Author: Juhee Mehta

Literally, see characters of books in every person she meets. Apart from eating, she is found adventuring and talking to herself. Believes in magic and escape reality through words. If she possibly knows you, you might find yourself in her poems.

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History and Culture

Mangi Bai – The Rajasthani Folk Sensation from Udaipur

Whether it be Chandra Prakash Deval or Uday Shankar, Limba Ram or Vikram Solanki, Udaipur comprises of too many hidden gems who don’t just shine in the city but in the entire world. If you are an Udaipurite and do not have a clue about the above names, then you need to keep yourself a bit updated. Well, we will discuss these names on some other day. Today’s article is solely dedicated to one of the most renowned Maand Singer, Mangi Bai.

Udaipur has been blessed with not only the natural beauty but it has beauty in every individual residing in itself too. The similar amount of beauty and charm is reflected in the voice and music of the famous Mangi Bai Arya.

Mangi Bai has allured every one with her melodious rendition of the song ‘Kesariya Balam aavo ni’ but before we move onto Mangi bai and her life journey, I’m absolutely aware of the fact that most of the people wouldn’t know a thing about ‘Maand’. So let’s just start from that.

Source: Patrika

‘Maand’ is a singing style in Rajasthan which is used in Folk songs of the same. It can be said that it is a bit similar to the Thumri and the Ghazal. It is the most sophisticated style of folk music in Rajasthan and has played an exclusive role in the contribution to the classical music of India. This Rajasthani style of singing was originated back in the 10th and 11th century in Maand area of Jaisalmer. Apparently, that is why it is named so. The main instruments used in ‘Maand’ is kamaicha and cymbals.

Kamaicha | Source: importitall
Cymbal | Source: Craftfurnish

Now, let’s get back to Mangi Bai Arya. Mangi Bai Arya was born in the Pratapgarh district of Udaipur division. She was born in the family of traditional musicians and inherited her talent from her family itself. Her father Kamal Ram was the one who trained her in rendering the Maand song. In terms of Rajasthan’s traditional music, Mangi Bai Arya is considered to be one of the most accomplished performers. She has remained the ‘A’ graded artist of All India Radio and Doordarshan. Mangi Bai was very well known and adored by people from various cities for her famous and appealing rendition of ‘Kesariya Balam Aavo Ni’.

Now that we are talking about her achievements, let me tell you that Mangi bai has been a proud winner of the State Award of Government of Rajasthan in 2007 and also titled as the ‘Maand Gayika’ by the Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Academy in 2008 for her valuable contribution of Maand music in Rajasthan. She has successfully propagated the Rajasthan’s musical culture at not just national levels but international levels too, giving out numerous performances at these platforms which includes Apna Utsav at Mumbai, Mahabharat Utsav at Kurukshetra, and the Maand Samaroh which was organized by the Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Academy.

Source: Amar Ujala

She owns a large number of published recordings and even lent her voice for various television serials and documentaries on the traditional music of Rajasthan. Apart from that, she even has published a book on the same subject whose title is ‘Rajasthan ke Maand Geet’.

Mangi Bai Arya has taught Maand music for twenty years of life at the West Zone Cultural Centre in Udaipur and participated in workshops on traditional music in Kolkata organized by the Marudhara foundation and in Jaipur by the Jawahar Kala Kendra.

For her excellent work in the field of spreading the Rajasthani culture at the national and international level, Mangi Bai has been conferred to the title of ‘Maand Gayika’ by the Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Academi in 2008. In 2007, she also won the State Award of the Government of Rajasthan’.

On November 23, 2017, Mangi Bai passed away at the age of 88 due to a cardiac attack. She left a happy and healthy family including 4 sons behind her.

We are living in the century where people have forgotten the essence of traditional Rajasthani music or in that matter we have forgotten about our culture. At such times, people like Mangi Bai have carefully preserved these art forms, cultures and traditions of Rajasthan and it is not just limited to that but she actually proliferated Rajasthani culture and tradition in the entire world. Rajasthan and moreover the world needs more people like her.

Did you like the article? Do you have any feedback regarding it? Then share with us in the comment section below or write to me juhee@udaipurblog.com.

