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Time of India
06-07-2025
- Time of India
5 destinations to make the Udaipur–Kumbhalgarh–Mount Abu trip epic
If you thought Rajasthan was only about golden sands and camels, the Udaipur–Kumbhalgarh–Mount Abu circuit is here to change your mind, with serene lakes, misty hills, and forts with walls so long than you could have imagined. This route offers a mix of royalty, wilderness, and mountain air that feels like a mini-vacation within a vacation. Here are five must-visit stops that make this circuit one for the bucket list. City Palace, Udaipur Considering Udaipur is your starting point of journey, the City Palace is the perfect first chapter. Built over 400 years by various Mewar rulers, it's not just a palace, it's a sprawling complex of balconies, courtyards, and corridors that overlook Lake Pichola. The museum inside gives a glimpse of royal life, but honestly, you'll be too busy snapping pictures from every mosaic window. Sunset from the palace terrace is pure cinematic magic. Lake Pichola Well, you are in Udaipur, and Lake Pichola is that one place that you can't just ignore. Hop on a boat ride and glide past the iconic Lake Palace and Jag Mandir, both floating in the middle of the lake like dream sequences. Whether you're here for the photo ops or just want to channel your inner Maharana, it's a ride worth taking. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Try to catch the golden hour, when the sun sets and the water turns into a sight that you won't forget for the longest time. Read more: Top 5 African safari parks and what makes each wildly unique Kumbhalgarh Fort After that, Kumbhalgarh should be in your travel itinerary, as it's more than just a fort. It's a fortress that will change your perspective of visiting forts. With walls stretching over 38 km (second-longest in the world, this 15th-century marvel is perched dramatically over the Aravalli hills. Besides its sheer size, Kumbhalgarh is famous as the birthplace of the legendary Maharana Pratap. Walk the ramparts, peek into ancient temples, and don't miss the evening light-and-sound show that makes history feel like theatre. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary If you are the adventure kind, and love to spot wildlife, step into the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. You won't regret it for sure. Spread across rugged terrain, it's home to leopards, sloth bears, antelope, and a surprising number of birds. You can take a jeep safari or go trekking with a local guide for a deeper forest fix. Dilwara Temples, Mount Abu Finally, cool down in Mount Abu, which is famed as Rajasthan's only hill station. The standout here? The Dilwara Jain Temples, a complex of five temples that might just be the most beautifully carved stonework you'll ever see. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the intricate marble carvings are so fine they seem almost impossible. Read more: Top unmissable stops on the Guwahati–Shillong–Cherrapunji road trip This circuit offers a slice of everything: history, architecture, nature, and a little mountain mist. So whether you're a culture vulture, a nature lover, or someone who just needs a break from city chaos — the Udaipur–Kumbhalgarh–Mount Abu trail might just be the trip you didn't know you needed.
India.com
12-06-2025
- India.com
Explore Udaipur City: A Budget-Friendly Guide To Free Adventures!
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is a place where history, culture, and stunning natural beauty come together. But what if you're traveling on a tight budget? No worries! You don't have to spend a fortune to experience the charm of this royal city. From scenic lake views and historic sites to vibrant streets and cultural hotspots, Udaipur offers plenty of attractions that cost absolutely nothing. If you're ready to explore without burning a hole in your pocket, here's how you can do it! a Stroll Around Lake Pichola One of the most beautiful and iconic spots in Udaipur, Lake Pichola is an absolute must-visit. Walking along its banks during sunrise or sunset is a magical experience. You can admire the grand Lake Palace floating in the middle, watch the changing colors of the sky reflected in the water, and even spot locals going about their daily routines. If you're lucky, you might even catch a traditional boatman singing old Rajasthani folk songs while rowing across the lake. And the best part? It's completely free! Quick Facts: Lake Pichola was created in 1362 AD by a local Banjara tribesman. The famous Lake Palace, now a luxury hotel, was once a royal summer retreat. Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset for the best views. the Old City and Its Colorful Streets Udaipur's old city is a maze of narrow lanes, filled with traditional houses, temples, and local markets. Walking through these bustling streets is like stepping into a living museum. You'll come across intricate wall paintings, beautifully carved balconies, and vibrant street art. Make sure to visit spots like Gangaur Ghat and Ambrai Ghat, where you can relax by the lake and soak in the lively atmosphere. You'll also find small workshops where artisans create handmade crafts—just watching them at work is an experience in itself! Quick Facts: Udaipur's old city dates back to the 16th century. The narrow lanes were designed to keep the city cool even in peak summers. Gangaur Ghat is a popular spot for photography and evening cultural performances. Karni Mata Temple for a Panoramic View If you love breathtaking views, a trip to Karni Mata Temple is a must. Located on a hilltop, this temple offers a panoramic view of Udaipur's skyline, lakes, and palaces. The best part? You can reach the top either by a ropeway (paid) or by taking a scenic uphill walk through a beautiful forested path—completely free! Once at the top, spend some time soaking in the peaceful vibes of the temple and watching the city from above. Sunset from here is an unforgettable sight. Quick Facts: The temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a Hindu sage worshipped as a goddess. The walk up to the temple takes around 15-20 minutes. Best time to visit: Late afternoon or sunset for stunning city views. Cultural Performances at Bagore Ki Haveli (Outside) Bagore Ki Haveli is famous for its evening folk dance performances. While the entry to the show is ticketed, you can still enjoy the vibrant atmosphere outside. The open courtyard near the haveli often hosts impromptu musical performances, puppet shows, and local artists showcasing their talent. Just standing outside and soaking in the energy of the place is a great experience. Plus, the haveli itself is a beautiful historical structure, perfect for photography. Quick Facts: Bagore Ki Haveli was built in the 18th century by the Prime Minister of Mewar. The haveli has over 100 rooms with intricate mirror work and frescoes. Folk performances here showcase Rajasthan's traditional dance forms like Ghoomar and Bhavai. the Hidden Beauty of Ahar Cenotaphs Ahar Cenotaphs is a lesser-known but stunning historical site. This royal cremation ground houses more than 250 cenotaphs of the Mewar kings and queens, dating back over 350 years. The intricate marble structures, domes, and peaceful ambiance make it a great place to explore. Unlike the crowded tourist spots, Ahar remains quiet and serene, making it a perfect place for some peaceful reflection and photography. Quick Facts: Ahar was the royal cremation site for the Mewar dynasty for over 400 years. The site features cenotaphs of 19 maharajas of Mewar. It is located just 2 km from the city center. the Gardens at Saheliyon Ki Bari Saheliyon Ki Bari, or the Garden of the Maidens, is a peaceful oasis filled with fountains, lotus pools, and lush greenery. While entry inside the main garden requires a ticket, the outer area and some portions of the garden are freely accessible. You can sit by the fountains, admire the architecture, or just relax under the shade of ancient trees. This place is a great escape from the city's hustle and bustle, offering a glimpse into the royal leisure of Udaipur's past. Quick Facts: Built in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for his queen and her attendants. The fountains here work entirely on gravity without any pumps. Known for its beautiful marble pavilions and elephant-shaped fountains. a Morning Aarti at Jagdish Temple One of the most famous temples in Udaipur, Jagdish Temple is a magnificent example of Indo-Aryan architecture. Visiting the temple is free, and attending the morning aarti (prayer ceremony) is a deeply spiritual experience. The rhythmic chants, temple bells, and devotional music create a mesmerizing atmosphere. Even if you're not religious, the architectural details of the temple—its intricately carved pillars, massive stone elephants, and stunning ceiling designs—are worth admiring. Quick Facts: Jagdish Temple was built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh. The main deity is Lord Vishnu, carved from a single piece of black stone. Morning aarti takes place daily around 5:30 AM. Final Thoughts Exploring Udaipur without spending a single dollar is absolutely possible! With its free attractions, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, this city offers endless opportunities to experience its charm without worrying about your budget. So put on your walking shoes, charge your phone for all those Instagram-worthy clicks, and get ready to discover the best of Udaipur—without spending a rupee! Have you explored Udaipur on a budget? Share your favorite free experiences in the comments!
India.com
10-06-2025
- India.com
Exploring Udaipur: 24 Hours Without A Map – A Journey Of Surprises!
