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Udaipur, in Rajasthan, is often called the most romantic city in India because of its famed lakes and palaces. Therefore it's only natural that they feature prominently in the list of top Udaipur attractions. Visiting Udaipur is all about reliving royalty and appreciating the city's man-made beauty.
1. City Palace Complex
Sharell Cook
How did Rajasthan's royal rulers survive after India became a democracy, and their states were merged into the Union of India? They converted their palaces into hotels and tourist attractions in order to generate an income. Udaipur's City Palace Complex, belonging to the Mewar royal family, really sets the standard as far as such heritage tourism is concerned. This all encompassing destination incorporates two authentic palace hotels and the City Palace Museum. A collection of vintage cars and Jag Mandir, a pleasure palace in the middle of Lake Pichola, add to the interest. Definitely don't miss any of it! It's the largest palace complex in Rajasthan.
2. Bagore Ki Haveli
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Another place of architectural splendor, Bagore Ki Haveli was built in the late 18th century by the Prime Minister of Mewar. It's located on the edge of Lake Pichola, at Gangaur Ghat. The Haveli is a joy to wander through and provides a further fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of the royal family. Inside there are more than 100 rooms, courtyards and terraces, many with beautiful frescoes and fine mirror work. Royal paintings, costumes of the royal kings, personal items, and traditional Rajasthani arts and crafts provide the decoration.
The Haveli is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Entrance fee is 25 rupees for foreigners. From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., the Dharohar a dance group holds a recommended folk dance performance there.
3. Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake
Sharell Cook
Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake are the most popular of Udaipur's man-made lakes. A boat ride on Lake Pichola gives a whole new perspective to the city, especially the City Palace Complex. Boats depart from the jetty near the City Palace. A trip on the lake costs 300 rupees ($6.50) including a stop at Jag Mandir.
Fateh Sagar Lake, with its tranquil mountain backdrop, lies to the north of Lake Pichola and is connected by a canal. It's got three islands, the largest of which has been developed into Nehru Park with a boat-shaped restaurant and a small zoo. The Udaipur Solar Observatory is on one of the other islands. Start exploring the lake by hiring a paddle or motor boat from the bottom of Moti Magra hill.
4. Monsoon Palace
Sharell Cook
The Monsoon Palace can be seen from Udaipur, perched high on a hill above the city. As its name suggests, it was a favored destination of the royal family during the monsoon season. The Palace belonged to the Mewar royal family until it was placed in government hands. After being closed for quite a while, it's now being restored.
The Monsoon Palace is best visited at sunset, when its unsurpassed view over Udaipur combines with alluring colors with to paint a spectacular picture. Those who are familiar with James Bond's Octopussy movie will also recognize the Palace as the home of the principal villain, Kamal Khan. The drive to the palace takes around 30 minutes and passes through the Sajjan Garh Wildlife Sanctuary. Entry fees are payable.
5. Shri Eklingji Prabhu Temple
Sharell Cook
If you're spiritually inclined, it's worthwhile taking a trip to the magnificant Shri Eklingji Prabhu Temple. It's located in Kailashpuri (the modern name for Eklingji), around 20 kilometers from Udaipur. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple complex is made completely out of marble. It also contains large colorfully painted statues of Lord Shiva’s Nandi Bull. Significantly, the original shrine was built by Bapa Rawal, the founder of the Mewar Dynasty. The current head of the Mewar royal family continues to worship at the temple every Monday.
Nearby, and also worth seeing, are the ancient 10th century Sas Bahu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temples are covered in intricate sculptures.
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