The erstwhile city of Udaipur is a place that has its charm for the traveller who loves to read books or enjoys being outdoors. This city is well known for palaces, temples and forts, but the best way to get to know the city and explore its culture is to head out on a tour of northern India.
Here are some of the Top 8 Historical Destinations in Udaipur:
1. City Palace
City Palace is located on the southern banks of Lake Pichola. It is well worth admiring because of its natural beauty, which provides a stunning view of the environment.
The City Palace is closely related to the kingdom of Mewar. The palace was initially built in 568 AD by Guhil, the first Maharana of Mewar. It was moved to Chittor in the 8th century under Sisodias.
Entry Fee: INR 300 for adults, INR 100 for children, additional charges for camera and video.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Activities: Explore the various sections of the palace, including the Mor Chowk, Sheesh Mahal, and Zenana Mahal. Visit the City Palace Museum to see a collection of royal artifacts, paintings, and weapons.
Tips:
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the palace and museum.
- Hire a guide or use an audio guide to learn about the history and significance of the palace.
- The palace can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so visit early in the morning for a quieter experience.
2. Jag Mandir
Jag Mandir was built over a time span of three Maharanas of the Sisodia Rajputs of the Mewar kingdom. The building of Jag Mandir was constructed in 1551.
It was built by Maharana Amar Singh and by his son Maharana Karan Singh. It was built from 1620 to 1628. But it was completed by Maharana Jagat Singh from 1628 to 1652, and therefore named Jagat Mandir.
Entry Fee: No entry fee, but boat ride charges apply (INR 400-800 depending on the type of boat).
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Activities: Take a boat ride to the island and explore the palace, including the Gul Mahal, the garden courtyard, and the marble sculptures. Enjoy the serene environment and picturesque views.
Tips:
- The best time to visit Jag Mandir is in the late afternoon, allowing you to enjoy the sunset over Lake Pichola.
- Combine your visit with a boat ride around the lake to see other landmarks like the City Palace and Lake Palace.
- There is a restaurant on the island where you can enjoy a meal or refreshments with a view.
3. Jagdish Temple
Jagdish temple is the most prominent temple of Lord Vishnu. It’s among the best historical temple to see at Udaipur. Jagdish temple was earlier known as the temple of Jagannath Rai. The temple is now a substantial monument in the last couple of decades because of its distinctive location, attractiveness, and history connected with that.
Jagdish temple is among the very best architectural marvels of the Mewar dynasty. The temple is constructed keeping the principles of Vastushastra, the Hindu architecture, in mind. Read Also: Top 10 Historical Places to Visit in Rajasthan.
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 4:15 AM to 1:00 PM, 5:15 PM to 8:00 PM
Activities: Visit the temple to admire the intricate carvings and architecture. Participate in the daily aarti (prayer ceremony) to experience the spiritual ambiance.
Tips:
- The temple is best visited early in the morning when it is less crowded and the atmosphere is peaceful.
- Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful of worshippers and the sanctity of the temple.
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4. Saheliyon Ki Bari
Saheliyon Ki Bari was built for 48 maidens. This garden is situated on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. It was constructed from 1710 to 1734 by Maharana Sangram Singh. According to legend, the garden was constructed by the king himself. This garden offers them pleasurable minutes from the political intrigues of the court. This garden was the favourite relaxing place of the queen.
The queen with her maids and feminine partners comes here to spend their leisure time. It is located in the northern region of the town and contains fountains and kiosks. It also has a lotus pool, including marble elephants. There’s also a small museum which has an incredible amount of historical objects of Indian background. Read Also: Best Places to See in Udaipur with Family
Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children
Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Activities: Stroll through the garden, admire the fountains and sculptures, and relax in the serene environment. The garden is also a great spot for photography.
Tips:
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- The garden is relatively small, so 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore.
- There are several benches and shaded areas where you can sit and enjoy the tranquility of the garden.
5. Bagore ki Haveli
It is located on the shore of Lake Pichola in Gangori Ghat. The palace has more than a hundred rooms. It has many historical costumes and contemporary artwork.
The mirror and glass at the insides are Haveli work. The beautiful peacocks made from tiny pieces of coloured eyeglasses are examples of glasswork. Also, read 5 Famous Cities To Visit In Rajasthan for Royal Experiences.
Entry Fee: INR 60 for adults, INR 30 for children, additional charges for camera and video.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Activities: Explore the numerous rooms of the haveli, including the museum exhibits, royal quarters, and the puppet gallery. Attend the evening cultural performance, which includes traditional Rajasthani dance and music.
Tips:
- The evening cultural show is highly recommended, but tickets can sell out, so arrive early to secure a spot.
- The haveli offers excellent views of Lake Pichola, so bring your camera for some great shots.
- Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the haveli and attending the cultural show.
Read also: Experience Udaipur: Top Places to Visit in August
6. Vintage Car Museum
The luxurious royal households of Udaipur are well worth visiting. As a non-royalty, each other person wishes to glimpse into the lifestyle of royalty. With its history and beauty, Udaipur is the storehouse of many things of historical importance. Among many, the most exciting areas to see are the Vintage and Classic Car Museum.
The museum showcases several royal classic cars that make it a heritage site, apart from the artwork, historians and royalty explorers. It is the ideal holiday location for both children and older people. Also, read Top Hotels in Udaipur for Destination Wedding
Entry Fee: INR 250 per person
Timings: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Activities: Explore the collection of vintage cars, including Rolls Royces, Cadillacs, and other luxury vehicles. Learn about the history and significance of these cars and their use by the Maharajas.
Tips:
- Allocate 1-2 hours to explore the museum and see the cars up close.