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List

Open Air Gyms in Udaipur

‘Take care of your body, it is the only place you have to live’ is a very appropriate quote by Jim Rohn. Our body is something which we should take utmost care of. During this time of modernization and fast life, we often miss the fact that no amount of money can bring to you your health back. And so proper diet and regular exercise are very important for one to keep himself fit and healthy.

Getting the willpower to decide to go to a gym and working out is already difficult and on the top of that, we even have to pay a fortune to these gyms as well which is not always possible for everyone. At such times, there are various open gyms in the city where you can work out and keep yourself fit and that too without paying a single penny. All that you have to pay is hard work and dedicated efforts. Here is a list of places which are equipped with open gyms.

Gulab Bagh

This open gym is situated opposite the shrine near Saraswati Library. Gulab Bagh is a huge garden where you can warm yourself up before the exercise by running and then you can head towards the gym. Gulab Bagh is a place which is very frequently visited by the people of Udaipur for the workout so it is possible that you may get a workout partner there. However, because of the same reason, the gym is a bit crowded during the mornings.

Address: Gulab Bagh, Brahmpuri Road, Udaipur

 

Pratap Park

Open Air Gyms in Udaipur for all the Fitness Freaks
Source: MyUdaipurcity

Pratap Park is a newly constructed park which has become a huge tourist attraction in a very short period of time. The main highlight of the park is the enormous ‘I love Udaipur’ before the railing of the garden. It has various gym equipment along with a peaceful and comfortable environment to start your day with. In addition to that, it overlooks the beautiful Lake Pichola which will give you a pleasant sight while working out.

Address: Lake Pichola, Southern Banks, Near Sisarma, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

 

Dr. B R Ambedkar Open gym and Park

All machines are self-weight driven here which will give you a wonderful experience. The Open gym and Park overlooks Lake Fatehsagar creating a wonderful sight while working out. Fresh air coming from Lakeside will take away all your tiredness after the workout. There is absolutely no better way to start your mornings. Most of the machines here are core (stomach) based.

Address: Fatehsagar Lake, Rani Road, opposite Rani Village, Udaipur, 313001

 

Guru Gobind Singh Park

Source: TripAdvisor

At the most adored place of all the Udaipurites, this open-air gym is situated at Guru Gobind Singh Park at Fatehsagar. The gym includes around 8 equipment along with an air walker. This facility is open for citizens of Udaipur throughout the week. It oversees Lake Fatehsagar too and provides a wonderful experience to those who are seeking for a good health without spending much money.

Address: Maharana Pratap Memorial Road, Zinc Park, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

 

Pooja Park

For people living in the Hiran Magri sectors, Pooja Park would be an ideal choice as it would not be much far away from their respective houses. It is equipped with multiple gym equipment which is appropriate for people of all ages. Regular maintenance and lush green garden will give you all the motivation you will need for your workout. With time, it is getting quite popular with the people for their morning and evening exercises.

Address: Jain Mandir Road opposite waterworks, Shanti Nagar, Hiran Magri, Udaipur, 313002

 

Sukhadiya Memorial Park

It has a number of machines and equipment for all the people for their morning or evening workout. It is a well maintained and a well-decorated park. The wide stretches of the park is a very comforting place for everyone. Apart from the open gym, there are various comfortable seats placed in the park, temple of Goddess Durga and Lord Swaminarayan. It is appropriate for friends, family or children.

Address: Durga Nursery Road, Ashok Nagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

 

Townhall

Townhall is situated in the City Center, so it is not much far away from anyone’s home. It is well equipped with a track for your jogging around the fountain and various machines for your daily workout. There is an underground public parking too where you can park your heavy vehicles. It is an ideal place for all the fitness freaks and morning and evening joggers.

Address: Ashoka Cinema Road, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

 

These were the list of some open-air gyms in the city. While it seems very good and enjoyable to practice workout in the open air, we should understand that it is a facility given to us for our own benefits. Just for some moments of fun, do not harm any of these machines and equipment as what you do now will make everyone else suffer. Make sure that you respect and take care of the things in your city and use these facilities carefully. If you see someone else doing so, tell him not to do such things and if it doesn’t work out, try contacting some authorities regarding the same.

