The ‘white’ city of Rajasthan, so called because of its marble palaces, is undoubtedly one of India’s most romantic and beautiful destinations: welcome to Udaipur and the
incomparable City Palace complex !
UDAIPUR is the city of romance. It is the wedding venue of choice for India’s rich and famous — Raveena Tandon, Priti Paul, designer Pia Sharma among others — and a city of stunning beauty. The beautiful ‘white' city is the perfect place to take your valentine.
Stretching around the aquamarine surface of Lake Pichola and surrounded by mountains, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sounds and experiences — an inspiration for the imagination of the wets, painters' and writers. Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomising valour and chivalry.
Known primarily as the City of Lakes, Udaipur has also notched the nicknames "The Venice of the East," "Fairyland," "City of Dawn" and "City of Palaces." The latter is the most revealing and the most relevant for potential visitors.
The City Palace, a magnificent palace complex built by Maharana Udai Singh II and completed at different time periods, is the largest palace complex of Rajasthan. Built in granite and marble it majestically towers over the luminous lake. The main gates to the palace are Hathi Pol, Badi Pol and Tripolia gate. The entrance through the Tripolia itself is enchanting with eight carved marble arches of Toranas under which the rulers in the past were weighed against gold and silver. There are many enclosures inside
with good views of the city or the lake. The oldest part of the palace is Rajya Aangan (Royal Courtyard, 1571), which Maharana Udai Singh built in the 16th century.
The mahals indude: the Badi Mahal (Garden Palace), which has a garden and twin water tanks; Dilkhushal Mahal (Palace of Joy), renowned for its frescoes; Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) decorated with mirrors; Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard), a visual delight in glass-laid mosaics of peacocks that decorate its walls; The Chini Chitrasala, noteworthy for its blue and white ceramics; Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace), with figures of porcelain and glass; and Zenana Mahal.
A major portion of the palace is a museum of archaeology and history. The museum has a fascinating collection of coins, portraits of former rulers of Mewar; narrative wall paintings, armoury and the turban of Khurram (Emperor Shah Jahan). All the rooms of the palace contain beautiful paintings, inlay glass-work, antique furniture and colourful enamel. There is also a Government Museum in the complex. Meanwhile, some parts of the palace are still occupied by the Royal Family and aren't accessible.
Another not-to-be-missed masterpiece is the Lake Palace, or Jagat Niwas. The white marble structure served as the summer residence for the princes of Mewar. Built in 1746 by Jagat Singh II, and set on an island, the whole Palace appears to float on the blue basin that is Lake Pichola. The airy stucco complex with dainty balconies, terrace gardens, water fountains and arched windows, reflects the brightness of the sun, sky and lake. The interiors are profusely decorated with paintings, stained glass and crystal.
A little way out of Udaipur, you'll find Monsoon Palace, also known as Sajjan Garh. Left unfinished on a hilltop, it was constructed by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the late 19th century. The palace is now owned by the government and closed to the public. The palace is illuminated at night and is worth a visit for the fantastic views. The capital of Mewar is currently at its most majestic, with the period from February till the end of March being the best time to visit this side of September. Udaipur is justly described as an oasis. It offers luxury, history, grandeur and stunning beauty in equal proportion. Find the time to visit this heritage city of India.
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