Royal era continues at Udaipur

Udaipur, the capital of the former princely state of Mewar is lovingly named as the “Venice of the East”. Named as the best romantic destination of the country, Udaipur is a land around the azure water lakes. The lakes, palaces and lively workspaces are what attract tourists from not only different parts of the country but also from across the globe. Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur was new capital of the Mewar kingdom. The reason of selecting the city as their capital is for the fact that is was located in the fertile, circular Girwa Valley and soon became a flourishing trade town.

Of the tour that one can plan for the travel of Udaipur, City Palace is the major attraction. It is basically the conglomeration of several buildings and towers. It is also called as the Palace Complex. Of the royal Mewar family, City Palace attracts tourists in large number from all across the country. The architecture is awestruckingly exquisite. Of the major attractions, the crystal gallery, the vintage car museum, Daawat-i-Aam, Daawat-i-Khas, and Maharani Palace should not be missed.

On Lake Pichola is the Lake Palace. It is one of the most visited places in Udaipur and is now run by the Taj group and is popularly known as Taj Lake Palace. One should definitely consider taking a heritage walk of this hotel because staying here costs a fortune. Gilt moldings, fretwork screens and sculpted marbles is what makes this palace one of the finest places to stay in the world.

A 17th century structure standing in the centre of Lake Pichola is Jag Mandir. It stands on the Jagmandir Island. It is a three-storied structure and includes sections like Gul Mahal, an elegant façade, a Garden Courtyard.

Another major attraction is Lake Fatehsagar which is situated in the north of Lake Pichola and is connected to it through a canal. It is known for its boat ride. There are three islands in the lake of which Nehru Park is the most famous.

Bhartiya Lok Kala Museumis a folk-art museum in Udaipur that is situated in the Chetak Circle. It displays a collection of Rajasthani culture and gives an insight into the lifestyle of the royal era of the city. Fine collection of dresses, tribal jewellery, turbans, masks, musical instruments, paintings, dolls etc. are displayed for the tourists.

One of the most attractive places to see in Udaipur is Bagore ki Haveli.

Festivals markan important part of Rajasthan and Udaipur is no different. Cradled in the Aravali Ranges, The Kumbhalgarh fort holds vibrant and colourful Kumbhalgarh Festival which is used to promote the culture and heritage of Rajasthan.  traditional artistes and competitions like turban tying along with art, music and dance makes the  Kumbhalgarh Festival one of the most colourful events of the country. The Mewar festival is celebrated to mark the arrival of spring and visiting during this time could be a glorious experience. Udaipur transcend from being just a lofty royal fortified place to one of the most colourful places to visit in India.