Category: Places to Visit

If you are one of those tourist or even a local who does not have much idea about the tourist attractions of the city, offbeat places to travel, historical places in Udaipur, and the religious and cultural places in the city, then this surely is the right place for you to be at.

Whether the place you are going is worth visiting or not you will get every bit of information of places in Udaipur here in this section. If you are a tourist we exactly know what you want. All the places, timings, map and important information related to it that we do not want you to miss. If you are a local, then also we have something for you. From hidden places in the city to lesser known facts about them, this section has covered all the information for both the local people as well as the tourists.

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Places to Visit

5 Must Visit Places in Bhilwara | Getaway from Udaipur

According to the traditions, the city of Bhilwara acquired its name by the fact that it was mostly inhabited by the Bhils in the earlier days. Eventually, the Bhils were driven away by the ancestors of the peasant settlers towards the interior places of less importance and hilly tracts. It is also believed that the city had a mint where coined known as ‘Bhiladi’ were minted and this denomination derived the name Bhilwara. Over the years, the city emerged as the textile city of Rajasthan.

Apart from being the textile city of the world, Bhilwara houses multiple tourist attraction which allures a large number of both national and international tourists. Out of umpteen numbers of places to visit in Bhilwara, we have handpicked five of them which you shouldn’t miss at any cost.

Meja Dam

Source: Rajasthan Tourism

Built across the Kothari River, Meja Dam is one of the biggest dams in the city of Bhilwara. It houses a beautiful park within known as green mount park which is the ideal choice of all the citizens for a picnic. Meja Dam provides a tranquil environment that is most preferable by the people to spend quality time with their friends and family. Best time to visit Meja Dam is monsoon when one can witness full fledged flow of the dam.

 

Pur Udan Chatri

Source: HelloTravel

Pur Udan Chatri is an umbrella-shaped structure sitting atop a rock. The magnificent height and location of the place offer a stunning view of the entire city. Most of the wonder of the place lies in the gorgeous architecture and heritage along with the natural beauty of the place. On closer inspection, you’ll find that the name of the place literally translates to the flying umbrella.

 

Kyara Ke Balaji

Source: Rohit Kharol

Kyara Ke Balaji is one of the most renowned temples in the city. Situated at a distance of 10 km from the city, the temple is greatly admired for its unique feature. The image of Lord Hanuman on the rock inside the temple is said to be a natural image of the lord which appeared miraculously. Devotees from all over the world travel a large distance to seek the blessings of the lord. Apart from that, images of Ghata Rani and Patola Mahadev can also be witnessed on the rock inside.

 

Harni Mahadev

Source: Sanjay Dadhich

Harni Mahadev temple is a renowned pilgrim center in Bhilwara. Situated at a distance of 6 km from the Bhilwara city, the temple is visited by people from far and wide. The name of the temple has been originated by the village named as ‘Harni’ which lies nearby. This temple is a home of a ‘shivling’ which has great religious importance. It is a stunning example of the Rajasthani style of architecture. As a result of its location on the hill, one can witness a beautiful and panoramic view of the entire city. A three day fair is also conducted at the place during the festival of Shivratri.

 

Badnore Fort

Source: carrentalinajmer

The fort is a striking example of traditional Rajputana style of architecture. Situated on the top of a hill, this seven stories building provides a mind bobbling panoramic view of the city. The fort is located at a distance of 84 km from Bhilwara and is a visual treat for all the history lovers out there. To know more about Badnore fort, click here.

It is now time to pack your bags and make a plan to visit Bhilwara soon with your buddies.

Have you visited any of these places? Share your experience with us in the comment section below or if you have anything to share with us, drop a mail to me at

juhee@udaipurblog.com

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Places to Visit

5 Reasons why Enigma Restaurant and Lounge is the Best Hangout Place in Udaipur Right Now!

All the Udaipurites are always in search of new and trendy places to spend a good time with their friends, family or their loved ones. But it often becomes a mental dilemma almost every weekend to find a good place which offers a fine view, scrumptious food and an umpteen number of points where you can click a bunch of good selfies and groupfies.

And that is where the all-new Enigma Restaurant and Lounge falls into place. This restaurant has literally got everything you’re looking for. And we’ll give you 5 reasons why Enigma Restaurant and Lounge is the coolest place to hang out in Udaipur Right Now!

