Here’s How To Make The Most Of 48 Hours In Udaipur
Priyanka Chakrabarti
City Palace, Udaipur
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Haven’t been to Udaipur yet? Well, you are truly missing out on some of the most majestic and historically rich sights of our country.
1. The City Palace
Standing like true royalty on the majestic banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace is a sight to remember. Also, it is completely made out of marble and granite; and, it is truly one of the greatest architectural miracles of Udaipur. First initiated by Maharana Udai Singh, this palace has stunning gardens, balconies, towers, museums, and of course, a heavenly panoramic view of Lake Pichola. Hire a guide, as he will take you around the palace and narrate about so much history this building has witnessed over centuries.
From the City Palace, you can book a ferry ride around Lake Pichola and Jag Mandir. It merely cost around Rs 450 per person. But, every penny is worth the magical experience.
Lake Pichola
Clear water that reflects the azure blue sky, contoured by magnificent palaces, Havelis and hotels (Taj Lake Palace, Leela, Oberoi Udai Vilas and more) – this boat ride is a soulful journey to remember for life. After a good 20-minutes ride, you will be dropped at the legendary Jag Mandir Palace.
3. Jag Mandir Palace
You must be wondering, where have you heard of Jag Mandir? Well, the most luxurious weddings in the country take place here. This is a gorgeous palace garden floating delicately on Lake Pichola – a sight to behold. Now, when Jag Mandir Palace was built its purpose was to host grand royal parties, festivities and ceremonies.
Jag Mandir Palace
In the evening, it lights up like burning gold in the middle of a dark lake. Oh, the vision! It’s marvellous. As you enter the island palace, you will be welcomed by huge marble elephants. Find cute nooks and corners for stunning photographs. Also, don’t forget to have a cup of coffee at their gorgeous café by the lake.
This remarkable castle was built in 1750 by Mewar’s Amir Chand Badwa. Today, it houses a museum of good-old-fashioned puppetry. Moreover, every evening Bagore Ki Haveli hosts cultural performances wherein performing artists from all over Rajasthan dance and sing traditional folklore.
Image Courtesy: www.remotetraveler.com
The music, the aura, the costumes and even the scent of the place will transport you back to the times of royalty. The entire show runs for 60 minutes. So, after the performance, you can take a walk to the serene Gangaur Ghat.
5. Saheliyon Ki Baari
This is a magnificent garden that creates an illusion of rain all throughout the year to please the then princess and her friends. Saheliyon Ki Baari was literally created by hemming together many other gardens.
Saheliyon Ki Baari
However, the abundance of flora and fauna in the middle of a desert state will leave you spellbound. The lotus ponds, countless fountains, lush stretches of manicured lawns and thick blanketing of shady trees on top of your head will fill your heart with peace and love.
6. Vintage Car Museum
Do you have a fetish for cars of the bygone era? Well, head to Vintage Collection of Classic Cars Museum that displays 22 cars from the House of Mewar’s Maharana’s private collection for your pleasure.
Image Courtesy: thenomadicguy.files.wordpress.com
Now, you must be wondering what kinds of cars did they kings and queens of yesteryears travelled in? Hold your breath because the list has cars like a seven-seater 1938 Cadillac, the Rolls-Royce Phantom driven by James Bond in the film ‘Octopussy’, and more.
Where To Stay?
We wanted to stay in a budget property that was in the centre of the city, which is Lal Ghat. And, we booked Jaiwana Haveli. This property has a stellar view of Lake Pichola. Sit on their rooftop café and indulge in local food like Butter Naan and Rajasthani Laal Maas, while you soak in the beauty of the place. The hotel cost us around Rs. 3000 per night (excluding taxes). Now, Jaiwana Haveli is a boutique property. It is basically a Haveli converted into a hotel. The rooms are cosy and bright. We were lucky enough to get a lake-view room.
Jaiwana Haveli
P.S – they don’t have a lift. So, if you are travelling with elderly people, caution them about climbing four-flights of stairs.
Udaipur is a foodie’s paradise. We ate at a couple of places, some road side and some cafes; but, the most incredible dinner we had was at the Natural View Restaurant. It is a rooftop eatery, right on the banks of Lake Pichola. Think of candle light dinner on a couch, classic rock music in the backdrop, multi-cuisine food on your table and a cute pug welcoming all guests at the entrance! Yes, this was one happy experience. Now, if you are planning to go before sunset, be ready to witness one of the most glorious sunsets of your life.
Natural View Restaurant
Address: 32, Lal Ghat, Chandpole, Udaipur Time: 7:30 AM to 11 PM The cost for 2: Rs. 1000 approximately What to eat: sizzlers, steaks, pizzas, traditional Rajasthani meat, and more.
How To Reach?
The best option is to take direct flights from Delhi. It takes just 50 minutes to reach Udaipur. Book in advance to get great deals. Also, if you like long road trips, it will take you about 7-8 hours to reach the city of lakes.
