Monsoon Palace - It Was Built Basically To Watch The Monsoon Clouds

MONSOON PALACE

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UDAIPUR

The Monsoon Palace, formerly known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, is a hilltop palatial residence in the Udaipur city. It is named as Sajjangarh after Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874–1884) of the Mewar Dynasty, who built Sajjangarh Fort in 1884. It offers a panoramic view of the city's lakes, palaces and surrounding countryside. It was built basically to watch the monsoon clouds; hence, appropriately, it is popularly known as Monsoon Palace. The Monsoon Palace provides a beautiful view of the sunset. High in the Aravalli Hills, just outside Udaipur, the Palace is illuminated in the evenings, giving a glow of golden orange. 

Sajjangarh is a hilltop palatial residence in the city of Udaipur, which is often referred to as the 'Monsoon Palace'. It derives its name from Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874–1884) of the Mewar Dynasty, who was responsible for its construction. Built in 1884, the palace is located in the Aravalli Hills, just outside Udaipur. The aim behind the construction of the palace was to watch the monsoon clouds.

Appropriately known as the Monsoon Palace, it is believed that the Maharana built it at the top of the hill to get a view of his ancestral home of Chittorgarh. Reflecting the history of the Mewar Kingdom, the palace is located on Bansdara Peak of the Aravalli range, at an elevation of 944 metres. Built with white marble, the palace overlooks the Pichola Lake and provides beautiful views of the palaces and surrounding countryside.

The nine storey complex aimed to serve as an astronomical centre. From the palace, the Maharana planned to keep a track of the movement of monsoon clouds in the area surrounding the palace, and also to provide employment to people.

In addition to these, the palatial complex was also supposed to serve as a resort for the royal family. Owing to his untimely death, the construction of the palace was completed by his successor Maharana Fateh Singh, who used it to watch the monsoon clouds.

For the Royal Family, the palace also served as a hunting lodge. Built on marble pillars, the palace has high turrets and guards regulating each of the towers, along with a central court, a staircase and many rooms and quarters.

The pillars that support the palace have been carved with exquisite motifs of leaves and flowers. In the precincts of the palace, a unique water harvesting structure exists to collect rainwater in an underground cistern. Lime mortar has been used to plaster the walls of the palace.  

By Air

The nearest airport in Udaipur is called the Maharana Pratap Airport which is situated about 20 kilometres away from the city center. It is well-connected by air to all major cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Jaipur. Some of the popular airlines that have daily flights to and from Udaipur are Jet Airways, Indian Airlines, Air Deccan, and Kingfisher Airlines. 

Once you reach at the airport, you can hire cabs or book pre-paid taxis that are easily available for travelling between the airport and the city.

By Train

Udaipur lies on a vast network of rail that connects it to major cities in India such as Jaipur, Delhi, Kolkata, Indore, Mumbai and Kota. Some of the popular trains that run daily are Mewar Express, Gwalior-Udaipur Express, Bandra-Udaipur SF Express, Chetak Express and Annanya Expres. In fact, the famous and luxurious Palace of Wheels also makes a scheduled stop in Udaipur.

Once you reach the station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw depending on where do you want to get down in the city. The fare will depend on the number of kilometers covered.

By Bus

There is a very well-established bus service network to Udaipur, linking it to several cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Indore, Kota and Ahmedabad, among others. There are a number of options when it comes to travelling by bus. These include deluxe buses, air-conditioned coaches and State-run transport.

Udaipur City Palace – It Is Largest Attractive Palace And Built Only In Sandstone And Granite

CITY PALACE

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UDAIPUR

Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan state of India and located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur and often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Initially, Maharana Udai Singh built this superb wonder, but the present form of the Palace is the result of subsequent additions by his successors.

City Palace boasts of the wonderful blend of Medieval, European and Chinese Architecture. The Palace has various towers, domes and arches, which add to the flavor of heritage site. Towering on the banks of Pichola Lake, City Palace is truly a feast to the eyes. City Palace is a marvelous assortment of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. Encircled by fortifications, this imposing Palace is wholly built in granite and marble.

City Palace has several gates that are known as "Pols". 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate) is the main gate to the City Palace complex that will take you to the first courtyard. On passing 'Bara Pol', you will come across a triple arched gate, which is known as 'Tripolia'. Between these two gates, you would see eight marble arches or Toranas, where Kings used to weigh themselves with gold and silver. Besides Tripolia, there is an arena where elephant fights were staged. Across 'Tripolia', you would enter the 'Elephant Gate' or the 'Hathi Pol'.

