Located against the glinting shores of Lake Pichola and just short of the legendary Gangaur Ghat, Bagore ki Haveli is one of the most picturesque heritage properties in Udaipur. With its stunning architecture, alive cultural performances, and spellbinding night shows, the old mansion transports its guests to an earlier time when beauty, luxury, and imperial grace commanded daily life in Rajasthan.
Let us enter Bagore ki Haveli Museum, where the past lives on in beautifully carved courtyards, vibrant murals, and living customs.
A Glorious Past: The History of Bagore ki Haveli
Bagore ki Haveli was built in the 18th century by Amar Chand Badwa, who was then Prime Minister of Mewar during the reign of Maharana Pratap Singh II. It was situated on the shores of Lake Pichola and was supposed to be a show of strength, aristocracy, and architectural splendor.
After the death of Badwa, the haveli became the property of the Mewar royal family and served as a residence of relative royalty. It also experienced periods of abandonment and deterioration in the years to come, before its restoration to its former state in the 1980s by the West Zone Cultural Centre. Bagore ki Haveli today has been converted into a cultural center and museum, a tribute to the traditions and craftsmanship of the glorious past of Rajasthan.
Architectural Charm and Royal Grandeur
The haveli has well over 100 rooms, tastefully adorned with mirror work, frescoes, stone balconies known as jharokhas, and traditional arches. Its architecture is a beautiful mix of the Mughal and Rajput schools and hence, a treat to the eyes for history enthusiasts and architecture enthusiasts as well.
Some of the architectural features are:
- Lovely courtyards with stone latticework
- Stained glass windows filtering colorful sunlight
- Personal chambers of royal ladies, beautifully painted with murals
- Turrets and balconies with picturesque views of the lake
- A zenana (ladies’ quarters), complete with period furniture and artifacts
The mansion’s configuration provides the visitor with an insight into the way the life of royalty used to operate in the urban haveli environment.
Bagore ki Haveli Museum: A Cultural Treasure
The haveli today houses a vast museum that celebrates the lifestyle, art, and culture of the Mewar area. The museum is sectioned according to themes, each theme providing a one-of-a-kind experience.
Highlights in the Museum:
- Royal Jewellery and Attire: Elaborate royal clothes worn by kings and queens, with replicas of royal attire.
- Puppet and Doll Gallery: It is one of India’s largest collections, with more than 300 traditional dolls and puppets.
- Weapons and Tools: Old swords, daggers, shields, and objects from everyday royal life.
- Traditional Rajasthani Artifacts: From turbans, musical instruments, betel nut cases, to old hookahs.
- Miniature Paintings and Frescoes: Incorporating themes of Rajasthani mythology and royal procession.
Each chapter has been designed to tell a story — not only of royalty, but of the common folk, craftsmen, and customs that together form Rajasthan’s rich cultural texture.
Cultural Functions: A Living Museum Festival
Bagore ki Haveli is not just a piece of history — it is a living hub of culture and performance. The nights are alive with the famous “Dharohar Dance Show,” a Rajasthani folk performance held in the open courtyard of the palace.
Key features of Dharohar Dance Show:
- Ghoomar Dance: Performed by women draped in colorful ghagras, whirling gracefully.
- Terah Taal Dance: Performers use metal cymbals strapped to body parts.
- Bhavai Dance: Women load many pots on their head in this spellbinding performance.
- Puppet Show and Folk Music: Performing Rajasthan’s folklore culture.
These performances, followed by live folk music and traditional instruments, allow tourists to experience the soulful ambiance of Rajasthan.
What Makes Bagore ki Haveli Unique
- Location: Submerged in Pichola Lake vistas, near legendary sites like City Palace and Jagdish Temple.
- Authenticity: Contrary to some other commercially successful heritage sites, Bagore ki Haveli exudes a genuine local spirit.
- Interactive Experience: From opulent showpieces to colorful performances, visitors can soak up Rajasthan’s culture on various levels.
- Photography Paradise: There is not a single corner of the haveli that isn’t worth photographing, especially during sunsets.
Conclusion: A Royal Journey Worth Taking
Bagore ki Haveli Museum is not only a historic house — it’s a gateway to Rajasthan’s royal history and cultural pulse. From strolling through its spacious rooms, gazing at mirror mosaics, or cheering on dancers during the Dharohar show, the haveli provides an immersive experience of Udaipur’s royal essence.
For all the people seeking a mix of history, culture, and fun, a trip to Bagore ki Haveli is an experience one would always remember that has the actual essence of Royal Rajasthan.
Best Accommodation In Udaipur
Hotel Yaduraj is considered to be the best accommodation in Udaipur, combining comfort and luxury that is second to none. Guests can choose from Deluxe, Super Deluxe, or very spacious Family Rooms-all designed to provide a very relaxing environment for the guests’ stay. There is an option of having your meals at the restaurant with indoor or outdoor seating, with mesmerizing views. The relaxing pool is another nice option. Put it all together, and you have quite probably the best hotel in Udaipur where one can stay in the city, whether for pleasure or for business.