Do you think someplace is missed in the above list? Share your feedback and suggestions regarding the article in the comment section below. You can also write to me juhee@udaipurblog.com

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List

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary – Birding Tours in Udaipur

Sitamata sanctuary is a visual treat for all the nature lovers and bird watchers. It is situated at a distance of about 165 km from Udaipur in the Pratapgadh district. As far as the Biota is concerned, Sitamata is one of the richest Sanctuary. It includes mammals of 50 different species and birds of 325 species which includes Herons, egrets, storks, spoonbills, partridge, quail, crane, peafowls, kingfishers, woodpeckers, sparrows, robins, etc. It’s not that the flora and fauna in here are any less. It has somewhere around 100 varieties of medicinal plants and trees like peepal, bad, neem, kachnar, babool, amaltas, ashok, khejdi, semal, bamboo etc.

Undoubtedly this wildlife sanctuary is the treasure for those seeking adventure into the wild. However, if you do not have proper directions, information, and guidance, it might be possible that you cannot get the most out of it. To prevent such situations, there are several agencies that organize birding tours that include exploration of all the natural aspects of the sanctuary. Below are two organizations which help the tourists explore the beauty of the sanctuary through their birding tours.

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary – Birding Tours in Udaipur
Source: Udaipur Times

Rajasthan Adventure and Safari tours

It conducts a 5-day birding tour which covers Parks, Lakes, and sanctuary of around Udaipur and Chittorgarh. It provides meals that is breakfast, lunch, and dinner, transportation facilities which include either Innova, Swift Dzire or Etios and a knowledgeable English speaking guide.

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary – Birding Tours in Udaipur
Source: Pinterest
  • Day 1 where you might get to see Greater Flamingo, White-Tailed Lapwing, Pelican, Marsh Harrier, Black Kite, Green Sandpiper, Wood sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover, Red-wattled Lapwing, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Common Crane, Bar Headed Goose etc.
  • Day 2 covers Bathera Kalan and Ghasa Lake which is around 40 km from Udaipur. You can view birds like Common Sandpiper, Marsh Harrier, Little Grebe, Cormorants, Black-headed Ibis, Woolly-necked Stork, Water Tern, Indian Roller, Wagtails, Plain and Ashy Prinia, White-throated,Common and Pied Kingfisher, Egrets, Eurasian Coot, Purple Heron, Grey Heron, Pond Heron, Cotton Pygmy Goose etc.
  • Day 3 will lead you towards Chittorgarh from Udaipur where you may witness several birds like Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Lark, Red-rumped Swallow, Grey Wagtail, Olive-backed Pipit, Black-headed Cuckooshrike, Large Cuckooshrike, Small Minivet, Red-vented Bulbul, Common Iora, Long-tailed Shrike, Southern Grey-Shrike, Common Woodshrike, White-browed Fantail, Indian Robin, Oriental Magpie-Robin, Black Redstart,  Pied Bushchat, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Verditer Flycatcher, Yellow-eyed Babbler, Common Babbler, Large Grey Babbler, etc.
Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary – Birding Tours in Udaipur
Source: Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary 1
  • On Day 4, you will explore the exquisite Sitamata bird sanctuary. It consists of some very old trees. It has plenty of wild animals and birds.
  • On day 5, you will reach the Bassi Bird Sanctuary, where, by the time of sunrise, you would be able to see birds like Lesser Whitethroat, Orphean Warbler,  Great Tit,  Purple Sunbird,  Crested Bunting,  Red-Headed Bunting,  House Sparrow,  Chestnut-shouldered Petronia,  Rock myna, Indian, etc.
  • Day 6 – departure

Contact: +91 9784724226

Address: Office no. 108. 1st floor I/s. Surajpol, behind police station, Amal ka Kanta, Udaipur-313001

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary – Birding Tours in Udaipur
Source: Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary

India Birding

It offers two types of birding tours. One is entirely dedicated to Sitamata Sanctuary and the other one covers places in and around Udaipur and Chittorgarh. These birding tours can be conducted at any time of the year except when there is heavy rainfall, from July to August. It can be customized as per your requirement. There is a one day tour which costs around 12000 including breakfast and lunch, birding guide and one binocular with a tripod. The team size would be 4 and the vehicle would be SUV. In the 2 day tour, the cost would be 20,000, and the team size would be 4. The animals and the birds you would be able to see would vary according to the season of the year.