City Palace comprises 11 wonderful palaces, which were built by different rulers still they resemble each other. With the sheer glimpse of unique paintings, antique furniture and exquisite glass mirror & ornamental tiles work of these palaces, you will get amazed. Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace) has figures of crystal and porcelain. However, Bhim Vilas flaunts a fabulous collection of miniature paintings depicting the real life stories of Radha-Krishna.

The 'Krishna Vilas' is known for the noteworthy album of miniature paintings portraying royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) is celebrated for its lavish decor while Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors) is known for its breathtaking mirror work. 'Chini Chitrashala' is renowned for its Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles. 'Dilkusha Mahal' (Palace of Joy) is known for the murals and wall paintings.

Bada Mahal is the exotic garden palace that stands erect on a 90 feet high natural rock formation. Rang Bhawan is the palace that used to contain royal treasure. There are temples of Lord Krishna, Meera Bai and Shiva, located right to the 'Rang Bhawan'. 'Mor Chowk' has exceptional glass mosaics of peacocks, set in the walls presenting the three seasons of summer, winter and monsoon. 'Laxmi Vilas Chowk' is an art gallery with a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings.

Situated in the premises of City Place complex, Jagdish Temple is the biggest and most beautiful temple of Udaipur. This temple Appeals to the aesthetic sense of the people and we will further discuss it in our other section. You can also trace a Shrine of Dhuni Mata in the complex of City Palace. This part is considered as the oldest part of the Palace where a sage passed his life meditating here.

In 1974, a part of the City Palace and the 'Zenana Mahal' (Ladies Chamber) have been transformed into a museum. The museum is open for public and we have discussed it in our other section about museums. One can locate some striking paintings in the 'Zenana Mahal' which further leads to Lakshmi Chowk. 'Lakshmi Chowk' is a beautiful white pavilion. In City palace, the most captivating sight can be viewed from the towers and terraces of 'Amar Vilas' from where you can get a breathtaking view of Lake Pichola.

'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of this Palace and has wonderful hanging gardens with fountains, towers and terraces. City Palace is structured in a way that it offers a splendid view of the lake from all its Balconies, cupolas and towers. Unlike the craggy exterior, City Palace has amazing interiors with delicate mirror-work, marble work, murals, wall paintings, silver work, inlay work and surplus of colored glass. The exquisite work of City Palace cannot be bounded in words, so one must visit this palace to capture the real picture of it.

By Air

Udaipur Airport namely Maharana Pratap Airport is located near Dabok at a distance of 22 kms from the city of Udaipur. Many domestic airlines connect the city to all the major cities of India including Jaipur, Mumbai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. Regular air services are available for Delhi and Mumbai.

By Rail

Udaipur Railway Station is located at a comfortable distance from the city of Udaipur. Rajasthan Railways connects Udaipur station with all the other cities of Rajasthan as well as India. There are frequent trains which run to and from Udaipur connecting Jaipur, Mumbai and Delhi. One can also travel to this beautiful city by the luxurious Palace on Wheels.

By Road

Udaipur is well connected by road to major cities in India. Brilliant road network ensure people to enjoy a relaxed journey to and from Udaipur. This mode of commuting is quite easy and economical. Udaipur Bus Stand has regular bus services, connecting Udaipur with nearby cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Chittorgarh, Indore, Kota, Ajmer, Ahmedabad and Mt. Abu. Rajasthan Roadways provides the facility of Deluxe Buses and AC coaches for the convenience of passengers. One can also hire taxis and cars to reach Udaipur by road.

Jag Mandir – Visitors Are Welcomed By Eight Royal Elephants

JAG MANDIR PALACE

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UDAIPUR

Jag Mandir is situated on an island in the Picalo Lake of Udaipur city in the Rajasthan state of India.It was constructed by Maharana Karan Singh as a hideout for Prince Khurram the estranged son of Emperor Jehangir the implacable foe of the Maharana. The reason for the aid was that the prince was the son of a Rajput mother.

It is also said that Shah Jahan [prince Khurram] derived some of these ideas for the Taj Mahal from this palace when he stayed there in 1623-24. The island has some striking carving including a row of elephants that looks as though they are guarding the island. The exquisitely carved chhatri in grey and blue stone is another example. 

Jag Mandir is built on an island and a charming little boat ride is required in order to reach this magnificent palace, also known as Lake Garden Palace. Visitors are greeted by eight majestic elephants, carved in stone, adorning the entrance.

Once you walk onto the grounds of the Jag Mandir, the lush garden is a sight for sore eyes; Fountains and tiny water pools, rich flower beds and a large patch of greenery welcome visitors to the royal grounds. These grounds are also used for concerts and shows. Remember to check with the hotel whether something is on for when you plan to visit.

