Do you ever think of such a beautiful lake that you stop and stare and forget everything around you? That's what Lake Pichola does for each and every traveller. In the midst of Udaipur, the lake is adorned with the golden reflections of palaces, temples and hills, like a living painting. Whether you come to take a peaceful boat ride or even to take in the night view, the place never disappoints.
Many visitors claim that the beauty of this lake is the reason that Udaipur is named "The City of Lakes". This guide is going to reveal everything you need to know about this beautiful lake, its history, attractions, attractive timings, price of boating, best time to visit, etc. The state of Rajasthan never disappoints anyone, so explore the exclusive Rajasthan tour package and plan for a trip you’ll remember forever.
History Of Lake Pichola Udaipur
Before we are going to talk about the beauty of the lake, let's take a look at the history of the lake. The lake was not constructed by modern engineers. It was created in 1362 AD by a local tribesman, Pichhu Banjara; thus, it is known as Pichola. Later on, when the capital of Mewar was shifted to Udaipur, rulers extended the lake to beautify the city and improve the water storage. Lake Pichola is more than just a body of water. Maharana Udai Singh II constructed the famous City Palace at the eastern side. Over the years other places of magnificence, like Jag Mandir Palace, Lake Palace, and many ghats, were constructed around the lake. Today, the lake is the symbol of royal heritage, romance, and time-immemorial beauty, one of the biggest reasons people from all over the world make it a point to visit Udaipur.
Lake Pichola Timings & Entry fees
If you are in Udaipur and wishing to pay a visit to Lake Pichola, then you must be aware of its entry fees and timings available for visitors.
Lake Pichola Entry Fee
No Entry to enter in Lake Pichola
Charges are a separate fee for boat ride
Lake Pichola Timings
Open 24 hours
Best visiting hours: 9 AM - 7 PM
Lake Pichola Boat Ride
Boating is the most popular activity at Lake Pichola at Udaipur. It offers a wonderful view of the palaces, the ghats and the water, which is quite calm. If you had a long day seeing all the attractions in Udaipur, then it is one of the most magical things to do to relax and soak yourself in the natural beauty of Udaipur.
Boat Ride Timings
Morning Boat Ride: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Evening Boat Ride: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Sunset Boat Ride: Highly recommended
Lake Pichola Boat Ride Price
Regular Boat Ride: ₹400 - ₹600 per person
Sunset Boat Ride: ₹700 - ₹900 per person
Children: discounted prices for tickets are available.
Boat Ride Distance
Approx. 2 km - 3 km according to the route.
It covers City Palace, Jag Mandir, Lake Palace and Ghats.
Best Time To Visit Lake Pichhola
The best time when you can visit Lake Pichola is between October and March. The weather is cool, the sky is clear and the lake is crystal blue. A winter evening is very beautiful as night lights reflect on the still water like floating stars. Also the monsoon season (July-September) is lovely too; the lake fills up and is greener and livelier. Summer (April - June) is the least recommended because the temperatures get high and it may feel uncomfortable, making afternoon visits very difficult. Evenings, though nice, are still fine for a Lake Pichola night view or slow boat ride.
How To Reach Lake Pichola
It is very simple to reach Lake Pichola, as it is a distinguished landmark in the city. The distance to many tourist attractions is just some walking distance away, which makes it really suitable for the visitors. The Pichola Lake directions are also easily accessible by any means.
By Air: The nearest airport is the Maharana Pratap Airport (23 km); you can take a taxi or hire a cab from the airport to the lake.
By Train: The nearest railway station is the Udaipur City Railway Station, which is 3 km away from the lake.
By Road: Udaipur is well connected by over buses and taxis from Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Delhi and Jodhpur.
Local Transport: Auto‑rickshaw, taxi, walking (lots of places to go nearby).
Top 8 Attractions Of Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola is indeed one of the best places to visit in Udaipur. And now, be prepared because you are going to witness the top attraction which Lake Pichola is going to offer you.
