese of Delhi Malankara Orthodox Church was the governing body of the church, which later on got acquired by the newly established Diocese of Ahmedabad.

Address: St.Gregorios Orthodox Church, P.B.No.172, Khar Kuan, New Bhupalpura, Udaipur


Emmanuel Mar Thoma Church, Udaipur

The Mar Thoma Christians migrated from Kerala to Udaipur, after which they felt a necessity of having a place to worship. Thus, they formed “Malayalee Syrian Christian Congregation” which accommodated Mar Thoma and Orthodox Christians. Rev. K. V. Varkey, of Mar Thoma Church Valsad, Gujarat was the first Mar Thoma vicar who visited Udaipur and conducted Holy Communion on 4th September 1966 at the Shepherd Memorial CNI church, Udaipur.

The desire of the Martomites was fulfilled on 6th March 1993, and  Rev. Geeverghese Mar Athanasius, Bombay-Delhi Diocesan Bishop laid the foundation stone of Emmanuel Mar Thoma Church Udaipur & the dedication ceremony by Rt. Rev. Dr. Issac Mar Philoxenos Episcopa on 27th August 1994.

Churches of Udaipur

Later, the members felt the need to have a separate room for the guests who visited the parish. The construction of the guest room was completed in the year 1998.

Churches of Udaipur

Address: Emmanuel Mar Thoma Syrian Church 61, Sukhadia Nagar, University Road, North Ayad, Udaipur


About the series: ‘Places of Worship in Udaipur’

Motive behind carrying out the series

The series carries a sole motive of making the people of the city aware of the places of worship. The series has already covered prominent Temples of the city and the second segment is ‘Churches of Udaipur’.

This information is collected from valid sources to form an article.

Feel free to contribute to this article, by sharing data of any church we have missed. 🙂

Photos By: Siddharth Nagar & Fouzia Mirza

Categories
Places to Visit

The Largest Fish Aquarium in India- ‘Under The Sun’ Aquarium, Udaipur

The privilege of having the largest fish aquarium in India is something to take pride in. Yes, we are talking about the Fish Aquarium, ‘UNDER THE SUN’, situated close to Vibhuti Park.  Located at a hot-spot in Udaipur- the Lake Fatehsagar Paal. Under The Sun is the largest public aquarium gallery in terms of gallons of water, numbers, and species of fish in the entire Nation. Inaugurated on 21st October 2017 by the home minister of Rajasthan, Gulab Chand Ji Kataria, the place has approximately 180 species of fish both from marine and fresh water. Photography is permitted inside the fish aquarium which makes it even more exciting as visitors can carry memories with them.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

The aquarium is a 125-meter-long gallery which hosts a number of small as well as large aquariums with various fish.

Variety of fish:

The species of fish have been brought from around the world viz. South America, Brazil, Senegal, Japan, Africa, Malaysia, Congo, Indonesia, America, China, and marine fish are from the Indian Ocean. They also have some of the rare species of fish like Mormyrus Rume, Alligator Gars, Marine Water Stingray, Senegal Dragons, Puffer Fish, Archer Fish and other sea creatures like – Sea Urchins, Sea Anemone, Fire Belly Newts, Indonesian Mud Crabs, Hermit Crabs, Albino frogs, Fresh Water Scampi and more.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

There is a marine section where you can see a variety of amazing and unique brackish water fish. This section has 5 Marine Water Aquariums. In which fish like Clownfish, Brown Banded Bombay Shark, Blue-Eyed Yellow Tang, Blue Tang, Sea anemones, Sea Urchins, Hermit Crabs, StarFish, Fox Face Rabbit Fish, Trigger Fish, Two-Spotted Damsel, Blue Damsel, Mono Angel, Emperor Angel Fish, Turbo Snail can be seen.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

Management and Structure of the Aquarium:

As you enter the aquarium, a mild music is playing and you come across a beautiful architecture. UIT Udaipur has spent Rs. 2 crores in the construction of the aquarium which is evident, and another 3 crores have been spent on the interiors of the gallery which is even more evident. The whole inside of the place is covered with insulating material and not much light enters the premises, to give the aquatic life their natural habitat.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

The aquarium gallery is built and is being managed by the team of Manshapurn Karni Mata Ropeway, headed by Mr. Kailash Khandelwal. Anjali Azad Dubey, known for her green designs at her firm “Pratham Interiors” gave creative consultancy for the interiors of the aqua gallery. The consultancy for procurement, wellbeing, and maintenance of fish is provided by wildlife expert Mr. Aashish Mahesh Baagla who is based in Mumbai.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

Opportunities at the Fish Aquarium:

It has good opportunities for the students of the Fisheries college of Udaipur as they can learn about various international breeds of fish and other aquatic animals. Mr. Aashish Mahesh Baagla has trained the students of the Fisheries college, who look after the aquariums under his guidance.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

The aquarium poses as a major tourist spot as it drives not only local people but also tourists from the entire globe. As per the management stats, it has a monthly foot-fall of around 50,000 people.

