UDAIPUR - A glittering oasis in the heart of the desert state, Udaipur is the perfect place to discover the romantic heritage of Rajasthan.
City PalaceUdaipur, in the heart of Rajasthan, is a 16th century city where myths unravel at every turn of its by-lanes and legends shimmer on its lakes. The land of the kings of Mewar and their palaces, temples and havelis, Udaipur is a Lake City that is often called the Venice of the East. The City Palace built between 1567 and 1955 is one of the main attractions and the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. An amazing conglomeration of buildings with balconies, towers, marble arches and cupolas, it is also a storehouse of Rajasthani art with beautiful miniatures and rare Osler's crystals housed in the Crystal Gallery.
Jagdish Temple, built in 1651, enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as the Lord of the Universe.
Kumbalgarh, a 15th century fort amidst the Aravalli Hills, is a 2.5 hours' drive from the city. Breached only once in its five hundred year old history, the walls of the Kumbalgarh fort stretch over 36 kms and enclose many temples, palaces and gardens.
Ranakpur, 90 kms from the city, is one of the largest Jain temple complexes in India, and possibly the most beautiful. Built in the 15th century and set against lush forest vegetation, its marble temples have numerous halls and thousands of intricately carved pillars, no two of which are alike.
Chittorgarh FortChittorgarh is famous for a war fought over its beautiful queen, Rani Padmini. When defeat was imminent, the queen committed self-immolation or 'Johar' to avoid being captured by enemy soldiers.
Bada Mahal Wildlife Conservatory, adjacent to the hotel, is a 20-acre sanctuary close to Lake Pichola and is the natural habitat of peacocks, blue frock pigeons, wild boar and spotted deer. Udaipur's rich heritage and tradition of artistry also make it the perfect shopping destination for antique silver jewellery, colourful fabrics and Rajasthani miniature paintings.
Overlooking the picturesque Lake Pichola and the City Palace, The Oberoi Udaivila-s is a modern resort conceived on a palatial scale, with a collection of domes that form a dramatic skyline. Carefully crafted interiors embellished with intricate artefacts and glowing marble invoke the architectural grandeur of earlier centuries. Spacious and luxuriously appointed rooms offer private terraces for complete relaxation. Several rooms have a semi private swimming pool adjoining their private terraces. At the Oberoi Spa, therapies from the East and West come together to indulge the senses. Enjoy fine international and traditional Indian cuisine in the restaurant or dine al fresco on terraces that offer panoramic views of the City Palace.
