Shades Of Udaipir - Shades Of Udaipur

Beyond the Palaces: Udaipur’s Hidden Corners and Untold Stories

Udaipur, often celebrated for its majestic palaces and serene lakes, holds within its folds lesser-known tales and tranquil spots that escape the typical tourist itinerary. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover these hidden places in Udaipur and explore offbeat things to do in Udaipur.

1. Rayta Hills: The Dawn’s Embrace

Just beyond the city’s bustle lies Rayta Hills, a top pick for sunrise spots in Udaipur. It’s a haven for early risers and nature lovers. As the sun ascends, it bathes the Aravalli hills and Udaipur’s skyline in golden hues. If you’re seeking unexplored Udaipur, this is where you start.

2. The Submerged Temples of Badi Lake

More than just a picturesque escape, Badi Lake hides ancient temples that surface during dry spells. It’s a site rich with mystery and history, ideal for those looking for offbeat Udaipur experiences and unique Udaipur sightseeing beyond the usual lake views.

3. Menar Village: The Avian Retreat

About 45 km from Udaipur lies Menar Village, known as the Bird Village of Rajasthan. A paradise for bird watchers, especially during migratory season, it’s a serene escape for a weekend getaway from Udaipur.

4. Neemach Mata Temple: A Spiritual Ascent

Located atop a hill near Fateh Sagar Lake, this lesser-known gem offers panoramic views and spiritual calm. A short trek rewards visitors with one of the most peaceful places in Udaipur—perfect for those seeking local experiences in Udaipur.

5. Lok Kala Mandal: Preserving Puppetry

Dive deep into Rajasthani culture in Udaipur at Lok Kala Mandal, where traditional arts like puppetry, folk dance, and tribal artifacts are preserved and celebrated. This is a must-visit for cultural tourism in Udaipur.

6. The Secret Tunnel Beneath City Palace

Unknown to many, the City Palace of Udaipur has a hidden tunnel—an ancient escape route steeped in history. It’s a reminder of Udaipur’s royal legacy and perfect for those wanting to uncover Udaipur’s secrets.

7. Street Art Walk: Udaipur’s Contemporary Canvas

The alleys around Chandpole and Jagdish Chowk are bursting with murals, making for a vibrant Udaipur street art tour. These urban canvases reveal how tradition meets modern creativity in this city.

8. Bada Mahal: A Palace Within a Palace

Often overlooked, Bada Mahal is perched inside the City Palace complex and offers a different angle of heritage tourism in Udaipur. This 17th-century marvel is a hidden treasure with Indo-Mughal architecture and serene gardens.

9. Rishabhdev Temple: A Confluence of Faiths

Located an hour away, Rishabhdev Temple is revered by Jains, Rajputs, and tribal communities alike. Its architecture and spiritual aura make it one of the best unexplored spiritual places near Udaipur.

10. Ambrai Ghat: The Evening’s Reflection

While many tourists flock to Gangaur Ghat, Ambrai Ghat offers a quiet, almost poetic experience. It’s one of the best sunset points in Udaipur, where the City Palace reflects magically on Lake Pichola.

Final Words: Discover Udaipur Differently

Udaipur tourism goes far beyond its famous landmarks. In its quiet corners, ancient trails, and vibrant streets lies the soul of the city. Whether you’re planning a heritage tour, a weekend escape, or seeking hidden gems in Udaipur, let the road less traveled lead the way.

5 dishes you must try if you are in Udaipur

The city of Udaipur which is known as the City of lakes among its visitors and citizens is also known for its varieties of street and royal dishes that one should definitely try if you are travelling in Udaipur.

These are 5 dishes you must try if you are in Udaipur
(as the list never ceases to end)

Dabeli

Dabeli can also be known as the Rajasthani burger as it includes a variety of ingredients and
the chutney or the special sauce makes it an experience for the taste buds. The perfectly
boiled potatoes garnished with chillies, tamarind, garlic and pudina chutney are placed
perfectly in a bun topped with pomegranates, bhujia and roasted peanuts.
This is not just a street food in Rajasthan but is unique for its taste as it oozes out the best
of emotions you can encounter while you are travelling in the streets of Udaipur.

