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Udaipur’s Rugged Parts Through Trekking

Post author By Vidhee Jain
Post date July 29, 2024
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Conquering The Trails Of Udaipur – Where Every Step Unveils Breathtaking Views!

Looking for the greatest Trekking spots in Udaipur? Well, you’re at the right place, as we’ll take you through five picturesque trails in the Udaipur region, perfect for hiking, biking, trekking, running, and other outdoor sports. Hike through the perfect trekking regions surrounding Udaipur, which are ideal for hikers and outdoor adventure activity lovers of all skill levels.

Udaipur, situated in India’s princely state of Rajasthan, is known for its lakes and palaces. Hiking trips and landscape trekking are popular adventure activities in Udaipur. Many tour planners offer day hikes to nearby locations. These hiking trails may be found in the mountain ranges that surround the city of Udaipur. The hike paths will lead you to the most remote locations, where you will learn about local village life, what the tribal population does for their livelihoods, and the ways of life of both tribal people as well as villagers. Some of the most popular adventure activities in Udaipur are walking in the rural areas, bird watching, and hiking through the mountains, both of which can be done in a single day. Mentioned herewith are some of the best hiking spots around Udaipur.

Best Trekking Spots of Udaipur

1) The Neemach Mata Ji Temple

This 1.4-kilometer out-and-back track near Udaipur, Rajasthan, is a great way to spend a day. The path takes approximately 35 minutes to complete and is rated fairly difficult. This trail is wonderful for hiking and walking, where you won’t run into many other people.

The Neemach Mata Temple is a lovely place on a hill near Fateh Sagar Lake. It is a stairwell rise with an upward-sloping walkway. Moreover, it is a wonderful hiking spot with stunning vistas along the route. The pinnacle of the hill provides breathtaking views of the city and the lake. So be ready to go on this enjoyable and brief adventure.

2) The Karni Mata Ji Temple

Another best trekking spot in Udaipur is the Karni Mata Temple. It is a 2.3-kilometre out-and-back track near Udaipur, that you must check out. It takes approximately 45 minutes to cover this distance, which is pretty doable. This route is fantastic for birding, hiking, and strolling, and you’re unlikely to see many other people while you’re out there.

Karni Mata Temple is located on the Machla Magra hills, overlooking the Doodh Talai Lake. The only way to reach this temple is by foot since no automobiles are permitted within the Machla Magra hills. This no-vehicle policy not only saves time and money but also assures that the hill area is pollution-free.

It is a short and sweet hike with lovely scenery and breathtaking views from the top. Sunsets and sunrises are spectacular by themselves from this place.

3) The Sajjan Garh Palace or The Monsoon Palace of Udaipur

The Royal Sajjan Garh Palace, also known as The Monsoon Palace, is a 7.4-kilometre out-and-back track and it takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach its top. This route is excellent for bird watching, hiking, and walking.

Moreover, this palace used to serve as the royal family’s hunting board and monsoon castle. Maharana Sajjan Singh built it in 1884 and you can also see The Fateh Sagar Lake and The City Palace from here.

This palace offers excellent 360-degree views due to its location on a hill. Moreover, there is also a zoo at the bottom of the palace with a variety of species roaming around the Sajjan Garh Wildlife Sanctuary grounds. Many creatures, including langurs and multiple varieties of birds, can be spotted in this area. Sunsets, in particular, are worth watching from this place.

4) Sajjan Garh Biological Park

Discover this 5.8-kilometre circular route located near Udaipur. It takes an average of 1.5 hours to cover this fairly difficult path. This place is excellent for bird watching, hiking, and walking.

This Biological Park is one of Udaipur’s most popular tourist attractions that was inaugurated by Former Minister of Environment, Mr Prakash Javadekar, on April 12th, 2015. The animals in this park are separated into several insertions thereby preserving the flora and other climatic conditions necessary for their survival within the insertions. This Biological Park also has a small medical centre dedicated not only to its animals but to other rescued animals as well. Another significant achievement for this zoo is the nutrition department, which manages the animals’ nutritional needs. Lions, Leopards, Black Bears, Chinkara, and other animals may be found here. The entry fees are pretty affordable along with a suitable parking facility available outside the park; and if you don’t feel like walking, you may rent one of the small taxis provided by the park authorities.

5) Bahubali Hills

The Bahubali Hills is a stunning trekking location with a fantastic vantage point on top of the hill that offers a captivating panoramic view of the lake. Staying down there by the lake and seeing this scenery is unfathomable. Additionally, it is an exclusive location for trekking in the area of Udaipur. Besides being a popular location for photo shoots; Facebook and Instagram are swamped with selfies and images including the “hump hill” as a backdrop it has also become a popular hiking spot for health fanatics and adventure lovers.

