Bagore Ki Haveli, Udaipur – A Glimpse into Royal Heritage

History of Bagore Ki Haveli

Bagore Ki Haveli was constructed in the 18th century by Amar Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar during the reign of Maharana Pratap Singh II. Strategically built near Gangaur Ghat, the haveli served as the residence of Amar Chand Badwa and was later occupied by Nath Singh, a relative of the royal family.

After the Kingdom of Mewar merged into the Republic of India, the haveli was abandoned and fell into disrepair. In 1986, the West Zone Cultural Centre took over the property and undertook extensive restoration to preserve its architectural charm and historical significance.

Today, Bagore Ki Haveli stands as a cultural museum, showcasing Rajasthan’s royal heritage, traditional crafts, and performing arts. It has become a popular venue for folk dance performances, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals, celebrating Rajasthan’s rich cultural legacy.

Architectural Highlights of Bagore Ki Haveli

Bagore Ki Haveli is an architectural masterpiece, known for its traditional Rajput style, characterized by beautiful jharokhas, intricate mirror work, and detailed frescoes. The mansion is built with local sandstone and marble, giving it an elegant and regal appearance.

Key Architectural Features of Bagore Ki Haveli

1. Chowk and Courtyards – The haveli features multiple courtyards surrounded by arched corridors and carved pillars, used for royal gatherings and celebrations.
2. Jharokhas (Overhanging Windows) – The beautiful jharokhas provide panoramic views of Lake Pichola and Gangaur Ghat, allowing royal women to observe the street festivities while maintaining privacy.
3. The Queen’s Chamber – Also known as Gulab Mahal, this room is adorned with delicate mirror work and fresco paintings. The ceilings and walls are decorated with floral patterns and intricate glass mosaics.
4. Museum Exhibits – The museum displays royal costumes, jewelry boxes, musical instruments, antique furniture, and traditional puppets, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
5. Diwan-e-Khas (Private Audience Hall) – A stunning hall with colored glass windows and ornate mirror decorations, used by the royal family for private meetings and gatherings.
6. Baithak Hall – This room displays ancient hookahs, rose water sprinklers, and antique photographs, giving a glimpse into the leisurely lifestyle of the Rajput royals.
7. The Puppet Gallery – A dedicated gallery showcasing colorful Rajasthani puppets, narrating folktales and legends through traditional puppet shows.
8. Dance and Music Hall – A beautifully decorated hall where cultural performances and dance shows are held every evening, celebrating Rajasthan’s vibrant performing arts.

The combination of intricate carvings, colorful glasswork, and traditional frescoes makes Bagore Ki Haveli an architectural gem and a cultural hub in Udaipur.

Cultural Performances at Bagore Ki Haveli

Bagore Ki Haveli is renowned for its Dharohar Dance Show, held every evening in the Nava Chowk courtyard. This cultural performance showcases traditional Rajasthani folk music, dance, and puppet shows, offering an immersive experience of Rajasthan’s cultural diversity.

Highlights of the Dharohar Dance Show

• Bhavai Dance – A traditional dance form where women balance multiple earthen pots on their heads while performing intricate movements.
• Ghoomar Dance – A graceful folk dance performed by Rajasthani women in colorful ghagras (long skirts), celebrating joy and festivity.
• Terah Taali Dance – A unique dance where performers play manjiras (small cymbals) tied to their hands and feet, creating a rhythmic melody.
• Puppet Show (Kathputli) – Traditional puppeteers narrate folktales and legendary stories through colorful wooden puppets.
• Folk Music – Traditional Rajasthani folk songs and instrumental music performed using dholak, harmonium, and sarangi.

The vibrant costumes, energetic dance moves, and soulful music make the Dharohar Dance Show a memorable cultural experience.

Best Things to Do at Bagore Ki Haveli

• Explore the Museum – Discover antique artifacts, royal costumes, musical instruments, and traditional puppets, showcasing Rajasthan’s royal legacy.
• Attend the Dharohar Dance Show – Enjoy the evening cultural performance, celebrating Rajasthani folk music, dance, and storytelling.
• Admire the Architecture – Marvel at the intricate mirror work, carved jharokhas, and colorful frescoes throughout the haveli.
• Photography – Capture stunning photographs of the elegant courtyards, traditional interiors, and scenic lake views.
• Shop for Souvenirs – Visit the local handicraft shops near Gangaur Ghat for traditional jewelry, textiles, and Rajasthani puppets.

How to Reach Bagore Ki Haveli

Bagore Ki Haveli is located at Gangaur Ghat on the banks of Lake Pichola, making it easily accessible from different parts of Udaipur.

• By Car/Taxi: Just 4 km from Udaipur Railway Station and 24 km from Maharana Pratap Airport.
• By Auto-Rickshaw: A popular and budget-friendly option for local travel.
• By Foot: It is within walking distance from City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Lake Pichola.
• By Boat: Visitors can also reach the haveli by taking a boat ride to Gangaur Ghat.

Best Time to Visit Bagore Ki Haveli

• Timings: Museum: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Dharohar Dance Show: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: ₹60 for adults (Museum), ₹90 for adults (Dance Show).
• Best Season: October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

Best Time of Day: Evening to enjoy the Dharohar Dance Show.

Feature	Details
Location	Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Built In	18th Century by Maharaja Madho Singh I
Architectural Style	Rajput and Mughal
Material Used	Red Sandstone
Floors	Five (Four submerged underwater)
Entry Fee	Free (No entry inside the palace)
Timings	Open all day for viewing
Best Time to Visit	Sunrise or Sunset
Nearby Attractions	Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Kanak Vrindavan Gardens
Photography	Allowed