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Lake Pichola is the biggest lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan, a human-engineered marvel symbolising the glory of the “City of Lakes.” It was developed in 1362 AD to supply others with water and became a landmark of cultural and historical sites. The lake is surrounded by some of the most important monuments, comprising the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and Lake Palace, which stands on an island in the lake. Renowned for its serene environment and the breathtaking view of the surroundings at sundown, Lake Pichola offers an immersive experience of thrilling boat rides, scenic views, and cultural explorations, forming a must-see scenic view in Udaipur.
Quick Details About The Biggest Lake In Udaipur
Elevation: 600 m (1,968 feet) above the sea.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Advaraut / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Pichola is situated quite centrally in Udaipur, Rajasthan. It is right next to the City Palace and the Jagdish Temple. The southern bank is adorned with lush housing of ghats and gardens, combining a full panorama. This largest lake in Udaipur is reachable far and wide, and it is surrounded by many other cultural and historical sites.
How To Reach Biggest Lake In Udaipur
Photo: Northside / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport is the closest airport at about 24 km from Udaipur. Taxis and private cabs are available.
By Rail: Udaipur Railway Station is well-connected with the rest of the country. It is at a distance of around 4 km from the largest lake in Udaipur Lake Pichola.
By Road: Udaipur is located well-connected by road with regular bus services from Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur. They also provide taxi services for private and self-driven vehicles.
Things To Do In And Around Lake Pichola
Here listed are some of the exciting Things To Do at the biggest lake in Udaipur, Lake Pichola:
1. Boat Ride On Lake Pichola
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
The boat ride on Lake Pichola is a calm and quiet affair that lets fantastic views of renowned sites such as the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and even Lake Palace. The ride during sunset is spellbinding, wherein the golden light reflects on the water’s surface, creating an atmosphere of beauty and tranquillity.
2. Sunset View From Ambrai Ghat
Photo: Meenal2107 / Wikimedia Commons
Ambrai Ghat is the destination for those who want to enjoy unbelievably beautiful sunsets that hover above Lake Pichola. Right when the sun sinks on the edge of the lake, it sets the waters ablaze with hues of gold, forming a peaceful and picture-perfect time that tourists and photographers can appreciate.
5 Places To Visit In And Around Lake Pichola
Here is a list of some of the best places to visit in and around the biggest lake in Udaipur, Lake Pichola:
1. City Palace
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
The City Palace Udaipur is an architectural wonder located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola. This palace was started in the 16th century by Maharana Udai Singh II. The palace’s architecture is a combination of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The attractive courtyards, ornate balconies, and elegantly tiled interiors are decorated with mirror work and murals. In this Palace, some museums display royal artifacts, paintings, and weapons.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Things To Do: See the palace’s museums, Enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Pichola
2. Jag Mandir
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Jag Mandir is a beautiful island palace on Lake Pichola. This palace was built in the 17th century by Maharana Karan Singh and is known for its impressive marble structures and gardens. Huge stone elephants form the entrance while inside the courtyard, beauteous gardens and fountains adorn the grounds. This was historically a refuge for Mughal Prince Khurram, later known as Emperor Shah Jahan.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Things To Do: Take a Boat ride, Relax at the palace’s lakefront
3. Lake Palace
Photo: Navneet Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
The Lake Palace, also popularly known as Jag Niwas, is an exquisitely floating palace on Lake Pichola. Built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II as a summer retreat for the Mewar royal family, it has now been developed as a luxury hotel by the Taj group. Its white marble structure boasts of Sebastian and gardens, which are elegantly put giving it a further romantic character. Panoramic views are enjoyed from atop the palace overlooking the City Palace of Udaipur and the Aravalli Hills.
Timings: Open for hotel guests and dining visitors
Things To Do: Stay at Lake Palace, Enjoy fine dining with your family.
4. Jagdish Temple
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
The Jagdish Temple, the largest temple within the city, is located to the North of the open gate of the City Palace. Built-in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is three-storied and is embellished with multiple carvings of deities, elephants, and celestial beings. The sanctum houses an idol of Vishnu made of black stone, whereas smaller shrines to Lord Shiva, Ganesh, and the Sun God are situated within. Pilgrims and tourists gather here to witness the aarti ceremony during morning and evening hours.
Timings: 4:30 AM – 1 PM and 5 PM – 8 PM
Things To Do: Attend evening and morning aarti, Explore the temple.
5. Bagore Ki Haveli
Photo: Kshitiz Sikka / Wikimedia Commons
This 18th-century haveli is situated close to Lake Pichola’s Gangaur Ghat. Amir Chand Badwa built the haveli for the Prime Minister of the state of Mewar. Now, it has been converted into a museum that houses royal costumes, artefacts, and traditional Rajasthani art. You can walk around its courtyards, balconies, and over 100 rooms, embellished with glass and frescoes.
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Things To Do: Explore 100 rooms, attend a cultural show
Where To Stay
Photo: visualsofdana / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Staying around the lake enhances Udaipur’s experience. The Taj Lake Palace, located in the middle of the lake, offers an unmatched allure of luxury and heritage. For a unique blend of modern comfort and tradition, Oberoi Udaivilas and Leela Palace offer decadent lakeside stays. Mid-range are Trident Udaipur and Jagat Niwas Palace offering magnificent views of the lake for affordable prices. Guesthouses and boutique hotels like the Mewar Haveli cater to budget tourists.
Where To Eat
Photo: Kaapeine / Wikimedia Commons
Dining in and around Lake Pichola requires the appreciation of being in worldwide rankings. If you are looking for a lakeside ambience and authentic regional Rajasthani cuisine, Ambrai Restaurant should do the trick. The beautiful lakeside ambiance is matched with some great Indian and international culinary creations at Upre of 1559 A.D. Light snacks and beverages can be enjoyed at the Palki Khana that overlooks city palaces and the lakes. For an ideal romantic dinner, candlelight dining lakeside at Sheesh Mahal, Leela Palace, comes highly recommended. Other mentioned treasures are Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas, and Rajasthani sweets which must be tried.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here
Weather: The weather is hot in summer, then cooler months (October to March) are a better time for a trip to Lake Pichola.
Festivals: The Mewar Festival or during Diwali, one can take the opportunity to witness and participate in local festivities embracing the full charm of the lake.
Safety: Lake Pichola is oftentimes a ferry that is extremely safe for tourists, yet one doesn’t mind notifying authorised operators to indulge in it.
Local customs: Respect the local traditions and customs; removing your footwear before entering any religious site would be a must.
Lake Pichola is a jewel on the crown and the largest lake in Udaipur, ingrained with a love for history, culture, and natural magnificence. Each corner of this lake adores serenity and charm, whether boat rides, City Palace, or Jag Mandir. Lake Pichola would give you a memorable experience and exploration of leisurely and wonderful beauty which indeed has the timeless charm of Udaipur. Book the trip to Udaipur with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Sanjeeb Behera 45 / Wikimedia Commons
