Udaipur is a city in the state of Rajasthan, India and is also called as the Venice of East and is second after Kashmir, because of its beautiful surroundings. Because of its scenic beauty, the Aravelly hills and lakes, the city attracts tourists from across the world. Udaipur was founded in the year 1559 by the Sisodia king Maharaja Udai Singh. And, the city Udaipur, thus, was named after him. 

Pichola Lake

It is one of the most famous lakes' of Udaipur. In the middle of the lake, there are two palaces; Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas Mahal. The reflection of these two can be seen in the waters of the lake. It was constructed by a gypsy in the 14 century during the reign of King Rana Lakha. The lake got its name, as it was situated near the Pichola village. Afterwards King Udai Singh reconstructed it and laid the foundation of Udaipur city. It is believed that, the King Sahanshah came and stayed in the Places made in between the lake before he became king. 

It was made by King Rajsingh between the year 1669 to 1676 for around 40 lake rupees. It is one of the biggest manmade lake in Asia. It is around 7 km. long and 3 km wide and 55ft. deep. The umbrellas and pillars made on the lake has beautiful carvings and statues, which remind us of the Jain Temple of Delawara, Mount. Abu.

In the south-east some 5 km. away from the city is this lake. It was made in 1687 by king Jaisingh. Later, it was destroyed. So it was again reconstructed by Maharaja Fathesingh, who in 1888 with the cost of 6 lake rupees made a dam on it. To honor him it was named lake Fathesagar. 

Is located on an island in the Pichola lake. Now it serves as a 5 star hotel. It is an ideal place for those people who want to enjoy themselves in total luxury. Since it was earlier, a palace of the royal family, therefore, there are some restricted areas, where tourists are not allow to walk around.

Jag Mandir

It is another palace situation in the Pichola lake. This palace was made by Maharaja Karan Singh and later, Maharaja Jagat Singh developed it further. One can see fabulous scenic beauty from the Palace. 

City Palace

Is part of the city of Udaipur. It is one of the biggest palce in the state of Rajasthan. It was constructed by and the founder, king Maharaja Udai Singh. Even though it was expanded by the decendents of King Udai singh, it has lot of similarities. Presently, half the property of the palace is residence to the present king and his royal family, while the other half is serves as a museum for the tourists. 

Shilpgram

It is a big area converted into a artistic gallery where there are model houses made from different states of India for e.g. Goa, Gujrat, Rajasthan etc. The classical music and folk dance of different states of India is also exchibited here. 

Sajjangarh Palace, also called as the Monsoon palace 

It is situated in the south of the city and at the base of the Araveli hills. It was constructed by King Sajjan Singh. During the hot season, one can enjoy the cool breeze at this palace which is situated on the top of the hill. One can see the whole of Udaipur and lakes from the top of the palace. There is also a wild life century at the base of the palace. In the evening the whole of palace is lighted which presents a very nice view. 

Moti Magri 

It is a garden which is situated near Fathesagar lake on a hill which has the statue of the famous Rajput king Maharaja Rana Pratap. The Japanese rock garden presents a beautiful scenic beauty. 

Saheliyo Ki bari

It is made to give honor to the slaves of the royal family. It has gardens, fountains, pools of marbles etc. 

Contributed by: Manisha Bhandari
City: Udaipur
Country: India
SJ818201024
Date: August 28, 2010