The Resonance Of Udaipur
It’s sheer romance to sit by Lake Pichola in Udaipur. If I say the air is charismatic, you would probably think I am being too poetic, but isn’t beauty supposed to inspire? I had a two day trip in Udaipur during the glitzy Indian festival Diwali. Although I didn’t plan on things to do or see, here’s what I did and saw –
DAY ONE
Royal maidens at Saheliyon Ki Bari
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| Saheliyon Ki Bari |
Frankly, I had no idea about Saheliyon ki bariaka courtyard of the maidens until my cabby urged me to visit it. Well, I have to admit that I visited it reluctantly, because I am usually not too keen on gardens and museums. I found the history behind it quite endearing though. As the name suggests, it’s a garden of the royal maidens. It was built by a king for his queen, so that she could chill out with her girl friends and stay away from the political world.
Watch the day go by at Fateh Sagar Lake
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| Fateh Sagar Lake |
I was instantly wooed by the serene blue water of Fateh Sagar Lake. The Aravallis offer a perfect backdrop. I would recommend spending some time at the lake. Of course, if you would like to go touristy, there are camel rides too, which will give a good overview of the surroundings. On the other hand, if you want to be lazy and just find a corner to relax and enjoy the scenic views around, that is even better.
Landscape views from the Monsoon Palace
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| The Aravallis |
Every photographer looks for a spot to catch a bird’s eye view of the city. Monsoon Palace aka Sajjangarh Palace offers just that. It gives you vast landscape views of the Aravallis, Fateh Sagar Lake and the Udaipur city. Thus, it’s a must visit place for every photo enthusiast. But, be careful and do not entertain a guide who may follow you to give insights about the palace in exchange for a fee
Sunset at Lake Pichola
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| Sunset at Lake Pichola |
You can’t miss the poignant sunset at Lake Pichola. I would say it’s the ‘high moment’ of being in Udaipur. The Lake Palace settled in the middle of the lake is an exceedingly picturesque sight. The atmosphere at Lake Pichola is beyond any money you would ever spend anywhere – it is priceless. It is something that you just embrace, hold and savour without an effort.
A walk at the City Palace Museum
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| City Palace lit during Diwali |
Well, I didn’t check out the museum. I just sauntered my way through the premises of the palace. It’s a huge palace with heightened security. They don’t let you go beyond a certain point. There is a particular area for tourists to hang out, which has restaurants and shops. I am more into observing and marvelling at things. So I simply enjoyed soaking in the revelry around me.
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| Shops at the City Palace |
DAY TWO
Village of Nagda and the temples
Nagda was a surprise! I had no idea where my cabby was taking me. I mean, I intended to visit a couple of old temples, but ended up seeing such a beautiful village.
Read about it here Nagda – A Rural Gem
Drive back in time at the Vintage Car Museum
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| Vintage Car Collection |
Although the Vintage Car Museum is a bit overpriced affair, it’s a must visit site for car lovers. There is a collection of classy automobiles of the old era, which were owned by the maharajas of Mewar. While I am not someone who would gasp at a Mercedes or a limousine, I enjoyed the vintage feel.
Narrow alleys of Udaipur
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| Handicraft shops in the alleys |
Ambling through the alleyways of Udaipur is something that you can do for free and reward yourself with some charming photographs in the bargain. I walked my way to several places from my hotel – Udai Kothi (where I had lunch), City Palace, Lake Pichola and the local market.
The Best Place To Stay In Udaipur – Amet Haveli
Ferry ride around the Lake Palace
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| Ferry around the Lake Palace |
Taking a ferry ride around the Lake Palace was my last ‘thing-to-do’ and I must say that it was a perfect way to sum up my two-day trip in Udaipur. Since I had opted for a cheaper ferry, it circled around the palace from quite a distance. So I’d recommend you to opt for the higher-priced one that will give you a closer view of the palace.
Udaipur is a city that has got lots to offer. I’m longing to visit it again soon …
Have you been to Udaipur? What was your impression about it?