You can park your vehicles at Badi Lake and start hiking by taking the right turn from Badi Lake. After covering a short distance, you will come across a detour with a sign indicating “Silence Resort.” Just take that way and keep moving. After travelling for a short distance, you will find a small tin shop and a temple in front of that. Keep going in that direction on your way to the top.

The view from this pinnacle is breathtaking; you can get a panoramic view of the entire city surrounded by lush green mountains. It is a serene location to unwind, relax and stay close to nature with some amazing views to encounter on your way.

So unleash the adventurous side of you and get that adrenaline rush by trekking in the mountains of Udaipur and have an incredible holiday!

Do review us at udaipurblog.com as these trekking places are best which helps in paving the way for trekking to the best places in Udaipur.

Tags #Bahubali Hills, #Hiking Places in Udaipur, #Trekking in Udaipur, #Trekking Places in Udaipur, Karni Mata Temple, monsoon palace, Neemach Mata Temple, sajjangarh biological park, Sajjangarh palace

Places to Visit

Sajjangarh Fort = Monsoon Palace

Post author By Krati Joshi
Post date July 26, 2024
No Comments on Sajjangarh Fort = Monsoon Palace

Embracing the majestic views and timeless charm of Sajjangarh Fort. History has never looked so stunning!

The “Territory of the Ruling Elites” Rajasthan, is known for its numerous magnificent forts and palaces. Sajjangarh Palace, however, is a truly amazing structure & an example for the same. It was built by the 72nd ruler of the Mewar dynasty, “Maharana Sajjan Singh” at a height of 3100 feet. Sajjangarh is how it came to be known.

Although Udaipur is known as the “City of Lakes” it also has a large number of magnificent castles. And Sajjangarh comes at the first place.

However, you may also know it by the name Monsoon Palace. Nevertheless, very few people are aware of the origins of this title. Let us tell you about the entire instance which led this to happen.

History Behind the Name

A visionary leader, Maharana Sajjan Singh is credited as being the “Builder” of the palace. He carried out numerous developmental projects, such as expanding the infrastructure for roads, water supply, and other civil work. He also instituted civil administration and courts. His reign (1874–1884) lasted just 10 years.

But his largest undertaking was the construction of the SajjanGarh Palace, or the Monsoon Palace. It was planned to serve as the western backdrop to the city of Udaipur.

Initially a nine-storey complex was envisioned by Maharana Sajjan Singh Ji. It was planned to serve as an “astronomical center” and to track monsoon clouds. Moreover to accommodate as a family resort too.

But before he could complete the fort, fate made him meet the untimely death. Hence, Maharana Fateh Singh Ji, successor of the clan, took the pain on his shoulders for the completion of the complex. Nonetheless, he succeeded in making the project possible.

Moreover Fateh Singh Ji occupied the building for watching monsoon clouds and hence the name – “Monsoon Palace”. The royal family also used it as a hunting lodge.

maharana fateh singh ji going for hunt — Source: clevelandart

Some Interesting facts

Monsoon palace is best visited during the monsoon season to see the clouds, endless hills of greenery, and a few light showers. As it is situated at the top to give a wider view & heavenly feeling of being surrounded by clouds.
You can see a beautiful sunset as well, but you must be at the palace when it happens.
You get the view of three beautiful lakes at once, Fateh Sagar, Pichola, and Swaroop Sagar which is breathtaking.
The palace has featured the filming of several Bollywood and Hollywood productions, including Octopussy, Cheetah Girl, Dhamaal and Hum Hai Raahi Pyar Ke. The palace appears as the home of the main antagonist, an exiled Afghan prince by the name of Kamal Khan, in the James Bond film Octopussy (Louise Jourdan).

The most loved Monsoon Season is about to end and it would be the best opportunity to visit the palace. Don’t wait, make a plan and step out before it’s too late!

Tags #Monsoon Season, Maharana Fateh Singh Ji, maharana sajjan singh ji, monsoon palace, sajjangarh fort

Places to Visit

Places To Visit In Udaipur During Monsoon Season

Post author By Vidhee Jain
Post date July 19, 2022
No Comments on Places To Visit In Udaipur During Monsoon Season

The days left to begin enjoying the soothing monsoon season of Udaipur have ended. And we have planned to make it easier for you to decide where to land as soon as the clouds begin to shower in Udaipur. Although the locals of Udaipur are familiar with most of the places listed below, tourists will find that ‘The Trip to Udaipur’ becomes ‘The Ultimate Trip to Udaipur’ if they include these places in their itinerary during this monsoon season. We have curated a list of places in and around Udaipur, that you can visit during the monsoon season.

