Udaipur: A Whirlwind Romance with the City of Lakes
A personal journey through the royal grandeur and serene lakes of Udaipur. From majestic palaces to vibrant streets, this is my story of falling in love with the Venice of the East.
- 4 min read
I’d always heard whispers of Udaipur’s charm, the “Venice of the East,” a city painted in hues of royal blue and gold. But nothing prepared me for the moment I first saw it. After a scenic six-hour train ride from Jaipur, the city unfolded before me, a breathtaking panorama of majestic palaces and serene lakes that seemed to shimmer with a thousand stories. This wasn’t just a trip; it was the beginning of a whirlwind romance.
Day 1: A Royal Welcome at the City Palace
My journey began on September 30th. Stepping off the train, the air itself felt different—laced with history and a sense of calm. After checking into my haveli-style hotel, I headed straight for the heart of Udaipur: the City Palace.
The sheer scale of it is awe-inspiring. It’s not just a palace; it’s a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and smaller palaces, each more beautiful than the last. I spent hours wandering through its corridors, marveling at the intricate mirror work and the stunning views of Lake Pichola. For a fee of around ₹300, it’s a journey back in time that’s worth every penny.
As evening approached, I found my way to the nearby Jagdish Temple, a 400-year-old marvel of Indo-Aryan architecture. The evening aarti was a truly spiritual experience, the sound of bells and chants echoing through the ancient halls.
My first day ended at Gangaur Ghat, watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink. The reflection of the illuminated City Palace on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola was a sight I’ll never forget. This is the “city vibe” I had been looking for – a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Day 2: Spiritual Detours and Hidden Waterfalls
The next day, October 1st, I decided to venture outside the city. A 1.5-hour drive took me to Nathdwara, home to the famous Shrinathji Temple. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, and the intricate Pichwai paintings that adorn its walls are a sight to behold.
But the real surprise of the day was a hidden gem my local driver told me about: Bagheri Ka Naka Waterfall. It’s a seasonal waterfall, and luckily, the monsoon had been generous. I spent the afternoon swimming in the natural pool and soaking in the serene atmosphere, a perfect contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle.
Back in Udaipur, I spent the evening exploring Sukhadiya Circle, a vibrant hub of street food stalls. I treated myself to some delicious kulfi and chaat, a perfect end to an adventurous day.
Day 3: Lakeside Musings and Farewell Dinners
My final day, October 2nd, was all about the lakes. I started with a visit to the Under the Sun Aquarium on an island in Fatehsagar Lake. A short boat ride took me to this fascinating underwater world.
In the afternoon, I indulged in a traditional Rajasthani thali at Natraj Restaurant, a local favorite. The dal baati churma was out of this world!
The rest of the day was spent simply being by the water. I took a boat ride on Fatehsagar Lake, walked along its promenade, and as dusk fell, I made my way to Ambrai Ghat.
Ambrai Ghat is arguably the most photogenic spot in Udaipur. With a stunning view of the illuminated City Palace and a romantic ambiance, it was the perfect place for a farewell dinner. I sat there for hours, soaking in the magical atmosphere and reflecting on my incredible journey.
My Udaipur in a Nutshell
Udaipur is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s the feeling of being a part of history as you walk through the majestic palaces, the sense of peace you feel as you watch the sunset over the lakes, and the warmth of the people who call this city home.
If you’re looking for a place that will capture your heart and leave you with memories to last a lifetime, look no further than Udaipur. This city has a way of making you fall in love, and I, for one, am completely under its spell.
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