Dal Bati Churma

The recipe of Dal Bati Churma comes with a unique combination of three specific
ingredients that provide a blast of taste together.
First comes the Dal and for the Dal is generally a combination of the big trio of lentils which
are Masoor, Mung, and chana but sometimes any one of them will also work wonders.
Then comes the Churma, which is basically crushed jaggery, the use of sugarcane jaggery is
seen dominant in this preparation
and finally the baati, baatis are soft doughs or balls made out of wheat or white flour baked
in an earthen oven. In the end you combine all these three and savour a taste of the kings in
utter delight.

Laal Maans

The state of Rajasthan is famous for many things, the gigantic sand dunes of the thar, the
royals residing in these sand dunes and the special peppers they added in their food.
Laal maans is one such dish that the Mewars of Rajasthan adored and relished in ecstasy.
Laal mans is that mutton preparation that leaves a serene after taste of sweetness but has a
hot meltdown of emotions when served.
Specialty, if you ask?
As the name suggests its filled with the exotic chillies of Rajasthani cuisine that can work
wonders in your mouth.

Pyaz ki kachori

Kachoris are loved all across India. Be it the simple Kachoris or specially made with a
stuffing that melts in your mouth. From Paneer to Pyaz( Onions) , kachoris are attractive.
From the first crispy crunch to a succulent fillings of onions that leave a creamy and juicy
aftertaste is something that feels out of the world. Pyaz ki Kachoris are available all across
Udaipur as a celebrated street food and is a must eat if you are in the city.

Ghevar

Udaipur. For some Halwais(sweet makers) a Ghevar is a work of art and skill. They are disc
shaped in nature and are prepared with a honeycomb pattern. The ingredients are simple:
Maida(refined flour), ghee( clarified butter) and sweet for that sensational taste. Along with
Ghevars, Udaipur is sacred when it comes to tasting heavenly sweet dishes such as the
Malpua, Rabdi, Doodhiya kheech and many more shine on the list.

So go on and try these dishes to your heart’s delight if you are experiencing your stay at
Udaipur. The city will never fail to surprise you and your expectations of food, love and
culture.

5 BEST DESSERT PLACES IN UDAIPUR

BEST DESSERT PLACES IN UDAIPUR

Got a sweet tooth? If yes we know how difficult it is to find a perfect place every time you crave desserts. There are some places we swear by in the name of customer loyalty, but sometimes having some best options handy can give us that sweet surprise when an unexpected dessert lands our mouth.

Spring Season is approaching and as the surrounding become more and more colorful we can not stop ourselves from looking for the best desserts places with a hot cup of coffee. Sometimes it gets difficult to find a perfect blend of taste and quality when it comes to desserts but you need not worry, as these places will definitely live up to your expectations.

The cake saga in the city of Udaipur is not very old, there was a time when even finding a good quality cake was a herculean task. But the local talent took a step ahead the game changed

forever. Now you can even find desserts as luxurious as if they are from a french bakery in the city of lakes.

The Bake Affair

This is undoubtedly the cities best bakery when it comes to cakes and cupcakes. But for cheesecake lovers, this place is the king of desserts. Starting in 2015 this bakery serves the best desserts in the city with an amazing ambiance. If you want to chill with your friends over a game of ludo or UNO or feel like having some of your time with some amazing books, this place can become your go-to place to satiate your sweet tooth cravings.

Note- Their Red velvet jar and Oreo cheesecake can put an end to any fight you might be having right now.

Where – AKRUTI COMPLEX, 101,

Time – 10- 8 PM

Home Delivery- Available

Nik94

If we talk about the art of creativity when it comes to desserts, the answer is Nik94, from introducing the concepts of small cakes to giving the gift of french patisserie, the croissant to the people of Udaipur, this place is full of dream cakes and french delicacies. If you are looking to customize your wedding cake, you don’t even need to think twice before choosing Nik94. Their German Pastry is to die for, it just melts away all your worries in a second with the rich taste of dark chocolate flavor.

