If you are one of those tourist or even a local who does not have much idea about the tourist attractions of the city, offbeat places to travel, historical places in Udaipur, and the religious and cultural places in the city, then this surely is the right place for you to be at.
Whether the place you are going is worth visiting or not you will get every bit of information of places in Udaipur here in this section. If you are a tourist we exactly know what you want. All the places, timings, map and important information related to it that we do not want you to miss. If you are a local, then also we have something for you. From hidden places in the city to lesser known facts about them, this section has covered all the information for both the local people as well as the tourists.
सुबह के 5:00 बजे होंगे। शहर के उपनगरीय क्षेत्रों के घरों में बजते अलार्म, सुबह की गहरी-मीठी नींद में सोते लोगों के हाथों से बंद कर दिए जा रहे थे। कुछ इक्के-दुक्कों को छोड़ दिया जाए तो हिरन-मगरी अभी भी सो ही रहा था। लेकिन यहाँ से 5 किलोमीटर दूर शहर के बीचों-बीच क़रीब 100 एकड़ में फैला लगभग 137 वर्ष बूढ़ा बाग़ अपने अन्दर लगे बड़े-बड़े पेड़ों में से एक अलग ही ज़िन्दगी को झाँक रहा था, जो उदयपुर शहर के बाहर बसी जिंदगियों से बहुत अलग थी। मैं वहाँ 15 मिनिट में पहुँच गया। घड़ी में 5:15 बज रहे होंगे लेकिन मैं तब भी लेट था।
Photo courtesy: vineet19850
वहाँ आए एक-आध लोगों से बात करने पर पता चला कि उनकी सुबह तो कब की हो चुकी है। कोई अकेला गुलाब बाग़ के चक्कर लगा रहा था, कोई किसी अपने का हाथ पकड़ क़दमों की ताल को बांधे हुए था, तो कोई ग्रुप में बैठे अपने स्कूल/कॉलेज के दिनों को याद कर गुलाब बाग़ में अपने बचपन को तलाश रहा था।
Photo courtesy: jeenaj
अगर आपको असली उदयपुर देखना है तो यहाँ आइए। मुझे पूरी उम्मीद है यहाँ दिखने वाले दृश्यों को आप शायद ही कभी भुला पाएंगे। इन बूढ़े पेड़ों और लुप्त होते गुलाबों, जिनकी वजह से इसका नाम गुलाब बाग़ पड़ा था, उदयपुर की पहचान बचाने की पूरी कोशिश कर रहा है। आम और जामुनों के पेड़ों के नीचें लगी बेंचों पर बुज़ुर्ग अपनी महफ़िल जमाते हुए नज़र आ जाते हैं, इन्टरनेट की दुनिया से बिलकुल एक अलग दुनिया की बातें करते। वह दुनिया जिसे हम यंग्सटर्स कभी की भुला चुकें है।
Photo courtesy: divyesh jain
हालाँकि कुछ नयी जिंदगियां यहाँ नज़र ज़रूर आती हैं लेकिन वो भी दौड़ती हुई, बस। हम सभी दौड़ रहे हैं, न जाने किस चीज़ की तलाश में? अगर कोई रुकता भी तो बस हाफ़ने भर के लिए और एक सांस भर फिर से दौड़ पड़ता है।
गुलाब बाग़ वहीँ रहे, ऐसी उम्मीद करता हूँ। वहाँ चलती महफ़िलें कभी लुप्त ना हो, जैसे गुलाब बाग़ से गुलाब लुप्त हो चुकें है। अब वो सिर्फ् एक बाग़ बनता जा रहा है।
Dark clouds covering the wide blue sky causing heavy winds at daytime and cool breeze during night time are the signs that monsoon is approaching. And monsoon comes along with the vivid memories of a picnic with friends and family. Hot steaming Pakoras prepared fresh along with homemade chai looks like the best combination of the world while you gaze at the tiny droplets coming from up above. This time that you spend with your loved ones becomes the memory of a lifetime and to make it more special, we have jotted down the names of some places that can be your next picnic spot this season.
Haldighati
Source: Tripadvisor
The place has topped the list because it has been one of the favorites for people of all ages, and gender. Remember the times when we all went to Haldighati from our school. When we and our friends used to shriek at the top of our voices on the bus on the way to Haldighati. And for the first time when we came to know so much about the warrior Maharana Pratap. Since then the place is admired by everyone especially the people of Mewar.
Udaipur is blessed with a lot of rivers flowing through, lakes, ponds, dams etc. and thus when such glorious places around them capture the eyes of the people, it becomes the ideal spot for them to spend their leisure time at. One such place is Thoor ki Pal. It is a dam situated at a distance of 11 km from the city and is the favorite getaway for Udaipurites during monsoons.
Ubeshwar Ji
Source: tripoto
During monsoons, it seems like Ubeshwar Ji is the second home of people and when you actually go there in this season, you wouldn’t be surprised by the fact at all. A large number of people with their friends and family all with their happy faces enjoying there would bring a feeling of joy inside you too. There is a temple of Ubeshwar Ji Mahadev which is the center of attraction there.