 

#1 An unbeatable dining experience

No matter what role other things are playing, until you don’t get an unforgettable dining experience, you are likely to get unsatisfied with the experience. So first things first, this multicuisine restaurant will not just treat your taste buds with the most amazing food of your life but will also take care of all your requirements. And having said that let me mention the special and the most romantic seating arrangement for 2 on the rooftop. There is also a Private Silver Dining Room with a sitting capacity for 10 people along with Personal Butler Service. What else would anybody want?

 

#2 Terrace lounge

A breath of fresh air while you savor every flavor of your favorite dish presented right in front of you. Is it your dream meal too? Then you can definitely fulfill it at the terrace lounge of Enigma Restaurant and Lounge. This also brings us to our next point.

 

#3 Mind bobbling view

Who won’t like a breathtaking view of Lake Pichola and the magnificent City Palace while creating memories with your friends and family? Wondering where to get it? You already know the answer, don’t you? The rooftop setting and the Terrace lounge will give you a panoramic view that will allure you for sure.

#4 Picturesque interior

The restaurant is full of exclusive interior elements that will literally up your Instagram game. From Carved Winged Couple chairs at Indoor Dining to Hand shaped ones at the rooftop, from intricate chandeliers to stupefying wall arts, you won’t be able to help but click a stunning picture or two.

#5 Plentiful services

While you are at Enigma restaurant and lounge, one thing is for sure that you won’t leave the place disappointed. All the credits go to the plentiful services available at the restaurant. These services include A La Carte Service, Valet Parking Service, Personal Butler Service, and many more.

Bid goodbye to the days when you would search for another place to hang out with your buddies or spend quality time with your beloved ones. Enigma restaurant and lounge assures you an unforgettable meal experience that will invite you repeatedly to the place.

Have you visited Enigma Restaurant and lounge? Share your experience with us in the comment section below. We would love to hear from you.

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Places to Visit

Know the Reasons behind the Strange names of Places in Udaipur

There are many places in the city with weird and unusual names which will make you think about the reasons and the incidents that lead to these names. If you are also one of those who has the same questions about these places, then this article will reveal everything to you.

Below is the story behind some places in Udaipur with such unusual names

 

Rani Road

The locals say that during the earlier time, this was the place where the royal queens or Rani used to go out to stroll. Right on the opposite side which is the Fatehsagar road right now was used to be called by the name Raja road as it was the place where the Kings or the Rajas used to go out for a walk.

Surajpole-Hathipole-Chandpole

During the ancient period in Udaipur, walls were built to protect the kingdom. To enter the city, 7 major and huge gates were built which were given different names ending with ‘pol’ which translates to gates. It is possible that these names were given to them randomly whereas the locals come up with other different logics for the names too such as Hathipol was the place where the elephants of the kingdom used to be placed, the reason behind Surajpole might be because of the fact that it is facing the east direction which is also the direction from where the sun rises, whereas Chandpol is right opposite to the Surajpole and the full moon rises just above it, so the name.

 

Thokar Chouraha

‘Thokar’ which means to stumble has its name because in earlier times there was a railway line which ended right at the place. To stop the bogies from going any further, the railway used to place a stumbling block which used to stop the rail bogies. This made the place famous by the name ‘Thokar Chouraha’.

 

Hiran Magri

Before the urbanization took over in the city, the entire area of the Hiranmagri sector was simply forest. The place was basically made up of ridges or ‘Mangre’ in Hindi. These ridges used to home various deers which are called ‘Hiran’ in Hindi. Together, the place got the identity with the name ‘Hiranmagri’.

Malla Talai

Malla Talai is an area which is nearby Lake Pichola which used to be a boat manufacturing area. These boat operators in the place were called ‘mallahs’ and so the name derived was Mallatalai.

 

Maldas Street

Maldas was named after a famous businessman in Udaipur names Maldas. It is basically a street for apparel and cosmetic shopping for women. There are many places in the city which are named after some people who used to start residing there in the first place.

Bhadbhuja Ghati

The name Bhadbhuja Ghati was named after the local community ‘Bhadbhujas’ who used to reside there. These people used to roast cereals in Bhaad in the earlier days. Bhaad was the high-temperature oven.