Maharana Jagat Singh who made a number of additions to it later renovated the place. Within the palace was the temple dedicated to the Lord Jagdish and hence the name is derived from that. There is a museum detailing the history of the island as well and the neat courtyards.

For those wanting to enjoy a blissful romantic evening out, take to Jag Mandir in the evening. The Darikhana restaurant at Jag Mandir plays host to a splendid evening of romance. Dining here is on the exclusive side, and a minimum spend is required. For those only in the mood for some drinks, there is a bar, which also caters to the shisha crowd.  Jag Mandir truly is majestic, and for all you Bollywood fans; Darikhana was the very place where renowned Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon got married.

By Air

Indian Airlines daily connects Udaipur with Jodhpur, Jaipur, Aurangabad, Mumbai and Delhi, Maharana Pratap Airport, 28 kms.

By Train

The Railway Station is about 2 Km. from the city centre. Udaipur is directly connected by rail with Delhi, Jaipur, Ajmer, Chittaur, Jodhpur and Ahmedabad. 

By Bus

Udaipur is connected by National Highway No. 8, the major road link between Mumbai and Delhi. The Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh Road Transport Corporation operate buses to Udaipur from various regions. Private bus companies also operate in the region during night hours. The State Transport Bus Stand is on City Station Road, NH 8, Udaipur.

pichola lake – A boat ride on the Lake Pichola is a must while on a visit in dusk to Udaipur

PICHOLA LAKE

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UDAIPUR

Pichola Lake is one of the most gorgeous and pleasing lakes of Rajasthan, India. Located in the heart of the city, In 1362, the beautiful lake was built by Pichhu Banjara during the ruling period of Maharana Lakha. Talking about the dimensions of Pichhola Lake, it is extended to 3 miles in length, 2 miles in width and has depth of 30 feet. 

Surrounded by hills, gardens, temples and havelis, Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful lakes in India and a much sought-after tourist attraction in Udaipur. The famous Lake Palace hotel is situated in the middle of Lake Pichola and is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city. A boat ride on the Lake Pichola is a must while on a visit to Udaipur. Tourists can enjoy scenic views of the majestic City Palace complex and beautiful havelis that line the lake side.

Lake Pichola reflects the cool grey-blue mountains on its rippling mirror-like surface. The lake is now 4km long and 3km wide, but remains shallow and dries up completely during severe droughts. The City Palace complex, including the gardens at its southern end, extends nearly 1km along the lake’s eastern shore.

The beauty of this lake has not separated anyone to attract towards it. The lake looks more enchanting with its scenic surroundings. Maharana Udai Singh must have been certainly captivated by the charm of this pristine lake with the perfect backdrop of lush green hills as when he founded the city of Udaipur, he enlarged this lake. He also constructed a dam made in stone that falls under the 'Badipol' region on the shore of this lake.

Pichola Lake is enveloped by lofty Palaces, temples, bathing ghats and elevated hills on all its sides. In the southern part of this lake, there is a hill that is known as Machhala Magra and one can see glimpse of Eklinggarh Fort from here. The City Palace of Udaipur broadens along the eastern banks of this lake. Built by Jagat Singh, Mohan Mandir is situated in the north-east corner of Lake Pichola.

Lake Pichola comprises several islands that accompany the calm waters of the lake. The world-renowned Lake Palace is perfectly located on the Jag Island of this tranquil lake. Even the Jag Mandir, another destination of tourists, is located on an island of this lake. Above all, a trip to Pichola Lake would be incomplete with a boat ride. The pristine blue waters of the lake leave a soothing impact on the spectator. At the time sun-set, a boat ride in this lake is sufficient to enthrall anyone.

Rudyard Kipling mentioned this lake in his Letters of Marque (1899), "If the Venetian owned the Pichola Lake, he might say with justice, `see it and die'". The beauty of Lake Pichola attracts people from all over the world. One can undeniably say for Pichola that once, if you see this lake, you would definitely fall in love with it. The mesmerizing beauty of Lake Pichola makes it worth visiting during your visit to Udaipur.

By Air

The Maharana Pratap International Airport or the Dabok airport is 25 km from the lake. It is 22km east of Udaipur on the National Highway 76. Spread over 504 acres it is an International airport.

By Train

Trains are run by the Indian railways to the Udaipur city Railway station from all the major railway stations of the country.

By Bus

Buses are available for Udaipur tourism at regular intervals from the national capital New Delhi to Udaipur .These buses are run by Rajasthan Tourism Department. 