Nandeshwar Ji
Picture by: Pritesh Sharma
The place is rich in lush green vegetation all around. And in monsoons, it seems it is being cleaned by the water of the rain and the view becomes so splendid that you would not want to get up from there and go back to your home. There is a river flowing through Nandeshwar Ji which is widely enjoyed by the people visiting it. It has a temple of Lord Shiva also called Nandeshwar Ji which is why the place is named so.
Bagheri ka Naka
Bagheri ka Naka is a dam situated at a distance of 50 km from Udaipur. According to me, Dams are the best place to go to when you are thinking about picnics. You will get a perfect natural treat there that combines stretches of water, lush green trees, fresh air and a perfect mood to start your picnic. During monsoons, water flowing at the great speed from the height is one marvelous sight to look at.
Udaipur is rained with beauty all around and one example to justify the fact is this place, Tidi Dam. This is one of the great options to go for if you are looking for a beauteous place to spend time with your family and friends. It is at a distance of 34 km from the city and is widely visited by locals and tourists.
Chandni Village
Source: venuezz
The place has captured the attention of locals recently a few years back. And now it has become quite popular among the citizens of Udaipur. As soon as rain showers on the city, Chandani Village shows its true beautiful color where nature is at its best, water flowing from the river and greenery all around is one thing that no one should miss this season.
Jaisamand
Source: wikipedia
The city of Lakes is surrounded by some breathtaking sites and amongst them, one is Jaisamand Lake. Also known as Dhebar Lake, it is the second largest artificial lake in Asia. Looking at the wide stretches of the Lake, sitting under one of the Chattris on the Pal and munching on our favorite snack, isn’t it everything we would want to do on our picnic day?
Want to know more places to visit at Jaisamand? Click here.
Shilpgram
Source: Shilpgram udaipur
If you have a curious mind and a keen eye for the culture of Rajasthan, then it is the ideal place for you to visit. Shilpgram is a complex of rural arts and crafts that depicts the culture and lifestyles of the folk and tribal people of the west zone. It contains various paintings, clothes, instruments and written records of those people which can be explored on a perfect day by you and your loved ones.
Evenings at the pal of Udai Sagar Lake is so pleasant and soothing for your eyes that it will take away all the worries from your life. The place will offer you magnificent amount of solace that will be cherished by you and your family for the rest of your lives.
Look at Udai Sagar Lake overflowing by clicking here.
Now that you have the list of all the places, get ready to welcome monsoon in the city. It is time to set up the mood with the earthy smell after the rains, wet hairs, and with a handful of hot snacks.
If any other picnic place which is not mentioned above pops up in your head, feel free to share with us in the comment section below or write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.
Chavand, Rajasthan is a place that holds a significant position in the lives of every citizen of Mewar. It was the last capital of Mewar in the reign of Maharana Pratap but that’s not just it. Along with being the third and last capital of Mewar in the legendary Maharana Pratap’s reign, it was also the place where he took his last breath.
It is the same place where during one of his hunting expedition, Maharana Pratap took out his bow and pulled its cord with a great strength. As a result, one of his intestines got strained. Pratap tried to struggle with the pain during his treatment in Chavand but it was so much that he couldn’t bear it anymore and at the age of 57, he passed away on January 29, 1597. It is said that when Akbar (his then enemy) heard the news of Pratap’s death, he shed tears of sorrow.
Picture by: Pushkar Sharma
Chavand is a historical place located in Sarada tehsil at a distance of approx. 45 km from Udaipur. The story of Chawand is dated back in the year 1585 CE. Maharana Pratap retired in the hills of Aravali after the battle of Haldighati in order to continue his venture to defeat the ferocious Mughals and strengthen his army. During his time there, he captured the area of Chavand from the Rathores. He then established his new capital in Chavand in 1585 CE.
It is believed that Pratap built somewhere around 16 hideouts to protect and camouflage his army from the enemies in the radius of 10 km in Chavand which included the armory, secret palaces, temples, and buildings for his soldiers and Bhils (who were the part of his army back then).
Picture by: Tanuj Rawal
Chavand in the present
With time, Chavand has grown beautifully and constructed in such a way that it attracts a lot of people from the cities nearby. One reason for that is even after such a long time, the history and the story of the legends who used to live there once upon a time are alive. People at any point in time coming from different parts of the country can feel the walls and sight of the place. There are different elements that capture the eyes of the tourists and remains the center of attraction of the place.
From the several temples Maharana Pratap built during his time in Chavand, one temple was Chamunda Devi temple. The temple still exists in the village in a perfect condition and Chamunda Devi is worshipped as a local deity by the people residing in the village.
Near Chavand, there is a natural Lake named Lake Khejad in the mid of which a beautiful Cenotaph was made by Maharana Bhupal Singh to commemorate the legend of Mewar, Maharana Pratap. It is now under the control of Rajasthan tourism. The site of the Cenotaph provides basic facts and the history of Mewar and its rulers. The board outside the cenotaph displays names of all the rulers who played a substantial role in the battle of Haldighati and accompanied Maharana Pratap in fighting against powerful Mughal forces.
