Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan India

Lake Pichola is one of the most enchanting and picturesque lakes of Rajasthan, India. Located in the heart of Udaipur city, the Pichola Lake derives its name from the erstwhile tiny village Picholi that flourished on the banks of this massive lake. Maharana Udai Singh II was so mesmerized by the beauty of this pristine lake that he founded the city of Udaipur. The lake was later expanded by him and a masonry dam called Badipol was built over the lake. Today, situated in the middle of the Udaipur city, the lake occupies an area of 1.5 square kilometers, going up 4km long, 3 km wide and 30 feet deep.

Pichola Lake is enveloped by numerous exquisite temples, marble temples, family mansions, hilly terrains, embankments and rows of bathing ghats which is swarmed by bathers at dawn. The beauty of the lake is enhanced by the scenic surroundings and the enthralling Aravalli’s in the backdrop. The lake at places narrows down and both its banks almost touch each other. Here, at these places the lake is spanned with ornamental bridges and their attractive arches.

Lake Pichola embraces several islands at regular intervals which have either palaces or pavilions on them. The most beautiful and eye-catching are the Jag Mandir and the Jag Niwas. The world-renowned Lake Palace is perfectly located on the Jag Island of this tranquil lake. Mohan Mandir and Natini ka Chabutra may be pretty small in size but form the attractions of the lake. All the palaces in the City of Palaces have a magnificent reflection in this lake.

Above all, boat cruises on the serene Lake Pichola sail towards the luxurious marble Lake Palace and Jag Mandir, leaving a soothing impact on the spectator. A boat ride in the lake at sunset is sufficient to enthrall anyone. The mesmerizing beauty of Lake Pichola makes it worth visiting during your visit to Udaipur.

The best time to go to Udaipur is in the winter months especially in March for the colourful spring festival. The weather conditions are ideal in the winter months (October to March) to spend the entire day out exploring the city and sight seeing.