Udaipur is one of the most romantic cities in the world and its lakes are the backdrop of the romantic setting of Udaipur. The city popular among travelers from round the world because the city is defined by its bright colors of the ancient.
We Niwas Hospitality give you a golden opportunity to dive right into the colorfully royal culture and the romantic vibe of Udaipur. Our properties in Udaipur give you an exceedingly pure exposure to the culture and traditions of the city.
Explore Udaipur with us and you will fall in love with the blue lakes, the lush green hills and the royal ancient marble.
Water is a necessity of life and the sight of lakes full of water gives a sense of relief. The picturesque lakes surrounded by the beautiful hills of Aravali featuring palaces in them, define our city Udaipur and make it the ‘The Venice of East’
Today we are going to give you an insight about the lakes in and around the city of Udaipur. Our city is home to both natural and man-made lakes built centuries ago by the Rulers of Mewar.
Come let’s dive into the cultural waters of ‘The City of Lakes’…
Lake Pichola
Located in the heart of the city of Udaipur, Lake Pichola is surrounded by architectural delights and is the main lake that comes to mind when one thinks of Udaipur. Besides being situated next to the stunning City Palace of Udaipur, Lake Pichola is also home to an iconic luxury property from Taj hotels.
Did you know that the James Bond film Octopussy was shot here on the Taj Lake Palace, The Taj Lake Palace is considered one of the most unique and romantic hotels in Rajasthan, seemingly floating on the expansive waters of Lake Pichola. It is located on the Jag Niwas island in the lake which offers a serene view of the lake.
The lake has three more islands on it, namely Jag Mandir, Mohan Mandir, and Arsi Vilas. Jag Mandir houses a palace by the same name, and history has it that the Prince of Khurram, who later became Shah Jahan, spent a few years living here, while rebelling against his father, Jehangir. The time he spent here with daily views of the Lake Palace inspired him to build the Taj Mahal many years later.
That’s not all! The lake is enveloped by architectural delights, visitors can choose from a range of experiences and budgets. The beauty of Lake Pichola can be enjoyed from the shore too.
By the way, a boat ride on Lake Pichola is a must while you are here. Sunset is a great time to skip across the waters and capture some Instagram-worthy pictures and create everlasting memories with your family and friends.
- Timings: 9: 00 am to 6: 00 pm; every day
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Boat Ride Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
- Boat Ride Charges:
- ₹ 400 per person for adults
- ₹ 200 per person for children
- Sunset Boat Ride Charges:
- ₹ 700 per person for adults
- ₹ 400 per person for children
Lake Fateh Sagar
Fateh Sagar is a true delight to those finding quiet heaven in the bustling city of Udaipur. The 2.5-kilometre-long lake was built in the late 17th century by Maharana Jai Singh and was later remodelled by Maharana Fateh Singh.
Lake Fatehsagar is surrounded by hills, a number of parks, and a quite a few temples. There are also three islands on the lake, one of which has the verdant Nehru Garden. The lake also features the Udaipur Solar Observatory, which is not open to travelers.
The lake with its tranquil waters and breathtaking sights of the Aravalli hills attracts tons of tourist every year. Lake Fatehsagar is the ideal place for a slow boat ride or for hiring a pedal boat for a more immersive experience. The lake is only open to visitors until 18:00, so make sure your trip ends around sunset.
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Boat Ride Timings: 8:00 am to 4.30 pm; every day
Boat Ride Charges:
₹ 30 per person for regular boat rides
₹ 100 to ₹ 200 per person for motorboat rides
₹ 200 to ₹ 400 per person for speedboat rides
Lake Udai Sagar
Udai Sagar Lake is another striking lake that falls under the category of five lakes of Udaipur. Udaisagar Lake is located at a distance of about 13 kms in the east of Udaipur. The construction of this lake was started in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh and got completed in 1565.
It is believed that the Maharana commissioned the creation of this 4-kilometer-long dam to meet the water demands of his territory. Maharana Uday Singh’s reign over Udaipur was a contentious one, with many battles and wars fought on the banks of this infamous lake. However, even after centuries, Udaisagar Lake continues to be a magnet for tourists and historians alike.