 

Sindhi Bazaar

After the partition of India and Pakistan, many Sindhis migrated to different cities. Many of them came to Udaipur as well. During those times, they were in need of occupation. It was then that they were allotted a market in the city for their businesses. The market then got popular with the name Sindhi Bazaar. It is said that Sindhis are very good at business.

 

Saifan Chouraha

Saifan Chouraha is a circle ahead of Fatehpura circle. The term Saifan actually originated from the term Siphon which is actually a tube used to convey liquid upwards and downwards from a reservoir. The similar process was witnessed at the place also. Here used to be 2 gigantic reservoirs which received water from streams so that water from tank 1 was transferred to tank 2 and then circulated to houses and fields.

 

Ayad

The name Ayad originated from the ancient civilization there named as Ahar. Various remains of the civilization have been excavated by the Archeological department and are showcased in a museum located in Ayad.

Bhaang Gali

This narrow lane is located inside Surajpole. As the name clearly suggests, the lane used to have Bhang shops. Bhang is the edible preparation of cannabis originating from the Indian subcontinent. Bhang Gali still owns some shops even now.

 

Foota Darwaza

The term ‘Foota Darwaza’ translates to the ‘broken gate’ in English. For now, you won’t find any broken gate but in earlier days, the place used to have a huge gate whose doors were broken. Today, the place has reduced to just door frames and that is the reason why it’s called Foota Darwaza.

The above information was gathered through the locals residing there. Although no authentic source can be provided, most of them make sense, don’t they?

Do you also know about any such story behind the names of places in Udaipur? Share with us in the comment section below or write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com

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Places to Visit

Historical Places in Rajsamand District

Rajsamand is not an alien place for the citizens of Udaipur. The place is located at a distance of mere 62 km and is named after the famous Lake Rajsamand. The history of the place dates back to 17th century when Rana Raj Singh Mewar constructed an artificial Lake named as Rajsamand in 1622 AD which reflects a magnificent illustration of the then architecture and public works even today.

Rajsamand has even witnessed the first war of Indian Independence in 1857 under the auspice of Tantya Tope and British rule. Although Rajsamand houses numerous places to visit, there are some places that possess an interesting piece of history behind them.

 

Historical Places of Rajsamand District

Gilund

Parallel walls unearthed in Gilund | Source: ResearchGate

Gilund is an archeological place which was excavated in the Ahar Banas complex. The other sites excavated along with Gilund were Ahar, Ojiyana, Marmi, and Balathal. There are three major Rivers in the area namely Kothari, Banas, and Berach. Gilund was occupied from approx. 3000-1700 BCE. All these years can be divided into three phases which are Late Ahar Banas 2000-1700 BCE, Middle Ahar Banas 2500-2000 BCE, and Early Ahar Banas 3000-2500 BCE. At the very sight, various housing structures were uncovered along with large buildings with long parallel walls, workshops, refuse heaps, and an exterior wall surrounding the site.

 

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Source: Travel triangle

The Fort was built by Rana Kumbha between AD 1443 and 1458. The fort is defended by a series of a wall which is the second largest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. The site where Kumbhalgarh stands was a bastion, which belonged to the Jain descendant of Mauryan emperors of India during the second century AD. It is the same fort where Prince Udai Singh was smuggled to in 1535. This happened when Chittaur was under siege.

 

Haldighati

Source: Tripoto

The place has been of immense historic interest where a fierce battle was fought between Maharana Pratap and Mughal emperor Akbar in AD 1576. The battlefield comprises a narrow pass which runs south to northeast and ends in the plain where the main battle took place. The name of the valley derives from its yellow soil which resembles the color of turmeric or Haldi.

 

Chetak Samadhi

Source: Flickr

The place is the memorial of Chetak who was the loyal horse of Maharana Pratap. He took his last breath during the battle of Haldighati in AD 1576. In this battle, Maharana Pratap and his horse Chetak was severely injured. But to save his master, he traveled a large distance and then crossed a nearby stream. The site was raised to commemorate his loyalty.

 

Nav Chowki

Source: scenicrajasthan

The northern portion of Rajsamand Lake’s embankment is called Nav Chowki. It consists of three intricately carved Chatris or pavilions which depict figures of gods and goddesses, figures of animals along with floral and geometrical designs. The famous Rajprasasti Sanskrit inscriptions contain verses laudatory of Maharana Raj Singh and also provides an elaborate history of Mewar in general and Maharana Raj Singh in particular.