Picture by: Gaurav Soni
At a distance of 2 km towards Chavand from Lake Khejad, you will reach an ancient Chavand palace on the top of the hill. Although, the palace is now in ruins when it was at its best it was a three storied building. The ruin of the palace overlooks the entire town of Chavand.
Picture by: Pushkar Sharma
Apart from that, there is a memorial of Maharana Pratap in Chavand where a statue of him stands at the top and below are the statues of his associates namely Bhilu Rana, Rana Punja, Hakim Khan Sur, Jala Man and Daanveer Bhamashah. The monument and the entire place is the pilgrimage for all the people from Mewar and the people who admire the great Maharana Pratap. There is a lot to learn from the journey of Pratap. That no matter how great or powerful your enemy is, you should bravely face all the struggles and problems of your life.
The beauty of the city which one can devour from the hillock of Karni Mata Temple is one of the many angles from which Udaipur is captured every day. I’d say this one is a better angle. Shri Mansapurna Karni Mata Temple, located on Machla Hills near Din Dayal Upadhyaya Park, is at a perfect height which is accessible through either around 150 m of stairs starting from Din Dayal Park and reaching straight up to the temple or a 4 min. Ropeway route. Surprisingly, the temple has a large well- maintained area covering most part of the hillock. The panoramic view of Lakes, Palaces, whitewashed, closely placed houses, Gulab Bagh and all the area surrounding the hill is addictive. One can actually see the shades of water of Lake Pichola from here.
Udaipurblog
Legend
The main Temple of Karni Mata in Deshnok, also known as “ the Temple of Rats”, is 30 km from Bikaner. Karni Mata was basically a Hindu sage who was born as the seventh daughter of Charan Rajput clan in 1387 AD in Suwap village of Jodhpur district. She was believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Durga. Her original name was Ridhu Bai. She was married to Depoji Charan of Sathika village but after just two years of married life and despite the initial mockery from her husband, she married off her sister Gulab to her husband and left the village forever in order to fulfill her desire to leave all the worldly affairs and live life like a Nomad. After wandering for some time with her followers and herd, she reached Deshnok and finally settled here and also by then she became Karni Mata. The temple is famous for its enormous population of 25,000 rats which are religiously known as “Kabbas”. The story behind the rat population is that once the stepson of Karni Mata, Laxman, fell and died in the Kapil Sarovar in Kolayat Tehsil in attempt to drink water. After continuous pleading from Karni Mata, Yama, The God of Death, agreed to retrieve her son as a Rat and also permitted all her male children to be reincarnated as Rats. The Kabbas are known to be very holy and feeding them with sweets and eating the food nibbled by them is considered as “prestigious”. The temple in Udaipur too has a considerable number of white and black Kabbas. Karni Mata laid the cornerstone of two major Forts of Rajasthan that is Fort of Jodhpur and Fort of Bikaner. On March 21, 1538, while returning Deshnok, the Convoy halted in order to drink water near Kolayat Tehsil. When the followers got back to her she was nowhere to be found and after much search, she was never found hence she just disappeared then and there at the age of 151 years.
Indo Vacations
Overview
The temple in Udaipur was built by Maharana Karan Singh to mark the boundary and safety of Udaipur when the area of Machla Magra was built for residency purposes between 1620-1628. The temple was abandoned for a long time before 1997 when the temple committee restored and renovated the premises and it is still in progress. The temple premises is quite large and peaceful. The stairway path to the temple is a 10 min long journey and it is fulfilled with viewpoints, rest shelters, and water cooler. To the left of the stairway, at a bit distance, lies a high structure with holes in the walls. The structure used to be the place where kings used to hide and hunt and place their guns out through these holes. It can be visited but only at your own risk as it is not maintained and might have snakes and other animals. If you take the stairway, you might also sight peacocks and their symphony is the loudest in the morning. Apart from the temple structure, there are elongated premises up to the ropeway station and one should be extremely careful about the monkeys as they chased me not once but twice. The 4 min. Ropeway journey in bright red, yellow and green cabins start from the banks of Lake Pichola to the Hill of Machla Mangra along the 387 m long cable.
worldtravelserver.com
“Shri Mansapurna Karni Mata Temple” is a must visit as it does hold the powers to fulfill wishes and offers more than just peace and tranquility, it offers Udaipur at its best.
Accept it or not, we head to most of the cafés just to get amazing pictures with our gang. And most of these cafés have amazing décor and ravishing wall paintings. We keep searching for places like these on our social networking sites regularly and sometimes we are just too tired of going to the same places repeatedly so we just head out to any random place. To keep you from the pain of searching for these picture-perfect places, we have prepared a list for you with amazing wall paintings that will make your pictures colorful and happening.
