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Lake Pichola
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LakeArtificial Lake

Lake Pichola

Udaipur, Rajasthan
4.8(20,300 reviews)

Lake Pichola is one of India's most picturesque artificial lakes, surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, and ghats. The famous Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) and Jag Mandir palace appear to float on the water, making it one of India's most romantic locations.

Quick Facts

Built In
1362 AD
Built By
Pichhu Banjara
Designed By
Commissioned under Pichhu Banjara
Architecture
Natural & Artificial Lake
Category
Lake - Artificial Lake
District
Udaipur
Visit Duration
2-3 Hours (with boat ride)
Best Time
September - March

Highlights

Sunset Boat Ride
Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) View
Jag Mandir Island
City Palace Backdrop
Ambrai Ghat
Gangaur Ghat
Mountain Reflections

Activities to Do

🎯Enjoying scenic views and natural landscapes
🎯Watching native birds and wildlife in their habitat
🎯Capturing photographs of beautiful sunset/sunrise views

Facilities Available

Boat RidesGhatsNearby RestaurantsParkingPhotography Spots

Accessibility

♿General paths are accessible for visitors
♿Restrooms are available on-site or nearby
♿Guidance and assistance available at the ticket counter

Significance: Most romantic spot in Rajasthan, inspired founding of Udaipur

Timing & Tickets

Opening Hours

Opens AtAll Day
Closes AtAll Night
Closed OnOpen all days
Current Status
Open Now
Boat rides: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Sunset boat rides most popular (book in advance).

🎫 Entry Tickets

FREE ENTRY
No ticket required for entry
Lake viewing free. Boat ride: ₹400-800/person. Sunset cruise: ₹700-1200. Jag Mandir island visit extra.

⏱ Recommended Visit Duration

Minimum
1 Hour
⭐ Recommended
2-3 Hours (with boat ride)
Extended
Half Day (with ghats and temples)

Location

AddressOld City, Udaipur
CityUdaipur, Rajasthan
Pincode313001
From City CenterIn the heart of Udaipur
Nearest AirportMaharana Pratap Airport (24 km)
Nearest RailwayUdaipur City Railway Station (3 km)
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📜 History of Lake Pichola

When Pichhu Banjara commissioned the construction of Lake Pichola in 1362 AD, the ambition was to create a monument that would reflect the power and cultural sophistication of Udaipur for generations to come. Lake Pichola is one of India's most picturesque artificial lakes, surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, and ghats. The famous Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) and Jag Mandir palace appear to float on the water, making it one of India's most romantic locations. Centuries later, this vision stands magnificently fulfilled — Lake Pichola now welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually who come to experience the extraordinary fusion of history, art, and architecture that defines this incomparable landmark.

Structural Wonders of Lake Pichola

The Natural & Artificial Lake heritage visible throughout Lake Pichola represents one of Rajasthan's finest contributions to world architecture. Commissioned by Pichhu Banjara in 1362 AD, this lake was designed not merely as a functional space but as an architectural statement — a declaration in stone of the sophistication and cultural refinement of Udaipur's ruling dynasty. The craftsmanship in every corner reflects the extraordinary talent of artisans who were drawn from across Rajputana to contribute their finest skills to this ambitious royal project.

Through the centuries, Lake Pichola has witnessed the full arc of Rajasthan's history — periods of great prosperity, times of political upheaval, and the gradual transformation of Udaipur from a medieval royal capital into a modern metropolis. The lake served as the backdrop for countless significant events and royal ceremonies that shaped the destiny of the region. Its walls carry the silent memory of rulers, nobles, and common people whose lives intersected with this remarkable landmark across many generations.

Must-See Features of Lake Pichola

No visit to Lake Pichola is complete without experiencing its most iconic features. The Sunset Boat Ride is widely regarded as the crown jewel of the entire complex, leaving countless visitors speechless with its beauty and craftsmanship. Equally remarkable is the Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) View, which showcases the extraordinary technical skill and artistic vision that Pichhu Banjara inspired in the craftsmen of Udaipur. The unforgettable experience of enjoying scenic views and natural landscapes adds yet another dimension to what is already a deeply enriching visit.

Your Lake Pichola Experience Awaits

The heritage authorities responsible for Lake Pichola have worked diligently to ensure visitors receive a world-class experience honouring both the monument's historical importance and the expectations of modern tourism. Lake is fullest after monsoon (Sept-Nov). Book sunset boat cruise in advance. For those wishing to engage most deeply with its history and architecture, guided tours by certified local experts are available and strongly recommended. Plan your visit for 2-3 Hours (with boat ride) and bring a sense of curiosity — Lake Pichola consistently rewards those who look closely and ask questions.

Year Built
1362 AD
Built By
Pichhu Banjara
Architecture
Natural & Artificial Lake
Heritage Status
State Heritage

💡 Tips

✅ Do's

Take sunset boat ride
Visit Ambrai Ghat
Walk along ghats at sunset

❌ Don'ts

Don't throw anything in lake
Don't swim
Don't miss sunset

🌤 Best Time

Best Months
September - March
Season
Post-Monsoon / Winter
Weather
Pleasant, 12°C - 28°C
Pro Tip
Lake is fullest after monsoon (Sept-Nov). Book sunset boat cruise in advance.

📸 Photography Rules & Info

Photography is allowed in most areas. Normal camera fees may apply inside the monument.

📍 Nearby

Nearby Places

City Palace (Adjacent)
Jagdish Temple (500m)
Ambrai Ghat (200m)

🔗 Related Places

🏛️City Palace
🏛️Jagdish Temple
🏛️Ambrai Ghat

🙋 FAQs

Quick Info

Timing
All Day - All Night
Open all days
🎫
Entry Fee
FREE ENTRY
Best Time
September - March
⏱
Visit Duration
2-3 Hours (with boat ride)
Distance
In the heart of Udaipur
Rating
4.8/ 5 (20,300 reviews)
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Tags
LakeRomanticBoat RideSunsetPhotographyFree Entry
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