Where – 13, Moksha Marg, Shastri Circle, Ashok Nagar

Time- 10- 10:30 PM

Home Delivery – Available

Le Cakery

The bakery was started in 2011 and soon became the go-to place for the people of Udaipur. Be it their creamy Red velvet pastry or rich dark chocolate truffle cake they run into the hearts of every cake lover. Apart from the best cakes in the town, their chocolate mousse, macrons, tarts, and cookies are their specialties too. You can either order their delicious cakes or even experience the world of dessert by visiting their own bakery cum cafe space.

Where – Shop 73 Chetak Circle

Time – 9:30AM- 9:30PM

Home Delivery- Available

Z27 Bakery

First established in the category of cafes, Z27 entered into the space of bakery when it realized that desserts hold a special place in the hearts of Udaipurites. From caramel cheesecake to their truffle pastry everything tastes like a haven in the world of Z27. Their dream ambiance with a perfect fairytale vibe is worth visiting. If you are looking for the best coffee in town do not forget to try their cappuccino, it is simply the best.

Where- Arya Samaj Marg Sector 4

Home Delivery- Available

Simply Sweet

As the name suggests, it is the most calming and beautiful place you will experience in between the chaos of the city. Mrs. Diya Trivedi turned her love for baking into her dream project simply sweet to serve the best-customized home cakes in the town. From best brownie tarts to customized Rasmalai and Gulab Jamun cakes you will find some best unique flavored cakes at simple sweet.

Where – Mewar Hospital Road, Navratna Complex

Time- 10:30AM- 11:15PM

Home Delivery – Available

Hariyali Teej

India is abode to many eternal stories which honor love, penance and sacrifices. The story of Shiva and Parvati is also one of the few tales that still live and rejoice our hearts. Mother Parvati is recognised as divine mother and She had to 107 times before after she got recognised as Shiva’s divine consort.

In a similar fashion till today many unmarried women maintain a strict fast, in a belief of getting a caring and honest bridegroom who shares the qualities like Lord Shiva.

This year Hariyali Teej is falling on 31st of July and women will celebrate this day by wearing Mehendi and performing traditions such as Sola Shringar.

Hariyali Teej is a celebration of destiny and faith. Small intimate beliefs that nests in our hearts is what connects our desires with our gods.

Gangaur Festival Udaipur

Known as the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur is renowned for its cultural ethnicity, vivid celebrations, and sprightly beauty. All the festivals are celebrated with utmost zeal and enthusiasm catering to all the masses of the society. One such beautiful celebration which is significant to most of the Rajasthan locals is the Gangaur Festival.

Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri are worshipped during this festival with great devotion. Gangaur Ghat, at the shore of Lake Pichhola, is one of the distinguished locations of Udaipur where various religious rituals and festivals are celebrated. There are several stories that are associated with the Gangaur celebration.

One such story is that once upon a time Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri went to a small village and the women of the poor vicinity offered them with several dishes and preparations. Goddess Gauri offered Suhagras to these women with great affection. Later, when the Lord and the Goddess were approached by the upper-class women they were offered food but she had nothing to bless them. So, she cut her finger and blessed these women with her own blood.

Also, young girls carry earthen pots with a small lamp inside the pot for ten days to collect sweets, flowers, etc. The pot is broken on the last day for the celebration of Gangaur Pooja. The Royal Family comes in the boat and the entire procession is witnessed merrily by all the communities. All the women are beautifully dressed in their charming outfits and fancy jewelry after applying Henna on their hands and feet. They also decorate their idols and make various offerings.

After all the rituals are completed, the idols are immersed in the water and are worshipped. Maiden worship for a benevolent husband and a married woman prays for a blessed married life and long life of their husband. The festival also consists of music and dance performances in the folk style. It becomes an extraordinary yet memorable moment once you witness this lively celebration of the Gangaur Festival.