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary – Birding Tours in Udaipur
Source: Oh My Rajasthan!

Another tour includes a visit to Mangalwar and Menar, Bathera Kalan, and Ghasa Lake. It is a two-day tour and will cost you around 20,000 which includes transportation from Udaipur hotel, breakfast, lunch and knowledgeable English speaking birding guide. The team would consist of minimum 2 to maximum 6 people and the vehicle will be SUV.

Contact: 9413000690

Address: s-10, Ankur Complex, Opp. Narayan Seva Sansthan, Hiran Magri Market, Sector – 4

If you think we have missed something here, please feel free to share it with us in the comment section below or you can write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.

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More

Udaipur’s MLA Resumes Education After 40 Years

How many times have you thought about doing something and discarded the plan saying ‘it’s too late now’? It wouldn’t be a surprise if you have recalled quite many incidents after reading the first line. It is a mere human tendency where we simply put off something which we don’t want to do using some conventional excuses.

But breaking the norms and doing what you really want to do is a road less taken. And here is one perfect example of someone who did exactly that. A rural MLA of Udaipur, Phool Singh Meena quit his studies after Class 7th. He gave up studies after his father, who was in the army, died. After his father died, he had to quit studies to take care of his family.

After he became a counselor, he had to interact with different senior officials and leaders, so his daughters insisted him to study further. He too used to think the same but he was a bit skeptical of his age. Another issue was the time needed to study. At times, during his speeches to students on different occasions, he used to preach the importance of education but he realized that his words sounded quite hollow as he himself didn’t follow his words of wisdom.

Source: Oneindia Hindi

It is truly said that if you overpower your inner devil, there’s no other obstacle in the world that can stop you from achieving something you want to. After these incidents, his conscience started kicking in and he finally decided to resume his studies. At the age of 55, he started studying for his further education after 40 years.

Today, he has cleared 10th and 12th standard and now he has started the preparation of his BA first year’s examinations. To manage his time for work and studies, he has smartly combined both. When he is traveling from one place to another, he is tutored by Sanjay Lunawat who is the Principal of Government Senior Secondary School, Manvakheda. Sanjay also sends him WhatsApp audios regarding his lessons for his smooth and uninterrupted studies. And when he is at home, his daughters help him with it. Sanjay appreciates Meena for his dedication and hard work.

Source: Udaipur Times

Meena doesn’t intend to stop after graduation but wishes to do post-graduation and Ph.D. too. His daughters are very proud of him.

That’s the thing about will. Once you are devoted towards something no one can ever stop you from doing that, let alone these societal norms, they are too shallow to stop anyone. Phool Singh Meena is an inspiration to all of us. Whether be it Meena or someone else, whether be it education or something else, the right time to begin every great thing would be right now. Meena is the living example to the quote ‘you are never too old to learn’. He teaches us that if he can do it, maybe we all can, maybe we all will.

Do you know of someone with any such inspiring story? Do you want them to get the appreciation they deserve? Then share these stories with us and we will feature them. Write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com. If you have any feedback regarding the article, share them with us in the comment section below.

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News

First Mewari Dictionary Launched by Nirmaan Society

Nirmaan Society from Chittorgarh with the support of MMCF took a great initiative to preserve and promote the mother tongue of Mewar. A brand new Mewari word dictionary has been launched by Nirmaan Society. This is the first Mewari dictionary ever. This dictionary will help tourists as well as locals to understand the roots of the language and understand the culture of Mewar.

Nowadays, people of Mewar has forgotten about Mewari completely. Instead of that, they prefer Hindi or English. It’s not that using a certain language is wrong but one should know the regional language of the place they belong to.

Source: Eternal Mewar

This dictionary consists of Mewari songs, Mewari alphabets, a map of Mewar, process of using Mewari dictionary, abbreviations and word meanings. Most of the words gathered in the dictionary are taken from a village near Khapan tehsil. The words used in it has got checked by people from various areas in Mewar.