Places to Visit In Udaipur

1.) The Sajjangarh or The Monsoon Palace

sajjangarh monsoon palace udaipur — Credits: UdaipurTourism

This is a wonderful monsoon place in Udaipur, as the name implies. It is best seen during June, July, and August, and was once known as Sajjan Garh Palace. It is a new public attraction that was once owned by the Mewar family and was recently given to the government. It has a view over the city of Udaipur and its lakes, brimming with water and vegetation during the monsoon season.

The only objective of Maharana Sajjan Singh’s construction of the Monsoon Palace, also known as Sajjangarh, was to stare at the monsoon clouds up close and enjoy the magnificent aerial view of the city from 3100 feet above sea level, as the name says.

Note: Due to Forest Department orders, the Monsoon Palace is only open till 7:00 PM for security reasons.

2.) Panna Boat Museum

pannadhay boat cafe — Credits: Indra Niwas

It is a ship-shaped museum located on the Govardhan Sagar Lake, which is situated on the outskirts of Udaipur but is well-maintained and gets a lot of attention from both residents and visitors. It was inaugurated in 2014 by our Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. The Panna Boat Museum is dedicated to the great Panna Dai and the sacrifices she made for Mewar; here, you may learn a lot about Panna Dai, as well as hang out in the beautifully constructed ship-shaped museum and enjoy the weather beside the picturesque lake.

3.) Neemach Mata Temple

neemuch mata temple — Credits: Udaipurian

We should express our gratitude for the modest and simple things in life, such as the smell of rain, the flavour of your favourite cuisine, or the tone of a loved one’s voice. And what better time to do it than in the magnificently located NEEMUCH MATA temple in Udaipur, where showers of blessings are raining all around you with a tinge of holiness enveloping you. This memorial honours Neemuch Mata Devi. There’s also a statue of Lord Ganesha, a Hindu God, and three granite lions facing west. The temple is situated on top of a grassy hill in Udaipur and offers a breathtaking aerial view of the city of lakes, Udaipur.

This temple and the stone statue within it, are well-known for their connection to a Neem tree, therefore the name NEEMUCH. Due to the sacred essence of the tree, it is claimed that anyone who visits the temple on a regular basis would never have any skin issues. To go to Neemuch Mata temple, you will have to climb 850 meters and can only do it on foot. You can climb this mountain either by taking the steps off the alley or pathway. The entire route is covered in natural peak forest and thick greenery, which adds to the beauty.

4.) The Karni Mata Ropeway

Udaipur has not only provided the prettiest sites but has also excelled in terms of offering scenic locations that are as wonderful as paradise during the monsoon and are completely free to visit. The KARNI MATA ROPEWAY in Udaipur is one of these destinations. It swings you across the lush green valley of Udaipur as you enjoy the gorgeous panorama of the surrounding region in a glass-packed cabin. This Ropeway begins from the famous Doodh Talai Musical Fountain Park and swipes you through the lush green gorges overlooking the entire city of Udaipur before dropping you off at the Karni Mata Temple thereby leaving you mesmerized by the greenery of this amazing city. The best part is, that it is incredibly cost-efficient.

5.) Nehru Garden

The City of Lakes, Udaipur, is known for its charming gardens. These gardens are ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing sunny day out. One such piece of art is The Nehru Garden. The beautiful and one-of-a-kind Nehru Park sprawls across 41 acres in the heart of Fateh Sagar Lake, with a lily pond in the centre and a massive towering gigantic fountain. The garden’s most adorable feature is its water trail, which can be crossed by tiny walkable stepping stones.

Anyone who visits Fateh Sagar Lake cannot ignore the beauty of Nehru Park and takes a boat trip from Fateh Sagar to Nehru Park, which enhances the beauty of the lake as well as the city of Udaipur.

Places to Visit Around Udaipur

1.) Tidi Dam

A massive 67-foot-high dam located 34 kilometres from the city centre is an exquisite spot to explore during monsoon season. Hindustan Zinc Ltd. built it in 1976, and it presently serves as Zawar Mines’ primary source of water. It has become one of the most popular and convenient picnic spots for the locals as well as the tourists. A perfect place to go especially during the monsoon season. It has unique natural scenery, where you may appreciate the beauty in its natural state. Although this place doesn’t have any natural waterfall, the water streaming from the dam creates an amazing illusion of an organic waterfall, and you may cherish this place with your friends and family.