World's Largest Private Collection Of Crystal-Udaipur City Palace

CITY PALACE

AT

UDAIPUR

Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan, located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur and often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan.

 Initially, Maharana Udai Singh built this superb wonder, but the present form of the Palace is the result of subsequent additions by his successors.
City Palace boasts of the wonderful blend of Medieval, European and Chinese Architecture.

The Palace has various towers, domes and arches, which add to the flavor of heritage site. Towering on the banks of Pichola Lake, City Palace is truly a feast to the eyes. City Palace is a marvelous assortment of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. Encircled by fortifications, this imposing Palace is wholly built in granite and marble.

City Palace has several gates that are known as "Pols". 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate) is the main gate to the City Palace complex that will take you to the first courtyard.

On passing 'Bara Pol', you will come across a triple arched gate, which is known as 'Tripolia'. Between these two gates, you would see eight marble arches or Toranas, where Kings used to weigh themselves with gold and silver. Besides Tripolia, there is an arena where elephant fights were staged. Across 'Tripolia', you would enter the 'Elephant Gate' or the 'Hathi Pol'.

City Palace is structured in a way that it offers a splendid view of the lake from all its Balconies, cupolas and towers. Unlike the craggy exterior, City Palace has amazing interiors with delicate mirror-work, marble work, murals, wall paintings, silver work, inlay work and surplus of colored glass.

The exquisite work of City Palace cannot be bounded in words, so one must visit this palace to capture the real picture of it.

A palace complex built by Maharana Udai Singh, the City Palace is grandeur personified. A conglomeration of several buildings with towers, balconies and cupolas built all over, the City Palace also houses a crystal gallery, which boasts of royal artifacts and the world’s largest private collection of crystal.

 It is one of Rajasthan’s largest palaces and offers splendid views of Lake Pichola. A must-not-miss experience in Udaipur is the hour long Mewar Sound and Light Show. This regal rendering of the history of Mewar takes place every evening at the City Palace complex

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Entrance Fee: Adult/Child: Rs. 50/Rs. 30

Camera Fee: Still/Video – Rs. 200

Crystal Gallery: Adult/Child: Rs. 500/Rs. 300

 Mewar Sound and Light Show: The Legacy of Honour (7 pm – 8 pm) - Adult/Child: Rs. 150/Rs. 75

Mewar Sound and Light Show: Yash ki Dharohar (8 pm – 9 pm) - Adult/Child: Rs. 100/Rs. 50.

By Air

The nearest airport in Udaipur is called the Maharana Pratap Airport which is situated about 20 kilometres away from the city center. It is well-connected by air to all major cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Jaipur. Some of the popular airlines that have daily flights to and from Udaipur are Jet Airways, Indian Airlines, Air Deccan, and Kingfisher Airlines. 

By Train

Udaipur lies on a vast network of rail that connects it to major cities in India such as Jaipur, Delhi, Kolkata, Indore, Mumbai and Kota. Some of the popular trains that run daily are Mewar Express, Gwalior-Udaipur Express, Bandra-Udaipur SF Express, Chetak Express and Annanya Expres.
Once you reach the station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw depending on where do you want to get down in the city. The fare will depend on the number of kilometers covered.

By Bus

There is a very well-established bus service network to Udaipur, linking it to several cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Indore, Kota and Ahmedabad, among others. There are a number of options when it comes to travelling by bus. These include deluxe buses, air-conditioned coaches and State-run transport.

Address 

Kalash Marg, In City Palace Udaipur,Near Jagdish Mandir, Bhatiyani Chohatta,, Rao Ji Ka Hata, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001.

MEWAR FESTIVAL

MEWAR FESTIVAL

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RAJASTHAN

The Mewar Festival is celebrated to welcome the advent of spring. It coincides with the festival of Gangaur, and has a unique charm about it. The festival of Gangaur is very significant for women of Rajasthan. It is a time for them to dress up in their best clothes and participate in the festival.

They gather to dress the images of Isar and Gangaur and then carry them in a ceremonial procession through different parts of the city. The procession winds its way to the Gangaur Ghat at Lake Pichhola. Here, the images are transferred to special boats amidst much singing and festivity. The festival ends with an amazing show of fireworks.

The main highlight of the festival is the procession of colorfully attired women carrying images of the Goddess Gauri (Parvathi) to the gangaur ghat of Lake Pichola.

By Air

 Nearest Airport, the Dabok Airport, 21 kms from the city centre.

 By Rail

 Railway has trains from all over the country to Udaipur. The Palace On Wheels covers this magnificent city during its eight day package tour.

By Road

 There are bus services from tourist places in Rajasthan , Gujarat and Delhi.