Lake Pichola
About
The heart and soul of Udaipur, Lake Pichola is an artificial freshwater lake created in 1362 AD that gives the city its enchanting character. The lake is home to two island palaces — Jag Niwas (Lake Palace, now a luxury hotel) and Jag Mandir, where Prince Khurram (later Shah Jahan) once took refuge, reportedly inspiring elements of the Taj Mahal. A sunset boat ride on Pichola, with the City Palace glowing on one side and the Aravalli Hills silhouetted on the other, is one of India's most magical experiences.
Highlights
What makes this place special
Sunset Boat Ride
A one-hour boat ride during golden hour offers constantly changing views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Aravalli Hills bathed in warm sunset light.
Jag Mandir Island
A 17th-century palace on a lake island with beautiful gardens, stone elephants lining the entrance, and a restaurant — said to have inspired elements of the Taj Mahal.
Ambrai Ghat View
The western shore ghat offers the most photographed view in Udaipur — the entire City Palace illuminated at night, reflected perfectly in the still lake waters.
Things to Know
- •Sunset boat ride is a must — book at Bansi Ghat or Rameshwar Ghat
- •The Lake Palace hotel is visible but accessible only to hotel guests
- •Jag Mandir island is included in most boat tours and worth exploring
- •Ambrai Ghat on the western shore has the best free view of City Palace at sunset
- •Water levels vary seasonally — boats may not operate in late summer
- •Evening aarti ceremony at Gangaur Ghat is a beautiful cultural experience
