The city was founded in 1567 AD by Maharana Udai Singh on the advice of a sage. Udaipur was last of the numerous Mewar capitals. It was in Udaipur that legendary Maharana Pratap was born. He was obsessed with Chittaur and the past glories of the Sisodia clan possessed his mind. Maharana Pratap left Udaipur to win back Chittaur from the Mughals. But he failed in his attempts and Udaipur remained the capital of Mewar till India got her independence.The memory of the failure of noble Pratap gives Udaipur its pervading mood of nostalgic wistfulness.

The city acquires its scenic beauty from the Aravallis. Three lakes- Pichola, Fateh Sagar and Udai Sagar make it an oasis in the desert.

In the harsh terrain of the hills and ravines of Aravallis, flourishes the city of lakes, Udaipur. One of the most romantic places in India, Udaipur is situated around the shimmering clear blue water lakes, which whisper the mood of a bygone era.

Tourist Attractions in Udaipur

City Palace
A majestic architectural marvel towering over the lake on a hill surrounded by crenelated walls, it is a conglomeration of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. The main entrance is through the triple arched gate, the ‘Tripolia’ with eight marble porticos. The Maharana were weighed under the gate in the gold, the equivalent amount of which was distributed among the populace.

Lake Palace
The taxi driver took me through scores of windy, hilly streets till I reached the fantastic Lake Palace. It's a beautiful white structure seemingly floating in the middle of the lake. Now converted into a luxury hotel, it was the former summer residence of the royal family. All the luxuries of the palace have been utilized to make it one of the best hotels in the world.

Sahelion Ki Bari
On the shores of Fateh Sagar Lake was built a garden for the 48 young girls waiting to be sent to the royal house as part of dowry. This garden is laid with extensive lawns, fountains and shady walking lanes. There are four pools with dainty kiosks and fountains with elephant trunks for spouts. These gardens appear discrete and impeccable in taste.

Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal
This is a museum of folk arts, which has rich collection of folk dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments and paintings. World famous puppeteers put shows here, on request in advance.

Pratap Memorial
Erected atop Modi Magri is this equestrian bronze statue of the valiant hero, Maharana Pratap. Sajjan Garh, Gulab Bagh, Dudh Talai Park, the Sunset point are also the places to be seen.

Gulab Bagh
A spectacular rose garden laid out by Maharana Sajjan Singh. A library in the garden has a rare collection of ancient handwritten manuscripts and books.

Jagdish Temple
Dedicated to Vishnu, this temple was built in 1651 AD by Maharana Jagat Singh.

Shopping in Udaipur
Shopping can be a pleasure at the Hathipole, Chetak Circle, Clock Tower, Palace Road and Bapu Bazaar. Rajasthan Government also has its own Handicraft emporium. The shops of Udaipur have plenty of exquisite items to offer. The dainty folk toys, brightly coloured garments, hand printed textiles, batiks, and tie & dye sarees and fabrics to name few. 'Pichwais' or wall hangings painted on cloth are world renowned for their vivid colours and themes. The craftsmanship is at its peak in the metal images and chunky silver jewellery.