Udaipur - Explore Udaipur

The City Palace towers over the Pichola Lake. Maharana Uday Singh initiated the construction of the palace, but succeeding Maharanas added several more palaces and structures to the complex which, surprisingly, has retained uniformity in its design. The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum, displaying a large and diverse array of artifacts. The rooms of the palace are superbly decorated with mirror tiles and paintings. Manak Mahal or the Ruby Palace has a lovely collection of glass and mirror work, while Krishna Vilas displays a rich collection of miniature paintings. Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace has beautiful mirror work and the Chini Mahal has ornamental tiles. The Surya Chopar or the Sun Square has a huge ornamental sun symbolizing the sun dynasty to which the Mewar dynasty belongs. The Bari Mahal has a central garden with view of the city.

The Jagdish Temple is the largest and most splendid temple of Udaipur. Built by Maharana Jagat Singh I in 1651, the temple enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu. There is a brass image of Garuda and the exterior and plinth are covered at the bottom with crocodiles coupled with elephants, horsemen and celestial musicians rising in tiers up the temple’s facade. There is also usually chanting, bells and music throughout the day.

The Sahelion Ki Bari was built by Maharana Sangram Singh in the mid 18th century. The 'Garden of the Maidens' brings to mind the lifestyle of the ladies of the court. The delightful gardens appear discreet and in impeccable taste. There are four pools with dainty kiosks, and all around are flowerbeds, lawns, pools and fountains protected by a series of walls and shady trees. The fountains of the Sahelion ki Bari function solely by water pressure and no pumps are used.