7 FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN MEWAR

Mewar is a land of festivals and there is a wide variety of festivals celebrated here which is a true manifestation of its rich culture and traditions. Hence, many exciting festivals celebrated in Mewar are :

FESTIVALS CELEBRATED IN MEWAR

1. Jal Jhulni Ekadashi

2. Sheetala Saptami

3. Gangaur

4. Rath Yatra

5. Maha Shivratri

6. Govardhan Puja

8. Hariyali Amavasya

1. JAL JHULNI EKADASHI

Jal Jhulni Ekadashi comes every year on the Ekadashi ( eleventh day) of the Shukla Paksha ( bright half) of the Hindu month Bhadrapada, also known as Bhadra. Therefore, on this day, Hindus worship the Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu. Hence, many believe that the one who keeps the fast on this day gets blessed with immense happiness and good fortune. But, apart from the wealth factor, people also believe that Mata Yashoda washed the clothes of Lord Krishna on this day. Therefore, some people also call it Padma Ekadashi.

People celebrate Jal Jhulni with great zeal. Devotees carry out a Shobha Yatra (honor journey) with a palki (palanquin) of Lord Vishnu.
Jal Jhulni fast is for more than one day. Hence, on the eleventh day, the devotees set up the idols of Lord Vishnu on the earthen urns set up the day before. After that devotees worship the lord. And at the end of the eleventh day, devotees donate all the urns filled with cereals to brahmins and hence concluding the festival.

2. SHEETALA SAPTAMI

One of the most popular Hindu festivals celebrated in Mewar in honor of Sheetala Mata or Goddess Sheetala is Sheetala Saptami. Hence, according to the beliefs of the people, Sheetala Mata protects them, their children, and their family members from diseases like chickenpox and smallpox.

Sheetlasaptami is celebrated seven days after the Holi festival. That is ‘Saptami’ of ‘Chaitra Krishna Paksh’ according to the Hindu Calendar. Therefore, ‘Sheetla Saptami’ consists of Sheetla derived from the Hindi word ‘Sheetal’ which means ‘Cold’ and Saptami means seventh. Hence, Sheetala Saptami is also popular as ‘Basoda’ which means ‘Cold’. Moreover, on this day people don’t ignite the ‘Chulha'(stove) at home and prepare the food on the previous night only. In addition, women wake up early in the morning, take bath and do ‘Puja’ of ‘Sheetla Mata’ who is an ‘avatar’ of ‘Goddess Durga’.

Sheetala Saptami is also quite popular by the name ‘Dasha Mata’. Hence, Women serve the ‘Cold food and sweets’ prepared the night before to Sheetla Mata as prasad. The food prepared in the prior night involves puri, sabzi, pakodi, papdi, besan chakki, and one summer delicacy famous in Mewar i.e ‘Oliya’, which is the most famous delicacy of this festival.

3. GANGAUR

Once upon a time, Lord Shiva, Parvati along Sage Narad came upon a village. The news escalated real quick like the fire in the forest. Hence, the local women started preparing a feast for the God guests. Women from the upper class served, first. And, goddess Gauri showered hold water on them as a symbol of blessing. But they ran out of holy water when the women of lower-class arrived with their offerings. Thus, Goddess Parvati cut her finger to sprinkle blood as the holy water. In conclusion, people worship Lord Shiva and his wife goddess, Gauri at this festival.

Gangaur is colorful and one of the most important festivals celebrated in Mewar. Hence, people throughout the state of Rajasthan celebrate this festival with great fervour and devotion from March–April. It is the celebration of spring, harvest, marital fidelity, and childbearing. Gana is a synonym for Lord Shiva, and Gau, which stands for Gauri or Parvati who symbolises Saubhagya (marital bliss). Therefore, according to the beliefs, married women worship for the welfare, health, and long life of their husbands and for a happy married life. Whereas, unmarried women do so for being blessed with a good husband.

Moreover, Udaipur has a Ghat dedicated to the name Gangaur. Furthermore, Gangaur Ghat is one of the prominent shores of Pichola Lake that connects part of the city to Lake Pichola. Hence, this ghat is a prime location for the celebration of the Gangaur festival in Udaipur.

4. RATH YATRA

Udaipur, the capital of the Mewar dynasty, is one of the oldest in northern India. Jagdish temple in Udaipur was constructed by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1652, is a panchayat architect. Therefore, many festivals are celebrated in this temple throughout the year. Similarly, people also celebrate the festival of Rath Yatra here at the temple.

