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Places to Visit

Did you know why Sajjangarh Fort is also known as Monsoon Palace?

The “Territory of the Ruling Elites” Rajasthan, is known for its numerous magnificent forts and palaces. Sajjangarh Palace, however, is a truly amazing structure & an example for the same. It was built by the 72nd ruler of the Mewar dynasty, “Maharana Sajjan Singh” at a height of 3100 feet. Sajjangarh is how it came to be known.

monsoon palace
Source : japjitravel

Although Udaipur is known as the “City of Lakes” it also has a large number of magnificent castles. And Sajjangarh comes at the first place.

However, you may also know it by the name Monsoon Palace. Nevertheless, very few people are aware of the origins of this title. Let us tell you about the entire instance which led this to happen.

History Behind the Name

A visionary leader, Maharana Sajjan Singh is credited as being the “Builder” of the palace. He carried out numerous developmental projects, such as expanding the infrastructure for roads, water supply, and other civil work. He also instituted civil administration and courts. His reign (1874–1884) lasted just 10 years.

sajjan singh ji
Maharana Sajjan Singh Ji
Source: wordpress

But his largest undertaking was the construction of the Sajjan Garh Palace, or the Monsoon Palace. It was planned to serve as the western backdrop to the city of Udaipur.

Initially a nine-storey complex was envisioned by Maharana Sajjan Singh Ji. It was planned to serve as an “astronomical center” and to track monsoon clouds. Moreover to accommodate as a family resort too.

But before he could complete the fort, fate made him meet the untimely death.

Hence Maharana Fateh Singh Ji, successor of the clan, took the pain on his shoulders for the completion of the complex. Nonetheless he succeeded in making the project possible.

maharana fateh singh ji
Maharana Fateh Singh Ji
Source: wikiwand

Moreover Fateh Singh Ji occupied the building for watching monsoon clouds and hence the name – “Monsoon Palace”. The royal family also used it as a hunting lodge.

maharana fateh singh ji going for hunt
Source: clevelandart

Some Interesting facts

  • Monsoon palace is best visited during the monsoon season to see the clouds, endless hills of greenery, and a few light showers. As it is situated at the top to give a wider view & heavenly feeling of being surrounded by clouds.
  • You can see a beautiful sunset as well, but you must be at the palace when it happens.
  • You get the view of three beautiful lakes at once, Fateh Sagar, Pichola, and Swaroop Sagar which is breathtaking.
  • The palace has featured the filming of several Bollywood and Hollywood productions, including Octopussy, Cheetah Girl, Dhamaal and Hum Hai Raahi Pyar Ke. The palace appears as the home of the main antagonist, an exiled Afghan prince by the name of Kamal Khan, in the James Bond film Octopussy (Louise Jourdan).
monsoon palace
View From Monsoon Place
Source: udaipurbeats

The most loved Monsoon Season is about to end and it would be the best opportunity to visit the palace. Don’t wait, make a plan and step out before it’s too late!

 

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Places to Visit

Places To Visit In Udaipur During Monsoon Season

The days left to begin enjoying the soothing monsoon season of Udaipur have ended. And we have planned to make it easier for you to decide where to land as soon as the clouds begin to shower in Udaipur. Although the locals of Udaipur are familiar with most of the places listed below, tourists will find that ‘The Trip to Udaipur’ becomes ‘The Ultimate Trip to Udaipur’ if they include these places in their itinerary during this monsoon season. We have curated a list of places in and around Udaipur, that you can visit during the monsoon season.

Places to Visit In Udaipur 

1.) The Sajjangarh or The Monsoon Palace

 

sajjangarh monsoon palace udaipur
Credits: UdaipurTourism

This is a wonderful monsoon place in Udaipur, as the name implies. It is best seen during June, July, and August, and was once known as Sajjan Garh Palace. It is a new public attraction that was once owned by the Mewar family and was recently given to the government. It has a view over the city of Udaipur and its lakes, brimming with water and vegetation during the monsoon season.

The only objective of Maharana Sajjan Singh’s construction of the Monsoon Palace, also known as Sajjangarh, was to stare at the monsoon clouds up close and enjoy the magnificent aerial view of the city from 3100 feet above sea level, as the name says.

Note: Due to Forest Department orders, the Monsoon Palace is only open till 7:00 PM for security reasons.

