At the very heart of Udaipur is Lake Pichola, but it’s not merely a lake—it’s the heart of the city, its golden mirror to palace loveliness and eternal romance. Surrounded by royal forts, havelis, ghats, temples, and greenhills of the Aravalli, the artificial lake has seen centuries of imperial glory, poet sunsets, and peaceful reflections which never cease to mesmerize people from across the globe.
Whether you’re indulging in a romantic sunset boat tour with your loved one or taking in the majesty of the City Palace from its lakefront, Lake Pichola is an experience that keeps on giving long after your journey.
A Glimpse into Lake Pichola’s Royal History
It was constructed in 1362 AD by a gypsy tribesman called Pichhu Banjara who had constructed a small dam to provide water to the inhabitants. Afterwards, when the city of Udaipur had been established by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, he was so enamored of the lake’s picturesque beauty that he directed to construct his new capital city on its banks.
To expand the lake and make it even more beautiful, Maharana Udai Singh II fortified the dam, and soon the region blossomed with marble palaces, temples, bathing ghats, and gardens and transformed Lake Pichola into a canvas of the royal heritage of Mewar.
Why Is Lake Pichola So Special?
Lake Pichola is not just pretty; it is actually very symbolic of the cultural and architectural charm of Udaipur. The lake measures roughly 4 kilometers in length and 3 kilometers in breadth, with islands scattered here and there and surrounded by some of Rajasthan’s most iconic locations.
This is why it gets imprinted in one’s mind:
1. Jag Niwas – The Lake Palace
Easily one of the most iconic views across the lake, this 18th-century white marble palace is today’s Taj Lake Palace Hotel, a high-end hotel. Floating majestically above the lake, it has been used as a setting for Hollywood and Bollywood movies, such as James Bond’s Octopussy.
2. Jag Mandir – The Island of Peace
Another palace island, Jag Mandir was constructed earlier in the 17th century and was used as a summer resort and royal oasis. Its complex architecture, marble elephants, and garden courtyards make it an experience that cannot be overlooked.
3. City Palace – Regal Reflections
On the lake’s shore stands the splendid City Palace that provides the royal backdrop. Its golden color in the evening time shines splendidly on the water, particularly when viewed on a boat ride or Ambrai Ghat.
4. Arsi Vilas and Mohan Mandir
Smaller islands within the lake, Arsi Vilas was a royal retreat and bird sanctuary, while Mohan Mandir was constructed by Maharana Jagat Singh for royal processions and festivals.
Experience Lake Pichola: Top Things to Do
– Sunset Boat Ride
The most ideal way to experience Lake Pichola is on a boat ride. From Rameshwar Ghat or City Palace, these boat rides provide a close-up view of the palaces and the sun setting behind the hills.
– Lake-Side Dining
Eatery spots such as Ambrai, Upre, and Jagat Niwas Palace provide lake-side dining with breathtaking nighttime views of the lighted palaces.
– Explore the Ghats
Popular ghats like Ambrai Ghat and Gangaur Ghat make for ideal photography locations, voyeuristic observations, or serene introspection.
– Evening Lights & Reflections
The lake comes alive after sunset as a sea of golden reflections, with temples and palaces illuminated, and amidst all this, the unimaginable magic that happens in the evening.
Getting There and Best Time to Visit
Lake Pichola is centrally located in Udaipur and can be accessed easily by rickshaw, cab, or foot from most parts of the city.
- Best time to visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is full.
- Timing: Early mornings for peace, or late evenings for the romantic glow.
Tips for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes if walking around the lake.
- Have your camera handy — every corner is a postcard opportunity.
- Be mindful of local traditions, particularly near ghats and temples.
- Prebook your boat ride during peak season.
Conclusion: A Lake That Lives in the Heart
Lake Pichola is not merely a lake — it’s a eternally telling storyteller, speaking softly of Mewar kings, royal romance, poetic loneliness, and timelessness. Its serene waters bear witness to Rajasthan’s kingly heritage and give contemporary travelers a reason to fall in love with Udaipur the most soulful possible way.
If you’re heading to the City of Lakes, make Lake Pichola your beginning point — and your fondest memory.
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.