Devotees, localities, and various communities participate very joyfully and cheerfully. The preparation of the festival starts 30-40 days before the day. Like chariot cleanliness, polishing the chariot with silver, and also other artwork performed by the devotees. Also, a day before the festival, people organise a music ceremony at the temple where devotees sing and dance to devotional songs. Then, on the procession day, the wooden idol of Lord Jagdish disembarks temple to the silver chariot. And later the procession starts and gives a glimpse to every single devotee around his town, like a kin,g to check the condition of their people. Hence, people of various communities, castes, and societies come forward in making this an immense festival celebrated in Mewar.

5. MAHA SHIVRATRI ( Festivals celebrated in Mewar)

Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival that is celebrated annually in honour of the god Shiva. Hence, the name also refers to the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance. Moreover, there is a Shivaratri in every luni-solar month of the Hindu calendar on the month’s 13th night/14th day. But once a year, in late winter and before the arrival of Summer, marks Maha Shivaratri, which means “the Great Night of Shiva”.

All through the years, the Mewar & Maharanas have regarded Eklingnath Ji as the master, and they are just as ministers who carried out the Lord’s orders.

Hence, according to the scriptures, Mahashivratri has a long history. During Sagar Manthan, the churning of the ocean, a pitcher full of poison had emerged. It was so strong that it could destroy the whole universe. Therefore, they went to Lord Shiva to seek protection. So, the kind Lord agreed to drink the deadly poison and kept it in his throat,t which turned blue and due to this miracle, Shiv has been given the name of Neelkanth. Hence, to commemorate this event, bhakhts celebrate Mahashivratri with great fervour.

Mahashivratri was kind of a public festival on which the common man also observed fast and took part in worship. Therefore, on Shivratri, a large number of devotees go to Eklingnath Ji. Many devotees walk all the way and many perform rituals in the Eklingnathji mandir at Udaipur Nathdwara road. Mahashivratri is among the major festivals celebrated in Mewar.

6. GOVARDHAN PUJA ( Festivals celebrated in Mewar)

Govardhan Puja is also known as Annakut or Annakoot (meaning a “mountain of food”). Hence, it is a Hindu festival in which devotees worship Govardhan Hill and prepare and offer a large variety of vegetarian food to Krishna as a mark of gratitude. In addition, this day commemorates the incident in the Bhagavata Purana when Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill to provide the villagers of Vrindavan shelter from torrential rains. Therefore, the incident represents how God will protect all devotees who take singular refuge in him. Devotees offer a mountain of food, metaphorically representing the Govardhan Hill, to God as a ritual remembrance and to renew their faith in taking refuge in God. Hence, most Hindu denominations celebrate this festival all over India and abroad.

The Annakut festival occurs on the first lunar day of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the month of Kartik, which is the day after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

There are many variants in which these people celebrate this festival. Hence, in one variant of the ritual, people make a god (Lord Krishna) out of cow dung in a horizontal position. People then decorate it with earthen lamps (Deepak or Diya), seenkh (a material used for broom chaffs), and candles. Then, after worship, the structure of the lord is fed by the bhaktas or worshippers, and the ladies fast and pray. Hence, Govardhan puja is among the major festivals celebrated in Mewar.

7. HARIYALI AMAVASYA ( Festivals celebrated in Mewar)

In Hindi, the word Amavasya refers to a no-moon day, and Hariyali refers to greenery. Therefore, people celebrate Hariyali Amavasya on a no-moon day to welcome the month of monsoon. Hence, as per the Hindu calendar on the first Amavasya of Saava,n which is the period of July-August. People celebrate it with great enthusiasm, and it is among the major festivals celebrated in Mewar.

In Udaipur, the celebration includes the setting up of a fair. Hence, this fair goes on for three days. Furthermore, there are stalls of food, games, rides, clothes, and jewellery. The famous dish of Rabri Malpua is available in plenty. Energetic vendors voice themselves out loud. In addition, the fair witnesses an atmosphere of fun and frolic. Therefore, the fair attracts people from all age groups. Apart from that, tourists from all across the country visit it. Hence, it results in developing a platform for national integration. The fair is also adorned with beautiful and colourful costumes, traditional music, and dance.