 

Badshahi Bagh

Source: archaeological survey of india

When Maharana Pratap didn’t accept defeat from the Mughal sultanate, Mughals sent Man Singh to attack Pratap and his army. The passage of the Haldighati was very difficult and narrow and it is said that only one horseman could go at a time, so the army of the Mughals stood in the open and that place later became famous with the name ‘Badshahi Bagh’.

 

Rakht Talai

Source: archaeological survey of india

Rakht Talai is the spot where the second half of the battle of Haldighati was fought between Maharana Pratap and the Mughals. The battle led to thousands of soldiers dying from both the sides and the blood which flowed was to that extent that it formed a pool and that is why the place is called Rakht Talai. There is a twin cenotaph which commemorates the exploits of Raja Ram Saha of Gwalior and his three sons who paid the debt of gratitude to their patrons with their lives.

 

Dewair

Source: Rajsamand

The location of Dewair a strategic significance as various ways to Mewar, Marwar, Gujarat, and Malwa pass from Dewair. The famous battle of Dewair was started at this very place on Vijay Dashmi in the year 1582. In this epic battle, Maharana Pratap and Kunwar Amar Singh (his son) displayed extreme strength and bravery. The war can be said the revenge war of Haldighati and proved to be the biggest milestone achieved by Pratap during his lifetime.

 

Nathdwara temple

Located in the Aravali hills on the banks of Banas River, Nathdwara temple houses the idol of Shreenathji who is considered as an incarnation of Lord Krishna. The idol originally belonged to Jatipura, Mathura and was shifted here in 1672.

If you have any feedback regarding the article, share it in the comment section below or write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com

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Forum Celebration Mall has Got Lots of Surprises for you This Christmas Season!

It’s finally Christmas time!!

There would be hardly anyone who doesn’t like Christmas time. And there is no reason why you shouldn’t. The festival is loaded with surprises and brings lots of joy to every individual’s life. But this Christmas season is going to be a lot more thrilling and surprising. You ask me how?

 

Forum Celebration Mall has got a bucket full of exciting surprises and thrilling activities prepared just to make your Christmas more sparkling. Christmas Wonderland of Forum Celebration Mall assures the most rewarding Christmas ever for you this season. There are multiple reasons for you to spend your Christmas at the Mall.

Surprises? Tell me more!

 

Mind-bobbling Gifts for the shoppers

Forum Celebration Mall has always made shopping more fun and exhilarating for its shoppers. From tons of appalling offers to a number of activities and prizes, one thing is definitely assured that your shopping time is going to be the best time of your day.

This season, Celebration Mall has brought to you the Christmas wonderland lucky draw where you can get a chance to win loads of exciting prizes. All you have to do is shop for Rs. 1000/- and above (single bill) at your favorite outlet in Forum Celebration Mall and participate in the lucky draw contest. At the end of the event tenure, 75 Lucky draws will be conducted where 75 lucky winners will win exciting prizes which include Led TV, mobile phones and many more.

When – 19th December 2018 to 6th January 2019

 

Exhilarating Christmas décor to up your selfie game

Christmas doesn’t seem like one until there are fairy lights around you, the huge Christmas tree perfectly lit up along with the glowing sleigh. But in case you’re thinking about where can you get it here, then worry not Celebration Mall has got all of that covered for you.

This season, witness the most mesmerizing Christmas décor at celebration mall which will definitely up your selfie game with Santa Claus, glowing sleigh, shimmering Christmas tree and Christmas fairy lights all around you. This thematic décor will be the most amazing thing you’ll witness and it will definitely add up to your selfies and groupfies making it a picture-perfect experience for you with your friends and family.

Max kids fashion show

Here, at Celebration Mall, there’s something for everyone. And while we say this, Kids need not get disappointed at all because there is something for them too.

 

Forum Celebration Mall brings Max Kids Fashion show on 26th December 2018 that will give a platform to your little ones to showcase their talent in front of the entire city. It’s the absolutely right time for you get your kids dressed up and set the stage on fire.

With so many exciting prizes and activities, your Christmas season just got better.

See you there!

