A serene lake surrounded by royal palaces and scenic ghats
Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful and enchanting lakes in Rajasthan, located in the city of Udaipur. Surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, and bathing ghats, this man-made freshwater lake offers an experience that combines natural beauty with royal elegance. Built in 1362 AD, the lake was later extended by Maharana Udai Singh II to enhance the charm of his new city. Lake Pichola is home to some iconic landmarks such as the Lake Palace (Jag Niwas), Jag Mandir, and the City Palace which overlooks its banks. The boat rides here, especially during sunset, are a major attraction for tourists. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or photography buff, Lake Pichola offers a postcard-perfect backdrop that reflects the timeless charm of Udaipur.
Important Timings
| Visiting Hours | 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Boat rides available) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (Cool weather & clear views) |
Booking and Entry Fees
|
Activity |
Indian Tourists |
Foreign Tourists |
|---|---|---|
|
Boat Ride (Normal) |
₹400 |
₹700 |
|
Boat Ride (Sunset) |
₹700 |
₹1,000 |
|
Jag Mandir Entry |
Included in Boat Fee |
Included in Boat Fee |
|
Photography |
Allowed (No charge) |
History and Legacy
Lake Pichola was originally created in 1362 AD by a banjara (gypsy) tribesman named Pichhu Banjara, during the reign of Maharana Lakha. Its strategic location and natural surroundings quickly caught the attention of the Mewar rulers. When Maharana Udai Singh II founded Udaipur in 1559, he chose the banks of Lake Pichola to build his grand palace, which is now known as the City Palace. The lake was enlarged to suit the aesthetic and functional needs of the royal family, including water supply and grand leisure settings.
Over the centuries, several structures were added in and around Lake Pichola. The most notable among them are the Lake Palace (Jag Niwas), now a luxury hotel, and Jag Mandir, an island palace that once served as a summer retreat. The lake has inspired poets, artists, and filmmakers due to its stunning beauty and regal surroundings. Today, Lake Pichola stands as a symbol of Udaipur’s royal past and tranquil present, drawing travelers from all over the world.
Nearby Destinations
|
City Palace |
1 km |
5 mins |
Walk/Rickshaw |
|
Jagdish Temple |
1.2 km |
6 mins |
Walk |
|
Sajjangarh Palace |
10 km |
25 mins |
Auto/Taxi |
|
Fateh Sagar Lake |
4.5 km |
15 mins |
Auto/Taxi |
|
Bagore Ki Haveli |
900 m |
5 mins |
Walk/Rickshaw |
Tourist Guidelines & Tips
- Prefer early morning or late afternoon boat rides for better weather and views.
- Keep your camera ready – the views are breathtaking, especially during sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the area has cobbled paths.
- Be mindful of local customs and dress modestly near temples.
- Always confirm boat timings during monsoon season.
Top Things to Buy Near Udaipur
- Traditional Rajasthani miniature paintings
- Handmade leather journals and jootis
- Colorful textiles and block-printed scarves
- Marble and wooden handicrafts
- Silver jewelry and antique souvenirs
Top Things and Places to Eat Nearby
- Ambrai Restaurant – Fine dining with lakefront views
- Upre by 1559 AD – Romantic rooftop dinner overlooking Lake Pichola
- Jheel's Rooftop Café – Chill spot for coffee and light meals
- Rainbow Restaurant – Great vegetarian and continental options
- Charcoal by Carlsson – Popular for grilled dishes with lake views
