Serene view of Lake Pichola with lush greenery under the blue sky with the backdrop of the hills.

Heritage and History: Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Udaipur

Udaipur, draped in the legacy of Mewar, rests like a quiet lyric beneath the Aravalli hills. Renowned for its tranquil lakes such as Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar, and Udai Sagar, Udaipur truly lives up to its titles, ‘City of Lakes’ and ‘Venice of the East’. The city is also a mosaic of intricately carved temples, vibrant bazaars, stately havelis, and museums that preserve the opulence of its Mughal and Rajput past. With rich deposits of zinc and marble, Udaipur is not only a jewel of natural beauty but also an economic and artistic hub, making it essential for Udaipur sightseeing lovers.

To truly immerse yourself in all that Udaipur has to offer, let Panna Vilas Palace be your home away from home. Overlooking the serene Fateh Sagar Lake, it welcomes you with elegantly designed rooms, warm hospitality, and 24-hour personalised service. Whether you're exploring the city or unwinding after a day of sightseeing, your stay promises to be as memorable and effortless as your journey.

Lake Fatehsagar: Tranquil Escape by the Aravalli Hills

 
Cradled in the lap of the Aravalli Hills, Lake Fateh Sagar is an artificial lake constructed in 1678 AD by Maharana Jai Singh. Born on 5 December 1653, Jai Singh ruled Mewar from 1680 to 1698. He envisioned the lake as a strategic water management project, establishing a dependable reservoir that played a crucial role in protecting Udaipur during times of drought and unrest. Located just a 5-minute stroll from Panna Vilas Palace, the lake is home to Nehru Park—an island at its centre, accessible by boat and ideal for a tranquil ride and a peaceful escape. The lakeside is lined with cosy cafes, offering serene sunsets that bathe the sky in golden hues, making it a favourite among both locals and visitors.

A serene sunset scene over Lake Pichola in Udaipur, with a small boat silhouetted against the horizon, a perfect way to experience the magic of Udaipur sightseeing.
A close-up of an ornate balcony window at Udaipur’s Saheliyon Ki Bari, showcasing intricate Rajput fountain architecture, making it an exquisite must-see among the places to visit in Udaipur.

Saheliyon Ki Bari: Explore the Royal Retreats

 

Saheliyon Ki Bari, or the Garden of Maidens, is a serene royal garden situated about 4 km from Panna Vilas Palace. Built in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for the Queen of Udaipur and her companions, the garden boasts elegant marble pavilions, lotus pools, and intricately sculptured fountains fed by water from Fateh Sagar Lake. It also houses a museum that displays the antique belongings of the Queen, offering a glimpse into royal life, making it one of the prime places to visit in Udaipur.

City Palace Complex: Udaipur’s Regal Grandeur

 
The City Palace Complex, located approximately 3 km from Panna Vilas Palace, is one of Rajasthan’s most iconic architectural marvels, showcasing a stunning blend of Rajput and Mughal styles. Comprising 11 interconnected palaces, it features ornate courtyards, intricate mirror work, and balconies with breathtaking views of Lake Pichola. The palace museum showcases royal costumes, weaponry, and paintings, offering a glimpse into Mewar’s regal past. The palace comes alive during festivals like Gangaur and Mewar, with vibrant processions and rituals uniting the city. Exploring the City Palace is among the most unforgettable things to do in Udaipur for a true glimpse into its royal heritage.

The grand City Palace complex of Udaipur, one of the most iconic places to visit in Udaipur, set against the shimmering backdrop of Lake Pichola with a partially visible hill.
A serene morning view of the majestic Jag Mandir Palace in Udaipur, with its ornate domes and balconies rising from the calm waters of Lake Pichola.

Lake Pichola & Jag Mandir: A Ride to Timeless Beauty

 

Lake Pichola, an artificial freshwater lake created in 1362, lies approximately 4 km from Panna Vilas Palace and forms the heart of Udaipur's scenic beauty. Surrounded by hills, palaces, and temples, the lake is dotted with four islands, the most notable being Jag Mandir. It is also known as the ‘Lake Garden Palace’, a 17th-century structure built from yellow sandstone and marble. It served as a summer retreat for the royals, and notably, Shah Jahan sought shelter here during his rebellion. The palace features elegant pavilions, a courtyard, and a garden adorned with white marble elephants. A boat ride here is the ultimate Udaipur experience, especially magical during golden hour.

Sajjangarh (Monsoon) Palace: Panoramas from the Hilltop

 
The Sajjangarh Palace, perched atop the Bansdara hill at an elevation of 944 metres, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Udaipur's lakes and the surrounding Aravalli hills. Located approximately 7 km from Panna Vilas Palace, this striking structure was built in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh and was originally intended as an astronomical centre. Constructed from white marble, the palace features turrets, domes, and intricate carvings that embody Rajput architectural elegance. It is a popular spot to witness stunning sunsets overlooking the lakes and the city.

Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, rises above manicured gardens and vibrant yellow foliage, set against a partly clouded blue sky.
A vibrant display of traditional, multicoloured lanterns, glowing warmly in ambient lighting.

Cultural Gems and Shopping Delights

 

Within a 3 to 4 km radius of Panna Vilas Palace, Udaipur’s vibrant shopping scene offers a deep dive into its cultural soul. Start at Bada Bazaar, bustling with traditional jewellery, leather goods, and vibrant fabrics. Nearby, Hathi Pol Bazaar charms visitors with miniature paintings, ethnic attire, and handcrafted keepsakes. For a more immersive cultural experience, head to Shilpgram, a crafts village where artisans showcase India’s folk traditions. During the Shilpgram Festival, its open-air amphitheatre comes alive with captivating dance performances from across the country, tying together shopping and cultural celebration.

Experiences You Can’t Miss

 
Start your day with a scenic ride on the Karni Mata Ropeway that offers a 5-minute ride from Deendayal Upadhyay Park to Machla Hill Top Temple, treating passengers to stunning aerial views of Lake Pichola, Doodh Talai, and the city. About 5 km from Panna Vilas Palace, the Vintage Car Museum displays a rare collection of royal automobiles from Rolls-Royces to Cadillacs, appealing to car lovers and history buffs alike. As night falls, the Light and Sound Show at Manek Chowk brings Mewar’s rich past to life with music, narration, and dazzling lights set against the grand facade of the City Palace.

A bright red and yellow ropeway suspended in the sky.
Arial view picture of Panna Vilas Palace featuring the property with the green surrounding and clear sky in background| Panna Vilas Udaipur

Stay by the Lake: Comfort and Charm at Panna Vilas Palace

 

Set by the peaceful Fateh Sagar Lake, Panna Vilas Palace is your perfect retreat in Udaipur. It offers elegant lake-view rooms and round-the-clock service with a rooftop restaurant that serves a diverse menu, including Indian, continental, Chinese, and Mughlai cuisines, with stunning panoramic views. Whether you’re enjoying a candlelit dinner under the stars or a quiet morning tea with the sunrise, the ambience is truly unforgettable

Blending heritage charm with modern comfort and convenient access to major travel hubs and city attractions, Panna Vilas Palace offers a relaxing and culturally rich Udaipur experience.

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