2.) Ubeshwar Ji:

Another paradise during the rainy season is Ubeshwar Ji. The Aravali mountain range surrounds Ubeshwar Ji, with water gushing and flowing across it. It is essential to visit this location during the rainy season. Here you will locate Lord Shiva’s temple, where you may relax and enjoy the scenery, making it an ideal picnic site. There is also a pond with little fish where you may relax and enjoy the scenery.

3.) Chandni Village

It is a popular monsoon spot situated around 23 kilometres away from Udaipur. Do you recall learning how to sketch static scenery in elementary school? This is an identical twin of the fantasy environment we have been painting since our childhood, with various mountains on top and a water stream rushing through the mountainous terrain, alongside the village.

4.) Pipliya Ji

About 32 kilometres from Udaipur, one of the city’s best monsoon attractions is Pipliya Ji. The curving single road will take you to a spectacular area where you may appreciate nature’s tranquillity as it cuts through the lush green hills and streams. The route is wrapped in mist and clouds and appears to be floating in space; at times, it is so foggy that nothing can be seen beyond a few meters.

The view from the top of the mountain is spectacular. Pipliya Ji is one of the most visited spots in Udaipur, giving magnificent views amid breathtaking scenery. One might encounter a few villages nestled within its lush greenery, far from the rush and bustle of city life.

5.) The Badi Lake

The residents of Udaipur have already shown great respect and loyalty towards this site; now is the time to include it in the city’s local guides so that visitors may also visit this magnificent Lake, which is stretched across 155 square kilometres area and is located around 12 kilometres from Udaipur. This Lake was built between 1652 and 1680 by Maharaja Raj Singh. It is a famous picnic spot for the locals as well as tourists. The lake is also great for swimming, and there are several kiosks (shamiana) along the embankments where visitors may rest and relax.

Quick Tip: If you want to see the sunset from Badi Lake, go early in the morning and wait for the sun to rise over the picturesque lake. Also, if you have a local acquaintance, request that they take you on a hike around Badi Lake.

Tags #Monsoon Season, #Panna Boat Museum, #Places To Visit In Udaipur During Monsoon Season, badi lake, Karni Mata Temple, monsoon palace, Neemach Mata Temple, Nehru Garden, sajjangarh, Tidi Dam

History and Culture

World Heritage Day: Udaipur Heritage, the strings attached to past

Post author By Naman Kapuria
Post date April 18, 2019
No Comments on World Heritage Day: Udaipur Heritage, the strings attached to past

In the year 1982, the International Council on Monuments and Sites decided to celebrate 18 April as World Heritage Day. It was a step taken towards spreading awareness about monuments and other sites which are a part of our history. Udaipur is one of the most prominent cultural heritage signatures of Mewar.

Future generations have the right to live history through these heritage sites and hence they should be preserved. Udaipur – The Venice of East, a beautiful city guarded by the Aravalli range, was founded in the 16th century by Maharana Udai Singh. Since it was a circular piece of fertile land in between Girwa valley, it was declared as the capital of Mewar. The prosperous cultural heritage legacy was received by the different generations of rulers. City Palace, Jagdish temple, Saheliyon ki Bari, Ahar Cenotaphs, Monsoon Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli and many such locations in Udaipur act like a bridge between the generations.

A sense of royalty can be felt through the architecture of such sites. With each passing day, each monument of the city repeats the story to every visitor and this story needs to be conserved. Safeguarding of heritage sites is very important because they give a sense of identity and continuity in a fast-changing world to the coming generations. Heritage sites basically reflect the culture of the city.

Let’s go on a roller coaster ride through the heritage sites of the city or wait, rather, let’s walk together across the city. While walking towards the old city you see Gulab Bagh on your left and vintage car museum on your right. The transition from new to the old city is worth noticing and can be seen through the gates and architecture of houses. When the lanes start to narrow down, it means you are close to witnessing something magical.

City Palace:

The palace complex situated on the east bank of Lake Pichola was constructed over a period of 400 years when the capital was shifted from Chittor district. The palace constantly got several modifications by other rulers of the dynasty. It was mostly constructed in Rajasthani style with a touch of Mughal architecture. It is designed so beautifully that it overlooks several other historical sites such as Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace and a perfect view of the entire city. Crystal gallery is the major attraction in this complex.

Jagdish Temple:

Moving ahead, when the streets will shrink further, a treat to eyes is guaranteed. On a junction of three roads, Jagdish Temple is situated. Jagdish temple was made by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651. Maharana Jagat Singh ruled Udaipur for 25 years from 1628 to 1653. The temple is dedicated to the preserver of the universe Lord Vishnu. It is the largest temple in the city. After 28 years of the construction of the temple, Mughal ruler Aurangzeb wanted the temple to get destroyed and sent his army to do so. But the army of Maharana Raj Singh (ruler of Udaipur back then) didn’t let them succeed. Thank god a unique specimen of architecture was saved for us.

