Udaipur The City Of Lakes!

History weaves a beautiful picture of a bygone era where palaces, forts, speak about the grandeur lifestyle of the Royals, when it comes to Palaces, there is nothing like Rajasthan to provide a peak into Royalty. Udaipur, in Rajasthan is just the place to get immersed in the tales of Kings and Kingdom. This beautiful city surrounded by Aravali range is known for it's rich history, culture, scenic locations and Rajput era colossal palaces and forts. Also known as "City of Lakes," "Venice of East," this place stands as a fine testimony to Royalty. 

The most popular lake in the "City of Lakes" is Lake Pichola. It is an artificial fresh water lake that was set up in 1362 AD to quench thirst of locals and irrigation purposes. 

Lake Pichola

The beautiful City Palace, located on the banks of Lake Pichola, was built over a period of 400 years by the Mewar rulers. Built in a flamboyant style, with a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, this palace is considered one of the largest of it's kinds in the State of Rajasthan. A large part of the palace is now a museum and this beautiful palace complex with balconies, towers exhibits murals, wall paintings, intricate mirror, marble, silver, inlay work and leftover of colored glass. 

The Mor Chowk offers a glimpse of the colored glass mosaic work. The peacock in this chamber was crafted using 5000 pieces of glass in green, red, blue and gold colors. This fine craftsmanship is breathtaking to say the least. 

Fateprakash Palace, a part of City palace, now converted into a hotel houses the much celebrated crystal gallery. The gallery exhibits extensive furniture and home décor in crystal as the then ruler Maharana Sajjan Singh wanted his entire décor to be classy and had ordered everything from London in 1887. Unfortunately, he passed away before the shipment could arrive and the consignment was left unopened for the next 110 years. 

Jagmandir Island Palace, also called the "Lake Garden Palace" sits pretty on one of the two natural islands on Lake Pichola. The Royal family used this palace as a summer resort and it is believed to be the inspiration for Taj Mahal. The Jagmandir Island palace can be reached only by boat from the Bansi ghat jetty next to the lake palace. Their rooftop is the perfect vantage point to enjoy magical sunset. The palace also offers suites that are managed and run by the HRH Group of Hotels. With a little splurge, a stay here would be an ideal royal experience.

Jag Mandir Island Palace

Lake Palace is also situated on an island in lake Pichola. This stunning piece of art was built using pristine white marble and served as a luxury summer palace for the Royal family. It is now been converted into a luxury hotel and run by Taj Group of Hotels.

Taj Lake Palace

If Vintage Cars excite you, just few blocks away from city palace on Gulab Bagh is the Vintage Car Museum which is a must visit. Home to some of the rarest classic and vintage cars owned by the Royal family. 

Fateh Sagar Lake, another man made lake, built in the 1680s is perfect for an evening stroll. There are numerous options around the lake to subside your hunger pangs. The street food around is finger licking good and hygienic plus a Kulhad coffee by the lake on a cold evening makes your day. 

Food is an integral part of travel and while in Udaipur do check into these quaint cafes.

Cafe With A View

Mic & Munch cafe is a perfect mix of live music and great food, with an extensive menu to choose from, they serve amazing Mexican food. A perfect cafe to spend your vacation with loved ones either chatting away or choose from the many board games in house. On weekends, the place is packed and happening with local talents entertaining patrons.  Do try out their Paneer Cigar Roll and chocolate Pani puri. It is located at Inaya complex, Bhopalpura.

109 cafe - go where the locals go, do what the locals do. This place is highly recommend by locals, they have won hearts by offering amazing hospitality and high service standards. The organic drinks served here are quite impressive and their Basil seed drink is a must try. It is located at Gangaur Ghat Jagdish Square.

Oladar Village cafe, on Lake Palace Road, vintage ambiance in an age old Haveli of Oladar house, a part of which is converted into a cafe. Interiors and decor of the cafe are eye candy and very impressive. Various village elements like cycle, scooter take center stage. This cafe serves amazing chicken pizza and freshly brewed coffee. 

Hook & Iron's Cafe/bar is one of the best places in Udaipur to sip cocktails and quick bites. The Long Island Iced Tea Cocktail is highly recommended. Their interiors are done really well and the good music makes for a perfect evening. The place sits on Sector 11 Hiran Magri. 

Cafe Namaste French cafe, if you have a sweet tooth and crave for yummy pastries your search ends here. The freshly baked pastries aroma draw you into this small cafe. The breakfast here is too good and makes it a must visit. Located at Ashoka Haveli, Chandpole.

Lala Misthan, head here for a power packed little dynamite of Kachori. This crispy deep fried spicy snack packs a punch plus the milk based sweets are very famous here. However, it is only a take away joint. Sitting on Jagdish temple road, this little place is part of Udaipur Heritage walk, need we say more. 

Happy Travel!