Lake Pichola
West India Region
Lake Pichola, located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, is an artificial freshwater lake created in 1362 AD by the Maharaja of the Parmar Rajputs. Named after the nearby village Picholi, it was expanded by Maharana Udai Singh, who founded Udaipur on its banks. The lake spans approximately 696 hectares, with a length of 4 kilometers and width of 3 kilometers, and depths ranging from 4.32 to 8.5 meters. It features four notable islands: Jag Niwas, home to the marble Lake Palace built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II; Jag Mandir, with its own palace; Mohan Mandir, used historically to observe the Gangaur festival; and Arsi Vilas, a small island serving as a bird sanctuary. Ornamental arch bridges connect parts of the lake, enhancing its picturesque charm. The lake is fed by the Sisarma stream from the Aravalli Mountains and has historically been vital for irrigation and drinking water. Its surroundings feature palaces, temples, ghats, and heritage hotels, making it a cultural and architectural jewel. During droughts, the lake has been known to dry up, reflecting environmental challenges. The Lake Palace, often compared in grandeur to the Taj Mahal, is a highlight for visitors, offering a unique blend of history and luxury hospitality.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Lake Pichola is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Booking boat rides in advance is recommended to explore the lake and its islands, especially the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir. Visitors can enjoy sunset views and photography opportunities from the lakeside ghats. Discounts may be available for heritage hotel stays and combined tickets for city palace and lake tours. Early morning visits offer serene experiences with fewer crowds.
Faits intéressants
- •Lake Pichola is an artificial lake created in 1362 AD and expanded by Maharana Udai Singh when he founded Udaipur.
- •The Lake Palace on Jag Niwas island was built in 1746 entirely of marble and is often compared to the Taj Mahal for its beauty.
- •Arsi Vilas island serves as a sanctuary for various bird species including tufted ducks, coots, egrets, terns, cormorants, and kingfishers.
- •The lake connects with several other lakes around Udaipur via arched bridges, including Swaroop Sagar and Fateh Sagar Lakes.
- •During drought years, such as between 1998 and 2005, Lake Pichola has been known to dry up completely.
Histoire
Lake Pichola was constructed in 1362 AD by the Maharaja of the Parmar Rajputs and named after the nearby village Picholi.
In 1560, Rana Udai Singh built an embankment, enlarging the lake and founding the city of Udaipur on its banks.
Over subsequent centuries, the lake's islands were developed with palaces and temples, including the Lake Palace in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II.
Ornamental bridges were constructed at narrow points to connect the banks.
The lake has historically served as a water source for drinking and irrigation and was built with encouragement from the rulers of Mewar to support water harvesting by local communities.
Guide du lieu
Lake Palace (Jag Niwas Island)1746
A stunning marble palace built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II, now converted into a heritage hotel. It spans 1.6 hectares and is renowned for its architectural beauty and romantic setting in the middle of Lake Pichola.
Jag Mandir Island17th century
An island featuring the Jag Mandir palace, historically used for royal leisure and events, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Mohan Mandir1628-1652
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, this palace was built by Jagat Singh between 1628 and 1652 and was used by the king to watch the annual Gangaur festival.
Arsi Vilas IslandUnknown
A small island that served as an ammunition depot and a sunset retreat for the Maharana. It is now a bird sanctuary hosting species like tufted ducks, coots, egrets, terns, cormorants, and kingfishers.
Ornamental Arch Bridges19th century
Several decorative arch bridges span narrow parts of the lake, enhancing connectivity and aesthetic appeal between its banks and nearby lakes like Swaroop Sagar and Fateh Sagar.