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Places to Visit

Badnore Fort in Bhilwara | Historical Vacation Getaway from Udaipur

Badnore Fort is a strikingly magnificent fort situated in the Bhilwara district of Rajasthan. At a distance of approx. 180 km from Udaipur, the fort makes one of the best vacation getaways from Udaipur.

Architecture of the Badnore Fort

Located on Bhilwara-Asind Road, Badnore Fort is a huge seven storied Fort standing magnificently atop a small hill which allows it to provide a widespread and stunning view from the fort. The architecture of the Fort reflects that of the splendid traditional Rajputana style as well.

Picture by: Deependra Shekhawat

Although the fort is in a state of decay presently, it represents the majesty and architectural glory of erstwhile Rajput rulers of Rajasthan. The fort has been strategically constructed as it has provided defense to the rulers back then and has also served as a mute witness to a lot of dissension in its earlier days.

The fort is strategically placed near a Lake which doesn’t just gives an awe-striking view but has also blocked invaders to attack easily from one side. The Lake water was the major source of water for the occupants of the fort.

 

Inside the Fort

To enter the fort, one has to go through the huge Gateway which is rightfully known as the Bada Darwaza. Two temples can be spotted at the entrance of the fort. As you go further, you’ll find a prison with separate cells along with numerous stables.

Picture by: Rajdeep singh1

Apart from that, the fort has many rooms which are spread across different levels and each room has a small window. These windows were not constructed just for decoration but they were mostly used to aim at the invaders and shoot at them. It provided the stability to the people to focus and attack. While some of them used the protruding balconies for the same.

Picture by: Rajdeep Singh

There is a Palace near the fort named as Jalmahal Palace which is built on the banks of Vinodsagar Lake. This palace was served as the summer house for the kingly residents of the fort.

 

While you are at the fort, there are multiple places that you can plan from the fort some of which are:

Chamunda Devi temple – Chamunda Devi temple or Chamunda Mata temple is situated on the hills of Harni Mahadev. It is said that the ancient temple grants wish from all her devotees who wish from a clean heart. Apart from that, one can get a spectacular view of the entire from up above the hill.

Kushalamata temple – the construction of Kushalmata temple was done by Rana Kumbha when he won the war of Badnor/Bairath war back in 1457 AD. The temple offers peace and serenity to any of its visitors. Thus, making it a must-visit site from the fort.

Apart from that, there is also an ancient Jain temple near the fort which houses the statues of 12 Tirthankars of Jain.

Picture by: carrentalinajmer

 

How to reach Badnore fort

By Air – The nearest airports from the Badnore Fort is at Udaipur, at a distance of 190 km.

By Rail – The nearest Railway station is at the small town Beawar located right adjacent to Badnore.

By Road – Badnore Fort is easily accessible by the Road from the major destinations within Rajasthan. The Fort is located near the National Highway that connects the cities of Jaipur and Udaipur.

Do you have any feedback regarding the article? Share it in the comment section below or if you have any suggestions write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.

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Bahubali Hill in Udaipur – A True Gem of Nature near Lake Badi

What is Bahubali Hill?

At a distance of around 12 km from Udaipur rests a Hill named Bahubali near Badi Lake. Badi Lake has always been a center of attraction amongst all the Udaipurites and Bahubali Hill simply adds up to the beauty as it provides a spot to all the wanderers to adore the magnificence of the Lake and the Aravali Hills surrounding the place.

The place was recently discovered by a bunch of Udaipurites and gradually it got very famous between the youngsters of the city and the travelers. It is popular with some other names as well such as Badi Hill amongst the citizens as it doesn’t have a defined name for the time being. It is said that the name Bahubali Hill was suggested by a Google user as he found it similar to the one in the Bollywood movie Bahubali.

 

What to expect at Bahubali Hill?

Bahubali Hill is situated some 1 km ahead of Badi Lake Pal towards the Silence Resort. To reach the top of the hill, a climb for some 10-15 minutes is needed. Unlike earlier, now a rough parking space is available there too for your two and four wheeler vehicles where a bunch of local villagers takes care of your vehicles against 10 Rupees.

Photo by: Khushwant Chouhan

Few tea stalls have been opened there recently where items such as chips, tea, water bottle, Maggi, etc. are available. It would be a bit expensive up there as compared to the city so it is preferred to carry your snacks and water bottle with yourself. Also, it is advisable to dispose the wrappers and empty bottles in the dustbin wherever it is available.