1. City Palace, Udaipur
The City Palace is the most famous location overlooking Lake Pichola. The palace is over 400 years old and has courtyards, halls, museums and balconies that have wonderful views of the blue lake below. Mirrors, marble rooms, and colourful windows help to add a magical feel. Many visitors spend time on the terraces, from where the lake appears to be silver during the day and gold at sunset.
Highlights:
Best sunset views over Lake Pichola.
Rich royal history.
Easy photo spots.
2. Lake Palace (Taj Lake Palace)
Floating in the middle of Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace appears like a dream floating upwards from the water. It was once a royal summer palace and is currently one of the world's most luxurious hotels. The white-marbled building shines beautifully in the atmosphere of the rising sun and reflects the glow of the lake. Even if you are not staying there, you can go there for a stroll by boat. It will be an experience which you won't be able to forget.
Highlights:
Famous filming location.
Best lake views at dawn.
Marvellous architecture.
3. Jag Mandir Palace
Jag Mandir is another beautiful island palace on Lake Pichola. It has been built with yellow sandstones and marbles and was once a secure place for the royalty. Visitors enjoy its peaceful garden, arched pillars and elephants at the entrance. The palace is also a popular place to go for evening lake views. Many people who came here during their travels say that Jag Mandir offers some of the best views to capture the beauty of Lake Pichola at night.
Highlights:
Island palace experience.
Lake-facing garden.
Beautiful sculptures.
4. Gangaur Ghat
Gangaur Ghat is a very photogenic location on the banks of Lake Pichola. It is known for traditional festivals, morning rituals and peaceful sunset views. Many bollywood movies were shot here for the reason that the ghat depicts a perfect picture of the heritage of Udaipur. If you are a lover of getting to know the culture, the colours and the reflections of the water, then this is a must-go place.
Highlights:
Ideal for photography.
Traditional cultural vibe.
Best sunrise reflections.
5. Ambrai Ghat
Ambrai Ghat is famous for being a calm and romantic place. From here you can see City Palace, Jag Mandir and Lake Palace altogether. Many of the travellers come here in the evening to enjoy the cool breeze and the night lights shimmering on Lake Pichola. The nearby Ambrai Restaurant is one of the best restaurants to eat in Udaipur.
Highlights:
Best place for a night view.
Peaceful atmosphere.
Popular for couples.
6. Arsi Vilas
Arsi Vilas is a little island in Lake Pichola. It was initially constructed for kings to watch sunsets. Now it is also a place where many birds live. In winter, a lot of migratory birds come to the island, so it is very popular among those people who love birds. The island has a magical appearance at sunset as the orange sky illuminates the water of the lake.
Highlights:
Great for birdwatching.
Serene sunset point.
Peaceful environment.
7. Mohan Mandir
Mohan Mandir is on the northeast corner of the lake. It is a beautiful historic building. It is believed that it was constructed for Maharana Jagat Singh II. The temple has a wonderful view of the lake, especially when there is calm in the water. Photographers like to come in the early morning because the light is soft, which provides a perfect frame for some beautiful photos.
Highlights:
Quiet and less crowded.
Good morning view.
Historical architecture.
8. Fateh Sagar Lake Viewpoint (Nearby)
Fateh Sagar Lake is not part of Lake Pichola, but it is very close to it and is often visited on the same day. The panoramic views at Fateh Sagar are ideal to contrast the modern with the eternal beauty of Lake Pichola. Visitors enjoy boat rides, cafes and the pleasant evening walks.
Highlights:
Nearby attraction.
Relaxing ambience.
Good food stalls.
Conclusion
Lake Pichola is the heart of Udaipur and a very special place in Rajasthan. You can experience quiet mornings, golden sunsets and bright night views. Boat rides, mesmerising palaces, old ghats, and royal buildings make it a must-see for all. For romance, history and natural beauty, pick Lake Pichola to make your trip an unforgettable one. Pack your bags, bring your camera and get ready to be charmed by the beauty of the lake, because it welcomes all its visitors with open arms.
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