Top 8 Lakes to Explore in Udaipur – The Venice of the East

Udaipur, often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” is a dream destination for travelers. Surrounded by the majestic Aravalli Hills, this city is adorned with beautiful lakes, making it one of the most picturesque locations in India. It is rightly called the “City of Lakes” in Rajasthan, as it boasts several natural and artificial water bodies that add to its breathtaking charm.

If you’re planning a visit to this royal city, exploring its famous lakes in Udaipur should be on your bucket list. From the serene Fateh Sagar Lake to the grand Jaisamand Lake, each water body has a unique story to tell. In this blog, we will take you through the top 8 lakes in Udaipur that you must visit to witness the city’s unmatched beauty.

1. Fateh Sagar Lake – The Most Scenic Lake in Udaipur

Located to the north of Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the best lakes in Udaipur known for its mesmerizing blue waters and peaceful surroundings. This famous lake in Udaipur was originally built by Maharana Jai Singh in 1687 and later reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh in the 1880s, after whom it is named.

Why Visit Fateh Sagar Lake?

• It is surrounded by hills, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.
• The lake has three islands, with Nehru Park being the most famous one, housing a boat-shaped restaurant and a zoo.
• Visitors can enjoy boat rides, speed boating, and even witness the stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Fateh Sagar Lake is a major attraction and one of the key reasons why Udaipur is called the City of Lakes.

2. Lake Pichola – The Jewel of Udaipur

One of the biggest lakes in Udaipur, Lake Pichola is synonymous with the city’s royal charm. Built in 1362 AD by Pichhu Banjara, this artificial lake was later developed by Maharana Udai Singh, the founder of Udaipur.

What Makes Lake Pichola Special?

• The stunning Taj Lake Palace, built on an island in the middle of the lake, is now a luxurious heritage hotel.
• The iconic City Palace stands magnificently on its eastern shore, offering splendid views.
• Visitors can take boat rides from Rameshwar Ghat or City Palace to explore the grandeur of this lake.

A sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola is a must-do experience, making it one of the best lakes in Udaipur.

3. Udaisagar Lake – The Historic Lake of Udaipur

Situated about 13 km from Udaipur, Udaisagar Lake was built in 1565 by Maharana Udai Singh to provide a continuous water supply to the city. This lake has witnessed many historical battles and remains a significant water reservoir for Udaipur.

Why Visit Udaisagar Lake?

• The lake is surrounded by lush green landscapes, perfect for relaxation and photography.
• It serves as an important water source for the city.
• The peaceful environment makes it an ideal spot for a quiet escape from the bustling city.

For history lovers, Udaisagar Lake is a testament to the city’s royal past and one of the reasons Udaipur is called the City of Lakes.

4. Jaisamand Lake – The Second Largest Artificial Lake in Asia

Also known as Dhebar Lake, Jaisamand Lake is one of the biggest lakes in Udaipur and the second-largest artificial lake in Asia. Constructed by Maharana Jai Singh in 1685, it spreads over 87 square kilometers.

What Makes Jaisamand Lake Unique?

• It is surrounded by the Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to diverse flora and fauna.
• There are seven islands in the lake, with Baba Ka Magra being the largest.
• The lake is bordered by a beautiful marble dam, which offers scenic views.

Visiting Jaisamand Lake is a must for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the City of Lakes in Rajasthan.

5. Rajsamand Lake – A Stunning Sunset Spot

Built by Maharana Raj Singh in 1660, Rajsamand Lake is one of the famous lakes in Udaipur known for its historical importance and breathtaking sunsets. The lake served as a major water source during the reign of Mewar rulers.

Why Visit Rajsamand Lake?

• The lake embankment has ornate marble terraces and pavilions with stunning architecture.
• The inscriptions on the dam provide insights into the history of Mewar.
• It is one of the best spots in Udaipur to enjoy a peaceful evening by the water.

For travelers who enjoy history and natural beauty, Rajsamand Lake is one of the best lakes in Udaipur to explore.

6. Badi Lake – A Hidden Gem of Udaipur

Also known as Badi Ka Talab, Badi Lake is one of the lesser-known yet incredibly beautiful lakes in Udaipur. Constructed by Maharana Raj Singh I in the 17th century, this lake was built to provide relief from a devastating famine.

What Makes Badi Lake Special?

• It offers serene and crowd-free surroundings, making it perfect for nature lovers.
• The lake is surrounded by hills, providing great trekking opportunities.
• Bahubali Hills, a viewpoint near the lake, offers panoramic views of the entire lake.

For those looking to escape the touristy crowd, Badi Lake is a hidden paradise in the City of Lakes in Rajasthan.

7. Doodh Talai – A Small Yet Scenic Lake

Doodh Talai, a small yet scenic lake, is located near Lake Pichola and is famous for its proximity to popular attractions like Karni Mata Temple and Manikya Lal Verma Garden.

Why Visit Doodh Talai?

• It offers panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace.
• The Doodh Talai Musical Garden is a perfect place to unwind.
• Visitors can take the ropeway ride to Karni Mata Temple for stunning aerial views of Udaipur.

Doodh Talai may be small, but it is one of the best lakes in Udaipur for its unique location and breathtaking sunset views.

8. Swaroop Sagar Lake – A Connector Between Lakes

Swaroop Sagar Lake is another famous lake in Udaipur, built by Maharana Swaroop Singh in the 19th century. It serves as a connecting lake between Fateh Sagar Lake and Lake Pichola.

What’s Special About Swaroop Sagar Lake?

• It is an integral part of Udaipur’s interconnected water system.
• The lake prevents water overflow and flooding in the city.
• It is located near major tourist attractions, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Though not as grand as Lake Pichola or Fateh Sagar Lake, Swaroop Sagar Lake plays a crucial role in Udaipur’s ecosystem.

Conclusion

Udaipur is truly a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Known as the “City of Lakes in Rajasthan,” this royal destination is home to some of the most stunning water bodies in India. Whether it’s the grandeur of Lake Pichola, the serenity of Fateh Sagar Lake, or the hidden beauty of Badi Lake, each lake offers a unique experience.

From historical significance to natural beauty, these famous lakes in Udaipur are a must-visit for anyone exploring the Venice of the East. To make your trip even more memorable, you can find a budget hotel in Udaipur that offers a comfortable stay without overspending. So, pack your bags, take a boat ride, and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Udaipur – the City of Lakes.