A man-made lake called Lake Pichola is situated in the center of Rajasthan’s Udaipur. Due to its serenity and beauty, Lake Pichola, the oldest and largest lake in the city, attracts thousands of tourists every year. For those who enjoy tranquility and the great outdoors, it is a haven of towering hills, historic structures, and bathing ghats. Taking a boat trip is a must when visiting Lake Pichola, especially early in the morning. In the evenings, the pure water and historic buildings appear to have been covered in gold as the sun’s reflection turns them into golden hues. The captivating sights will transport you to a tranquil realm and awaken your romantic side.
Pichhu Banjara constructed the 3 mile long, 2 mile wide, and 30 foot deep Pichola Lake in 1362 AD, during the reign of Maharana Lakha. Captured by the allure of the lake, Maharana Udai Singh expanded it and built a dam along its edges. The icing on the cake is the background of verdant hills with numerous regal palaces lining the banks. The Mohan Mandir is located in the northeast corner, while the stunning City Palace of Udaipur is adorned on the eastern banks. The Jag Mandir is located on Jag Island, and the well-known Lake Palace is ideally positioned in the center.
See: Places to Visit in Udaipur
History of Lake Pichola
During the reign of Maharana Lakha in 1362 AD, Pichhu Banjara, a gypsy tribesman who brought grain, constructed the man-made Lake Pichola. The term “Pichola” means “backyard,” and the adjoining settlement of “Picholi” is whence the lake got its name. The beauty of this lake so charmed Maharana Udai Singh that he built Udaipur on its banks.
Built over centuries, the area around the lake features palaces, marble temples, family houses, and bathing ghats or chabutaras. Mohan Mandir, Jag Mandir Palace, and Lake Palace, also known as Jag Nivas, are a few of the well-known. Situated on Jag Island, the Jag Nivas has been transformed into a heritage hotel. Jagat Singh constructed the Mohan Mandir, which stands on the northeast corner of the lake, between 1628 and 1652. In order to enjoy the lakeside sunset, one of the Udaipur Maharajas constructed Arsi Vilas Island. It serves as a refuge for a variety of birds. At several locations where the lake narrows, ornamental arch bridges have been built to span the waterway between the banks.
Best Time To Visit Lake PicholaÂ
In Udaipur, summers may be quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. It is therefore best to avoid going to the city from March through June. Monsoon season, which begins in July and lasts until September, offers a captivating vista of Pichola Lake. The mercury stays in the range of 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. Wintertime is also a great time to visit the lake because of the pleasant, serene weather. The evening is the ideal time of day to explore the lake because of the stunning sunset scenery.
How To Reach Lake PicholaÂ
Lake Pichola is situated in the Rajasthani city of Udaipur. The lake is conveniently accessible via tonga, autorickshaw, or taxi. It’s also convenient to rent local busses.
Boating Cost: Rs. 400 per Adult, Rs. 200 per Child for 1 Hour, Rs. 700 per Adult, Rs. 200 per Child for Sunset Boat Ride.
Boating Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