- The museum is located close to the City Palace, making it convenient to combine both visits.
- Photography is allowed, so bring your camera to capture the unique collection.
7. Ahar Museum
This museum contains over 250 cenotaphs of the Maharanas of Mewar. It was built over about 350 decades. The group of cenotaphs is also known as Mahasati.
It is now used to preserve the excavated things/objects of the ancient period. You can see here the earthen pots, artefacts and many other things. Read Also: 7 Famous Hill Stations In Rajasthan For A Family Weekend Vacation.
Entry Fee: INR 3 per person
Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on Fridays)
Activities: Visit the museum to learn about the history and culture of the Mewar region. Explore the nearby Ahar Cenotaphs, where over 250 cenotaphs of the royal family are located.
Tips:
- The museum is less crowded, making it a great spot for those interested in history and archaeology.
- Combine your visit with a walk through the Ahar Cenotaphs to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
- The museum is small, so 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore both the museum and the cenotaphs.
8. Sajjangarh Fort
It’s called Sajjangarh because of Maharana Sajjan Singh. He is from the Mewar dynasty. It was constructed in 1884. The palace provides a scenic view of the town’s lakes, palaces and surrounding area. It had been mainly constructed to see the monsoon clouds; therefore, it’s also called Monsoon Palace.
Maharana Sajjan Singh constructed it at the peak of the mountain to get a view of the Chittorgarh. It is now under the Forest Department of the Government of Rajasthan and has lately been opened to the general public. The palace gives a gorgeous view of the sunset. Read Also: Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Rajasthan.
Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 80 for foreigners, INR 65 for vehicles.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Activities: Visit the fort to enjoy the breathtaking views, especially during sunset. Explore the palace interiors and learn about its history as a monsoon retreat for the royal family.
Tips:
- The best time to visit Sajjangarh Fort is in the late afternoon, allowing you to enjoy the sunset.
- The fort is located on a hill, so consider hiring a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the top.
- The palace is part of the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, so you can combine your visit with a wildlife safari if time permits.
Conclusion
The above is the best and most popular historical place in Udaipur. The best way to experience all the fun and excitement is to make sure that you travel to Udaipur during the season of summer. This is the time when the city becomes very conducive to roaming around.
During summers, the entire city is blanketed with lush greenery making it the perfect place for sightseeing. Not only are there some scenic vistas to be seen, but the entire city also boasts some of the best temples and museums.
Check More Details on Rajasthan:
- UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan
- Rajasthan: History of the Imperial State of India
- Top Most Beautiful Lakes in Rajasthan
- Rajasthan National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries
- How to Plan a Family – Holiday Trip to Rajasthan?
- How many days are required for the Rajasthan tour?
- Offbeat Attractions and Experiences in Rajasthan
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is Udaipur known for in terms of history?
Udaipur is known for its rich history as the former capital of the Mewar Kingdom. It is famous for its magnificent palaces, forts, and temples, often referred to as the “City of Lakes.”
2. What are the must-see monuments in Udaipur?
Must-see monuments in Udaipur include the City Palace, which offers stunning views of Lake Pichola, and the intricate Jagdish Temple, known for its beautiful architecture.
3. Which historical forts are famous in Udaipur?
The famous forts in Udaipur include the City Palace complex and Sajjangarh Fort (also known as the Monsoon Palace), which provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
4. What are the top historical places to visit in Rajasthan?
Top historical places in Rajasthan include the Amber Fort in Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Jaisalmer Fort, and the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur.
5. Why is the City Palace in Udaipur so famous?
The City Palace in Udaipur is famous for its grand architecture, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles, and its stunning location overlooking Lake Pichola. It also houses several museums showcasing artifacts from the royal era.
6. Are there any museums in Udaipur that focus on history?
Yes, Udaipur has several museums, such as the City Palace Museum, which displays royal artifacts, and the Bagore Ki Haveli Museum, which exhibits traditional costumes and artworks.
7. What makes the Saheliyon Ki Bari a historical site?
Saheliyon Ki Bari is a historical garden built by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies. It is known for its beautiful fountains, marble structures, and lush greenery.
8. Can you visit the Jag Mandir in Udaipur?
Yes, Jag Mandir, located on an island in Lake Pichola, is open to visitors. It is known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings, making it a popular tourist attraction.
9. What is the significance of the Monsoon Palace in Udaipur?
The Monsoon Palace, also known as Sajjangarh Fort, was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh to watch the monsoon clouds. It offers breathtaking views of the city and is a great spot for sunset photography.
10. What are the best offbeat historical places to visit in Udaipur?
Offbeat historical places in Udaipur include the Ahar Cenotaphs, which are royal cremation grounds with beautiful chhatris (cenotaphs), and the lesser-known Eklingji Temple, an ancient Hindu temple complex located just outside the city.
11. Why is Udaipur referred to as the “City of Lakes”?
Udaipur is called the “City of Lakes” because it is home to several artificial lakes, including Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Udai Sagar Lake. These lakes enhance the city’s beauty and are surrounded by historical palaces and forts.
12. How can I explore the historical sites in Udaipur?
You can explore Udaipur’s historical sites by taking a guided tour, which often includes visits to the City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and the lakes. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or car to explore at your own pace.
13. Are there any significant historical events associated with Udaipur?
Yes, Udaipur has a rich history, including its establishment by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559. It played a crucial role in the resistance against the Mughal Empire, particularly under the leadership of Maharana Pratap.
14. What is unique about the architecture of Udaipur’s historical places?
The architecture of Udaipur’s historical places is unique for its blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European styles. The City Palace, in particular, showcases intricate marble work, expansive courtyards, and detailed carvings that reflect the grandeur of the Mewar dynasty.
