Udaipur, also called “the Venice of the East”, is one of the most charming cities located in Rajasthan, India. Boasting many sparkling lakes confined by the Aravalis, Udaipur has a host of landmarks, testifying the fascinating combination of sights and sounds combined with memorable experiences. The beautiful temples, palaces, and forts along with mountains and gardens help to revive the heroic past, chivalry, and valor.
Attractions
Visit the majestic City Palace, located at the waterfront of Lake Pichola. With an assortment of hanging gardens, rooms, corridors, terraces, pavilions, and courtyards, the palace boasts of a wonderful mix of Chinese, European, and Medieval architecture. Be enthralled by the charm of the romantic Lake Palace situated in the middle of Lake Pichola with the Aravalis at the background. The palace has now been converted into a five-star hotel being managed by the Taj Group.
Take a trip to Jaisamand Lake, the most renowned artificial lake in India. You can lighten up and relax while enjoying a boat ride or visit the nearby sanctuary that is home to numerous species of birds, deer, crocodiles, leopards, and panthers. Another famous artificial lake in Udaipur is the Fateh Sagar Lake, which features three small islands accessible via boats. One of the islands features the best solar observatory in Asia, called Udaipur Solar Observatory.
Take a quick visit to the Jagdish Temple (devoted to Lord Vishnu) and Eklingji Temple (devoted to Lord Shiva), the two most spiritually significant places in Udaipur. The calm, serene environment along with their architectural magnificence will leave you spellbound.
Take a break from the bustling city life by visiting Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the Maidens), a well-maintained park with very old trees and beautiful flowers. Gulab Bagh, located near Pichola Lake, is also an important garden in the city encompassing a zoo and a museum.
Dining
While Udaipur is not particularly known for its eating, it still offers plenty of high profile eateries and restaurants, where you can enjoy Asian, Western, Chinese, and Indian foods. Savor both the traditional and contemporary cuisines in some of the gorgeous restaurants in the city including Savage Garden café-restaurant, Ambrai, Neel Kamal, Udai Kothi terrace restaurant, and Upre by 1559 AD.
Shopping
If you eagerly wish to collect some souvenirs, then visit one of the shops located near Jagdish Temple and City Palace. You can purchase home furnishings, bags, arts, crafts, jewelry, and clothes from renowned boutiques like Anokhi, Aashka, and Sadhna. Shilpgram, situated close to Fateh Sagar Lake, is a crafts village specializing in selling wooden carvings, terracotta works, pottery, furniture, and accessories.