10 reasons to visit Lake Pichola in Udaipur

Lake Pichola is an artificial freshwater lake in the historic city of Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes. Udaipur is one of the most popular cities in Rajasthan and Lake Pichola is the heart of the city. It is a place of many attractions and romantic sunsets.

The lake is 4 kilometers long and at least 3 kilometers wide, and the catchment area is 55 kilometers. There are islands, ravines, palaces, temples and grand mansions in and around Lake Pichola.

10 Reasons To Visit Lake Pichola

1. Sunset boat ride

The best and most beautiful way to enjoy Lake Pichola is to go on a sunset cruise or a boat trip on its waters. The golden sunset on the lake makes its water sparkle, the illuminated Taj Lake Palace and other palaces and buildings on the island of the lake turn the sights into a beautiful landscape.

Gangaur and Lal Ghats on the other hand while Jag Mandir and Taj Palace, City Palace all lit up look amazing from the boat. Take a group boat ride for Rs. 400 or book a private cruise from Rs. Up to Rs.1500. 5000.

2. Arsi Vilas and Mohan Mandir

Arsi Vilas is a small palace and an island where the royals of Udaipur used to watch the sunset and is now a small bird sanctuary where you can spot birds like ducks, herons and kingfishers. The Mohan Mandir is a temple without a deity which is now mainly used during the Gangaur festival.

3. Jag Mandir

A place where many destination weddings or film shoots take place, Jag Mandir Palace is a large lake garden palace where you can enjoy quiet strolls and nice views of the lake.

There is a lakeside restaurant and bar to enjoy a fancy evening. Make advance reservation. There is a small museum open to all. A visit to Jag Mandir provides ample photo ops.

4. Gangaur Ghat

A historic main ghat on the banks of Lake Pichola, Gangaur Ghat is one of the main attractions of Lake Pichola. The main attraction of the old city area on the banks of the Pichola, the ghat is always buzzing with tourists and locals.

It is the main site of Gangaur Festival and Jal Jhulni Festival. Take memorable pictures at the ghat and sit on the steps of the ghat to enjoy beautiful sunset views from there.

5. Vintage walking tour

A walk around Lake Pichola to major attractions like City Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli, Gangaur Ghat and other sites is a refreshingly enjoyable experience.

A guided tour will help you understand the historical importance of the old city, all the sights near the lake and will cost you anywhere between Rs 1300 to Rs 4000.

6. Lakeside cafes and restaurants

Whether you are honeymooning in Udaipur, visiting with friends and family or backpacking solo, be sure to have dinner or breakfast at the charming cafes and restaurants by Lake Pichola.

Dining on the terrace while watching the changing colors of the lake is an unforgettable experience. The best options are Upre, Lake Cafe, Ambrai, Raas Leela and Vantage Restaurant.

7. Shopping spree

A bit much for the shopaholic traveller. There are many shopping spots and markets around Lake Pichola that you will love.

Some of the shopping places to visit include Tibetan Bazaar, Chand Pol, Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar and Karigar Ka Boutique. Shop for juttis, kurtis, jewellery, handicraft items, clothing and unique souvenirs.

8. Natini Chabutra

A platform is a raised platform in a courtyard where a number of activities can be performed. Natini Ka Chabutra was built to honor Natini – a tightrope walker and has an interesting legend behind it.

Maharaja Jawan Singh promised her half of Mewar if she would walk across the lake. But when she was about to finish, the rope was cut and when she drowned, she cursed the king’s lineage, and all six ranas apparently had no direct descendants after being adopted.

9. Swaroop Sagar Bridge

The ornamental bridge connects Pichola to Sarup Sagar which then connects to Fateh Sagar Lake. Take a walk on the bridge in the evening. All lit up in dim yellow light, the walk will be one to remember.

From afar it resembles a bridge over the Venetian waters. Take a secluded stroll to capture some great images or get away from all the tourist hustle and bustle in the main city areas.

10. Photographic expedition

During your visit to Udaipur, take out extra time to photograph the different colors of Lake Pichola. Light blue water during sunrise, strong blue gold during the day and majestic orange or dazzling black night water during the evening reflecting the dazzling palace lights, the lake is a photographer’s muse.

Capturing palaces, islands, havelis, temples, ghats, restaurants as well as tourist and local activities around the lake will all make for wonderful Instagram stories.