The Mewari dictionary is equipped with approx. 6406 words of Mewari language. Not just this but every Mewari word is combined with its English and Hindi meaning, its pronunciation, grammar related to it and the sentence constructed from the particular word in Mewari.

This Mewari dictionary has two editions one of which was published in April 2017 and the second edition was published in January 2018. The launching of the second edition of the Mewari dictionary was attended by respected Arvind Singh Mewar.

This is a beautiful initiative taken to preserve the beautiful diminishing Mewari language.  It will help all the people who are interested in the culture of Mewar and its language and through this, the culture and language of Mewar would be eternal forever. Find the soft copy of the dictionary here – https://bit.ly/2mmvQZk.

If you have any feedback regarding the article or if you think we have missed something, feel free to share it with us in the comment section below or you can also write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.

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News

Udaipur’s new SP – Kunwar Rashtradeep

Rajendra Prasad Goyal, current SP of Udaipur, has been replaced by the new Superintendent of Police, Kunwar Rashtradeep. The orders were released late last night by the State Government.

Before the forthcoming assembly elections, transfer orders of 75 officers across the state were released by the Rajasthan Government. After which, Kunwar Rashtradeep has been appointed as the new Superintendent of Police, Udaipur. Rajendra Prasad Goyal, the current SP of Udaipur, is transferred as the SP, Crime Branch in Jaipur.

Before this, Kunwar Rashtradeep was serving as the DCP (Deputy Commissioner of Police) in Jaipur. In the advisory of the election commission, it has been mentioned that people who have spent a long time at one location should be transferred. IPS officers’ posting of batch 201 was also awaiting, hence the move was mandatory. In the same concern, Rajendra Prasad Goyal has been serving as the SP of Udaipur for 3 years now.

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More

5 Things to Do on Internet Ban Days in Udaipur

Internet has become a crucial part of our lives and we didn’t even realize it until the news of internet ban struck our ears. Without the internet, our smartphones seem like a pizza without toppings. While it is not possible for us to give you your colorful internet days but here are some things which you can do while your cell phone is on rest.

 

Enjoy Monsoons live without ‘Going Live’

Internet Ban? 5 Things to Do on Internet-Free Days in Udaipur
Source: Flickr

We tend to enjoy monsoons in our city quite too much isn’t it? But before the rain actually touches the ground, it touches our Instagram. People start flooding their social networking sites with pictures and videos of monsoon. So, this time explore the city and feel the serenity it has to offer during monsoons without carrying the baggage of posting everything on social networking sites.

 

Talk to your Family

Internet Ban? 5 Things to Do on Internet-Free Days in Udaipur
Source: TripSavvy

It might seem a bit overrated and ordinary but you cannot imagine how many stories they have to offer you. They belong to a time when the internet didn’t even exist so instead of investing their time on the internet, they have created some unforgettable stories that are worth a lifetime. At the end of all this you will realize that these folks can be interesting too.

 

Go through your old ‘physical’ photo albums

Internet Ban? 5 Things to Do on Internet-Free Days in Udaipur
Source: Hindustan Times

When digitalization didn’t overtake the reality, your parents and even your grandparents used to store the moments of your childhood in photo albums. Those were the times when clicking and getting photos printed had a cost and so you won’t see repetitive photos there with different poses. These photos will either make you shy and embarrassed about how you used to look or it is possible that you end up calling your childhood self cute. Either way, you will have a great time.

 

Go shopping

Internet Ban? 5 Things to Do on Internet-Free Days in Udaipur
Source: TripAdvisor

Cut some slack to window shopping for a bit and actually go out to buy something good for you and your loved ones. And while we are talking about that, you could try shopping at ‘The Celebration Mall’ since it is offering flat 50% off on huge brands like AND, Iconic, Levi’s, UCB, Wrangler, etc. Isn’t it a happy coincidence?

