Ahar
Crumbling ruins are all that is left of the ancient capital of the Sisodias, the castle who founded the Kingdom of Mewar. This is an important archaeological site and the museum displays relics discovered in the area, some of which date back 5,000 years. Nearby, a vast enclosed plot is used for the cremation of royalty & nobility. There are over 250 memorials, wondrous, newly renovated pieces of architecture that are well worth a visit.
Crystal Gallery
A Unique Collection of Crystals of a Bygone Era. The Crystal Gallery Located in Fateh Prakash Palace (part of the Grand City Palace Complex) was opened to the public in 1994. Overlooking the Durball Hall, the Crystal Gallery has a grand collection of more than 600 rare objects collected from different parts of the world.
Inspired by the showroom of the Birmingham based company F & C Osler in Calcutta, this unique collection of the gallery was ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singhji in the year 1877. From lamps to washing bowls, perfume bottles to paperweights & writing instruments, the collection has it all. The Crystal Gallery also boasts a crystal bed, the only one of its kind in the world. Besides these, other fascinating objects include a sofa set, a dining table, fountains, various coloured crystal objects, mirrored tabletops and exquisite decanters.
Sajjan Garh
Also known as the Mansoon Palace, it was built as an observatory by Maharana Sajjan Singh and was originally planned as a ninteen storeyed structure. However the Maharana died prematurely and the plans were curtailed. This now derelict palace dominates the skyline from its position 2468 feet high on top of Bansdara Mountain and is clearly visible from most parts of Udaipur. It affords splendid views of the City and the surrounding countryside.
Pratap Memorial
An impressive bronze statue of Maharana Pratap on his horse stands at the top of Moti Magri (Pearl Mount) overlooking Fateh Sagar. Hundreds of people climb the hill to pay homage to Rana Pratap and his faithful charger Chetak, who was killed in the battle of Haldighati. There are the ruins of One of the first of Udaipur's forts and a delightful Japanese Rock Garden nearby.
Fateh Sagar Lake
This lake was constructed by Maharana Jai Singh to the north of lake Pichola. A canal links the two. The lake is bordered on three sides by hills and on the fourth side it is dammed. The name derives from Fateh Singh, who built the dam. Visitors can take a short trip to exquisite Nehru Island Park, which is the focal point in the lake.
The City Walls
These ancient ramparts are the extensive though no longer complete. Large sections through the modern commercial area have disappeared to make way for roads and shops, but at least seven gateways remain.
These are Brahmpol (named after the god, Brahma), Ambapol (After the goddess Amba), Chandpol (the Moon Gate), and Hatipol (The Elephant Gate) to the north, Delhi Gate, Surajpol (The Sun Gate) & Udiapol (named after Udai Singh) to the East. The gateways and remaining walls are in reasonable shape but are unfortunately disfigured with hideous posters, hoardings, electric cables or pylons, learn to shacks or urinals, but plains are afoot for major restoration work.
Shilpgram
Literally meaning "Craftsmen's Village" is a living ethnographic museum depicting the enormous diversities in craft, art & culture between various Indian states. Shilpgram comprises 26 huts set in 70 acres of natural surroundings at the foot of the Aravali mountains.
Eklingji (22Km)
The village of Kailashpuri is famous for its 108 temples enclosed by a high, fortified wall. This complex was known as the Shri Eklingji temple, is associated with Lord Shiva. Some of the structures date back to the 15th Century. The main temple, built of marble and granite, has an enormous double-storied hall under a vast pyramidal roof. The regaining deity is the four-faced Shiva carved in black marble. Yet another temple in the complex is the Lakulish Temple, built in 971 A.D. It is the only temple of the Lakulish Sect in the whole of India.
Nathdwara (48Km)
When the Emperor Aurangzeb prohibited idol-worship, devout Hindus decided to move their statue of Shrinathji to a safer place. During the move, their chariot got totally stuck in the mud. This was taken as a divine sign that the statue wished to rest there, and a temple was erected which was named Shrinathji-Ka-Mandir.
Haldighati (40Km)
Known as "The Yellow Vale" because the earth is the colour of haldi (turmeric). This area was the site of the famous battle of 1576 between Maharana Pratap and Emperor Akbar. The battlefield was in a narrow pass that ends in a wide plain. It was on this plain that the main battle was fought. The Maharana was deeply wounded and his faithful horse, Chetak, carried him to safety. There is a memorial to this loyal horse in Haldighati.
