Udaipur

Statue of Maharana Pratap of Mewar, commemorating the Battle of Haldighati, City Palace, Udaipur

India - Udaipur - 001 - Udaipur Palace panorama from the lake (1038245526)

Maharaja Fateh Singh of Udaipur, (r.1884-1930), on royal barge, Udaipur

Udaipur-Rajasthan

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The View from the history

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Udaipur city view

Udaipur, also known as the "City of Lakes," is a city in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is famous for its history, culture, scenic locations, and the Rajput-era palaces. It is located in the southern part of Rajasthan, near the Gujarat border. Surrounded by the beautiful Aravalli Range, Udaipur is considered one of the most romantic cities in India and is also known as the "Venice of the East."

History

Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Sisodia clan of Rajput, after he moved from Chittorgarh following a Mughal invasion led by Emperor Akbar. The city was established as the new capital of the Mewar kingdom. Throughout its history, Udaipur managed to remain relatively untouched by the Mughal Empire, partly due to its mountainous terrain and its strategic location.

Geography

Udaipur is located in the southern part of Rajasthan, surrounded by the Aravalli Range, which separates it from the Thar Desert. The city covers an area of approximately 37 square kilometers and stands at an elevation of about 598 meters above sea level. Udaipur is renowned for its numerous lakes, the most famous being Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar, and Swaroop Sagar.

Attractions

The city is home to several historical and architectural wonders, including:

• City Palace: A majestic complex of several palaces, built over nearly 400 years, showcasing a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles.
• Lake Palace: Situated on an island in Lake Pichola, it is now a luxury hotel but was originally built as a royal summer palace.
• Jag Mandir: Another island palace in Lake Pichola, known for its beautiful gardens and marble structures.
• Saheliyon-ki-Bari: A garden and tourist space with fountains, kiosks, marble elephants, and a delightful lotus pool.
• Fateh Sagar Lake: An artificial lake known for its scenic beauty, named after Maharana Fateh Singh of Udaipur and Mewar.

Culture

Udaipur's culture is influenced by the Rajput ethos, with a rich heritage of performing arts, crafts, and festivals. The city celebrates all major Hindu festivals, with Diwali and Holi being the most prominent. The Mewar Festival, which marks the advent of spring, is celebrated with great zest, featuring traditional songs, dances, and cultural events.

Economy

The economy of Udaipur is primarily driven by tourism, due to its rich history, culture, and scenic locations. The city also has a thriving handicraft industry, including marble products, miniature paintings, silver arts, and terracotta. Additionally, Udaipur is a hub for marble quarrying and processing, and its surrounding regions are rich in minerals, contributing to the mining sector.

Education

Udaipur is a significant educational center in Rajasthan, hosting several universities, colleges, and research institutions. The most notable among these is the Mohanlal Sukhadia University, which offers a wide range of courses in arts, sciences, commerce, and management.

Transport

Udaipur is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Udaipur City Railway Station and the Maharana Pratap Airport link the city with major Indian cities. The city's road network facilitates easy access to other parts of Rajasthan and neighboring states.