Udaipur is a stunning city featuring captivating lakes and is encircled by the lush hills of the Aravalis. Once a jewel of the Mewar kingdom, it was ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 years. An interesting legend about the city's foundation tells of Maharana Udai Singh, who, while hunting one day, encountered a holy man meditating on a hill overlooking Lake Pichola.
The hermit blessed the Maharana and advised him to build a palace on this fertile valley spot, surrounded by a stream, a lake, favorable altitude, and an amphitheater of low mountains.
Consequently, Maharana founded the city in 1559 AD. Today, Udaipur stands majestically, reflecting the enchanting architectural glory of a bygone era. Explore this wonderful city on Palace on Wheels to experience it better.
Built initially by Maharaja Udai Singh when he founded Udaipur, his successors expanded the original structure. Today, the City Palace proudly stands as the largest royal complex in Rajasthan. Overlooking Lake Pichola, it includes other palaces, a crystal gallery, a museum, and a durbar hall. Each part of the palace reflects either Rajput or Mughal architecture and is richly ornate with mosaics, miniatures, mirror works, and motifs. It’s a must-visit for every tourist. The Palace on Wheels often includes this attraction on its itinerary.
Situated amidst Lake Pichola, the Lake Palace was built by Maharana Jagat Singh as a summer palace for the royal family. This white marble structure attracts numerous tourists year-round and now serves as a luxury hotel, offering visitors a glimpse into Udaipur's royal past. It is one of the highlights when traveling on the Palace on Wheels.
An island palace built by Maharana Jagat Singh, later further developed by Rana Karan Singh, it’s known for hosting Prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jahan) during his revolt against his father, Emperor Jahangir. This palace is rich in history and a significant site to visit.
Known as the ‘garden of the maids of honour,’ Maharana Sangram Singh laid out this garden for the 48 maids who were part of the princess's dowry. It’s an ideal place to relax, featuring a Lotus pool, lawns, flowerbeds, and fountains, perfect for enjoying the serene environment.
Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, this temple was built in 1651 AD by Maharana Jagat Singh. The three-storey temple features a richly decorated and towering spire, enhancing its magnificent look. It houses shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses like Lord Ganesh, Shiva, the Sun God, and Goddess Shakti.
This is a man-made lake dug by Maharana Jai Singh and later developed by Maharana Fateh Singh. Connected to Lake Pichola by a canal, it features three islands; the largest is a park, the second largest has a solar observatory, and the park island offers a boat-shaped café, making it an excellent picnic spot.
By Air : Dabok Airport is the nearest airport to Udaipur, located 21 km from the city center. A well-developed network of air services connects Udaipur to New Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, and Mumbai.
By Rail : Udaipur Railway Station is 4 km from the city center. A well-organized railway system links Udaipur to major Indian cities like Chittaurgarh, Ajmer, Jaipur, and Delhi. Traveling on the Palace on Wheels is a unique experience in itself.
By Road : National and state highways connect Udaipur to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Chittaurgarh, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Indore, Kota, Mount Abu, and Mumbai. Bus services to and from Gujarat, Delhi, and major Rajasthan cities end at the bus terminal, 2 km from the railway station.