 

Best time to visit Bahubali Hill

You can witness an exceptional Sunrise and a Sunset from the hill. The Hill is situated in a forest area and there are no proper street lights, so it is not advisable to go there after it gets dark.

Source: On a Cheap Trip

Bahubali Hill is an ideal place for the photographers and the selfie lovers as it’s quite a photogenic place and one can get a bunch of stunning pictures there. But while clicking the pictures, one needs to be careful because there are no fences which create a risk of falling or getting hurt.

 

How to reach Bahubali Hill

 

Recent Controversies related to Bahubali Hill

Photo by: Ayush Devpura

In the month of June, a group of people spray painted the rocks of the hill disturbing the beauty of the place. The photos of the spoiled rock got viral on the Instagram within a day. A couple of days later, a bunch of youngsters from the city took the initiative to clean the paint off the rocks. In around two hours of hard work in the simmering heat of June, the group successfully cleaned the rocks giving a strong message to all the defaulters of the city to keep the beauty of the nature intact.

Did you visit the place yet? Share your experience with us in the comment section below or write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.

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Ambamata Temple And the History Behind It

Udaipur is blessed with a number of temples with fascinating historical stories behind it. One such temple is the Ambamata temple.

According to the legend, the arrival of goddess Amba in the form of an idol in Udaipur was a miracle. It was back in the time when Maharaja Raj Singh (1652-1680) was suffering from a severe eye problem which no Raj Vaidya (doctors of the ancient time) could find a cure of. The king was advised to visit Ambika Mata temple in Gujarat. Maharana made all the preparations to visit the temple. But just the day before beginning his journey, he saw goddess Amba in his dream who told him that he need not visit the temple in Gujarat as Goddess herself would be coming to his city. Moreover, she also directed him towards the place where she would arrive.

Next morning, Raj Singh woke up from his sleep and immediately went to the place where Goddess Amba directed him in his dream. He ordered to dig the ground and as the digging advanced, Maharana’s eye began to get better. Surprisingly, the idol was actually there where the Maharana saw it in his dream. And when the idol was extracted, Maharana’s eye got completely cured.

Maharana then ordered to construct an idol similar to that of what he saw in his dream. This idol got completed in 1664 AD. Both the idols were placed majestically. On the occasion, Maharana also gifted land to the temple.

The miracle has not just restricted itself to the royal family but even the mango people of the city. During the research, we had a conversation with a florist right outside the temple. He shared his story with us. He says “We were very poor before and did not have a source for income. My father had a great burden of 2 sons and 3 daughters upon himself. One night, he had a dream in which Goddess Amba in the form of a little girl suggested him to own a flower shop outside the temple. Today this shop is the source of income for both of us (He and his brother) and we could collect the amount to marry off our sisters.

About the Ambamata temple

There are two idols in the temple where the small idol, according to the priests, was originally appeared. In every six months, the idol is decorated with sindoor. The temple that homes these two idols is huge and is surrounded with a spacious lawn where several functions such as Gavri, Ger, and Garba dances are held.

The campus which is not much crowded generally is flooded with people during Navratri (the nine-day festival of Goddesses) and Sunday.

Apart from that, one can witness a number of roosters in the temple. Upon asking the people there, it was known that these roosters were left by the people here. Usually, these animals are used for the divine sacrifice (Bali) but it doesn’t happen here. The animals are not killed instead people simply leave them here at the temple when their wishes are granted by the goddess. These roosters then live here for the rest of their lives.

Source: Flickr

The Ambamata temple is worshipped by several devotees including the royal family. Many people offer flowers and other offerings before beginning their work.

Did you like the article or have any feedback related to it? Then write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.

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Bird’s Paradise Menar Village is Famous for Some More things! Read to Know

It is possible that you might have heard of the village Menar which resides at a distance of around 52 km from Udaipur. And why wouldn’t you, the village is very well known not just in the city but entire Rajasthan for being the bird’s paradise. Menar Lake in the village witnesses many migratory birds especially in the winter season and that makes it the ideal destination for the bird watchers around the city.