Saheliyon ki Bari:

Tired already? Let’s take an auto to Saheliyon ki Bari which is approximately 4 Kms away from the core of the city. Saheliyon ki Bari’s heritage talks about a group of forty-eight young women attendants who came with the princess as a part of her dowry. It is a major garden of the city and was built in the year 1710 by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies. Imagine a historic garden built for a queen. Royalness of this place is refreshing.

Ahar Cenotaphs:

Now moving toward the destination where these great creators of this dynasty are buried. It has a total of 372 cenotaphs of around 19 Maharanas who once ruled the city. This spectacular field of domes was built approx. 400 years back. Most attractive cenotaph that you will be able to spot will be of Maharana Sangram Singh, go look for it and the newest was built in the year 2004 of Udaipur’s last Maharana, Bhagwat Singh. After a walk of 150 m from Ahar Cenotaphs, you can find Ahar government museum which contains copper and pottery objects that are around 3300-years-old.

Tip: Observe the silence here.

Monsoon Palace or Sajjan Garh:

We can’t walk to next destination but I bet the way to that place is an adventure in itself. The monsoon palace, also called Sajjangarh palace is a hilltop palace at a distance of around 7 km from the city. It was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the year 1884. It is said that from there monsoon clouds could be seen coming towards the city. It was originally constructed by the royal family of Mewar and is now owned by the forest department of the government of Rajasthan but you don’t need to worry about that. The beautiful palace gives you a mind-blowing view of the sunset and is supposedly called monsoon palace because it seems like the palace is floating in heaven during Monsoon.

There are many such locations around which will take you back in time. On every location, one can stand and feel that the place has been standing there for a long time and knows the secrets that you might be interested in.

On this World Heritage Day, let’s take a pledge of preserving these locations on our part. Engraving names of your loved ones won’t make you a hero but preserving cultural heritage can make you one. Also, good knowledge to have, there are dustbins around these locations, please use them and don’t litter. Not just one day, make every day as Heritage Day. Come and celebrate this auspicious day like a festival because these monuments are none less than time travel machines.

Tags Ahar Cenotaphs, city palace, heritage, Heritage of Mewar, Heritage of Udaipur, Heritage sites, Jagdish Temple, Mewar History, monsoon palace, Preserve heritage, Preserve heritage sites, Saheliyon Ki Bari, top, udaipur, Udaipur culture, Udaipur Heritage, Udaipur history

Places to Visit

Chunda Palace Café: The Hunger Savior at Sajjangarh

Post author By Mohit Pagaria
Post date April 11, 2019
No Comments on Chunda Palace Café: The Hunger Savior at Sajjangarh

Overlooking the city and also famous for its beautiful picturesque atmosphere, Sajjangarh Fort has always topped the traveler’s bucket list. The expedition to the lakecity is incomplete if one hasn’t explored this fort. The magnificent view from the best and the highest point around the city is unforgettable.

The only thing that was being missed by the tourists, as well as the local public, was a proper food junction.

The Chunda Palace Café:

We are glad to share the good news with you that this magnificent place now also has a café reloaded with new cold beverages. The cafeteria is managed by the grand Chunda Palace so the legacy of the hotel follows the café too. It caters to the needs of local public and tourists which makes sure that there is an increase in the graph of positive reviews.

This café is the new addition to everyone’s go-to list as one can enjoy peaceful evenings with delicious food at a single place. The café is loaded with many irresistible delicacies which can be enjoyed amidst the breathtaking view of the city.

Customer satisfaction has always been the motivation for the café owners. Keeping in mind the upcoming summer season, the café has introduced many delicious smoothies, mocktails, Ice teas and shakes as well making this café a perfect place to hang out with your friends, family and loved ones. The new menu makes the place more happening than ever.

So what are you waiting for?

Go out and capture the essence of this city with your DSLR’s in one hand a cold refreshing drink in the other only at the CHUNDA PALACE CAFÉ.

For any queries, Call at : 0294-2430252

Tags cafe, chunda, chunda palace, chunda palace cafe, Drinks, hill, hilltop, monsoon palace, monsoon palace udaipur, palace, sajjan garh, Sajjan Garh The Monsoon Palace, sajjan garh udaipur, smoothies, summers, top, udaipur

Places to Visit

Already monsoon! Top places to hang out in this summer-monsoon season in Udaipur

Post author By Fouzia Mirza
Post date April 7, 2018
No Comments on Already monsoon! Top places to hang out in this summer-monsoon season in Udaipur

Morning you are getting drenched in sweat because of the heat and afternoon you are dipping yourself in the first rain showers in Udaipur. Rains have arrived early this year and we the people of Udaipur, have gotten another chance to step out of our houses. It’s weekend and who doesn’t want to enjoy!!! So here is a list of Top places to hang out in this summer-monsoon season in Udaipur.