 

Dial to an old friend

Internet Ban? 5 Things to Do on Internet-Free Days in Udaipur
Source: iStock

If you just can’t stop yourself from checking your phone repeatedly and getting disappointed because there’s no notification or text, then either you can keep doing it for the entire day and wait for the turtle time to pass or you can dial an old friend. It may seem weird or awkward calling someone out of the blue but trust me you will get out the zone. You will feel a hell lot of nostalgia while recalling the time that you spent and the fun you had together. You never know what you might end up with.

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Places to Visit

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara

Nathdwara is a small and beautiful town situated between the Aravali hills on the banks of Banas River in Rajsamand district. This town is very popular for its temple of Krishna which houses a deity of Krishna. This temple has a very rich and interesting history behind it which we will come to later. The literal meaning of the word Nathdwara is ‘Gateway to Shreenathji’.

The town is situated at a distance of around 50 km from Udaipur city. Hence, it is the most loved and preferred getaway of the citizens of Udaipur. Shreenathji temple is undoubtedly very beautiful and popular in the town but there are some other beautiful destinations in the town too that can be your next weekend escape.

 

Shreenathji temple

Source: punetopune

The temple has a very interesting story behind it. Legend says that the shrine here was built in 17th Century at the place exactly instructed by Shrinathji himself. How you ask? Well, back then, the idol of Shrinathji was being transferred from Vrindaban in order to protect it from the then Mughal ruler, Aurangzeb. He wanted the deity to reside with him back in Agra, according to sectarian literature. When the idol reached a spot in the village Sinhad, the wheels of the bullock cart got stuck in the mud so hard that it couldn’t move a single inch. It’s then when the priests realized that Shrinathji has chosen the place himself for the temple. The timings of the temple are 5:30 am to 6:30 pm and the entry is free of cost.

 

Largest Shiv Idol

Source: Tushar Joshi via Instagram

Although the idol is under construction right now, Nathdwara is going to house the largest Shiv idol in the world. This enormous piece of architecture is one sight which you cannot miss. The place is well equipped with parking facilities, garden, stairs to climb up towards the idol, etc. This 351 feet long idol of Shiv Ji is going to get completed by approx. December 2018. To know more about this idol, click here.

 

Charbhuja temple

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: Travel with sharad vyas

The temple houses the idol of Lord Vishnu which is around 5000 years old. The exquisite architectural style of the temple is so alluring that it will give a feeling of peace to everyone. It has a beautiful mirror work, golden shutter and carved door panel which is like a cherry on the top as they are a treat to your eyes. Along with all that, the temple holds a substantial historical significance. It was built by Shree Gang Dev who had a dream where he received instructions to install the idol which was submerged in the water. It is believed that the same idol was worshipped by the Pandavas in the Mahabharata. If you are a believer, this is an absolute must visit.

 

Dwarkadheesh Temple

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: AttractionWorld.net

Dwarkadheesh Temple is one of the prominent tourist attractions of Kankroli. Kankroli is a city located at a distance of 17 km from Nathdwara and visited frequently by the citizens of Nathdwara. It is the home of deity Krishna which offers utmost devotion and peace to its devotees. The temple was built in the year 1676 by Maharana Raj Singh and currently, it belongs to Vaishnavas and the Vallabhacharya sects.

 

Giriraj Parvat

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: shreejisharnam

Goverdhan hill located near Vrindavan is considered as sacred by Hindus. In similar traditions, there is a Giriraj hill located in Nathdwara. Lord Krishna once lifted Mt. Goverdhan to protect the people and cattle of the town from a rainstorm. Shrinathji is the statue of this exact moment of Lord Krishna. Giriraj Parikrama of Giriraj parvat is considered sacred in Vaishnavs. A beautiful pathway surrounding the mountain is ornamented with flower, lights, etc.

 

Ganesh Tekri

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: rajsamandblogchannel.blogspot

Ganesh Tekri is an ideal destination for the picnic destination situated at Rajsamand near Nathdwara. It has a Ganesha temple where worship in the morning is conducted regularly. Apart from that, there is a lush green garden equipped with slides and rides for children. The most magnificent thing about the place is that it overlooks Aravali range that give it its serenity and charm.

