Udaipur is a fascinating
blend of sights, sounds and experiences - an inspiration for the imagination of the poets,
painters and writers. Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens an
narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomising valour and
chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the Lake Pichhola is an enticing sight.
Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar - a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 years.
Several places in and around worth visiting, some of them are :
City
Palace : A majestic architectural marvel towering
over the lake on a hill surrounded by crenallated walls, it is a conglomeration of
courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. The main entrance
is through the triple arched gate, the "Tripolia" with eight marble portiocs.
The maharanas were weighed under the gate in gold, the euivalent amount of which was
distributed among the populace.
Fateh
Sagar & Nehru Park : A beautiful lake, overlooked by a number of hills on the three sides and
the Pratap Memorial on the north was built by Maharana Fateh Singh. In the middle of the
lake is Nehru Park - a lovely garden island with a boat shaped cafe accessible by an
enjoyable boat ride.
Sahelion - ki - Bari (Garden of the maids of
honour) : This small
ornamental garden was a popular relaxing spot where royal ladies came for a stroll and
hence the name. The garden has many fountains in its four delightful pools, chiselled
kiosks and marble elephants.
On the eve of his departure from
Mewar, Col.Tod had shifted to it so as to have some needed solitude. Much later, a
thoughtful had located a library in it !
Pratap Smarak (Memorial) : Atop the Moti Magri or Pearl Hill, overlooking the Fateh Sagar
Lake. Entrance is made of huge gate and in the garden a memorial of the Rajput hero Maharana Pratap with a bronze statue of the Maharana
astride his favourite horse "Chetak". This 11
feet bronze statue is unique. The view of lake & mountain ranges from the hill top is
worth climbing.

Dudh Talai : A beautiful laid out "Rock Garden" from where one can enjoy
sunset view in Lake Pichhola and panoramic view of old city.
Musical Fountain is an another attraction for the visitors.
Gulab
Bagh & Zoo : A
spectacular rose Garden laid out by Maharana Sajjan Singh, is situated near the palace on
east side of Lake Pichhola. A library in the garden has a rare collection of ancient
handwritten manuscripts and books.
Within the garden, there is a zoo with tigers, leopards, chinkara
and many wild animals and birds are being kept. |