Therefore, the marvellous combinations of these provide entertainment to everyone, and they enjoy themselves. Moreover, even though both men and women are a part of this fair, the last day of the fair is usually reserved for women. On this day, the men are not allowed to enter the fair. All the women pray for the prosperity of their families with all their hearts. In addition, the Collector of Udaipur declares this a holiday for schools and government offices. Not only this, schools and clubs also have cultural programs to commemorate this day. Then, ceremonies of tree planting are held across places. Hence, a visit to this fair is a much-awaited affair.

Durga Puja Udaipur: A window into India’s Cultural Diversity

Durga Puja Udaipur
Durga Puja: A Window into India’s Cultural Diversity

Yes! You’ve read it right. Durga Puja, or “Durga Pujo” as we Bengalis twist our tongues to accentuate our sweet language, is a celebration that identifies India and not Bengalis.

We are proud to call ourselves a secular and culturally tolerant country. So, it would be absolutely incorrect on the part of intellectually capable Indians to mention a prerogative statement as “Durga Puja” is a Bengali Celebration.

Being a Bengali, I can proudly say, setting aside all prejudices on my culture, that Durga Puja is celebrated with enthusiasm by each and every Indian.
Durga Puja is a celebration of the arrival of Maa Durga to our heavenly abode. She is invited merrily to out Mortal Realm as she arrives from the heavens. She is worshipped during her stay and then given a celebrated farewell. All this is a jubilant exercise of power, culture, flamboyance and rejuvenation. Specifically by the Bengali Community.

But this celebration is a symbolic relic of the power of Womanhood and what she means to humanity. In all, Durga Puja is a celebration of Feminism and Womanhood.

This is what this article is all about. The acceptance and indulgence of this very earthly concept by not only the Bengalis, but by the people of all the communities.

The example of our National Capital, Delhi, is an arbitrary proof of the same.

Durga Puja Udaipur
Durga Puja Udaipur

Today, I went around Delhi to find some Bengali essence out of a city, which is a conglomeration of all cultural diversity.

Being a photographer, my lens filtered and captured all that is strictly Bengali.
This led me to Chittaranjan Park, the mini-Kolkata. The hub of Bengali culture.

And I was surprised. Yes, Bengali participation and footfall were high. But people from all communities and religions were equally contributing to the celebration. And to add to that, the collective resonance of the communities gave a melody to the whole ambience.

In all, it made me realise that Goddess Durga came to Earth for a few days to celebrate with us.

I want to congratulate her on her success. She did bring her children together

THE UNCHARTED REALITY OF UDAIPUR HISTORIC LOCATIONS

UDAIPUR HISTORIC LOCATIONS

Udaipur has its renowned name- ‘the city of lakes. Profoundly, Udaipur is also deemed to be called as one of the most romantic spots on the continent of India. But what’s more to the location amidst will be breathtaking, almost extravagant for most of you. Rather charmingly, for the copious mysteries it carries with it.

HISTORIC PLACES OF UDAIPUR:

1. The City Palace

It is one of the largest palace complexes in Udaipur and is considered to be one of its types in the state of Rajasthan. Contrary to what any rational person might think, it is not only known for the Maharanas administering and living their kingdom from this palace (also making it a famous historic landmark), but it has been known far and wide for the popular culture it has created with the filming of the 1983 James Bond movie ‘Octopussy’. The full disclosure compels me to flabbergast you with the fact that during the formation of democratic India in 1949 (after the independence in 1947), the palace substantially lost its ownership but regained it subsequently along with the successor kings.

The stunning location in Udaipur is now known for owning numerous parts of the palace as heritage hotels. And as we all know, that is how tourism flows in…

But the palace is not the only location that gets it going, it’s the hues of lakes, the startling temples, the stupifying gardens like Gulab Bagh, the flora and fauna that would leave you coming for more.

Keywords – (THE UNCHARTED REALITY OF UDAIPUR HISTORIC LOCATIONS)

2. The Lake Palace

Once a summer palace in Udaipur of the Sisodia rulers turned into what is now called Lake Palace (or Jag Niwas), it is voted the most romantic hotel in the world- and of course, in India. This is where all the fairytale weddings and magical honeymoons take place. The floating palace is located across from the comparatively larger City Palace. The Venice of the East, here, also offers a special tour of vintage cars.

