Udaipur, INDIA
Airing Date: May 22nd, 2006
Udaipur - often referred to as the - The City of Dreams, or the Venice of the East - is perhaps the most romantic city in Rajasthan.
Surrounded by hills and mountains and set on the edge of several lakes - it is bewitching in all its details. Narrow streets lined by vivid coloured stalls, gardens, temples and palaces - every feature mirrored in the placid blue waters of lake Pichhola. Udaipur's inherent romance and beauty and its remarkable past bristling with episodes of heroism and splendour, continue to enthral the visitor. A vivid and picturesque vision in white marble, the City Palace looms over the crystal waters of the lake.
It is said to be the biggest palace in the state of Rajasthan with Maharaja Udai Singhji laying the first foundations. Udai Singhji's successors added buildings to the City Palace Complex in the later years, though in perfect symmetry with the existing structures. The palace is famous for its splendidly carved and decorated royal apartments, lavish lawns with attractively sculpted pavilions, sculptures and spectacular hallways, massive arches, turrets and battlements.
Located in the middle of the main Udaipur city, the Lake Pichola occupies an area of 1.5 square kilometers. Lake Pichola is said to have got its name from a tiny village Picholi that flourished on the banks of this massive lake. The lake provides panoramic vistas of bathing ghats, embankments, shrines and palaces that sparkle and glisten with the enthralling Aravalli's in the backdrop.
Many visitors choose to enjoy boat cruises on the tranquil Lake Pichola and sail towards the luxurious marble Lake Palace located right in the middle of this dreamlike paradise or cruise to the Jagmandir palace located on its tiny island.
Further Information
Qantas return to Mumbai from $1700 ex Sydney, $1784 ex Brisbane, $1793 ex Melbourne, $1810 ex Adelaide. Prices available online and include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Website: www.qantas.com
Connect to Udaipur from $224 one way. Prices include taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Jet Airways
02 9244 2132
16 day Ancient India small group package from $5099 a person. Based on twin share. Includes surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Includes 2 nights in Udaipur.
Travel Indochina
1300 365 355
OR
20 day deluxe package from $10,374 a person. Based on twin share. Includes surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Includes 2 nights at Taj Lake Palace hotel.
Travel Indochina
1300 365 355
Prices correct at 22/5/06