Source: Patrika

These migratory birds include Greater Flamingo, White-Tailed Lapwing, Pelican, Marsh Harrier, Black Kite, Green Sandpiper, Wood sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover, Red-wattled Lapwing, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Common Crane, Bar Headed Goose and many more!

Well, that was about the Menar Lake. But there are some more things that make the village stand out.

 

The 52 feet Shiv Idol

Otherwise known for being the Bird Village, Menar is also very popular for its 52 feet high idol of Lord Shiv which becomes a point of faith amongst thousands of devotees who come here to worship this gigantic idol of Lord Shiva during Monsoons. The temple which homes the colossal idol is known as Thakur Ji temple. The famous Bollywood movie ‘Dhadak’ has also been shot here.

Temple in the song ‘Pehli Baar’ of movie Dhadak

According to the villagers, the idol has been constructed by the fellow villager, Prabhulal Joshi. The Shiv idol situated in Haridwar inspired Prabhulal to build one in his own village. The construction of the idol has given employment to more than 400 people of the village and the artisans of the idol were called from South India.

 

Lucky number 52

Source: onthehighroadblog.wordpress

It is also said that the village has some sort of connection with the number 52. Villagers say that several years ago, Maharana Pratap got so impressed by the bravery and courage of the villagers that he gifted a land of 52 Bigha (a measure of land) to this village. Also, the distance between the district headquarters and the village is also 52 km. This can be the possible reason why the height of the idol is kept 52 feet.

 

People of Menar village

The chain of amazement doesn’t stop yet! The people of Menar village are no less than anything else here. The credit of Menar being the Bird’s paradise doesn’t solely goes to the ecosystem of the area but also to its people. In recent months, Menar has been in the news for having set an example in community-driven conservation.

The villagers made some fair attempts to save the fishes of the lake. In order to ensure a healthy ecosystem people of Menar village have stopped using the water of the lakes for irrigation purpose, fishing has been prohibited and regular weeding is done to get rid of water hyacinth overgrowth.

Villagers relocating fishes | Source: Times Of India

They have also set up a group of volunteers known as ‘Pakshi Mitra’ who ensure a safe stay to the flying visitors. From rescuing injured birds to conducting regular anti-poaching patrols, these volunteers have set a benchmark to conserve the ecosystem of the village.

 

Menaria – A Brahmin community originated from Menar village

Source: National Herald

As mentioned above, the history of Menar goes long back to the time of Maharana Pratap’s reign and even before that. After multiple wars taking place during the period of 1226 AD in Mewar, many people were martyred. The remaining people scattered to find a home in places. The people who went to Nagda (currently known as eklingji) became Nagda Brahmin, people who went to Pali were known as Paliwals and then the people who came to Menar became popular with the name of Menarias.

 

Many Menaria people from Menar have become cooks to India’s Millionaire

From Dhirubhai Ambani and the Hinduja brothers to Lata Mangeshkar and Juhi Chawla, the Menaria chefs have handled the kitchens of the multi-millionaires as well as many celebrities in the country.

For instance, Yashwant Menaria from the village manages the kitchen of the Hinduja brothers in London. When he was in the age of 14, he took the contract of running the canteen of the multinational company near his village and this was the beginning of all.

Yashwant Menaria | Source: BBC

Poonamchand Aklingdasot is another Menaria has an interesting story himself. Poonamchand used to cook for Lata Mangeshkar’s family before which he managed the household of Dhirubhai Ambani in 1997.

The interesting thing about the Menaria chefs is that many of them have never attended a cooking course and yet they are preparing all the cuisine from Mexican and Italian to Chinese and Continental and earns a handsome six-figure salary (often in addition to free boarding, lodging, and air travel!)

Such is the glory of this village. When are you planning to visit Menar?

Do you have any feedback regarding the article or any interesting story to share with us? Then write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.

Categories
Places to Visit

Kanore – The Mewari Land of Paan, Knives and Lotus

History of Kanore

Kanore was established by Rawat Ajja Singh Ji who was the first Thakur of Kanore. Rawat Ajja Singh Ji was the son of Maharana Lakha Singh Ji (1382 – 1421).

There are many theories behind the name of town ‘Kanore’. The first one is that there was a lady monk known as ‘Kani Meeni’, who used to pray there to achieve salvation. During this phase of hers, she achieved divine powers. The town was named as ‘Kanore’ after this holy lady. The second theory is that the town had a large number of devotees of Krishna. Thus, after the name of Krishna, the town was named as Kanore.