Udaipur is known as the 'City of Lakes' or the 'Venice of the East' due to its rich nature, history and culture. This city is located in the center of Rajasthan and it is filled with stunning lakes, palatial buildings, crowded markets, and narrow roads. But let's imagine for a second what would happen if one were to explore Udaipur without a map for even a single day. Would you be able to navigate through the maze that is Udaipur ? Luckily, the answer is in the city's uncanny ability to place amazing experiences right at your disposal, even when you don't know where you are. Morning: A Serendipitous Start In Udaipur, the early sparkle of the sunrise dances lightly on Lake Pichola. Temples with bells ringing and aroma of chai in the air beckon you like music tucked under the sheets. With it being a little challenging to navigate through Udaipur, taking an accidental stroll leads you to the Jagdish Temple, a notable site that features an idol of Lord Vishnu and is an architectural marvel in its own right. You're captivated by the architecture and sculptures surrounding it and the peaceful atmosphere allows you to admire the temple in its full glory. Upon venturing deeper, you will notice the distinct change of rhythm in the old part of the city. Its narrow roads are full of shops that sell textiles, traditional Rajasthani jewelry pieces, and various souvenirs. Since you do not have a map, you will depend on your hunches alongside the ever-helpful locals that could effortlessly guide you to your destinations. You order pyaaz kachori and mirchi vada along with a glass of steaming masala chai for breakfast in one of the tiny eateries which offer a glimpse into traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Afternoon: Immersed in The Wonders of History As the sun shines on higher, you come across the beautiful City Palace. Even without any form of navigation, you would clearly be able to spot this structure. While wandering around the palace grounds, you examine the mix of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. The palace is decorated with courtyards, balconies, and museums that depict the extravagant lifestyle of the Maharanas of Mewar. Without needing a guide, I headed out of the palace and took a walk along Pichola Lake. The breeze combined with the sparkling water was refreshing from the hot sun. After strolling, you will find the Gangaur Ghat, which is known for breathtaking views of the lake and hills along with activities that locals and tourists engage in. Instead of renting a boat, I decided to sit on the edge of the Ghat to relax and watch the view. Evening: An Unforgettable Boat Ride Towards the evening, I decided to take a boat ride myself. While I was initially guide-less, the ride was more than worth it. The magnificent 'Lake Palace' that now serves as a luxury hotel appeared to float in the middle of the Pichola Lake. With the setting sun bathing the water in gold, my imagination ran wild. It was as if I was transported into a fairytale land. After reaching back to land, you are led through a captivating journey and find even more hidden gems in Bagore Ki Haveli. Udaipur's rich heritage is exhibited exquisitely in this museum housed in an ancient royal villa. After this, make your way to the Dharohar Cultural Show, where traditional music and dance from Rajasthan will captivate and enrich your knowledge of history even more! A Whole New World Opening Up No map? No problem! Get ready to breathe in the incredible smell of Indian cuisine and keep your eyes peeled for hints of the traditional spices. Head to the skyline, enfolding yourself in lively rooms filled with lightning and colors while overlooking Lake Pichola. Dive into some traditional dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and the iconic laal maas. Each platter offers a fresh and exciting flavor you're bound to remember for days on end. Sometimes losing your way can lead to the best and most unforgettable experiences, regardless of the outcome. As you walk the serene streets with the calming glow of the moon shining bright, be sure to pay a visit to Ambrai Ghat. The magic of Udaipur combined with fresh candle-lit waters creates the perfect end of a long day full of exploration. Conclusion: Reasons to Love Losing One's Way Udaipur is a city full of surprises, so it is interesting to stroll around for 24 hours without a map or GPS. My intuition suggests that you might be able to retrace your steps at every corner or eventful hidden temple, a serene lake or even a market. And that's the thing. You can freely wander the city since you have no map, and you can just rely on your instincts. Ultimately, Udaipur is breathtaking in a way that losing oneself within the maze goes beyond finding a path: it's about accepting the unpredicted turns and cherishing the difference. Thus, what path do you think Udaipur without a GPS will take? The response is quite straightforward: Udaipur will eternally remain within the bounds of the majestic city which is adorned with vivid history and leaves you with a signature 'bowled-over' experience.
