Lake Pichola, Udaipur – The Serene Jewel of Rajasthan

History of Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola was initially created in the 14th century by a Banjara (tribal) chieftain who built a small dam on the Picholi village to facilitate irrigation. Recognizing its strategic and scenic value, Maharana Udai Singh II expanded the lake when he established Udaipur as the new capital of Mewar.

The lake was further enhanced with the construction of island palaces, ghats, and temples, making it an essential part of Udaipur’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Over the centuries, Lake Pichola has been the site of royal ceremonies, festivals, and celebrations. It continues to be a popular spot for tourists and locals, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan’s regal past and natural beauty.

Architectural Highlights and Attractions Around Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola is surrounded by architectural masterpieces and scenic viewpoints, making it a popular destination for sightseeing and photography.

Key Attractions on and Around Lake Pichola

1. City Palace – Perched on the eastern banks, City Palace offers panoramic views of Lake Pichola and is known for its majestic courtyards, balconies, and museums.
2. Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) – Located in the middle of the lake, this stunning white marble palace is now a luxury hotel operated by the Taj Group, known for its royal architecture and scenic beauty.
3. Jag Mandir – An exquisite island palace with beautiful gardens, marble pavilions, and a rich historical significance. It is said to have inspired the design of the Taj Mahal.
4. Mohan Mandir – Built by Maharana Jagat Singh in the 17th century, this small temple on the north-east corner of the lake is famous for its sunset views.
5. Gangaur Ghat – A popular bathing ghat and scenic spot for photographers, especially during the Gangaur Festival, when the ghat comes alive with traditional music and dance.
6. Arsi Vilas – A small island with a bird sanctuary, home to migratory birds like kingfishers, egrets, and cormorants, making it a perfect spot for bird watching.
7. Ambrai Ghat – A popular viewpoint offering breathtaking views of Lake Pichola and the illuminated City Palace at night.

The combination of historical palaces, serene waters, and lush green hills makes Lake Pichola a picturesque paradise for travelers.

Best Things to Do at Lake Pichola

• Boat Ride on Lake Pichola – A scenic boat ride is the best way to explore Jag Mandir, Lake Palace, and City Palace. Sunset boat rides offer a magical view of the illuminated palaces.
• Photography – Capture the mirror-like reflections of palaces on the lake, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Dining by the Lake – Enjoy a romantic dinner at Ambrai Restaurant or Upré by 1559 AD, known for their lakeside views and traditional cuisine.
• Cultural Evening at Bagore Ki Haveli – Watch the Dharohar Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli for an evening of Rajasthani folk music and dance.
• Visit Jag Mandir – Take a boat to Jag Mandir Palace, known for its elegant marble pavilions, gardens, and rich history.
• Sunset at Ambrai Ghat – Relax by the lakeside and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.

How to Reach Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola is located in the heart of Udaipur, surrounded by historical landmarks and luxury hotels. It is easily accessible from all parts of the city.

• By Car/Taxi: Just 4 km from Udaipur Railway Station and 24 km from Maharana Pratap Airport.
• By Auto-Rickshaw: A popular and affordable mode of local transport.
• By Boat: Several boat services operate from City Palace Jetty and Lal Ghat.
• On Foot: Lake Pichola is easily walkable from the Old City, including Jagdish Temple and Gangaur Ghat.

Best Time to Visit Lake Pichola

• Timings: Open for viewing all day, but boat rides operate from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Boat Ride Charges: ₹400 for adults (Day), ₹700 for adults (Sunset).
• Best Season: October to March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
• Best Time of Day: Early morning for calm waters and evening for a breathtaking sunset view.
• Special Note: The lake looks especially magical when illuminated at night.

Nearby Attractions

After exploring Lake Pichola, visit these nearby attractions:

• City Palace (Adjacent) – A magnificent royal complex offering panoramic views of Lake Pichola.
• Jagdish Temple (Walking Distance) – An ancient Hindu temple known for its intricate carvings and religious significance.
• Bagore Ki Haveli (500 meters) – A historic haveli featuring cultural performances and traditional artifacts.
• Lake Palace (On the Lake) – A luxury hotel known for its breathtaking views and royal architecture.
• Fateh Sagar Lake (3 km) – Another beautiful lake surrounded by hills, ideal for boat rides and sunset views.

Cafés & Restaurants Near Lake Pichola

• Ambrai Restaurant – A popular lakeside restaurant offering stunning views of City Palace and Lake Pichola.
• Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant – A rooftop restaurant known for its romantic ambiance and Rajasthani cuisine.
• Upré by 1559 AD – A fine dining restaurant with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding palaces.
• Cafe Edelweiss – A cozy café popular among travelers for its pastries and coffee.

Essential Travel Tips for Lake Pichola

• Opt for a sunset boat ride for the most scenic views and photography opportunities.
• Carry a camera to capture the stunning reflections and picturesque landscapes.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the nearby ghats and historical sites.
• Book boat tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long waits.
• Respect local customs and traditions, especially at religious ghats.

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