2.) Panna Boat Museum

 

pannadhay boat cafe
Credits: Indra Niwas

It is a ship-shaped museum located on the Govardhan Sagar Lake, which is situated on the outskirts of Udaipur but is well-maintained and gets a lot of attention from both residents and visitors. It was inaugurated in 2014 by our Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. The Panna Boat Museum is dedicated to the great Panna Dai and the sacrifices she made for Mewar; here, you may learn a lot about Panna Dai, as well as hang out in the beautifully constructed ship-shaped museum and enjoy the weather beside the picturesque lake.

3.) Neemach Mata Temple

 

neemuch mata temple
Credits: Udaipurian

We should express our gratitude for the modest and simple things in life, such as the smell of rain, the flavour of your favourite cuisine, or the tone of a loved one’s voice. And what better time to do it than in the magnificently located NEEMUCH MATA temple in Udaipur, where showers of blessings are raining all around you with a tinge of holiness enveloping you. This memorial honours Neemuch Mata Devi. There’s also a statue of Lord Ganesha, a Hindu God, and three granite lions facing west. The temple is situated on top of a grassy hill in Udaipur and offers a breathtaking aerial view of the city of lakes, Udaipur.

This temple and the stone statue within it, are well-known for their connection to a Neem tree, therefore the name NEEMUCH. Due to the sacred essence of the tree, it is claimed that anyone who visits the temple on a regular basis would never have any skin issues. To go to Neemuch Mata temple, you will have to climb 850 meters and can only do it on foot. You can climb this mountain either by taking the steps off the alley or pathway. The entire route is covered in natural peak forest and thick greenery, which adds to the beauty.

4.) The Karni Mata Ropeway

 

karni mata ropeway
Credits: Vogue Traveller

Udaipur has not only provided the prettiest sites but has also excelled in terms of offering scenic locations that are as wonderful as paradise during the monsoon and are completely free to visit. The KARNI MATA ROPEWAY in Udaipur is one of these destinations. It swings you across the lush green valley of Udaipur as you enjoy the gorgeous panorama of the surrounding region in a glass-packed cabin. This Ropeway begins from the famous Doodh Talai Musical Fountain Park and swipes you through the lush green gorges overlooking the entire city of Udaipur before dropping you off at the Karni Mata Temple thereby leaving you mesmerized by the greenery of this amazing city. The best part is, that it is incredibly cost-efficient.

5.) Nehru Garden

The City of Lakes, Udaipur, is known for its charming gardens. These gardens are ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing sunny day out. One such piece of art is The Nehru Garden. The beautiful and one-of-a-kind Nehru Park sprawls across 41 acres in the heart of Fateh Sagar Lake, with a lily pond in the centre and a massive towering gigantic fountain. The garden’s most adorable feature is its water trail, which can be crossed by tiny walkable stepping stones.

Anyone who visits Fateh Sagar Lake cannot ignore the beauty of Nehru Park and takes a boat trip from Fateh Sagar to Nehru Park, which enhances the beauty of the lake as well as the city of Udaipur.

Places to Visit Around Udaipur

1.) Tidi Dam

Places To Visit In Udaipur During Monsoon Season- Tidi Dam

A massive 67-foot-high dam located 34 kilometres from the city centre is an exquisite spot to explore during monsoon season. Hindustan Zinc Ltd. built it in 1976, and it presently serves as Zawar Mines’ primary source of water. It has become one of the most popular and convenient picnic spots for the locals as well as the tourists. A perfect place to go especially during the monsoon season. It has unique natural scenery, where you may appreciate the beauty in its natural state. Although this place doesn’t have any natural waterfall, the water streaming from the dam creates an amazing illusion of an organic waterfall, and you may cherish this place with your friends and family.

2.) Ubeshwar Ji: 

Places To Visit In Udaipur During Monsoon Season- Ubeshwarji

Another paradise during the rainy season is Ubeshwar Ji. The Aravali mountain range surrounds Ubeshwar Ji, with water gushing and flowing across it. It is essential to visit this location during the rainy season. Here you will locate Lord Shiva’s temple, where you may relax and enjoy the scenery, making it an ideal picnic site. There is also a pond with little fish where you may relax and enjoy the scenery.

3.) Chandni Village 

It is a popular monsoon spot situated around 23 kilometres away from Udaipur. Do you recall learning how to sketch static scenery in elementary school? This is an identical twin of the fantasy environment we have been painting since our childhood, with various mountains on top and a water stream rushing through the mountainous terrain, alongside the village.