Pipliya Ji

This is one of the most beautiful locations in Udaipur and every Udaipurite is totally aware of the fact that this place becomes heaven when it rains. I am sure, many must have started planning or already left for Pipliya Ji!

Monsoon Palace

Monsoon Palace was once the favorite destination of the royal family during the rainy season. Today as soon as it rains, people flock to the Monsoon palace aka Sajjangarh to view the picturesque city during rains.

Ubeshwar Ji

Located on a great height, and midway to Pipliya Ji, the place is situated between beautifully lush hillocks and becomes way beautiful with rains! The pakode wala near the temple is gonna give you the essence of rains, along with chai!

Keleshwar Ji

A few kilometers ahead of Pipliya ji is the Keleshwar Waterfall; somewhere around 10km from Ubeshwar Ji. The road is exciting if you take a bike ride and becomes ‘wow’ with rains.

Rayta

Known for its snake road, fully surrounded by mountains valleys and small green hills it gives a magnificent view of the city and becomes gorgeous in rains. The place gives a panoramic view of the back side of Udaipur- a must visit during the Monsoon season.

Also Read: Monsoon Checklist: We Are All Set To Welcome Monsoon, Are You?

Fatehsagar Lake and Ambrai Ghat

As soon as it rains, two places in Udaipur get flooded. Not with water, but with people! In hundreds, people flock to Ambrai Ghat and Fatehsagar Chowpatty as soon as it rains. And trust me, the sight is worth the traffic jams.

Badi Lake

Not forgetting Lake Badi, the place is already lush and becomes all the more scenic with rains showers. Badi is a popular spot in Udaipur and is ideal for long drives till there in rains.

Where are you going today!!!

Tell us in the comment section below and also tag us on Instagram @udaipurblog with beautiful pictures of our city during rains.

Tags beautiful udaipur, city of lakes, Monsoon, monsoon palace, rains, top, udaipur in rains

Places to Visit

Historical Architecture: Palaces & Forts in and around Udaipur

Post author By Ashwini Bagga
Post date April 13, 2013
1 Comment on Historical Architecture: Palaces & Forts in and around Udaipur

City Palace

City Palace was built by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559. It is situated at the eastern bank of Lake Pichhola and has many other palaces built within the City Palace. It is a must visiting place whosoever wishes to travel Udaipur and has a keen interest in the history of Rajasthan.

Impressive Gateways or Poles pave access to the City Palace complex. The different poles of the City Palace include Bara Pole, Tripolia Pole, Toran Pole etc.

The other complexes which are made within the premise of the City Palace are Amar Vilas, Badi Mahal, Chinni Chitrashala, Choti Chitrashali, Dilkhusha Mahal, Darbar Hall, Fateh Prakash, Jagdish Mandir, Krishna Vilas, Laxmi Vilas Chowk, Manak Mahal, Mor Chowk, Rang Bhawan, Sheesh Mahal etc.

The famous Jagdish Temple is only 150 meters away from the Palace. From the Palace, you can have a beautiful view of Lake Palace and Jag Mandir, which are both located in the midst of Pichhola Lake. The City Palace’s major part has been converted into a museum, displaying a diverse range of preserved monuments and armour. The museum exhibits a wide collection of weapons, gears, clothes, furniture etc.

Fateh Prakash Palace

This palace was constructed during the time of Maharana Fateh Singh, who ruled from 1885 to 1935. The purpose of the venue was to serve the esteemed guests during the royal functions. Fateh Prakash Palace has also been converted into a luxury hotel which is now run & managed by the HRH group.

In 1909 the Viceroy of India, Lord Minto, laid down the Darbar Hall’s foundation stone. Henceforth the name was originally called Minto Hall to respect the honour to the Viceroy. The interiors are decorated with royal artefacts, miniature painting, armour etc. which would take you to the legendary historical time of the Mewar dynasty.

The Darbar Hall, Crystal Gallery, Suites and Rooms are decorated with original paintings, furniture of the historical era and would take you on the journey of the authentic heritage of that time. The scenic beauty of Lake Pichhola through the decorative valued windows would soak you in real ecstasy. The Palace offers 21 Decorative Rooms and 45 Decorative Premier Suits. It is equipped with period furniture, portraits and original miniature paintings, private sitting areas and facilities like air-conditioning, international direct dial telephone, satellite TV and a mini-bar.