NDTV
20-05-2025
- NDTV
12 Most Scenic Lakes Around the World That Seem Too Beautiful To Be Real
There's something undeniably soothing about a lake that looks straight out of a postcard. Whether it's set against snow-dusted mountains, nestled in thick forests, or shimmering in surreal shades of blue and green, a stunning lake can stop you in your tracks. These natural wonders aren't just beautiful — they feel almost otherworldly. From glacial blues to mirror-like reflections, the most scenic lakes in the world have a way of pulling you in. If you're after jaw-dropping views and serious screensaver material, these 12 incredible, most scenic lakes from around the globe deserve a spot on your travel wishlist — and your camera roll. 1. Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada The glowing turquoise water of Lake Louise isn't filtered-it's the real deal. Tucked inside Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, this glacier-fed lake gets its surreal colour from rock flour, a fine sediment created by glacial erosion. It's framed by the towering peaks of Mount Victoria and the Victoria Glacier, making it one of the most photographed lakes in the world-for good reason. 2. Lake Bled, Slovenia A castle on a cliff? Check. A tiny island with a church in the middle? Also check. Lake Bled is basically a fairytale in lake form. This Slovenian gem is only about 35 minutes from Ljubljana by car, but feels like a world away. The 17th-century church on Bled Island is reachable by traditional wooden "pletna" boats, adding to the lake's charm. 3. Lake Tekapo, New Zealand New Zealand doesn't do mediocre landscapes, and Lake Tekapo is proof. Known for its bold turquoise colour (thank you, glacial minerals), the lake is a hotspot for stargazing thanks to its location in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. Bonus: during spring, the lake's edges explode with purple and pink lupins-florals for days. 4. Peyto Lake, Alberta, Canada Yep, another one from Canada. Peyto Lake is shaped like a wolf's head when viewed from above, and the electric blue colour feels like nature's answer to neon. It's also easy to access from the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the world. 5. Lake Pichola, Udaipur, India Surrounded by palaces, temples, and hills, Lake Pichola is all about elegance. The City Palace dominates the eastern banks, while the ethereal Lake Palace (now a luxury hotel) floats in the centre. This man-made lake was created in 1362, but it's Udaipur's modern-day charm that makes it a standout. 6. Lake Baikal, Russia Lake Baikal holds a few world records: It's the oldest (around 25 million years), the deepest (over 1,600 metres), and it contains 20% of the planet's unfrozen freshwater. During winter, it freezes over with a sheet of transparent ice that creates wild patterns and mesmerising bubbles trapped below the surface. 7. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia Not just one lake — sixteen interconnected lakes, plus waterfalls, wooden boardwalks, and all the turquoise you can handle. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's absolutely deserving of the hype. Tip: go early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the lakes at their most peaceful. 8. Lake Titicaca, Bolivia/Peru At over 3,800 metres above sea level, Lake Titicaca is one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. The real draw? The floating Uros Islands, made entirely of totora reeds by the local Uru people. The lake straddles the border of Peru and Bolivia, and it's steeped in Inca history and Andean mythology. 9. Lake Como, Italy Yes, the George Clooney one. Lake Como is where dramatic mountains meet Renaissance villas and stylish lakeside towns. Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are all worth a visit, especially if you're into boat rides, Aperol Spritz, and lakeside dining. 10. Crater Lake, Oregon, USA Formed over 7,700 years ago by a collapsed volcano, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and is known for its startlingly clear, cobalt-blue water. With no rivers feeding in or out, its purity is off the charts. Fun fact: Swimming is allowed — but it's freezing. 11. Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, New Zealand Queenstown's dramatic backdrop isn't complete without Lake Wakatipu. Shaped like a lightning bolt, the lake is surrounded by The Remarkables mountain range. According to Maori legend, the rhythmic rise and fall of the lake's water level is due to a giant's heartbeat-science calls it a seiche. 12. Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada Rounding out the Canadian trifecta is Moraine Lake in Banff National Park. It's a glacial lake with an intense turquoise hue, framed by the Ten Peaks mountain range. For those iconic Instagram shots, visit in early summer when the snowmelt has just kicked in-timing is everything.
India.com
19-05-2025
- India.com
Experiencing A Traditional Wedding In Udaipur City – What Makes It Special?
