Introduction

In the north of Lake Pichola flows the Fateh Sagar Lake, an artificial lake built by Maharana Jai Singh in 1678. The lake, however, got its name from Maharana Fateh Singh who made additions to it after a lot of destruction was caused by torrential rainfall. Fateh Sagar is about 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) long and 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) wide, with three intake channels and an overflow channel that is brought to use in the rainy season. Three verdant islands dot the lake, the largest being Nehru Park, a favorite picnic destination of the locals. All the islands can be reached by taking a boat ride on the lake.

The lovely Nehru Garden is an oval-shaped island in Fateh Sagar embellished with flower beds in a riot of colors and a beautiful lily pond. It is a nice place to spend some time in solitude, soak up the natural beauty and enjoy the wind in your face. From the island, you can view the bronze statue of Maharana Pratap balanced on his horse Chetak atop Moti Magri, and the rugged Aravallis on the three sides. Explore the park and you will come across lawns interspersed with pyramidal fountains akin to those in Vrindavan Gardens, Mysore. Before leaving, enjoy some sumptuous snacks at the floating boat-shaped restaurant in the north west of the garden.

The second island is lovely public garden with spectacular water-jet fountains. And the third is home to Udaipur’s solar observatory, one of Asia’s best solar observing sites. You will see locals on the banks of the lake enjoying a stroll or simply gazing at it. You can even enjoy pedal-boating on the lake or hire a motor boat from the foot of Moti Magri. The life-size bronze statue of gallant warrior Maharana Pratap and his loyal horse Chetak, stands tall atop Moti Magri (Pearl Hill). From the hill you can capture in your lens some wonderful views of Fateh Sagar Lake, the sandstone and white-washed houses of Udaipur city, the ramparts of an ancient fort and the sprawling Japanese Rock Garden.

Another great way to enjoy the lake is a drive through Moti Magri Road, Fateh Sagar Drive and Rani Road. This way you can explore the lake from different perspectives and take in some wonderful views. Fateh Sagar Lake encompasses a variety of sightseeing attractions, and there is no missing it on your holiday in Udaipur.

Special Attributes

Fateh Sagar Lake encompasses the major points of interest in Udaipur.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can easily reach the lake either by taking a regular bus, tonga, auto-rickshaw or taxi from the city.

Enjoyed by

Families, Kids, Backpackers, Senior Citizens

Exposure

You will be under the open-sky, and the sun could come upon brightly. It is advisable to carry your sunshades, sunblock cream and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

You can enjoy boating on the lake carried out by the locals.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Have at least 3-4 hours in hand so that you can explore the lake and its islands at leisure.

Type of site

An artificial lake in Udaipur