Other attractions at the Under The Sun Fish Aquarium, Udaipur:

  • World’s First Aqua Trick Art Museum by World Renowned Artist Mr. AP Sreethar
  • India’s First Aqua Live Virtual Reality Experiences- for feeling sea life in an immersive 360-degree environment. It is an Award Winning oceanic VR Experiences deployed through state of the art and latest VR Gadgetry
  • Interaction with fish at the Touch Pool where you can feed as well as touch the fish
  • The OMG Tank- the only fish tank in India where you can get inside and experience life underwater, without getting wet.
  • A cafeteria for your munching needs
  • Free high-speed Wi-fi

Fish Aquarium UdaipurTickets at ‘Under The Sun’ fish aquarium Udaipur:

For the Aquarium

Adults: Rs. 118 (inclusive of GST)

Children (Below 15 yrs): Rs. 47 (inclusive of GST)

Foreigners: Rs. 236 (inclusive of GST)

Virtual Reality Experience: Rs. 118 (inclusive of GST)

Trick Art Museum: Rs. 100 (inclusive of GST)

Timings of the Aquarium: 8 am till 11 pm

Address: Fatehsagar Lake Paal, adjacent Vibhuti Park, Udaipur

You can visit their Instagram page for details: @underthesunaquarium

Also, do tell us your experience at the Fish Aquarium at FatehSagar Lake.

Photos by: Siddharth Nagar

Categories
Places to Visit

Know about Udaipur Wax Museum

Day by day the City of Lakes is developing and expanding its periphery as a tourist hub. Famous for its lakes, havelis and luxe hotels the city added one more tourist spot, the Wax Museum. Situated at Sajjangarh Road, the wax museum is a great attraction for tourists.

Wax Museum Udaipur

Interesting facts about the Udaipur Wax Museum

  • It is designed as well as inspired by the theme similar to that of the celebrity wax museum at Madame Tussauds, London
  • The Wax Museum, Udaipur is the fifth wax museum in India and one of its kind in Rajasthan
  • There are 15 statues in total at the Wax Museum, Udaipur
  • Earlier there were statues of Hollywood celebrity like Barrack Obama, Michael Jackson, Bruce Willis, Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Arnold, Harry Potter, which are replaced by Indian Celebs as of now.
  • Right now, there are 15 statues, which all are of Indian celebrities like APJ Abdul Kalam, Kalpana Chawla, Mother Teresa, Sachin Pilot, Sachin Tendulkar, Amit Shah, Mahatma Gandhi, Amrita Devi Bishnoi, Maharana Pratap, Padmini, Meera Bai, PM Narendra Modi, LakshyaRaj Singh Mewar, Panna Dhai. There is a statue of Mr. Bean in addition to all these Indian Celebs.
  • The statues go for maintenance which takes around 6 months and after every two years, the statues are replaced with new ones.
  • The statues are procured from London
  • Each statue costs 15 lac Indian Rupees
  • All the wax statues are kept in an Air Conditioning room maintaining a constant temperature of 32 degrees
  • The Wax Museum, Udaipur has a horror house, 9D cinema, mirror maze other the wax statuesWax Museum Udaipur

You can visit the official site of wax museum at Udaipur at  Wax Museum Udaipur

Udaipur Wax Museum Tickets:

Wax Museum: Rs. 150

Horror Show: Rs. 100

9 D Cinema: Rs. 150

Mirror Maze: Rs. 80

Combo Pack: Rs. 300

Timings of the Udaipur Wax Museum: 9am to 9pm

The wax museum was inaugurated by Lakshya Raj Singh Mewar of Udaipur in 2016. The museum attracts not only Udaipurites but also a lot of Indian and International tourists. It is a great addition to the city and as photography is allowed, it serves as a superb selfie point for people to have their photographs clicked with celebrities.Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur Wax Museum Udaipur

Tell us your experience at the Udaipur Wax Museum, did you love it/got amazed by the statues?

Photos By: Siddharth Nagar & Wax Museum Management