4.) Pipliya Ji

Places To Visit In Udaipur During Monsoon Season- Pipliya Ji

About 32 kilometres from Udaipur, one of the city’s best monsoon attractions is Pipliya Ji. The curving single road will take you to a spectacular area where you may appreciate nature’s tranquillity as it cuts through the lush green hills and streams. The route is wrapped in mist and clouds and appears to be floating in space; at times, it is so foggy that nothing can be seen beyond a few meters.

The view from the top of the mountain is spectacular. Pipliya Ji is one of the most visited spots in Udaipur, giving magnificent views amid breathtaking scenery. One might encounter a few villages nestled within its lush greenery, far from the rush and bustle of city life.

5.) The Badi Lake

The residents of Udaipur have already shown great respect and loyalty towards this site; now is the time to include it in the city’s local guides so that visitors may also visit this magnificent Lake, which is stretched across 155 square kilometres area and is located around 12 kilometres from Udaipur. This Lake was built between 1652 and 1680 by Maharaja Raj Singh. It is a famous picnic spot for the locals as well as tourists. The lake is also great for swimming, and there are several kiosks (shamiana) along the embankments where visitors may rest and relax.

Quick Tip: If you want to see the sunset from Badi Lake, go early in the morning and wait for the sun to rise over the picturesque lake. Also, if you have a local acquaintance, request that they take you on a hike around Badi Lake.

 

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History and Culture

World Heritage Day: Udaipur Heritage, the strings attached to past       

In the year 1982, the International Council on Monuments and Sites decided to celebrate 18 April as World Heritage Day. It was a step taken towards spreading awareness about monuments and other sites which are a part of our history. Udaipur is one of the most prominent cultural heritage signatures of Mewar.

Future generations have the right to live history through these heritage sites and hence they should be preserved. Udaipur – The Venice of East, a beautiful city guarded by the Aravalli range, was founded in the 16th century by Maharana Udai Singh. Since it was a circular piece of fertile land in between Girwa valley, it was declared as the capital of Mewar. The prosperous cultural heritage legacy was received by the different generations of rulers. City Palace, Jagdish temple, Saheliyon ki Bari, Ahar Cenotaphs, Monsoon Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli and many such locations in Udaipur act like a bridge between the generations.

City palace
City palace

A sense of royalty can be felt through the architecture of such sites. With each passing day, each monument of the city repeats the story to every visitor and this story needs to be conserved. Safeguarding of heritage sites is very important because they give a sense of identity and continuity in a fast-changing world to the coming generations. Heritage sites basically reflect the culture of the city.

Let’s go on a roller coaster ride through the heritage sites of the city or wait, rather, let’s walk together across the city. While walking towards the old city you see Gulab Bagh on your left and vintage car museum on your right. The transition from new to the old city is worth noticing and can be seen through the gates and architecture of houses. When the lanes start to narrow down, it means you are close to witnessing something magical.

City Palace:

City Palace, 1910
City Palace, 1910

The palace complex situated on the east bank of Lake Pichola was constructed over a period of 400 years when the capital was shifted from Chittor district. The palace constantly got several modifications by other rulers of the dynasty. It was mostly constructed in Rajasthani style with a touch of Mughal architecture. It is designed so beautifully that it overlooks several other historical sites such as Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace and a perfect view of the entire city. Crystal gallery is the major attraction in this complex.

Jagdish Temple:

Jagdish Temple
Jagdish Temple

Moving ahead, when the streets will shrink further, a treat to eyes is guaranteed. On a junction of three roads, Jagdish Temple is situated. Jagdish temple was made by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651. Maharana Jagat Singh ruled Udaipur for 25 years from 1628 to 1653. The temple is dedicated to the preserver of the universe Lord Vishnu. It is the largest temple in the city. After 28 years of the construction of the temple, Mughal ruler Aurangzeb wanted the temple to get destroyed and sent his army to do so. But the army of Maharana Raj Singh (ruler of Udaipur back then) didn’t let them succeed. Thank god a unique specimen of architecture was saved for us.

