Lake Palace Guide
Lake Palace: Udaipur's Floating Jewel, A Dream of Romance Guide
Imagine a palace shimmering on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola, a vision of ethereal beauty and timeless romance. This is the Lake Palace, a luxurious hotel that was once a royal summer retreat. Even if you're not staying at the hotel, a glimpse of this architectural marvel is a must-do in Udaipur. Its pristine white facade, reflected in the lake's surface, creates a scene straight out of a fairytale. Prepare to be enchanted by the magic of the Lake Palace. Originally built in 1743-1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II as a pleasure palace, the Lake Palace was initially known as Jag Niwas. It served as a summer retreat for the royal family, offering respite from the heat and a place to indulge in leisure activities. Over the years, the palace fell into disrepair, but it was meticulously restored in the 1960s and transformed into a luxury hotel by the Taj Group. Today, it stands as a symbol of Udaipur's rich history and architectural prowess. While access to the Lake Palace is primarily reserved for hotel guests, you can still admire its beauty from the shores of Lake Pichola. Take a boat ride around the lake to get a closer view of the palace and capture stunning photographs. Many boat tours include a stop near the Lake Palace, allowing you to appreciate its grandeur from the water. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated directly with the Lake Palace, you can find delicious Rajasthani cuisine at restaurants in Udaipur before or after your visit. The hotel itself offers a variety of dining options with stunning lake views.
Transportation
The Lake Palace is located on an island in Lake Pichola. The only way to reach the palace is by boat. If you are staying at the Lake Palace hotel, complimentary boat transfers are provided from the City Palace jetty. If you are not a guest, you can still take a boat tour of Lake Pichola, which will pass by the Lake Palace. Boat tours typically depart from the City Palace jetty or other designated points along the lake.