Timing: N/A
Entry Fee: No entry Fee
Boat Ride: This lake has no known boat ride service.
Jaisamand Lake
Dhebar Lake (also known as Jaisamand Lake) is India‘s second-largest artificial lake. The 14-kilometer-long lake came into existence in the 17th century during the reign of Maharana Jai Singh on the banks of Gomati River.
Located a short journey of around 50 kilometers from Udaipur, this lake is a picturesque place to spend a leisurely morning or sunset if visitors choose to stay in one of the resorts located nearby.
Jaisamand Lake also hosts a tranquil sanctuary – Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary – where you can spot migratory birds, and animals. It is believed that back in the day, the sanctuary served as the hunting ground for the royal family. Today, it draws scientists, bird enthusiasts and tourists all throughout the year.
Timings: 24×7; every day
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Boat Ride Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
Boat Ride Charges: Between ₹ 30 to ₹ 80 per person
Rajsamand Lake
Rajsamand Lake is one of the five popular lakes of Udaipur. Located 66kms in the north of Udaipur, Rajsamand Lake lies between Rajnagar and Kankroli districts. The lake is also known by the name of Rajsamudra Lake in Rajasthan. It was built by Maharana Raj Singh in 1660.
The lake promises a magical view of the sunrise so the best time to visit the lake is the dawn. Tourists flock to Rajsamand to catch this scene that lasts anywhere between 2 – 3 hours in the summer months in India. The lack attracts shutterbugs from around the world due to its grandeur and whimsical sunrise,
- Timings: 24×7; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
Till now we have talked about the most prominent five lakes in Udaipur, these lakes are huge tourist attractions. Udaipur also homes some lakes which are small but tranquil. If one wants to get an authentic view of watercourses of Udaipur then they should visit these lakes too.
Jiyan Sagar
Jiyan Sagar is popularly known as the Badi Lake among the locals. The fresh water was lake built by Maharana Raj Singh to counter a devastating famine in the village of Badi back in the 17th century. The king named it Jiyan Sagar after his mother, Jana Devi.
It is located only about 12 kilometers from Udaipur, Badi Lake is a simple, convenient spot for hikers, bikers, cyclists, and those who enjoy taking long lakeside walks.
For the best views, visitors can climb the hill nearby for a look at the sunset. The 338-year-old man-made lake, is devoid of most travel amenities altogether, and it’s an ideal spot for birdwatching without the crowds.
- Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
Doodh Talai
It is a small lake that adores the south-east direction of Pichola Lake. It was named as ‘Doodh Talai’ meaning ‘Milk Pond’ as it once served as the gazing area for the cattle which supplied milk to the royal family.
It is located in the southern side of Shiv Niwas Palace, Dudh Talai contributes to the waters of Lake Pichola. This stream adds to the picturesque triangle in the company of Pichola on one side, Doodh Talai on the second and M.L. Verma Garden on the third.
- Timings: 24×7; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
Swaroop Sagar
Swaroop Sagar Lake, located between Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake, is an engineering marvel built by Maharana Swaroop Singh of the Mewar dynasty in the early 19th century, in typical Mughal fashion. It is also known as Kumharia Talab. Located behind the famous Jagdish Temple, Kumharia Talab is near Chand Pol adjoining Rangsagar.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and it continues to resolve the city’s water congestion problems.
Udaipur is a paradise for architecture lovers and an incredible destination popular for its formidable monuments and colourful culture. The majestic grandeur of its palaces , the history of havelis , the magical narrow by-lanes of the old city and the natural beauty of the lakes , will surely cast a spell on you.
If you are planning to come to Udaipur then consider your stay at our places in the city, We have beautiful properties with traditional interior designs to create a cultural and cozy vibe.
All the major tourist attractions are just 15-20 minute away from our locations and still our properties are away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We also serve authentic homemade Indian food, right from our kitchens.
If you want make your Udaipur experience more authentic and want to create lifelong memories then just trust us with your accomodation.