Introduction

Lake Pichola is the lifeline of Udaipur, and the city virtually lives on its banks. Originally built by Maharana Udai Singh II after he discovered Udaipur, the lake has two islands – Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir. On its eastern crest is the City Palace and in its heart, the Lake Palace which has now been converted into a heritage palace hotel. There are many bathing ghats as well that can be explored on a boat. The sapphire blue waters of the lake stand in contrast with the white marble palaces on it, lending it a fanciful, romantic air. Cruise the lake and watch the reflection of the Lake Palace, the powdery sky and the green Aravalis on its still waters. Legend has it that an ascetic had advised Udai Singh to set his kingdom over Lake Pichola, after the fall of Chittaurgarh by Mughal Emperor Akbar. There are pretty sandstone and white-washed houses dotting its banks, and on an idle day you will see tourists sailing on it, locals bathing in it or simply reflecting on its banks. Though the lake remains fairly shallow and dries up easily in arid summers, Lake Pichola reflects the way of life in Udaipur.

Built on the southern island of Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, a three-storied palace, traces its roots to the Mughal era when Prince Khurram the estranged son of Emperor Jehangir was hiding from his father. Maharana Karan Singh II built this palatial structure in marble and yellow sandstone in the 17th century to give the prince shelter, who later became Emperor Shahjahan. The prince was aided because he was the son of a Rajput mother. During Shahjahan’s stay here in 1623-24, it is believed that he had derived ideas for the Taj Mahal. The island is marked by some exquisite carving including a row of life-size marble elephants that seem to guard the palace, and an ornate chhatri (umbrella-like structure) in grey and blue stone.

After the death of Karan Singh, the structure was completed by Maharana Jagat Singh during his reign in 1628-52. The highlight of Jag Mandir Palace is Gul Mahal where Shahjahan lived with his family. Karan Singh built this part of the palace in Islamic style of architecture in keeping with the tastes of the prince. In order to make Prince Khurram feel at home, a mosque was also constructed within the palace. Marvel at the lavish courtyard chequered with black and white tiles, an integral part of the prince’s apartment. Also explore the Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Kunwar Pada ka Mahal for the crowned prince and Zenana Mahal for the ladies of the royalty. Take a stroll in the lovely garden thick with roses, palm trees, jasmine, bougainvillea and frangipani trees. It is truly a treat to the senses.

Before leaving, also stop by at the in-site museum preserving the history of the island and its palace. Today, there is a restaurant ‘Darikhana’ within the palace complex, serving authentic Rajasthani delicacies. On your tour of Lake Pichola and surrounds, the exquisitely carved and designed Jag Mandir Palace is a must-see.

Special Attributes

Lake Pichola is the centre of imagination in Udaipur. Shahjahan is believed to have received ideas for the Taj Mahal during his stay at Jag Mandir palace.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

You are free to wear anything you are comfortable in. However, avoid wearing too short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

You can easily reach the lake from the city by taking a local bus, rickshaw, tonga or taxi

Enjoyed by

Singles, families, senior citizens and backpackers.

Exposure

You will be mostly under the open sky. On a summer day the sun could be harsh, so it is advisable to carry your sunshades, sunblock cream and a bottle of drinking water. The climate of Udaipur is tropical with the mercury staying between a maximum of 42.3°C and a minimum of 28.8°C during summers, and between 28.8°C and 2.5°C in winter.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

Jag Mandir has an in-site restaurant rustling up sumptuous Rajasthani specialties. You can enjoy boating on the lake carried out by the locals or visit the City Palace and museum on its eastern bank. If you have some more time at hand, stop by at the famed Jagdish Temple within the palace complex

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Take a boat ride towards the evening when the lake mirrors the Udaipur skyline, and the banks are beautifully lit with earthen lamps and lights.

Type of site

Most popular lake of Udaipur, with havelis, hotels and houses finding sustenance in its waters.