Saheliyon ki Bari:

Saheliyon ki badi
Saheliyon Ki Badi

Tired already? Let’s take an auto to Saheliyon ki Bari which is approximately 4 Kms away from the core of the city. Saheliyon ki Bari’s heritage talks about a group of forty-eight young women attendants who came with the princess as a part of her dowry. It is a major garden of the city and was built in the year 1710 by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies. Imagine a historic garden built for a queen. Royalness of this place is refreshing.

Ahar Cenotaphs:

Ahar cenotaph complex
Ahar cenotaph complex

Now moving toward the destination where these great creators of this dynasty are buried. It has a total of 372 cenotaphs of around 19 Maharanas who once ruled the city. This spectacular field of domes was built approx. 400 years back. Most attractive cenotaph that you will be able to spot will be of Maharana Sangram Singh, go look for it and the newest was built in the year 2004 of Udaipur’s last Maharana, Bhagwat Singh. After a walk of 150 m from Ahar Cenotaphs, you can find Ahar government museum which contains copper and pottery objects that are around 3300-years-old.

Tip: Observe the silence here.

Monsoon Palace or Sajjan Garh:

Sajjangarh
Sajjangarh

We can’t walk to next destination but I bet the way to that place is an adventure in itself. The monsoon palace, also called Sajjangarh palace is a hilltop palace at a distance of around 7 km from the city. It was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the year 1884. It is said that from there monsoon clouds could be seen coming towards the city. It was originally constructed by the royal family of Mewar and is now owned by the forest department of the government of Rajasthan but you don’t need to worry about that. The beautiful palace gives you a mind-blowing view of the sunset and is supposedly called monsoon palace because it seems like the palace is floating in heaven during Monsoon.

A view of the old city

There are many such locations around which will take you back in time. On every location, one can stand and feel that the place has been standing there for a long time and knows the secrets that you might be interested in.

On this World Heritage Day, let’s take a pledge of preserving these locations on our part. Engraving names of your loved ones won’t make you a hero but preserving cultural heritage can make you one. Also, good knowledge to have, there are dustbins around these locations, please use them and don’t litter. Not just one day, make every day as Heritage Day. Come and celebrate this auspicious day like a festival because these monuments are none less than time travel machines.

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Places to Visit

Chunda Palace Café: The Hunger Savior at Sajjangarh

Overlooking the city and also famous for its beautiful picturesque atmosphere, Sajjangarh Fort has always topped the traveler’s bucket list. The expedition to the lakecity is incomplete if one hasn’t explored this fort. The magnificent view from the best and the highest point around the city is unforgettable.

The only thing that was being missed by the tourists, as well as the local public, was a proper food junction.

The Chunda Palace Café:

We are glad to share the good news with you that this magnificent place now also has a café reloaded with new cold beverages. The cafeteria is managed by the grand Chunda Palace so the legacy of the hotel follows the café too. It caters to the needs of local public and tourists which makes sure that there is an increase in the graph of positive reviews.

This café is the new addition to everyone’s go-to list as one can enjoy peaceful evenings with delicious food at a single place. The café is loaded with many irresistible delicacies which can be enjoyed amidst the breathtaking view of the city.

Customer satisfaction has always been the motivation for the café owners. Keeping in mind the upcoming summer season, the café has introduced many delicious smoothies, mocktails, Ice teas and shakes as well making this café a perfect place to hang out with your friends, family and loved ones. The new menu makes the place more happening than ever.

So what are you waiting for?

Go out and capture the essence of this city with your DSLR’s in one hand a cold refreshing drink in the other only at the CHUNDA PALACE CAFÉ.

For any queries, Call at : 0294-2430252

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Places to Visit

Already monsoon! Top places to hang out in this summer-monsoon season in Udaipur

Morning you are getting drenched in sweat because of the heat and afternoon you are dipping yourself in the first rain showers in Udaipur. Rains have arrived early this year and we the people of Udaipur, have gotten another chance to step out of our houses. It’s weekend and who doesn’t want to enjoy!!! So here is a list of Top places to hang out in this summer-monsoon season in Udaipur.

Pipliya Ji

This is one of the most beautiful locations in Udaipur and every Udaipurite is totally aware of the fact that this place becomes heaven when it rains. I am sure, many must have started planning or already left for Pipliya Ji!

Monsoon Palace

Source: pixel do

Monsoon Palace was once the favorite destination of the royal family during the rainy season. Today as soon as it rains, people flock to the Monsoon palace aka Sajjangarh to view the picturesque city during rains.

