Royals get the title not just by birth and legacy; they have something in them which distinguishes them, makes them stand out, or might it be put this way, glisten even amongst gold. Royals have always been known for their classy tastes. Price doesn`t matter, the choice does for them. The abode of the kings, Udaipur flaunts one of the most exquisite vintage car showrooms. Inaugurated in February 2000, the gallery showcases some of the best cars of the world. Their collection ranges from grand limousine, Cadillac, Mercedes, the magnificent Rolls Royce and many other models.
The collection is kept for public display in the original palace garage, which belongs to the House of Mewar. Even after fighting the rain and dust for such a long period of time, no one can predict their age. The maintenance has been of such high standards, that these cars are fully operational even now.
The Royal Vintage Car house is definitely a must visit tourist destination.
Handicrafts form an integral part of Rajasthan`s culture. The diverse level of craftsmanship is truly intriguing. Each and every aspect beautifully crafted- that is what creates demand for Rajasthan`s handicrafts on a global scale.
Shilpgram, located in Udaipur, is a hub of such handicraft items. Situated at the foothills of Aravalli ranges, the hub is spread over an area of around 70 acres and consists of 26 huts, which act as the trading centres of the handicraft items. No just Rajasthan, the centre displays handicraft and ethnic items of all the Indian states. The exquisite Terracota work that is found in the handicrafts of Shilpgram is spectacular and leaves anyone in utter amazement. A colourful festival is also organized in the winter season.
Shilpgram is a fabulous plae to visit if one wants to quench his or her thirst of art and crafts.
Gardens and lush green areas somewhat seem to sound like rare phenomena when it comes to Royal Rajasthan. But that is not exactly the case. Beautiful gardens and lush greenery add up to the beauty of this magnificent land. To quote a burning example of the same, we have this spectacular destination that definitely acts a perfect paradigm of the above statement.
Saheliyon-Ki-Bari is a major garden and tourist destination of Udaipur, built in honor of the forty eight maids who accompanied the queen, wife of Maharana Bhopal Singh, at the time of her marriage. The garden was built with a view to provide quality leisure time to the maidens and provide them with solace and peace that would end their monotony to a certain extent, by letting them be aloof from the political intrigues. The Garden is said to be designed by the king himself, who presented it as a gift to the queen. The gardens treasure beautiful lotuses in small ponds, elephant shaped fountains, marble pavilions and many more. After being quite impressed with his design, the king installed a number of fountains to create an artificial rain effect.
The Garden of Maids is definitely a destination worth visiting.
The enchantment of Udaipur is enhanced by the Pichola Lake, named after Picholi village. This man-made creation of fresh water was built in 1362AD by the gypsy community, for various conveniences of transportation and water requirements, alongside aesthetic pleasure. Against the hilly backdrop, the lake allured settlements of human habitation and it was further allowed to flow without a break, in and around, making the city a Venice. Udaipur city gradually built up during the reign of Maharana Udai Singh, who also took efforts of constructing a dam in the Badipol region. There are four islands on the lake- Jag Niwas, which holds the Lake Palace(a heritage hotel at present); Jag Mandir; Mohan Mandir; and Arsi Vilas, popular for bird viewing.
Over the years certain changes in the water quality has inevitably cropped up, but adequate measures have been taken to restore the same, because Pichola Lake is a significant place to visit; a place whose beauty calls tourist flux. The “Indianness” is stored by the Ghats on the banks of the lake, the artistic splendour by the Palaces, and the transcendental appreciation of nature by the views from the lake and of the lake.
The land of Rajasthan is not just known for its diverse culture and rich traditions, but also because of it gargantuan stature. The largest state in India in terms of area, housing mighty forts, palaces. But the count doesn`t just end here. Rajasthan proudly flaunts the second largest artificial lake in the world, and the largest artificial lake in Asia- the Dhebar Lake, or popularly known as the Jaisamand lake. Located in Udaipur district, the lake was built in the 17th century by Maharaja Jai Singh.
The Lake covers a huge area of 93 km2, and is in close proximity to the Jaisamand wildlife sanctuary. It`s not just the magnificent stature of the lake that instills awe in the visitors, it`s the 300 metres long Dhebar Lake Dam, built of white marble. Wondrous to behold and spectacular in sight, the dam ameliorates the enticing beauty of the lake. Apart from the dam, the summer palaces of the kings and queens surround the lake on all sides and a panoramic view of the lake is just jaw dropping. The lake houses in its vicinity, three islands-which are inhabited by the Bhil tribes. One can enjoy the sight of various species of migratory birds, who flock the lake. There are a number of resorts nearby as well so as to provide the best ambience to every soul to drench oneself in the sanctifying solace of the Jaisamand Lake and its surroundings.