Taj Lake Palace

Lake Palace, the name is enough to draw a picture of Udaipur and Pichhola Lake. It is another epithet of the Udaipur after the City Palace. To most of us, if asked anything about Lake Palace, the first answer comes out – it is a luxury hotel. Obviously, it is a luxury hotel, but earlier than a luxury hotel, it was a place to relax for the kings and had many different interiors.

Lake Palace was formerly known as Jag Niwas. Lake Palace is built on a natural island of around 4 acres, which was earlier called Jag Niwas Island and surrounded by Lake Pichhola. It was built in the year 1743 to 1746 by the Maharana Jagat Singh II of Udaipur. The Palace was built as a palace to spend summers. It was named after its founder Maharana Jagat Singh and hence was called Jag Niwas.

In 1971 the Taj group took over Lake Palace’s management, 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 2000, another restoration of the hotel was undertaken. Now Taj Lake Palace is certainly a luxury hotel surrounded by Lake Pichhola. The Lake Palace offers Luxury Rooms, Palace Rooms, Royal Suites, Grand Royal Suites and Grand Presidential Suites with all facilities like Spa, Bar, Fine Dinning etc.

Monsoon Palace aka Sajjangarh Fort

monsoon-palace-sajjangarh-palace — Source: Udaipur Tourism

An actual jewel in our city, Sajjangarh Fort has been one of the most favourite tourist’s spots, especially in the rainy season when the fort is enveloped by clouds and the mountains are lush green. The Monsoon Palace, formerly known as the Sajjangarh Palace, is a hilltop residence with a scenic view of palaces, lakes, and the surrounding countryside. This palace was designed to keep an eye on the monsoon clouds, as the name implies. The palace, which is located in the Aravalli Hills, glows a golden orange colour in the evening and is a great place to see the sunset. Don’t forget to visit this enchanting palace when in Udaipur!

Jag Mandir Island Palace

This palace, also known as the ‘Lake Garden Palace,’ is undeniably one of Pichola Lake’s most beautiful views. Built on an island, this palace served as a summer retreat and a pleasure palace for holding parties for royal families. Within the palace, the Gul Mahal, Garden Courtyard, Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Zenana Mahal, and Kunwar Pada ka Mahal are must-see attractions. Don’t forget to dine at the Darikhana Restaurant for an exclusive dining experience!

Bagore ki Haveli (Gangaur Ghat)

Head to Bagore ki Haveli to experience the true Rajasthani Folk art and reminisce the beauty and splendour and rich heritage of the city of lakes. In just one hour, you will enjoy a blissful cultural evening of musical dance performances, magic shows, and puppet dances influenced by Rajasthani tradition, all without burning a hole in your pocket! Festivals, weddings, childbirth, and the change of seasons are all included in the show. It’s the ideal location for learning about the Rajput royal lifestyle.

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh is 82 kilometres away from Udaipur and lies in Rajsamand District, and it is the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the great warrior of the Mewar. It was built in the 15^th century by Maharana Kumbha. In the late 19^th century, the fort was opened for tourists. It is the important fort of Mewar after Chittorgarh.

The fort is accessed through seven different gateways named Aret Pole, Hanuman Pole, Ram Pole, Vijay Pole, Nimboo Pole and Bhairon Pole. All gates lead to the palace complex, and some are built with additional structures at a later stage.

The different palaces built in the fort consist of Kumbha Mahal and Badal Mahal. Various religious temples include Hindu and Jain temples of different periods ranging from the 13th century to later. Various temples built and covered in the fort area consist of Ganesh Temple, Vedi Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Parshvanath Temple, Bawan Devi Temple, and Golerao Group Temples, Mamadeo Temple, Pitalia Dev Temple, Kumbha Palace.

Kumbhalgarh fort also has several memorials like Badva Bund, Lagan Baori, Gardens, Stores, Pleasure Pavilions, and a Dam.

Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh is situated in the southern part of Rajasthan and is 120 kilometres away from Udaipur. It is midway between Delhi and Mumbai on National Highway No 8. At Chittorgarh National Highways 76 and 79 intersect.

Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort in India. Earlier it was the capital of Mewar. The fort is spread in an area of 690 acres and situated at the height of 590 feet over a hill that lies on the bank of Berach River.

