Udaipur is located in the state of Rajasthan. It is also known as the ‘city of lakes’ and often called ‘Venice of the east’. It is the historic capital of the kingdom of Mewar during the time of Rajputanans.
Historical Background
The city was founded by Maharana Uday Singh in 1559 AD as capital of Mewar. It was believed that a holy man meditating on the hills of Pichola Lake guided Maharana Uday Singh to build his capital on this spot.
After his death in 1572, his successor Maharana Pratap defended Udaipur from the Mughal emperors. He was one of the brave Rajputs ever who fought with Mughals in the war of Haldighati in 1576.
The Rajvanshis of Udaipur are the oldest dynasties of the world. Even the Nepal and Jammu Kingdoms have been originated from Mewar. Currently, the city is ruled by Maharana Mahendra Singh Mewar.
Udaipur – A city of rich art and cultural Heritage
Udaipur is one of the famous tourist destinations in India. The rich cultural heritage of this place attracts tourists from all over the world. The beauty of the lakes and palaces are an exception.
This place is well known for it handicrafts such as paintings, marble articles, silver arts and terracotta. Tourists do a lot of shopping of these items. Because of its scenic beauty, this place is also famous for the shooting of films.
Udaipur’s Culture
Rajasthani Culture is prominent in Udaipur. The people of Udaipur are very friendly and welcoming. Mewari is the language mostly spoken here, though hindi, rajasthani and English are also common in the city.
The cuisine of Udaipur generally comprises of vegetarian dishes as the place is highly dominated by Jain and Vaishwas. They offer really delicious food with a touch of traditional values in it.
Current Scenario
Apart from laying guidelines to improve tourism in the city, the State Government is also very inclined towards the growth of Sport sector in the city.
A step for the same has been taken by establishing ‘Khel gaon village’ in Chitrakoot Nagar which is committed to 12 sports right now, cricket being the major one.
The educational infrastructure is well developed in Udaipur. Various universities like Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and technology, IIM Udaipur, College of Engineering and Technology not only meet the requirements of the city but also of the country as well.
Climate and best time to visit
The climate is moderate throughout the year in Udaipur. The best time to visit this place is from September to March.
HOW TO REACH
AIR - Udaipur Airport, called Maharana Pratap Airport, or Dabok Airport, connects the city to most major cities within the country and other countries as well.
Air India, Jet Airways and SpiceJet get daily departures from New Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur for Udaipur. The air terminal is around 20 km away from the city.
ROAD - The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) transports connect Udaipur with places like Chittorgarh 115 km, Jodhpur 260 km and Bhilwara 166 km, among others.
Furthermore, the well maintained NH 8 link Udaipur with Delhi and Mumbai. Both Mumbai and Delhi are roughly 760 km away from Udaipur, and it takes around 11 to 12 hours to reach there.
TRAIN - Udaipur Railway Station connects the city with important Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Mumbai.
Prepares, for example, Mewar Express, Ananya Express, Gwalior-Udaipur Express and Chetak Express.