Fateh Sagar Lake is an artificial freshwater lake in Udaipur, named after Maharana Fateh Sagar, who, in 1888, reconstructed it, building upon the intiative of Maharana Jai Singh, who is credited to its construction. There are three small islands herein. They occupy park, zoo, restaurant, water-jet fountain, and offer a picturesque view of the entire blue coloured lake slowly meandering in the north-west of the city. The Pichola Lake, the Madar Lake, and the Badi Lake, make its way and joins in the Fateh Sagar Lake.
Hariyali Amavasya Mela, held in the month of August or September, is a fair, which calls tourist flux. Udaipur, is thereby beautified by the lakes and stands out as a place worth seeing.
The glistening grandeur of Regal Rajasthan sparkles like a shining diamond in the world platform. Culture, tradition and vivacity- Rajasthan knows no bounds. Not just figuratively, literally also, the sparkle of Rajasthan is unparalleled. And thus follows the reason- Crystal gallery treasures the largest private collection of crystals in the world. The sparkling crystals are indicative of the lustrous and vibrant lifestyle of the then kings of Rajasthan. The gallery is a part of Fateh Prakash Palace, and invites visitors from all over the world. The gallery was established by Maharaja Sajjan Singh and opened for public in the year 1994. It consists of dressing tables, dining tables, bed and many such other items encrusted with crystals.
The royal place of Udaipur is not just fabled for its spectacular and magnificent palaces, but it also treasures some of the most beautiful and exquisite temples of India. Built in the royal city of Udaipur, the Eklingji Temple is a dedication to Lord Shiva, the name of the temple depicting a form of Lord Shiva. The construction of the temple began in the year 971 A.D by the Sisodia dynasty of Mewar. The temple instills awe in its visitors by virtue of its spectacular architectural marvel. The temple complex consists of hundred and eight temples, so beautifully sculpted that it is sure to mesmerize anyone visiting this place of solace and divinity.
The main temple was constructed somewhere in the 15th century, which was renovated from the dilapidated remains of an earlier existing temple. Marble and granite work finds ample usage in the construction of the temple, along with the application of double storied mandaps, and a pyramidal covering at the top. The temple houses a four faced image of Lord Shiva in black marble. The temple is located 23kms from Udaipur and is well connected by means of transportation available in that region.
The Eklingji temple is definitely a must add destination to your travel plan.
Udaipur- the abode treasuring the magnificence and grandeur of Rajasthan’s regality, is known all the world over for its spectacular and mind boggling palaces. But that is not the only attraction that you should look out for when you visit this land of royalty. Situated at the heart of this magnificent city is the Jagdish temple. A popular tourist destination, the temple was once known as Jagannath Rai, but later named Jagdish Ji. It finds its place in the list of the most vivacious and ancient monuments of Udaipur as well as Rajasthan.
The use of a double storied hall along with a double storied Sandhara sanctum adds unique features to its architecture. Lanes from the city wall converge radially into the temple. The temple presents a paradigm of Maru-Gurjara Architecture.
The essence that the temple treasures is too ethereal to be enjoyed vicariously. Only a visit to this sanctum of solace can unveil the true essence encapsulated within.
Fateh Palace, situated on the eastern shores of the famous Pichola Lake, is named after Maharana Fateh Prakash(1884-1935).
Overlooking the meandering ripples and the scenic beauty, this palace have been made into a grand heritage, allowing the stay of tourists and giving them an opportunity to witness the cultural glory of Rajasthan and its royal ambience, pertaining to the Mewar dynasty. The palace features turrets, exquisite architecture, paintings, domes, chandeliers and much more. The suites are praiseworthy. It offers recreation facilities like ayurvedic massage, beauty parlor, musical events, boating, billiard room, travel and tour guidance, and a beautiful library for readers.
What about a spectacular afternoon tea with the stretch of a panoramic view in front of you during sunset? This is the right place to go! Udaipur and Fateh Prakash Palace envelopes you with richness, a richness of hospitality and Indian magnificence.
