Lake Pichola – A Complete Travel Guide to Udaipur’s Iconic Lake
Lake Pichola is one of the most famous and picturesque lakes in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Surrounded by historic palaces, temples, ghats, and hills, this artificial freshwater lake is a major attraction for tourists visiting the “City of Lakes.” Known for its romantic boat rides and stunning sunset views, Lake Pichola perfectly reflects the royal charm of Udaipur.
History of Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola was created in 1362 AD by a local Banjara tribesman to meet the water needs of the region. Later, Maharana Udai Singh II expanded the lake after founding Udaipur. Over the centuries, the lake became central to the city’s culture, architecture, and tourism.
Key Attractions Around Lake Pichola
1. City Palace
The City Palace of Udaipur, located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Its balconies and terraces offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landmarks.
2. Lake Palace (Jag Niwas)
The Lake Palace, now a luxury heritage hotel, sits on an island in the middle of Lake Pichola. It is considered one of the most romantic hotels in the world and is a major visual highlight during boat rides.
3. Jag Mandir
Also known as the “Lake Garden Palace,” Jag Mandir is another island palace famous for its Mughal-style architecture and peaceful ambiance.
4. Gangaur Ghat & Ambrai Ghat
These ghats are popular spots for photography, evening walks, and sunset views. They are ideal places to experience the local atmosphere around Lake Pichola.
Boat Ride on Lake Pichola
A boat ride on Lake Pichola is one of the top things to do in Udaipur. The ride offers panoramic views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Aravalli Hills. Evening boat rides are especially popular due to the golden sunset reflections on the water.
Boat Ride Timings: Morning to evening (timings may vary seasonally)
Best Time to Visit Lake Pichola
The best time to visit Lake Pichola is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be hot, while the monsoon season enhances the lake’s beauty with lush surroundings.
How to Reach Lake Pichola
- By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport, about 22 km from Udaipur
- By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station, around 3 km away
- By Road: Well-connected by highways to Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad
Why Lake Pichola is Famous
- Iconic palaces floating on water
- Romantic boat rides
- Stunning sunset and night views
- Rich history and royal architecture
- One of the most photographed locations in Rajasthan
Conclusion
Lake Pichola is not just a lake—it is the heart and soul of Udaipur. With its royal palaces, calm waters, and scenic surroundings, it offers an unforgettable experience for travelers, honeymooners, photographers, and history lovers. A visit to Udaipur is truly incomplete without exploring the timeless beauty of Lake Pichola.