Being a travel freak and exploring historical places keeps your mind storming with the various thoughts all the time. And, when it’s about our Udaipur, the city never fails to astound endless magical history that is covered with the lakes and water sources that are present in and around the city. But what’s more interesting is the uniqueness of their names. Like, Fateh Sagar is named after Maharana Fateh Singh (Mewar dynasty) and Udaipur itself has got its name because of Maharana Udai Singh of Sisodia Clan of Rajput. Same in the series there is centrally located small water pond in the heart of the city, i.e. Doodh Talai (Dudh Talai).
Name and Origination:
Do you ever think that why it is called as Doodh Talai? People in Lake City have subjected many stories behind the name and origination of this water source. But, according to the old citizens, Doodh Talai (A small Milk pond) fulfilled the basic needs of cows that were present in government cow shelters (Raajakeey Goshalas) that carry through the requirement of milk in heritage kitchen. Later on, the dairy was shifted to Goverdhan Vilas area from where the animals were brought daily on grazing, drinking water, and for bathing purpose in Dudh Talai. Hence, it can be concluded that this unique, freshwater reservoir was primarily meant for the Royal concern.
Sites to Explore:
From the location viewpoint, Doodh Talai is located quite near the centre of the Udaipur. And, shares a common link road with another point Lake Pichola. Basically known for its compact and managed shape, it is surrounded by small hillocks that host:
- Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Park (Rock Garden or Musical Fountain Garden)
- Manikya Lal Verma Garden
- The Ropeway
- Lake Pichola
- Jungle Safari (3.5 km)
Because of scenic greenery, and different tourist attractions it is the famous spot in Udaipur to explore while travelling. One can also enjoy the fast food counters, camel and horse ride, and boat ride at the same location.
Manikya Lal Verma Garden
The Manikya Lal Verma Park (also known as Doodh Talai Garden), offers a glorious view of Lake Pichola and Doodh Talai. It was constructed in the year 1995 by Nagar Parishad (Municipal Council) Udaipur and was named after Manikya Lal Verma (Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan). There are stairs constructed to reach to the garden with the separate road for vehicles. And, on the top of it, Karni Mata Temple is located with the white stone idol of the goddess inside the zone.
Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Park
Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Garden is another small park located on the adjacent point to Manikya Lal Verma Garden. It was developed by UIT (Urban Improvement Trust) Udaipur. The best part here is the Rajasthan’s first “Musical Fountain” manufactured by “Yagnik Mechanical Engineering Works”. Also, this park offers a sunset point, from where one can witness the sunset in the lap of Lake Pichola reflecting magnificent light.
The Ropeway (Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway)
There is a ropeway from the top of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Park, which follows the journey of tourists to the Karni Mata temple. The cabin car was developed by business person Kailash Khandelwal in collaboration with UIT. This ride is at the height of around 500 meters and runs over a fixed grip mono cable. It is the first ropeway of Rajasthan that offers a 4-minute ride that is adventurous and joyful to check out the aerial view. The ride gives a panoramic view of the city including Lake Pichola, captivating City Palace, Sajjangarh Fort, and other locations, from its cabin. In addition to the cost, the ticket is quite affordable around Rs.80/- per adult.
Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola is the another attraction that can be witnessed by the crowd of tourists and holding the four islands within it (Jag Niwas, Mohan Mandir, Jag Mandir, and Arsi Villas) that represent the royal architecture of Mewar. One can enjoy the scenic view of all the locations by taking a sunset boat ride which costs around Rs.200/- per person. Also, one can also take camel and horse ride on the Lakeside (Paal) of Pichola during any time of the day to enhance the travel experience.
In addition to all these explorations, another site that an individual can visit is Jungle Safari which is at the distance of 3.5Km through the road going by the private jetty’s zone of Lake Pichola. Therefore, to cover the diverse locations at a single spot set a plan to know Dudh Talai more closely.
To gather and feel the ravishing breeze of this water reservoir, experience the fascinating look by making your evening visit towards the destination.