Rawat Yogendra Singh Ji | Current Rawat Saheb of Kanore

But according to Rawat Yogeshwar Singh Ji, who is the 20th Rawat Saheb of Kanore since 2011, ‘When Maharana Ajja Singh Ji came to Kanore, there was a Bheel lady who owned a hut at the place. To establish the town, Maharana told her to remove her hut. The lady agreed but only on one condition. The condition was that the town would be named after her and from then on, the town became famous from the name Kanore.’

 

What is Kanore famous for?

Kanore is located at a distance of about 75 km from Udaipur in the southern region of Rajasthan. Since it is at the border of tribal caste majority area, in the earlier times, it was a very less educated region. Then a saint known as Acharya Shri Jawaharcharya inspired Mewad Malviya Pt Udai Jain to build a university here and he did exactly so with the name ‘Jawahar Vidhyapeeth’ and this evolved the education in the entire South Rajasthan. Jawahar Vidyapeeth became the educational center for Southern Rajasthan. This entire episode gave rise to a new name of Kanore which is ‘Shiksha Nagari’.

Few Lines have been written in the appraisal of Kanore by ancient poets during the monarchical era:

Pan Parkha wala Nipje,

Chaku he Bejod,

Kamal Khile, Khokha Vane,

Ya Sursat ri Kanore

The above poem about Kanore boasts about the agriculture of betel leaves (Paan) in Kanore. It is said that no one was able to farm betel leaves even around 1 km near Kanore and it was only cultivated in Kanore in ancient times. The Paan of Kanore was so famous that people from America came all the way to the town just to taste the paan here. Yogeshwar Singh Ji says that Mohanlal Sukhadiya, Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, used to come here regularly especially to have the paan of Kanore.

Kanore is also famous for its knives and the lotus ponds which can be spotted at every 2 km there.

 

Tourist attractions at Kanore

Kanore Palace

Source: Kanore Palace Blogspot

Kanore Palace, situated in the middle of Kanore, belongs to the royal family of the Kanore. The construction of the Palace was begun by Maharawat Sarangdev II in 1711 AD. It is said that the artisans who made the City Palace of Udaipur were the same who made the Kanore palace of Kanore. This is the reason why Kanore Palace is a replica of the City Palace. Although, the size of the City Palace is a bit larger. Just like the City Palace of Udaipur, parts of Kanore Palace were also made by different rulers during their respective reign.

The architecture of the Palace reflects the Rajputana style. It has three major portions which are –

Sarang Villas which was built 700 years ago by the forefathers of the Kanore Royal family.

Nahar Niwas built 300 years ago

Kesar Niwas built 150 years ago

Bhabhuka Mahadev

A prominent picnic spot near Kanore which homes an idol of Lord Shiv amidst natural and peaceful environment. The main highlight of the temple is the festival of Mahashivratri when a large number of people are gathered here to worship Lord Shiva.

Adeshwar Ji temple

Source: Temple Advisor

Adeshwar Ji is an ancient Jain Temple, about 800 years old at a distance of 3 km from Kanore towards Dhariyawad. The temple is devoted to first Tirthankar of Jain Rishabh Dev Ji. It is situated in a village named Rajpura, which was known as Rajgad previously. Many religious processions take place in the temple such as Tirth Khetra like Akshay Tritiya Parna Mahotsav and a fair taking place once a year known as Janam kalyanak of Bhagwan Adinath.

Keleshwar Mahadev

Source: Youtube

Keleshwar Mahadev is a set of temples built on the bank of Gomti River and a prominent picnic place which attracts a large number of tourists. A pristine waterfall can be witnessed at the place which looks stunning during monsoon season. An ancient idol of Lord Shiva is worshipped at Keleshwar Mahadev.

Kundia Dam

Kundia Dam is the major source of water for the people in Kanore. During monsoon, the dam becomes an exceptional sight to witness.

Kamal Wala Talab

As mentioned above, there are multiple lotus ponds near and in Kanore. These pond homes a variety of beautiful Lotus flowers which can be seen on the surface of the water.

Do you have any feedback for the article or have any such interesting story to share with us? Then write to me at juhee@udaipurblog.com.