Chittaurgarh (110Km)
One of the most contested seats of power in India, this city (once Mewar's Capital) has witnessed many battles. The seemingly impregnable fortress was first attacked in 1303 and then periodically until 1567, when the battle against Akbar, the Mughal Emperor resulted in the wholesale looting and virtual destruction of every building. following this, it was decided by Maharana Udai Singh to shift capital of Mewar to the area that became Udaipur. The spectacular fortified ruins are perched on a plateau 180 Meters high and they cover an area of over 700 acres. The formidable nine-storeyed Victory Tower was constructed in 1440 to mark the victory (albeit short-lived) over the Muslim enemy.
Molela (45Km)
This small, traditional town near Haldighati is renowned for the production of terra cotta ware. Over forty households are involved (although they originate from two families) in working the fine black local clay into fantastic and beautiful items. Perhaps the most important object made there are the figures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Typical Rajput figures, decorated tiles and animals are also exquisitely modelled. Besides these, all sorts of bowls, pots & crockery are made and decorated with folklore patterns.
Ranakpur (90Km)
A tiny settlement set in the wild & picturesque hills, Ranakpur boasts one of the India's finest Jain Temples, dedicated to Adhinathji. Building of the Temple commenced in the 15th Century and the dedicated work went on for hundreds of years. Traditional stone masons are still working on one of the gateways to the sight. This vast and amazing piece of architecture is of creamy marble. No glass is used and no electricity employed, so it bears a sort of simplicity despite its intricacy. One noteworthy point is that it contains 1444 beautifully carved pillars, no two of which are alike. There are a couple of resort hotels in Ranakpur perfect for those who need break in complete tranquillity and fresh air.
Bagore Ki Haveli
Situated on the bank of Lake Pichola & incorporating the majestic Gangaur Ghat, this haveli was built by the then Prime Minister of Mewar in the second Half of the 18th Century. It fell into a Dilapidated state until restoration by the West Zone Culture Centre began in 1986. There are 138 rooms, balconies, courtyards and terraces. The Chambers of the Royal Ladies contain fresco paintings, and the glass and mirror inlay work in the Haveli is marvelous.
Gulab Bagh
Meaning " The Rose Garden," is situated in Sajjan Niwas Park. Sajjan Singh laid out the Gulab Bagh in the late 19th Century. The Saraswati Bhawan Library (originally called the Victoria Hall) is a striking building that was built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. It contains many rare books and a displaced statue of Victoria.
Dudh Talai
This is a beautiful, recently restored musical fountain situated near sunset point to the side of Machala Magra Mountain. The lovely, tranquil park in the area provide a romantic place from which to see the sun setting over Lake Pichola. For those who enjoy a brisk climb and an even wider view, there is a path to the top of the mountain upon which stands the ruin of an ancient fort.
Kumbhalghar (84Km)
The vast bastion, built by Rana Kumbha in the mid 15th century, stands at 1,100 m & was once almost inaccessible. Only once Was it captured due to its water supply being contaminated by an enemy agent.
Apart from this, it remained safe through the turbulent histroy of the region. Within its complex there are palaces, temples, fields and water resources sufficient to withstand even the longest siege.
Gogunda (35Km)
A village situated on a very high peak in Aravali Hills and that is reached by a hair raising pass. Gogunda that abounds with Hindu & Jain temples, and it was here that the heroic Rana Pratap was crowned.
Chavand (60Km)
Maharana Pratap had a country retreat here, and it was here that he died in1597 following a hunting accident. The People of Bheel tribe inhabit the wild countryside of this area. Bheel men were very proficient archers and use to support Pratap in battle. There is a fine statue of Pratap and four of his aides.
Dhuler (Rishbhdeo) (60Km)
The 15th Century temple at Dhuler is of special significance to Jain Pilgrims, who go there to worship the idol of Rishabhdeoji. The idol is almost one meter high and is of black marble. The founder of Jainism is Lord Mahavira, and Rishabhdeo is believed to be one of his incarnations.
Jaisamand Lake (48Km)
Measuring 14 Kms. in length by 8 Kms. At its widest point, this is one of the largest man made lakes in Asia. Maharaja Jai Singh created it in the 17th century utilizing the waters of Gomti River . Encircled by hills and with a number of summer palaces along the shore, the lake is a natural and peaceful haven. There are eleven islands on the lake , some of which provide sanctuary inhabited by several species of migratory birds. The nearby wildlife sanctuary is also worth a visit. There is a number of resort hotels catering for those who would appreciate a break from the noise and turnoil of the city.