Ubeshwar Ji

Located on a great height, and midway to Pipliya Ji, the place is situated between beautifully lush hillocks and becomes way beautiful with rains! The pakode wala near the temple is gonna give you the essence of rains, along with chai!

Keleshwar Ji

A few kilometers ahead of Pipliya ji is the Keleshwar Waterfall; somewhere around 10km from Ubeshwar Ji. The road is exciting if you take a bike ride and becomes ‘wow’ with rains.

Rayta

Known for its snake road, fully surrounded by mountains valleys and small green hills it gives a magnificent view of the city and becomes gorgeous in rains. The place gives a panoramic view of the back side of Udaipur- a must visit during the Monsoon season.

Also Read: Monsoon Checklist: We Are All Set To Welcome Monsoon, Are You?

Fatehsagar Lake and Ambrai Ghat

Source: skymet weather

As soon as it rains, two places in Udaipur get flooded. Not with water, but with people! In hundreds, people flock to Ambrai Ghat and Fatehsagar Chowpatty as soon as it rains. And trust me, the sight is worth the traffic jams.

Badi Lake

Source: quora

Not forgetting Lake Badi, the place is already lush and becomes all the more scenic with rains showers. Badi is a popular spot in Udaipur and is ideal for long drives till there in rains.

Where are you going today!!!

Tell us in the comment section below and also tag us on Instagram @udaipurblog with beautiful pictures of our city during rains.

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Places to Visit

Historical Architecture: Palaces & Forts in and around Udaipur

City Palace

city-palace-udaipur
Source: Udaipur Tourism

City Palace was built by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559. It is situated at the eastern bank of Lake Pichhola and has many other palaces built within the City Palace. It is a must visiting place whosoever wishes to travel Udaipur and has a keen interest in the history of Rajasthan.

Impressive Gateways or Poles pave access to the City Palace complex. The different poles of the City Palace include Bara Pole, Tripolia Pole, Toran Pole etc.

The other complexes which are made within the premise of the City Palace are Amar Vilas, Badi Mahal, Chinni Chitrashala, Choti Chitrashali, Dilkhusha Mahal, Darbar Hall, Fateh Prakash, Jagdish Mandir, Krishna Vilas, Laxmi Vilas Chowk, Manak Mahal, Mor Chowk, Rang Bhawan, Sheesh Mahal etc.

The famous Jagdish Temple is only 150 meters away from the Palace. From the Palace, you can have a beautiful view of Lake Palace and Jag Mandir, which are both located in the midst of Pichhola Lake. The City Palace’s major part has been converted into a museum, displaying a diverse range of preserved monuments and armour. The museum exhibits a wide collection of weapons, gears, clothes, furniture etc.

Fateh Prakash Palace

The_Sunset_Terrace_Fateh_Prakash_Palace_Udaipur
Source: Wexas Travel

This palace was constructed during the time of Maharana Fateh Singh, who ruled from 1885 to 1935. The purpose of the venue was to serve the esteemed guests during the royal functions. Fateh Prakash Palace has also been converted into a luxury hotel which is now run & managed by the HRH group.

In 1909 the Viceroy of India, Lord Minto, laid down the Darbar Hall’s foundation stone. Henceforth the name was originally called Minto Hall to respect the honour to the Viceroy. The interiors are decorated with royal artefacts, miniature painting, armour etc. which would take you to the legendary historical time of the Mewar dynasty.

The Darbar Hall, Crystal Gallery, Suites and Rooms are decorated with original paintings, furniture of the historical era and would take you on the journey of the authentic heritage of that time. The scenic beauty of Lake Pichhola through the decorative valued windows would soak you in real ecstasy. The Palace offers 21 Decorative Rooms and 45 Decorative Premier Suits. It is equipped with period furniture, portraits and original miniature paintings, private sitting areas and facilities like air-conditioning, international direct dial telephone, satellite TV and a mini-bar.

Taj Lake Palace

taj lake palace udaipur
Source: Exquisite Travel Collection

Lake Palace, the name is enough to draw a picture of Udaipur and Pichhola Lake. It is another epithet of the Udaipur after the City Palace. To most of us, if asked anything about Lake Palace, the first answer comes out – it is a luxury hotel. Obviously, it is a luxury hotel, but earlier than a luxury hotel, it was a place to relax for the kings and had many different interiors.