3. Fatehsagar lake

The lakes in Udaipur make it a dream destination for almost every tourist or visitor. What’s more? These lakes have served as a lifeline for many centuries now, and why wouldn’t they? It just comes naturally…

Fatehsagar is one of the four lakes that was once known as a Connaught dam. What is surely going to stagger you is that it was built as a remembrance of the visit of the son of Queen Victoria- the Duke of Connaught! But the city always leaves room for more mystery with tons of history.

4. Moti Magri (Udaipur)

Moti Magri-also is known as Pearl Hill, is not only a memorial of the great warrior Maharana Pratap, but it also pays tribute to the Haldighati Battle. This place in Udaipur surely gives a perceptive way to learn more about the small hill, along with the Aravali hills in the scenic background.

5. Gulab Bagh (Udaipur)

One of the largest urban parks in India, The Sajjan Niwas Garden is a major highlight of Udaipur due to its abundance yet well-organised rose beds. Although the roses aren’t solely the reason behind the creation of this alluring beauty, it was originally made as a wish Maharana Sajjan Singh of Mewar had. The wish was to stock the garden with curing herbs and medicinal shrubs in Udaipur, which led him to make what is now an immense sheet of rich roses and more. This place makes the city even more scenic to the locals as well as the tourists.

6. Jagdish Temple (Udaipur)

In the stunning Udaipur city, the lakes and palaces don’t have it all. The temples are what sets the religious beliefs amongst many of the locals as well as the tourists. Without a doubt, it would be difficult to challenge the beliefs of the olden days, but it is said that the marble slab in the Jagdish temple holds magical powers. Rubbing your shoulder, back, or knees on the marble accentuates a quick relief against the throbbing pain.

Towards the end, the city of lakes, with each passing day, undermines the history for the locals, visitors, and tourists. The unfolding of such kinds of mysteries is what makes everyone hooked on the stories.

7. Sajjangarh Palace (Udaipur)

This stunning architectural complex in the city is commonly known as Monsoon Palace, commonly by tourists and common residents of the city. It was built in the 19th century, and it was consequently used by the great successor Maharana Fateh Singh, who used it to analyse and check the monsoon clouds. Many of the residents and tourists are still unaware of the prospects this exquisite palace serves.

It is known that it collects rainwater for harvests, which is capable of storing up to 195,500 litres. But it was found to have a little storage for harvest by many, and due to this adequate supply, the Palace was later abandoned.

8. Ambrai Ghat (Udaipur)

Previously, this resplendent Ghat was quite famously known as Manjhi Gha, where it passes through the old streets that are also known as the ‘old city’ in Udaipur. This place has a peek wind chill, a nd one can easily spot children flying their kites in the hues of the sky.

The Ghat is one of the many romantic spots for couples and has witnessed many pre-wedding photoshoots.

9. Baghor Ki Haveli (Udaipur)

The stunning palace cum museum has a lot stored in for the residents and the tourism that flows in the Udaipur city. Divided into numerous sections like the weapon section, the puppet section, and so much more to explore. The lobby in the museum depicts various paintings that give a reflection of what the royal age might have looked like.

There are paintings of the kings prepared for the war, and one can conveniently admire the enthralling craftsmanship and architecture of the Haveli in Udaipur city.

Hariyali Amavasya

The tradition that celebrates greenery with livelihood

Each and every festival celebrated in the Indian subcontinent is associated with the changes in the seasons. Be it Holi which represents the basant Ritu(Indian Spring), Navratri which symbolizes the beginning of Sarat Ritu(Indian Early Autumn), Lohri which symbolizes Harvest, thus iconifying the Hemant Ritu(Indian winters), so on and so forth but the most interesting aspect of these festivals is how they preserve our Indian values and how tradition becomes a powerful example for sustainability

The Hariyali Amavasya which is celebrated for the reason of incorporating greenery with Livelihood comes in the month of Sravan. The month of Sravan comes with the monsoon winds, which are serene in experience but unfortunately boosts diseases. So, the importance of planting trees acts like a boon to provide natural remedies for the families.