Notomoro
Source: Zomato
This restaurant has a super funky wall painting which is very colorful and will add a fun element to your pictures. It has some super cool and fancy words written on it adding up to your mood with a little cheerfulness. There are several other posters hung on the wall too which have some meaningful quotes.
Here, one entire wall is dedicated to a huge poster with some lively colors and bright lights highlighting them. When you click a picture in front of it, it would definitely look unreal to you and you wouldn’t be able to resist flaunting them on your social networking.
The café has a unique panda theme, hence you will be able to spot pandas everywhere. Be it a soft toy or pandas playing around in the form of paintings on the wall. These cute pandas just give us a feeling like we are living our childhood back. And apart from that, you can also capture these moments sitting beside the large panda and adoring the moments of your childhood again.
Address: Shiksha Bhawan Chouraha, Near Swaroop Sagar Lake, Chamanpura, Udaipur
Z27 Shobhagpura
Source: Zomato
The retro and Rajasthani combined themed yellow scooter and the painting of peaceful Buddha right behind it will give you all the calm that you need while grabbing a quick bite at the café. Half of the people from Udaipur would have clicked a picture sitting on the scooter giving out all their funny and cool poses and the beautiful background just adds up to the charm of the picture.
Address: Near the Royal Inn Hotel, 100 Ft. Road, Shobhagpura, Udaipur
Stories less told
picture by: Aashish bolia
If you are a nature person and love getting clicked in front of a beautiful wall painting, go visit this place. It has a beautiful wall art with a tree and birds. It looks so realistic that you will think that you actually sitting between birds. The eggs in the nest (eggs made up of some marble) and pots are real so it will give you a 3D effect.
Address:Shop 17C, 1A, Kutumb Apartment, Opposite ICICI Bank, Madhuban, Near Panchwati, Udaipur
Senor Swanky’s
Source: Zomato
Colorful animated paintings on the wall of this café will give your mood a fun element which will cheer up your mind for the rest of your day. The painting will tell the audience a story about how you should be loving Mexican food. Mexican food is the specialty of the café. Apart from the painting, the rest of the décor is pretty bright and colorful too.
Address: 168-C, Sukhadia Circle, Udaipur
These places will force you to jump up from your seat and head straight towards them. Before you see your friends’ pictures on Instagram posing in front of these amazing wall arts, you should go to these places making them a bit envious of your wonderful photographs.
If you have any other places with some amazing wall arts then share these places with us in the comment section below. You can also write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com
Located on a high hill on the west of Chetak Magri between Khamnore and Balicha village on the border of Udaipur and Rajsamand district is the splendid Maharana Pratap Museum. It covers an area of about 15000 sq. meters and is about 40 km from Udaipur. Situated near Chetak Smarak built in the memory of Pratap’s faithful steed Chetak, the area used to be deserted. Impelled by a stray remark that this place near Haldighati where the famous battle between Maharana Pratap and Raja Man Singh was fought deserved a museum. Mohan Shrimali who belongs to Balicha village took up the stupendous task of building a museum to showcase the life and achievements of legend Maharana Pratap. In this project, Shrimali got the support and guidance of the great freedom fighter and member of the constituent assembly, Balwant Singh Mehta. He resighted from his well-paid govt. job sold his parental farmland and pucca house and took a loan to complete his dream two crore project in 12 years. The museum was inaugurated by the erstwhile governor of Rajasthan Anshuman Singh on 19th January 2003 in the presence of other dignitaries.
Source: Tripadvisor
The museum displays in the form of attractive models, pictures are tableau of the royal emblem of Mewar, the sacrifice of Panna Dhai, Mahara Pratap discussing his strategies with his ministers and chiefs, Pratap’s union with his horse Chetak, scenes of Pratap’s life in the jungle, eating bread made of grass, the vow taken by Gadia Lohars not to live in houses, scenes of Chittorgarh and other events related to Pratap’s life. The models some of which are made from fiber are operated by electricity and become lively by the accompanying music, sound and light effects. Also highlighted are those persons who were associated with the battle of Haldighati. Mansingh Jhala, Hakim Khan Soori, Ramshah Tanwar, Shalivahan Tansror, Pratap Singh Tanwar, Bhilu Rana Punja, Veer Pradhan Bhamashah, Veer Purohit Jagannath, Kalyan Podiyar, Mansingh Sajjawat (Delwarora), Tarachand Kavedia, Rana Sangha Chundawat, Bheemsingh Dodia, Ramdas Rathore, Mansingh Sonagora (Pali), Mahasahani Jagannath, Purohit Gopinath Rawal, Krishnadas Chundawat, Mehta Jaimalla, Barkat Jaisa Sauda, Barkat Kesav Sonda, Bhawani Singh Tanwar, Mehta Ratanchand Charan, Roma Sandhu, etc.
