One of India’s more natural tourist attractions is Udaipur’s Lake Picula. The setting is lovely, and the breeze is nice, although not quite crisp. The vast, mirror-like Lake Pichola reflects the grey-blue mountains. The lake was named after Maharana Udai Singh II, who expanded it after laying the city’s foundation by drowning the town of Picholi. The lake has shrunk to 4 kilometers in length and 3 kilometers in width, but it is still shallow and totally evaporates during severe droughts. Extending roughly 1km along the lake’s eastern side, the City Palace complex encompasses the gardens at its southern end.
History
An artificial lake that was constructed in 1362 AD and is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Udaipur, Lake Pichola captivates tourists with its captivating beauty. During Maharana Lakha’s reign, a Banjara tribesman named Pichhu Banjara constructed it to house his grain cart.
The magnificent lake was so appealing to Maharana Udai Singh that he chose to build the city of Udaipur on its banks. The lake was further enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh, who constructed a dam on its coast.
The lake’s beauty was enhanced throughout time by the development of several islands, palaces, temples, houses, and bathing ghats in its vicinity.
Constructed on Jag Island, Lake Palace stands majestically in the center of the lake and is one of the most well-known sights in the immediate vicinity. Additional islands that merit a visit are Mohan Mandir, constructed by Jagat Singh from 1628 to 1652, and Jag Mandir.
Main attractions
Lake Palace
Maharana Jagat Singh constructed Lake Palace in the 1740s, and it is now among Lake Pichola’s most popular landmarks. This palace, which is situated wonderfully on Jag Island, is also called Pichola Palace or Jag Nivas.
Originally built as a summer getaway for the Maharanas of Udaipur city, the now-heritage Taj Group hotel Lake Palace has more than 80 rooms. The four-acre castle seems to float on the sea as it encapsulates the whole of Jag Island.
The palace on the lake is just as spectacular on the inside as it is on the outside. The palace’s stunning architecture, complete with gardens, fountains, and stained glass themes, is guaranteed to captivate everyone who visits.
Mohan Mandir
Between 1628 and 1652, Maharana Jagat Singh constructed Mohan Mandir on an island that was relatively smaller. Mohan Mandir, situated on the northeastern shore of Lake Pichola, was the vantage point from which the King would see the Gangaur celebration.
Jag Mandir
On the same island, Jag Mandir is another stunning building that attracts a large number of people. Udaipur city visitors were entertained in Jag Mandir, which doubled as a summer retreat and castle.
Beginning in the early 1600s, Maharana Amar Singh’s son, Maharana Karan Singh, continued his father’s work on Jag Mandir. As a tribute to Maharana Jagat Singh, who oversaw its completion, it is known as Jagat Mandir.
Shah Jahan, whose real name was Prince Khurram of Mughal fame, revolted against Jahangir in 1623 and sought asylum with Maharana Karan Singh II of Mewar. In the Gul Mahal of the half-finished Jag Mandir, Maharana Karan Singh kept him. Shah Jahan was enchanted with the palace and went on to build the magnificent Taj Mahal.
City Palace
Historic City Palace, situated on the eastern shores of Lake Pichola, was painstakingly constructed over many decades, beginning in 1559, by 22 successive generations of Sisodia Rajputs. Udai Singh II and the generations that followed him enriched the royal complex with magnificent new buildings.
The City Palace is even more majestic because of its closeness to the lake. From the palace, you can see the lake at night, and it becomes even more magical when the lights reflect on the water.
Arsi Vilas
Arsi Vilas was once an armory and is the fourth island in Lake Pichola. Once a sunset-viewing palace for one of the Udaipur Maharanas, the structure is now a bird sanctuary.
Swaroop Sagar Bridge
The stunning decorative Swaroop Sagar bridge, erected by the eponymous ruler of Udaipur, connects Lake Pichola to a smaller lake named Swaroop Sagar. Another famous landmark near Lake Pichola, Bagore ki Haveli, is not far away.
Chabutaras
Along the shores of Lake Pichola, you may also observe elevated platforms that serve many uses, most often in a courtyard setting. There is a fascinating folklore about one such platform, Natini Chabutara.
Gangaur Ghat
The major ghat on the shore of Lake Pichola is Gangaur Ghat, which is also called Gangori Ghat. Tourists and locals alike go to the ghat, which is close to the Jagdish Chowk region, in large numbers for celebrations like the Gangaur Festival and the Jal Jhulni Festival.
Things to do
Take a boat cruise and see some stunning islands.
Taking a boat out on Lake Pichola is a beautiful way to see the lake. The City Palace and Jag Mandir, which stand out like gems on the lake, are only two of the many architectural marvels that can be seen from the boat journey. You will have a better understanding of the past by exploring the lake’s islands.
Behold the enchanting dawns and dusks
The mesmerizing sunsets above Lake Pichola are a major draw. As the sun sets, the sky becomes a kaleidoscope of colors, shimmering with pink, orange, and gold, creating a captivating reflection on the placid waters. As the sun sets, there is nothing more romantic than taking a boat trip, taking in the breathtaking scenery, and making memories that will last a lifetime. In a similar vein, there is nothing quite like waking up to the peaceful sight of the sun rising over Lake Pichola as it dances over the lake’s surface, announcing the arrival of a new day.
Breakfasts on the lakeshore are a treat.
There is nothing quite like starting the day with a delicious breakfast while gazing out over the serene waters of Lake Pichola. Envision yourself seated at a table with a view of the lake, enjoying a lavish array of tasty treats while you stare out at the expansive waters below. Add a little more enchantment to your morning with the soothing sounds of water lapping against the banks, a light wind, and breathtaking views of the nearby palaces. A spiritual and physical rejuvenation awaits you as you savor breakfast by Lake Pichola, a sensory treat.
How to reach
By air:
The Maharana Pratap Airport is about 24 kilometers from the city center and is the closest airport to Lake Pichola Udaipur. From the airport, you may reach Lake Pichola Udaipur in around 45 minutes via bus or taxi. The airport is served by frequent flights from many major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Additionally, Singapore, Bangkok, and Dubai all provide international flight options.
By rail:
Udaipur City Railway Station is about 4 km distant from Lake Pichola Udaipur, making it the closest railway station to the lake. It takes around fifteen minutes to get from the station to Lake Pichola Udaipur by taxi or auto-rickshaw. Consistent rail service to the station is available from many major Indian cities, including Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai. Trains like the Mewar Express, Chetak Express, Ranakpur Express, and Palace on Wheels are very famous.
By road:
Udaipur Bus Stand is about 3 kilometers distant from Lake Pichola Udaipur, making it the closest bus stop to the lake. The trip to Lake Pichola Udaipur takes no more than ten minutes by cab or auto-rickshaw from the bus terminal. Regular buses depart from the bus terminal and go to and from many major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Gujarat Travels, Parshwanath Travels, and RSRTC are a few of the well-known bus companies.
Entry fee and timings
The cost to enter Lake Pichola is nothing. Daytime and afternoon boat rides on Lake Pichola cost 400 rupees for adults and 200 rupees for children. The cost of admission for the Sunset boat excursion is 700 rupees for adults and 400 rupees for youngsters.
On any given day of the week, you may visit Lake Pichola between the hours of 9:00 am and 6:00 pm. You may go boating at Lake Pichola between the hours of 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.