The Mewar Emperors lost the fort thrice to the Mughals in the battles fought in different periods. In 1303 Allauddin Khilji defeated Rana Ratan Singh. Bahadur Shah defeated Bikramjeet Singh in 1535, and Mughal Emperor Akbar defeated Maharana Udai Singh II in 1567, who left and founded Udaipur as his next capital of Mewar. Approximately 13,000 Rajput Ladies committed Jauhar after the successive defeats of Mewar Emperors.

A zigzag hill road of more than 1 kilometres in length from the new town of Chittor leads to the west end main gate of the fort, known as Ram Pol. Within the fort, a circular road provides access to all other gates and monuments. The fort has seven gates or Poles, and they are Padan Pole, Bhairon Pole, Hanuman Pole, Ganesh Pole, Jodla Pole, Laxman Pole and the main gate is known as the Ram Pole. A road within the fort provides access to the numerous monuments, ruined structures, and temples. Once, the fort had 84 water bodies and only 22 are left as of now. It was in the form of ponds, wells, and step wells. These water bodies were filled during the rainfall. The various other historical monuments of interest at the fort include Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh.

Photo Credits: Yash Sharma, HRH Hotels, hoparoudindia.com

Tags Chittorgarh Fort, city palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, jag mandir island palace, Kumbhalgarh fort, Lake Palace, monsoon palace, sajjangarh fort, Taj Lake Palace

Places to Visit

Hangout at Sajjangarh – Awesome plan for a happening Weekend

Post author By Palak Jain
Post date June 24, 2012
No Comments on Hangout at Sajjangarh – Awesome plan for a happening Weekend

Goooooooodddd Morrrrrrrrnnniiiiiiingggg Udaipur..!!! 🙂

It’s a cool, lovely day wrapped in a soft breeze making these pre-monsoon days even more charming and wonderful. Doesn’t this breeze tempt you for a long bike ride or for a family picnic or for a hangout with friends or for a hot cup of tea in your balcony?? They do tempt me a lot, and even more when I’m on my way to college or when I peep outside from the window of Lecture Hall. So today let this temptation take over you and drive you crazy with these wild winds. After all its weekend Udaipies!! 😉

Sajjangarh - By saurabh — Sajjangarh – By saurabh

As we wait to get soaked in monsoon, how about visiting The Monsoon Palace today?? It is also named as Sajjangarh after Maharaja Sajjan Singh, a young Mewar ruler who built this fort in 1884 to study the monsoon clouds and later used it as hunting lodge. This Fort, perched at a peak Bansdora Mountain, enchants every eye with the view it offers of lush green Aravalli Hills and blue waters of Lake Pichola.

When you look at the “Sajjangarh Fort” from the city, it creates an impression of the king’s palace about which we have heard or read in fairy tales; standing at a height of 944m above the sea level and circled by forest and mountain from all around. The road up the hill to the fort twists and turns like a drunken man and driving on it is a sort of mini adventure in itself. Standing in the courtyard of the fort, you will feel the strong wind engulfing your mind and soul with its power and dynamism. Capture the scenic beauty of our own Udaipur and its lakes from the fort and you will once again fall in love with its allure. When the sky gets painted in orange and yellow hue at the time of sunset, then for a minute your eyes won’t blink and the colors won’t leave your mind for a couple of days.

Surrounding the fort is a forest blessed with rich flora and fauna. Earlier it was a hunting ground for Maharanas, but later, in 1987, the Forest Department of Government of Rajasthan made it “Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary”. It is a reserve for many wild animals like Chital, Wild boar, Sambar, Panther, Hare, Jackal, Blue Bull, etc. You can also see a wide variety of reptiles and hear the melodious chirps of lovely birds. If you are an adventure freak then you can also trek from Gorilla viewpoint to the Bari Lake where you get another chance to capture the beauty of Aravalli ranges and enjoy the thrill of wildlife diversity of the area.

There is a small perennial source of water, “The Jhar Water Hole”, on the western side of Hill. Numerous Mahua trees encircling it provide an amazing place to sit and enjoy the calmness and placidity of the place. A small temple of Lord Shiva situated close to it adds to its serenity.

If you want to add one more flavor in the weekend, then a drive around FS or a few minutes at its Pal will do the needful. At the end of the day, dinner at a restaurant while recollecting all those moments that left you awestruck will make a perfect ending of a perfect day.

Happyy Weekend Udaipiess..!! 😉 Go crazy with the winds, enjoy to the fullest and stay safe during any adventure… 🙂 Don’t forget to share your happy moments with your UdaipurBlog. 🙂

Sajjangarh Picture - Prateek — Sajjangarh Picture – Prateek

Tags monsoon palace, monsoon palace udaipur, sajjan garh, sajjan garh udaipur, sajjangarh, Sajjangarh palace, sajjangarh udaipur