Source: yogoyo.com
Also on display are portraits of Meera Bai and Maharanas of Mewar dynasty including Maharana Kumbha Singh, Maharana Sangram Singh, Maharana Amar Singh and Maharana Udai Singh. Objects that are associated with our ancient culture such as Rahat that was used to draw water from wells Kolhu to extract oil, Chadas, Telki, Ghani, Rath, Bullock cart, Agriculture implements, musical instruments, dresses, utensils, locks, etc. are also there in the museum. Also on display are the traditional lifestyles of different castes and several kinds of weapons. There is also a huge library to which 6000 books have been added recently that is a treasure house of knowledge, especially for researchers. Films are screened in the 50 sealed theatre where it is proposed to double the capacity. Light and sound show is another attraction. Also showcased are rural industries and handicraft products such as the attractive Molela Terracotta items. A small artificial Lake also attracts the visitors.
Balicha area is famous for Cheti Gulab that flowers only once in a year in the month of Chaitra. It is said that the species was brought here by the army of Akbar and that is why the area is called Shahi Bagh. Not only is the process of making Gulab Sharbat, Gulab Jal and Gulkund displayed in the museum but villages have been trained to make a living out of it.
Source: hopping miles
No wonder the museum has not only been visited by big personalities such as President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, Central Ministers like Jaipal Reddy, CP Joshi, Hansraj Bhardwaj, and several governors and Chief Justices of India but also highly praised by them. The number of visitors has now shot up to lakhs.
Mohan Shrimali founder of the museum
For his commendable efforts, Mohan Shrimali has been honored at national and state level by several government organizations.
To know about Pratap’s journey to Haldighati – click here.
City of lakes, Udaipur is full of beautiful places and palaces. Lots of lakes and the greenery around it has just only added to the beauty of the place. Thousands of tourists arrive in the city in every season of the year and along with that locals are too fond of the lakes, palaces, and forts in and around the city. But there comes a time when you are just bored of going to the same places again and again. It mostly happens with the local citizens of the city. On every weekend, there is the same question that we ask all of our friends and it is ‘where to go’?
It is true that the love of us for Lake Fatehsagar, Ambrai and Rani Road is limitless but it is not possible that we go to these places every now and then without getting bored. And at these times, we literally yearn for places which are new to us and which not many people have visited because believe it or not we all have this ‘keeda’ to be one of the first people to go and discover some new place. So, we have compiled you a list of places which are rarely visited and still a bit uncorrupted from much of the city people.
Rathasan Mataji Mandir
Very few of you would know about this temple. It is situated near to Chirwa tunnel. To reach the place one would need to ride through some village roads. You can spot the place on google maps easily. However, the temple is situated on a hill so it is necessary that you keep yourself a bit prepared to climb up the place. Stairs are available there so it won’t be a difficult task to do that. The trek is of around 2 km. But every drop of sweat you toil would be worth when you reach the top and look at the immense beauty all around. The cold wind that caresses your body after the trek is such a pleasure.
Alsigarh Dam
Picture by: dimpyb2
Alsigarh Dam is situated in a village named as Alsigarh. It is ahead of Nandeshwarji temple. It is at a distance of approximately 30 km from the city. So, if you plan to visit the place make sure that you are ready to travel well. But when you finally reach the place, every second of the travel would seem worthwhile. The long stretch of the lake, lush green mountains and the beautiful dam will make your day. It is quite far from the business of the city and that makes it exclusive. You can just spend some time with nature without worrying about getting caught in the hustle bustle of the city.
Kundeshwarji temple
Picture by: arpit vijayvargia
Kundeshwarji temple is situated on the Pindwara highway. It is at a distance of 26 km from the city. The temple seems quite shady and mysterious in the lap of nature. As you proceed inside, you will see there is a small waterfall as well as ‘Jalkund’ flowing through it. It is quite an adventurous place to spend your day at with your friends. And the place is full of things and spots where you might want to take hundreds of selfies. But some things that you need to keep in mind is that you might suffer there with lack of proper parking facilities and make sure that you do not keep any of your precious belonging in the vehicle as there are possibilities that they might get stolen.
Raayta
Picture by: Pratish Kapil
Raayta is small village ahead of Kodiyat. The way to reach the village can be a bit tricky but you can spot it on google maps and the most traditional way of navigation which is ‘ask the villagers’. It may seem like what’s new in a village? Well, there is a hill which is Raayta hill and that is the main point of attraction. From the top of the Hill, you can capture a breathtaking view of the landscapes around you. The wind will just go with it. It is preferable that you visit the place in monsoon because at that time rain and the hill looks like soul mates. Above is the picture of Raayta Hill at the time of the night. Clear sky could make it possible to look at the Milky Way clearly.
Nandeshwarji temple and dam
Picture by: Pritesh Sharma
Nandeshwarji temple and dam is about 2-3 km ahead of the Araliyas Resort. The major attraction here is the temple and dam. Since there is a Dam, the peak time to visit here would be the monsoon when the water flow would be at its height. The mountains and the lush green landscapes that your eyes would be able to capture would seem unbelievable for a moment. Nandeshwar Lake can be seen from the point and the Lake is stretched so wide till the capacity of your eyes to see it. There won’t be many people in summers and winters so you need not worry about the excess crowd, however, at peak season, you can see a large amount of crowd having their leisurely time.