Lake Palace was formerly known as Jag Niwas. Lake Palace is built on a natural island of around 4 acres, which was earlier called Jag Niwas Island and surrounded by Lake Pichhola. It was built in the year 1743 to 1746 by the Maharana Jagat Singh II of Udaipur. The Palace was built as a palace to spend summers. It was named after its founder Maharana Jagat Singh and hence was called Jag Niwas.

In 1971 the Taj group took over Lake Palace’s management, and the new name came out to be the Taj Lake Palace. Taj added another 75 rooms to it. Jamshyd D.F. Lam became the first General Manager of the Taj Lake Palace. Later in 2000, another restoration of the hotel was undertaken. Now Taj Lake Palace is certainly a luxury hotel surrounded by Lake Pichhola. The Lake Palace offers Luxury Rooms, Palace Rooms, Royal Suites, Grand Royal Suites and Grand Presidential Suites with all facilities like Spa, Bar, Fine Dinning etc.

Monsoon Palace aka Sajjangarh Fort

monsoon-palace-sajjangarh-palace
Source: Udaipur Tourism

An actual jewel in our city, Sajjangarh Fort has been one of the most favourite tourist’s spots, especially in the rainy season when the fort is enveloped by clouds and the mountains are lush green. The Monsoon Palace, formerly known as the Sajjangarh Palace, is a hilltop residence with a scenic view of palaces, lakes, and the surrounding countryside. This palace was designed to keep an eye on the monsoon clouds, as the name implies. The palace, which is located in the Aravalli Hills, glows a golden orange colour in the evening and is a great place to see the sunset. Don’t forget to visit this enchanting palace when in Udaipur!

Jag Mandir Island Palace

jagmandir-island
Source: TripAdvisor

This palace, also known as the ‘Lake Garden Palace,’ is undeniably one of Pichola Lake’s most beautiful views. Built on an island, this palace served as a summer retreat and a pleasure palace for holding parties for royal families. Within the palace, the Gul Mahal, Garden Courtyard, Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Zenana Mahal, and Kunwar Pada ka Mahal are must-see attractions. Don’t forget to dine at the Darikhana Restaurant for an exclusive dining experience!

Bagore ki Haveli (Gangaur Ghat)

Bagore ki haveli
Source: Udaipur Tourism

Head to Bagore ki Haveli to experience the true Rajasthani Folk art and reminisce the beauty and splendour and rich heritage of the city of lakes. In just one hour, you will enjoy a blissful cultural evening of musical dance performances, magic shows, and puppet dances influenced by Rajasthani tradition, all without burning a hole in your pocket! Festivals, weddings, childbirth, and the change of seasons are all included in the show. It’s the ideal location for learning about the Rajput royal lifestyle.

Kumbhalgarh Fort

kumbhalgarh-fort
Source: Bookety

Kumbhalgarh is 82 kilometres away from Udaipur and lies in Rajsamand District, and it is the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the great warrior of the Mewar. It was built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha. In the late 19th century, the fort was opened for tourists. It is the important fort of Mewar after Chittorgarh.

The fort is accessed through seven different gateways named Aret Pole, Hanuman Pole, Ram Pole, Vijay Pole, Nimboo Pole and Bhairon Pole. All gates lead to the palace complex, and some are built with additional structures at a later stage.

The different palaces built in the fort consist of Kumbha Mahal and Badal Mahal. Various religious temples include Hindu and Jain temples of different periods ranging from the 13th century to later. Various temples built and covered in the fort area consist of Ganesh Temple, Vedi Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Parshvanath Temple, Bawan Devi Temple, and Golerao Group Temples, Mamadeo Temple, Pitalia Dev Temple, Kumbha Palace.

Kumbhalgarh fort also has several memorials like Badva Bund, Lagan Baori, Gardens, Stores, Pleasure Pavilions, and a Dam.

Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh Fort
Source: Udaipur Trip

Chittorgarh is situated in the southern part of Rajasthan and is 120 kilometres away from Udaipur. It is midway between Delhi and Mumbai on National Highway No 8. At Chittorgarh National Highways 76 and 79 intersect.

Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort in India. Earlier it was the capital of Mewar. The fort is spread in an area of 690 acres and situated at the height of 590 feet over a hill that lies on the bank of Berach River.