Udaipur stands out as the 'City of Lakes' and 'Venice of the East' because it becomes home to lavish traditional weddings that also showcase its stunning palaces and relaxing lakes together with its diverse culture. A wedding event in Udaipur represents an exclusive cultural adventure which showcases both royal legacy and ageless customs and deep historical heritage. Traditional Udaipur weddings unite opulent venues with intricate rituals to create an exclusive experience that fascinates wedding participants alongside all their guests. The Royal Backdrop: Venues That Define Grandeur A traditional wedding in Udaipur becomes especially unique due to its exquisite natural backdrop. Various royal locations throughout the city provide a perfect venue to host extravagant celebrations. Cellent wedding celebrations are staged at the City Palace and Lake Palace and Jagmandir Island Palace along with impressive establishments such as Taj Lake Palace and The Oberoi Udaivilas . Wedding locations in Udaipur provide guests breathtaking vistas across shimmering lake water and spectacular Aravalli mountain views as well as intricate architectural masterpieces that recreate the splendor of Rajput royal times. The exotic character of these locations lets couples weave royal features into their ceremony celebrations. Through elephant and horse processions with decorations as well as performances by folk artists and Mewar-inspired floral decorations, weddings acquire the atmosphere of ancient royal ceremonies. The proper wedding ambiance transforms regular celebrations into lasting memories that no one will easily forget. Vibrant Traditions: Rituals Rooted in Culture Rajasthan's abundant cultural heritage shines through all rituals of a traditional Udaipur wedding. Every community as well as every religious community along with its own traditional families holds distinct wedding ceremonies which share common deep meanings. Various wedding practices persist in most ceremonies throughout this region even though they keep varying from one wedding to another. Before the wedding, the couple receives elaborate henna artwork which integrally decorates their hands and feet at the Mehndi Ceremony. The mehndi events in Udaipur combine exciting music and dances while guests wear traditional dresses made of lehengas alongside turbans. The wedding festivities receive added energy through traditional dances such as Ghoomar and Kalbeliya which are performed at events. The sangeet night unites both families in attendance for a musical and dancing event which fills the air with excitement. Professional performers, along with family members, showcase their talents through choreographed acts and impromptu performances. The traditional Rajasthani musical instruments dholak and sarangi along with morchang serve to increase the celebratory mood. A wedding in Udaipur becomes exceptional when guests witness the groom's procession known as baraat. Grooms enter the scene accompanied by decorative horses or elephants as numerous relatives and friends dance to music produced by professional live bands. The event gets dramatically more interesting when fireworks illuminate the night sky during this ceremonial march. A beautifully decorated mandap (canopy) serves as the location for performing both Pheras and the Varmala ceremony during the main wedding event. A religious wedding service occurs between the couple who repeat their wedding promises while standing at a holy fire beneath the chantings of Vedic priests. The exchange of varmala during the bridal ceremony allows the bride and groom to convey their mutual acceptance and respect through the ceramic flower garlands. Following the wedding the festivities continue with two essential events which consist of vidaai (farewell) followed by reception celebrations. Milan guests savor traditional Rajasthani meal selection consisting of dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi and laal maas with mawa kachori that accompanies international dishes. Culinary Extravaganza: A Feast Fit for Royalty Indian weddings naturally place food in the center and such weddings in Udaipur faithfully maintain this tradition. The culinary diversity of Udaipur creates a gastronomic experience through each dining opportunity during the celebrations. Expert caterers create royal Rajasthani thali menus by combining traditional age-old recipes of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes from previous generations. The signature dining dishes at these weddings include ker sangri and bajre ki roti paired with safed maas then these dishes are served with dessert items including ghevar and malpua. Wedding guests at such events enjoy homemade chaat kebabs and parathas served fresh through live kitchen counters. A Udaipur wedding dining experience stands unique because it combines historic food tastes with contemporary plating techniques. Artistic Flourishes: Decor and Entertainment Any Udaipur wedding showcase decor that exceeds all expectations. Marigold flowers combined with mirror work block-printed fabrics along with colorful lanterns transport locations to dreamlike spaces. Rajasthani folklore motifs and desert motifs together with peacock motifs form regular decorations at events to represent Udaipur's cultural heritage. Attractive rangoli designs situated at doors create a vivid and inviting ambiance through which guests are warmly received. The main entertainment aspect creates a highlight of Udaipur wedding celebrations. Udaipur couples who want diverse entertainment beyond traditional arts often choose contemporary performances that consist of laser displays together with DJs or celebrity artists to maintain celebration momentum throughout their ceremonies. Rajasthani heritage forms the basis of entertainment at weddings which includes puppetry combined with magical performances along with fire demonstrations. Hospitality and Warmth: The Essence of Udaipur Weddings Genuine hospitality emerges as the distinct hallmark of weddings that occur in Udaipur. The hosts make extraordinary efforts to provide both hospitality and care for their entire guest list. The hosts provide numerous comforts for guests which include arranging accommodations and conducting guided visits to explore the city landmarks while delivering unforgettable event experiences. Local inhabitants reflect their warm personality through a friendly culture which forms one of the numerous attractions of a wedding celebration in Udaipur. What makes visitors comfortable in Udaipur is the warm atmosphere throughout the city including the busy markets of Hathi Pol and the boat rides on Lake Pichola. Conclusion A typical wedding event in Udaipur showcases the love story as it unfolds through cultural heritage against this city's unmatched stunning scenery. The royal spaces along with colorful traditions together with amazing food and genuine hospitality form an unmatched expedition through the city. People who join Udaipur wedding celebrations have the honor of meeting an unforgettable experience which weaves traditional ceremonies together with luxury elements that continues to resonate in their memories.
