Lake Pichola, Udaipur

 

Lake Pichola is a famous artificial lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. It was created in the 14th century, in 1362, by Maharana Lakha during his reign to meet the water needs of the city. Over time, it has become one of the most iconic landmarks in Udaipur, attracting thousands of tourists every year.

Key features of Lake Pichola:

1. Size and Location: The lake spans around 4 square kilometers and is situated in the heart of Udaipur. It is surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, and ghats, making it a picturesque and serene location.

2. Historical Significance: The lake has been an important part of Udaipur's history and has witnessed many royal events. Over time, several palaces were built on its islands, adding to its grandeur.

3. Notable Islands and Palaces:

   • Jag Mandir: This island palace is located in the middle of Lake Pichola. It has a historical significance as it was used by the royal family during times of unrest and as a summer retreat.
   • Lake Palace (Taj Lake Palace): Another prominent palace, the Lake Palace, is built on an island in the lake and was constructed by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1754. Today, it is a luxury hotel under the Taj Group and offers one of the most stunning views in Udaipur.
   • Arsi Vilas: Another smaller island that houses a palace and is less frequented by tourists.

4. Boating: One of the most popular activities on the lake is boating. Tourists can enjoy a boat ride to see the palaces, ghats, and surrounding landscapes. Evening boat rides, in particular, offer beautiful views of the sunset.

5. Scenic Views and Photography: The lake provides breathtaking views, especially during sunset, when the water reflects the surrounding palaces and hills, creating a magical atmosphere for photography.

6. Surrounding Attractions: The lake is close to several other tourist attractions in Udaipur, such as the City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and the Bagore Ki Haveli.

Lake Pichola is a beautiful and tranquil place that perfectly captures the charm and history of Udaipur, making it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Rajasthan.

Reaching Lake Pichola in Udaipur is easy, as it is centrally located in the city. Here are the main ways to get there:

1. By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport, about 25 km (15.5 miles) from Lake Pichola. You can take a taxi or private car from the airport, which takes around 30-40 minutes.

2. By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is about 3 km (1.8 miles) from Lake Pichola. From the station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus, which takes around 10-15 minutes.

3. By Bus: The Udaipur Bus Station is also around 3-4 km (2.5 miles) from the lake. Similar to the railway station, taxis, auto-rickshaws, or local buses can easily take you to Lake Pichola in about 10-15 minutes.

4. By Taxi/Auto-Rickshaw: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available throughout Udaipur. If you're staying nearby, you can hire a rickshaw for a quick, affordable ride to the lake.

5. Walking: If you’re staying in areas like the City Palace or Old City, Lake Pichola is within walking distance. The charming streets make it a pleasant walk to the lake.

Once there, you can enjoy boat rides, visit Jag Mandir, or relax by the lakeside.