The Mewar Emperors lost the fort thrice to the Mughals in the battles fought in different periods. In 1303 Allauddin Khilji defeated Rana Ratan Singh. Bahadur Shah defeated Bikramjeet Singh in 1535, and Mughal Emperor Akbar defeated Maharana Udai Singh II in 1567, who left and founded Udaipur as his next capital of Mewar. Approximately 13,000 Rajput Ladies committed Jauhar after the successive defeats of Mewar Emperors.

A zigzag hill road of more than 1 kilometres in length from the new town of Chittor leads to the west end main gate of the fort, known as Ram Pol. Within the fort, a circular road provides access to all other gates and monuments. The fort has seven gates or Poles, and they are Padan Pole, Bhairon Pole, Hanuman Pole, Ganesh Pole, Jodla Pole, Laxman Pole and the main gate is known as the Ram Pole. A road within the fort provides access to the numerous monuments, ruined structures, and temples. Once, the fort had 84 water bodies and only 22 are left as of now. It was in the form of ponds, wells, and step wells. These water bodies were filled during the rainfall. The various other historical monuments of interest at the fort include Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh.

Photo Credits: Yash Sharma, HRH Hotels, hoparoudindia.com

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Places to Visit

Hangout at Sajjangarh – Awesome plan for a happening Weekend

Goooooooodddd Morrrrrrrrnnniiiiiiingggg Udaipur..!!! 🙂

It’s a cool, lovely day wrapped in a soft breeze making these pre-monsoon days even more charming and wonderful. Doesn’t this breeze tempt you for a long bike ride or for a family picnic or for a hangout with friends or for a hot cup of tea in your balcony?? They do tempt me a lot, and even more when I’m on my way to college or when I peep outside from the window of Lecture Hall. So today let this temptation take over you and drive you crazy with these wild winds. After all its weekend Udaipies!! 😉

Sajjangarh - By saurabh
Sajjangarh – By saurabh

As we wait to get soaked in monsoon, how about visiting The Monsoon Palace today?? It is also named as Sajjangarh after Maharaja Sajjan Singh, a young Mewar ruler who built this fort in 1884 to study the monsoon clouds and later used it as hunting lodge. This Fort, perched at a peak Bansdora Mountain, enchants every eye with the view it offers of lush green Aravalli Hills and blue waters of Lake Pichola.

When you look at the “Sajjangarh Fort” from the city, it creates an impression of the king’s palace about which we have heard or read in fairy tales; standing at a height of 944m above the sea level and circled by forest and mountain from all around. The road up the hill to the fort twists and turns like a drunken man and driving on it is a sort of mini adventure in itself. Standing in the courtyard of the fort, you will feel the strong wind engulfing your mind and soul with its power and dynamism. Capture the scenic beauty of our own Udaipur and its lakes from the fort and you will once again fall in love with its allure. When the sky gets painted in orange and yellow hue at the time of sunset, then for a minute your eyes won’t blink and the colors won’t leave your mind for a couple of days.

 

Sajjangarh - By Kumar Veetrag
Sajjangarh – By Kumar Veetrag

Surrounding the fort is a forest blessed with rich flora and fauna. Earlier it was a hunting ground for Maharanas, but later, in 1987, the Forest Department of Government of Rajasthan made it “Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary”. It is a reserve for many wild animals like Chital, Wild boar, Sambar, Panther, Hare, Jackal, Blue Bull, etc. You can also see a wide variety of reptiles and hear the melodious chirps of lovely birds. If you are an adventure freak then you can also trek from Gorilla viewpoint to the Bari Lake where you get another chance to capture the beauty of Aravalli ranges and enjoy the thrill of wildlife diversity of the area.

There is a small perennial source of water, “The Jhar Water Hole”, on the western side of Hill. Numerous Mahua trees encircling it provide an amazing place to sit and enjoy the calmness and placidity of the place. A small temple of Lord Shiva situated close to it adds to its serenity.

If you want to add one more flavor in the weekend, then a drive around FS or a few minutes at its Pal will do the needful. At the end of the day, dinner at a restaurant while recollecting all those moments that left you awestruck will make a perfect ending of a perfect day.

Happyy Weekend Udaipiess..!! 😉 Go crazy with the winds, enjoy to the fullest and stay safe during any adventure… 🙂 Don’t forget to share your happy moments with your UdaipurBlog. 🙂

Sajjangarh Picture - Prateek
Sajjangarh Picture – Prateek