Sas Bahu Temple
Picture by: rakshith09
Sas Bahu Temple is a short name for Sahastra Bahu temple which means ‘the one with thousand arms’. The temple is dedicated to God Vishnu. It is situated in Nagda standing at a distance of 17 km from the city. It was built in early 10th century AD. The temples are now in ruins but one can still look at the magnificent architecture of the temples once. It oversees Bagela Lake and that adds to the immense beauty of the place that it already has. The road to reach the place is quite well conditioned which makes the place easily accessible.
Ahar museum and cenotaphs
Picture by: maximvo
Ahar museum and cenotaphs are situated at a distance of 3 km from the city. It is an archeological site which is believed to be built 350 years from now. Around 19 Mewar rulers were cremated here and the total number of Cenotaphs here is 250. Apart from the cenotaphs, there is a museum which preserves antiques from the 10th century which are iron objects, earthen pots, skin scrubber, grain pot, stone weights, animal figures, terracotta toys, statues and other excavated artifacts. If you are one of those people who have a keen interest in the history of a place, then this would actually take you back to history.
No matter how much we think that we have explored all the places, the city will never stop surprising us with new wonderful places. There are actually so many places apart from the usual spots that we prefer to hang out at. So, now that you have a list of all the less explored places, get ready to give a treat to your eyes and also share this list with your friends and make a plan of one awesome weekend now.
Also, if you have visited any place like such share with us in the comment section below or e-mail at juhee@udaipurblog.com. We’ll be glad to hear from you.
The ‘City of Lakes’ is a delight for shopping enthusiasts coming over from around the world. The local markets here have an alluring atmosphere and as soon as you enter a market, there’s absolutely nothing you would not want to buy. Udaipur is full of boutiques, shopping malls, and almost everything is available at a stone’s throw but the real charm lies in its dazzling local markets with beguiling handicraft items, ethnic jewelry, and authentic leather products.
With a little bargaining acumen, and proper knowledge you could tick off each and every item from your shopping list and that too without burning a hole in your pocket. You cannot just deny the fact that shopping in these markets is a lot more fun and lighter on the pocket than actually paying retail for similar items in big shopping malls and designer shops.
Give an end to your shopping woes because we have done the research for you about the famous shopping markets of Udaipur! Pick up your bags and head out to these places. But be careful, you might end up purchasing more than you need. Have a look:
1. Hathipole Market
Source – My Udaipur City
A must visit place for tourists and the hub of shopping for every Udaipurite, this lively market is swarming with customers from all over the world to buy famous handicraft items, silver jewelry, bandhani print outfits, souvenirs made with brass, marble, etc. You can also find a lot of shops to buy Rajasthani traditional footwear like Mojris, Jootis, and other leather products at very cheap rates.
2. Bada Bazaar
The best traditional gold jewelry, silverware, copperware, and clothing materials can be found here. You just name anything and it’s here. There are a number of shops here selling precious stones, antique items, and so on. You might have to go to a few shops before you find your desired item but it is going to be worth it. Don’t worry about the heat though, there are many street-side shops selling fresh fruit juices, buttermilk (lassi), and other fried items as well. Munch on the go!
3. Sindhi Bazaar
Move a bit farther away from Bada Bazaar and you will enter the Sindhi Market having all sorts of clothes for kids, men, and women on offer. Sindhi Bazaar is thriving during the daytime and way too crowded to explore with a car. Use of a two-wheeler is recommended and with proper bargaining, you can take a dozen shopping bags home.
4. Lakhara Chowk
A shop at Lakhara Chowk
This shopping market is hugely famous for bangles, artificial jewelry, cosmetic products, and items of personal decor. Lakhara Chowk has a number of shops in narrow lanes of the walled city area and sometimes even the use of a two-wheeler gets cumbersome. Walking through these jolly markets should be the choice. Also, if you want bangles to go with a sari or any other outfit, bring the outfit with you so that the seller can match and suggest accordingly.
5. Mochiwada
A typical footwear shop
The name speaks for itself here! This market is chiefly popular for traditional Rajasthani and leather footwear. This place is never short on varieties to offer. Shopkeepers sell locally produced sports shoes, formal shoes, and so on at very cheap rates. These are often quite durable and made with good quality materials. Also, the bargaining is quite rampant and you can get awesome footwear at very cheap prices.
6. Ashwini Market
Another dynamic market bustling with people all through the day is Ashwini Market. Known for a variety of shops selling attractive home decor items, designer sarees, and electronics, this market is located at a walking distance from Hathipole. The market is also popular for electrical equipment, sanitary, and hardware shops.
7. Bhatiyani Chohatta, Gulab Bagh Road
And as you take a walk down the silent and soothing Gulab Bagh road in the evening, don’t forget to visit the beautiful art galleries, boutiques, and jewelry stores here. These shops are perfect for purchasing souvenirs, Rajasthani miniature paintings, leather journals, bags, etc. Bargaining is quite common here.