 

Nandsamand dam

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: Travelmyglobe

Nandsamand dam or also known as Tantol dam is the primary source of water in Nathdwara. When you go towards Khamnor from Nathdwara, in the way falls Nandsamand dam. The place looks ravishing during monsoons when you stand at the railing or Paal there and winds soothe your face and body.

 

Nou Choki Pal

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: pink2cityindia

The specialty of Nou Choki Pal is that every artwork at this place is made up of 9 joints. After every 9 steps, there comes a big panel. Three archways were made at the spot once but due to lack of proper maintenance and care, only one stands intact currently. This archway is also made up of total 9 stones. Digit 9 plays a significant role in Hinduism and hence this place is made upon the basis of the same principle. There are three pavilions carved meticulously on sangmarmar stones. Everything at the places including carved elephants, horses, Krishna Leela is spectacular for every person visiting.

 

Lalbagh

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: shreejisharnam

It is a beautiful Garden located at a distance of a kilometer from the town. It is well equipped with colorful lightings and fountains which makes it a calm and beautiful place. It overlooks Mt. Giriraj which was renovated a few years back. It also has a museum inside the premises of Lalbagh which contains antique ancient accessories and vehicles of Thakurji which is another name of Shree Krishna. The museum is called Shreemad Vallabh Sangrahalay.

 

Shreenathji Gaushala

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: shreejisharnam

It is located at a distance of 3 km from the Shreenathji temple. It houses about 2000 cows and about 50 cow keepers to take care of them. It is completely surrounded by hills and a lot of open grounds which makes it a very picturesque place. As per belief, it is the favorite place of Shreenathji and he used to call Cows as ‘Gaumata’ or goddess cow.

 

Irrigation garden

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara

Most visited Places in and around Nathdwara
Source: rajsamandblogchannel.blogspot

Irrigation garden is situated in Kankroli, Rajsamand which is about 20 km from Nathdwara. It is a garden situated at the banks of Rajsamand Lake. There are a number of dome-shaped pavilions and pillars carved beautifully with miniature carvings. Apart from that, there are various things to entertain children as well such as cement crocodile etc.

Along with visiting these beautiful places in Nathdwara, you can also go shopping as Nathdwara is famous in that field too. It is known for Pichwais. Pichwais is basically large paintings depicting legends from the life of Lord Krishna. Apart from that, you can buy terracotta handicrafts, attars (oil-based perfumes), gold and silver jewelry and toys, enamelware, filigree boxes from the local markets here. If you have a sweet tooth, you can buy different variants of sweet dishes some of which are used as a Prasad to Shreenathji.

If you think something is missed in the article, feel free to share with us in the comment section below or write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.

Categories
News

There Will Be NO INTERNET in Udaipur for 2 days!!! Know Why!

To avoid fake candidates and cheating, district administration will ban internet services in Udaipur on 14th and 15th July. Rajasthan Police Constable Entrance Exam is going to get conducted at various centers in Udaipur. On these two days, internet services will not be available between 8 am to 5 pm. Considering the possibilities of irregularity at the centers, CCTV camera and jammers are installed.

These exams would be conducted in two slots on 14th and 15th July. The first slot would be from 10 am to 12 noon and the other one would be from 3 pm to 5 pm. At 24 centers in the city, around 14232 candidates will be appearing in the exam in every slot.

According to SP Rajendra Prasad Goyal “On both 14th and 15th July, internet services would be unavailable in the city. Initially, we tried to ban internet services in only those areas of the city where the centers of these exams were. But since the city has 24 exam centers, it would be difficult to ban internet in specific areas. Hence, it is possible that the internet would be unavailable in the entire district”.

Looks like this is how we are headed to become a ‘smart’ city and ‘IT’ hub. Not too much of smartness here, eh?

News Source: Dainik Bhaskar

Categories
Travel

Mistakes a Tourist Makes while Visiting Udaipur

Udaipur certainly remains one gorgeous city in the country. The beauty, the landscapes, the culture and everything about the city is unbeatable. It is filled with a massive amount of history and culture and has some interesting stories behind every renowned site. This is how a local see the city but tourists come up with different perceptions and expectations and sometimes, he misses out on the most interesting parts while exploring the city, or in case he doesn’t, due to some common mistakes, he stays deprived of a remarkable travel experience.