Sravan is sacred for hindus as countless devotees maintain a moderate to strict penance for Lord Shiva, who is also known as Adi Guru( The eternal teacher).the belief is simple, a sign of gratitude for the eternal grace that they receive in return

Families maintain prevention from eating Non vegetarian diets and the festival of Hariyali Amavasya is more important as it imbibes the values of preserving the natural ecosystem around us.

To plant trees is regarded as of high value in this Particular Amavasya. Devotees engage themselves with planting trees such as NEEM for health, BANANAS for babies, TULSI for peace and AMLA for Lakshmi.

Now, all of these plants have medicinal value such as Neem is renowned for its curative properties, Bananas are known for providing a greater development of the baby’s brain and spinal cord, Tulsi is a natural antidepressant and Amla is one of the highly valued gynecological remedies.

It’s fascinating how Indian culture not only recognises the importance of sustainability but also teaches us to be compassionate and respectful for the natural ecosystem around us. This tradition is thousands of years old is a remarkable evidence for the world that how simplistically we are taught to preserve and conserve the world around us

Udaipur celebrates this festival with a grandeur. It initiates a MELA(fare) for two days, out of which one day which precisely allows only ladies is a story and tradition, specially found in India. This is one of the biggest fares that exist in Udaipur which hosts around 500 shops and spreads to a vastness of 3kms.

The story is of the year 1898 when Maharaja Fateh Singh came in with Maharani Chavri to experience the grandeur of the lake Fatehsagar, Astounded as they were, they made the decision to celebrate Hariyali Amavasya with a fare.

In this year 2022, the fare is being conducted after the pandemic, so the expectations are high among the Udaipur citizens. This year the Mela is happening on 28th and 29th July, along with a police force of 1500 and 200 Civil personnel who will make the security for the Mela, especially on day 2 of the event.

Hariyali festival is one of the many Indian festivals that carry a science which leads to a comfortable and healthy lifestyle that we all seek in our era of rapid modernization and Udaipur celebrates it with a bang come and be part of this amazing event and experience a moment of your life

KUNDESHWAR JI MAHADEV TEMPLE

We were told in school that, “Man(human) is a social being.” And we always believed in this explanation, little did we realise that man is also a spiritual being who has the greatest worry of reaching the threshold of his success. But without being aware of the spirituality within us, we dwell in search of various tips and tricks to increase the success quotient of our lives. Thus, nature comes into the picture in the form of lush greenery, waterfalls, cool breezes, which helps us to realise our true selves.

Well, in the era of evolution when the cities have found peace in the race against time. There are still some places like Kundeshwar Ji Mahadev temple in Udaipur that are away from the rush of urban living. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva of Hindu folklore and is known amongst the locals and tourists for its ethereal beauty and the other Gods incarnated in the temple premises who are as old as history.

If you are someone who wants to explore this shrine which is amidst the beauty of hills then you have to take 76 Pindwara Highway if you are heading towards it from the city of Udaipur. It Is often suggested to walk through the temple premises to explore the unexplored. What adds to the beauty of this temple is the Kund which is found behind the temple. The Kund is known for its crystal clear water in which you can even observe the small living creatures within it. Whereas the Kundeshwar waterfall is the centre of attraction here, which attracts people despite their ages.

The music of waterfalls and flowing winds are so mesmerising and at the same time, the tranquillity of this place is something which is again very remarkable. Moreover, there might be a chance that your mobile phone and other gadgets will not be able to connect you with the outer world because of the network. But I consider it as a boon because this thing gives you a great chance to connect with nature on a higher level.

The Kundeshwar Ji Mahadev temple is famous for its scenic views. Also, if you are someone planning to visit here, there is a list of places like Wax Museum, Saheliyon ki bari, Shilpgram etc nearby which one can for sure visit on the way too. The visitors in the main temple are allowed from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon in the morning hours and from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. during the evening, whereas the temple premises are open for visitors throughout the day till 7:00 in the evening.

The place is too beautiful and it’s worth visiting. Moreover, the serenity of this place is something which can only be explored once you visit here.