8. Bapu Bazaar
Bapu Bazaar is Udaipur in a nutshell! You can find everything you want in this vivacious market. From antiques to electronics, and clothes to books, there’s pretty much everything in this lane. Bapu Bazaar even has some famous street food shops where you can soothe your taste buds while you absorb the surreal sight of life in Udaipur.
9. Maldas Street
This is another age-old market in the walled city area. It has a wide range of shops selling women’s clothing, items of personal decor, and cosmetics. Don’t forget to bargain. The best time to visit this market is during the afternoon.
Needless to say, grab your list and get ready to shop till you drop! These places will leave you breathless and in awe, for sure.
We hope you have a pleasant shopping experience. Do share with us your recommendations and suggestions, if any, in the comments below! I’d love to hear your shopping tales.
With the aim of creating awareness about the importance of preservation of biodiversity among the public, Biodiversity day is celebrated on 22nd May every year. In the year 1992, Earth Conference was organized in Rio De Janeiro in Brazil and a policy for conservation of biodiversity was framed that is being followed by 193-member countries of the world. India has been following it since 18th February 1994.
Source: scientificworld.com
Biodiversity means the diversity that exists in different forms of life in the universe and includes all forms – man, animals, and plants. In other words, it consists of all sorts of plants and trees (vegetation) wildlife, pet animals, and birds, bacteria etc.
The main reasons for the need of conservation of biodiversity include the right of all the species to survive. Every species givers products that no other can. India is one of the 17 countries – Brazil, China, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, South Africa, United States, Venezuela that are known for their biodiversity. In spite of its uncommon climate, Rajasthan is a rich state so far as biodiversity is concerned. The province has been divided into arid and semi-arid zones by the Aravalli ranges. At present Rajasthan has three national parks, twenty-five wildlife sanctuaries and ten conservation reserves. Where all ecological systems and the animals and plants that inhabit them are being protected.
Outside the protected forest areas rich biodiversity areas have been converted into medicinal plants areas. Gochar, Oran, Ban, Kho, lakes and water bodies, pastures and agriculture land are other treasures of biodiversity.
For the poor the biodiversity is extremely important as it provides basic necessities such as nutrition, clothes, energy, building wood, houses shelter. The position of biodiversity in India and Rajasthan is respectively- flora (45000 and 2500) birds (1200 and 450) mammals (350 and 67) reptiles (453 and 58) and amphibians (182 and 40).
Udaipur, the city of lakes, is rich in biodiversity and has a park dedicated to it. Let’s read about it.
Mewar biodiversity Park, Udaipur
Udaipur has the distinction of having both, a biological park at Sajjan Garh and a biodiversity park on Nathdwara Udaipur NH8 in the densely forested Amberi area spread over 165 hectares. This area showcases the rich biodiversity of Udaipur region. That is a part of Aravali range.
Source: Mewar Biodiversity Park
The height of the hill ranges in the north-west parts increases 1200 meters then decreases in the northeast and in south-west part the shape of the mountains goes from gentle to steep.
The area is ideal from the point of view of biodiversity due to its slope, height, soil, humidity and geo-scientific factors. The rich biodiversity includes 63 species of trees, 33 types of shrubs, 37 kinds of creepers, 117 variety of under shrubs and herbs, 38 species of grasses, 3 types of parasites and 2 species of pteridophytes and one variety of bamboo.
Source: witty kids
Also, can be seen here 300-400 years old mango, ‘mahua’ and ‘bargad’ tree. In addition to this, the park is home to several species of birds, reptiles, and animals viz birds (129), reptiles (17) and amphibians (6). One can also see ‘Neelgai’, jarakh, etc and also lizards, snakes, spiders and so many more.
Source: Mewar Biodiversity Park
Due to its congenial conditions, the park is home to a variety of wildlife and 3-4 panthers can be seen wandering here. In this way, the site provides it is an attractive site for students, researchers, bird lovers, bioscientists, nature lovers, and environmentalists.
When looked at separately, the factors that harm the forest do not look very important but together they seem to be extremely harmful. The first set of such factors include natural occupancies such as flood, storm, frost, extreme heat and scant rain or drought.
Source: udaipurtimes
Other types of factors include fire, heat an illegal cutting, farming, and encroachment, arming over-grazing, mismanagement, insects, fungus, parasites etc.
The main development work done in the park includes a wall fencing, measures for the preservation of water and soil, beautification of roads, and construction of viewpoints, eco trails, entry gates, tickets window, park office, and cafeteria. There are attractive signages at proper places. So also, facilities for eco-tourism and swings for children. For tourists, there are basic facilities such as interpretation center and display of biodiversity. Grooves of different kinds namely orchids groove, tuber groove, endemis groove, cactus groove have been developed. So also climbing and arboretum butterfly home, bird viewpoint, frog pits etc. are also being developed. Adventure sports have included, ground obstacles, zip line, valley crossing, and tree walk. After the failure of all the terrain vehicle that some other kind of vehicle is to bring. Amidst the dense forest and smell of sandal trees, the visitors are able to watch dancing peacocks and groups of frolicking monkeys. For the night stay of the tourists, there is a provision of tents.