Just so you could get the most out of your trip with your loved ones, we have prepared a list of common mistakes that a tourist does that make their experience bitter.

 

Covering every tourist spot in a single day

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: Eff It, I’m On Holiday

Udaipur is a stunning city where every corner of it is filled with fascinating stories and mind-blowing landscapes but the most common mistake a tourist does is trying to cover all the locations and all the spots while you are in the city for a single day. If you explore like this, you wouldn’t be able to enjoy a single place completely. So if you are here for less time, list maximum 3-4 places that you would want to soak in for the entire day.

 

Buying every item on a price told by the shopkeeper

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: Indiatimes

You wouldn’t be able to resist yourself from buying those traditional clothes and handicrafts and you definitely should but before you do make sure that you do not give excessive money on these products. While you are shopping on the streets of the Old City or any popular market, keep in mind that there is a high scope of bargaining at every shop. You can save a high amount of bucks everywhere if you put your bargaining skills into action.

 

Wearing shorts while visiting temples

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: DocDivaTraveller

It is reasonable that you are on your vacation and would want to wear the most comfortable clothes in your wardrobe but unless you want to be stared at by the religious devotees in the temple, you better don’t wear shorts or revealing dresses at temples. In Udaipur or let’s say in India, they are still less acceptable at such places. So define your day’s wardrobe according to the destinations you wish to visit.

 

Traveling with heavy suitcases

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: Las cosas de Carmentxu – WordPress

Not just in Udaipur but any other place, traveling with heavy luggage and suitcases turns out to be quite difficult everywhere you go. Carrying them all around is tough but the main problem remains that it might get stolen. Although, Udaipur is safe as far as theft is concerned, but when your bad luck takes its stroll, you never know what might happen. So, it’s better to carry less luggage with you so that you could roam around worriless.

 

Relying completely on GPS

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: Very Funny Pics

GPS might help you with some basic places but relying completely on GPS while exploring is not fair. Sometimes, two places have the same names and it might land you to an unwanted destination and you wouldn’t want to waste your valuable time when you are already short on time, right? So it would be good if you take some prior information about the destination or if possible even ask a few locals whether the direction is correct or not.

 

Missing out the outskirts of the city

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: UdaipurBlog

Everyone is too much fascinated with the old city and there’s absolutely no reason why they shouldn’t but you shouldn’t just stick to that part of the city. If time allows you, you should explore other parts of the city as well and the outskirts. Look for how people actually live in the city. Most of these sights are unexplored and will give you an experience different from the rest of the tourists.

 

Traveling conveyance

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: dreamstime

If you are traveling with a limited budget, it would be better if you travel by public transport like bus, train or auto rickshaws. In a very minimal amount of money, you would be able to travel to places. However, if you are limited with your time, then it is advisable that you travel via cabs. Cabs are convenient, would be available almost everywhere in the city and you would be able to book them in advance so it could save you time, big time.

 

Eating at the familiar restaurant chains

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: Mcd

While you are in the city, relish the authentic taste of Rajasthan rather than going to the same food joints that you could find anywhere. The traditional food of any region contains fresh ingredients and would give you the most of its flavor. This would not only give you a true Rajasthani experience but would also introduce you to the culture of the locality. And after all, the true essence of traveling is knowing the city as it is.

 

Spending an excessive amount of money on Hotels

Mistakes a tourist makes while visiting Udaipur
Source: Backpacker Panda

This could prove a great tip to people who are traveling with a specified budget. If you are not looking for a great lake view from your room, instead of choosing for expensive hotels in the Old City, you could opt for average hotels in the city center or much better if you are comfortable with hostels or dormitories. They could save you some large amount of bucks while traveling and you could utilize the money for other things.

And the last suggestion for the list would be, go where your heart leads to. If you are willing to stay at a place for a little long just because it soothes your soul, stay there. If you feel like talking to a complete stranger, do it. At the end of your trip, it is just these crazy experiences and memorable moments that are going to count, not the money you spend, not the places you see.

If you have any feedback regarding the article, you can drop it in the comment section below or you can write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.