Source: Mewar Biodiversity Park | Purohito ka Talab
In Amberi area, exists Purohito ka Talab that was built in the time of Mewar state and is full throughout the year. It is home to huge variety of birds especially migratory ones during winter. The pollution free, serene and natural ambiance attracts a lot of tourists.
The park is a paradise for visitors and at the same time is a source of income for the local community.
The park timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entry ticket: Rs. 40/- per person | Over student ID Rs. 20/- per person
Distance from Udaipur: 15 km
Have you ever visited the Mewar Biodiversity park? Tell us your experience in the comments section below!
The Taj Lake Palace is one of the most romantic hotels in the entire world and no wonder the unsurpassed beauty of this floating palace is one of a kind! But do you know that before it was a luxury hotel, it was the summer palace for the then Maharana of the Udaipur kingdom? This summer palace, now known as Lake Palace is indeed the most sought after destination in the whole world.
Let us read about the legendary palace built on the lake!
Source: Taj Lake Palace
Jag Niwas Palace aka Lake Palace
Formerly known as Jag Niwas, the Lake Palace is built on a natural island of around 4 acres. It was built between the years 1743-1746 by the Maharana Jagat Singh II who ruled Mewar from 1734 to 1751 as the 62nd successor to the royal dynasty of Mewar. The Maharana decided to build a palace and named it Jag Niwas after himself. It’s an east facing palace and was built to enjoy summers.
Source: Taj Lake Palace
It is said that the Maharana had friendly relations with the Mughal emperors and hence Jag Niwas was inspired by the Mughal art and architecture. As one can avidly see, the palace has a remarkable Mughal architecture blending seamlessly with Mewar’s beauty.
The Lake Palace was once a Refuge to British Families
Source: Taj Lake Palace
It was during the Indian Sepoy Mutiny in 1857 that several European families fled from Nimach and sought refuge in the Mewar kingdom. Maharana Swaroop Singh (reigned 1842–1861) helped these families by keeping them safe at the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) and wiped out all the boats so that the agitators could not reach the families.
The Journey from Jag Niwas to the ‘Taj Lake Palace’
Source: Taj Lake Palace
By the end of the 19th century, time and weather had deteriorated Jag Niwas, and the Palace started losing its fame. A French writer described Jag Niwas as – “slowly moldering in damp emanations of the lake.” Even its furniture and interiors started losing its dignity. Broken old chairs, clocks, and abrupt colored glass ornaments made the palace impassive towards foreign tourists. They described the place totally deserted.
Source: Taj Lake Palace
In 1961, Maharana Bhagwat Singh decided to convert Jag Niwas Palace to a luxury hotel in Udaipur. An American artist became the interior designer and consultant of the project. He also mentioned in his words that – the palace was deteriorating and turning it into a hotel was only the way to restore and keep it maintained. He termed it as a job of conservation.
Source: Taj Lake Palace
In 1971 the Taj group took over the management of Jag Niwas and the new name came out to be the Taj Lake Palace. Taj added another 75 rooms to it. Jamshyd D.F. Lam became the first General Manager of the Taj Lake Palace. Later in the year 2000, another restoration of the hotel was undertaken.
The art and architecture of the Taj Lake Palace
Source: Taj Lake Palace
The upper room of the Lake Palace is a perfect sphere of 21 feet in diameter. Its walls, decorated with Arabic designs similar to Taj Mahal of Agra. However, they all are made according to the Hindu religion. The floor is ornamented with the finest quality of black and white marble. The courtyards lined with columns, pillared terraces, fountains, gardens and exquisitely beautiful domes.
Amenities at the Taj Lake Palace
Source: Taj Lake Palace
The Taj Lake Palace has a total of 66 rooms and 17 suites namely Bada Mahal, Khush Mahal, Ajjan Niwas, Phool Mahal and Dhola Mahal. These exotic rooms are bejeweled with carved arches, paintings, crystal work, stained glass work, inland stones of pink and green lotus petals.
Source: Taj Lake Palace
The rooms and suites give a magnificent look of the Lake Pichola. There are restaurants which serve Indian as well as European cuisines. This hotel is famous for Jiva Spa, outdoor pool, and yoga center. You can go for a boat ride on Lake Pichola provided by the Taj Lake Palace itself.
Source: Taj Lake Palace
The Taj Lake Palace is undeniably one of the most luxurious properties across the country. It is invariably featured in the lists of all ‘Most Luxurious’, ‘Most Romantic’, ‘Best heritage Property’ that can give you an idea how travelers across the world praise the property. The palace’s beauty is well-known in the entire world and makes one of the most sought-after sights for travelers visiting Udaipur!
Source: Taj Lake Palace
Have you ever been to the Taj Lake Palace? If yes, then share us your views on the most romantic hotel in the world, in the comments below!
