All thanks to one of the Incredible India videos dedicated to Rajasthan and a random blog that I read about monsoon in Rajasthan! For based on that I chose to invade Rajasthan this monsoon. I wanted Mt. Abu to be the first place on my list, and hence started of the journey from Udaipur. So, here’s all I did in Udaipur during the three days of my stay.
Good blend of homestay and hostel life
I love the feel of a home away from home and also the craziness of a hostel life. Thinking wisely, I distributed my stay between both these kind. For day 1 and 2, I stayed at Hari’s Homestay. Nothing could have been a better decision that this. It was a home away from home and more so, a new family away from my own. The second morning of my stay was in fact my birthday. Getting to know this, Hari (Aunty) and uncle immediately blessed me and also gave a cute gift. A happy coincidence; she happened to have made kheer for dinner. Small touches like these mean a lot for guests.
For day 3, I checked into Bunkyard Udaipur. Located right at the heart of Udaipur, overlooking Lake Pichola, I chose this hostel for the best location. Also the fact that I enjoy conversing with fellow travelers is what brought me here. With yummy food at the roof-top cafe, the breeze flowing from the lake, and the friendly crowd; I got all the more reasons to stay here.
No better way to experience the Rajasthan folk culture
For the first evening, I headed to Bagore ki Haveli. This place presents the best of Rajasthan’s folk culture with a combo of folk dances, folk songs, and puppet show. The program starts sharp at 7pm every evening. So, it is advisable to be in the queue by 6.30pm. An hour long show of five to six dance numbers, numerous songs, and entertaining puppet shows; this show is very much recommended by everyone. Best part being that the tickets are at extremely affordable rate. So, when in Udaipur, don’t think twice, just head to it.
Honest and soulful interaction with the locals
The heart of Udaipur is a criss cross intersection of narrow lanes, numerous shops, temples and way to the various tourist places. With each junction looking similar to the last one and every corner resembling the other, I could hardly mark a landmark on the very first day. Well, who came to my rescue then? Not one but many smiling faces; shopkeepers, localities, and the policemen. Each time I asked them a route; they stopped by, smiled at me and showed me the way.
Drive to Mt Abu
As I chose to explore Rajasthan during this monsoon, Mt Abu was one of the main places that I wanted to head to. It is definitely one of those rare gems that looked the best during the rains. My drive to Mt. Abu was mostly comprised of clouds and rain. The road looked stunning, often reminding me of one of my favorite routes; the Pune-Mumbai highway.
The Nakki lake, the Dilwara Jain temples, Guru Shikhar, an abandoned lake, a view point and a hot plate of daal-bati-churma; I ticked off Mt Abu from my diary, doing all the right things.
Soak in the feel of the Lake City
Udaipur is rightfully called the Kashmir of Rajasthan by the localities. Surrounded by the Aravalli hills and channeled by a good number of lakes, this place has a vibe of its own. The Fatehsagar lake and the Pichola lake being the two important ones. My recommendation would be to start the day by taking a ride across Fatehsagar lake and end the evening riding across Lake Pichola. Once done, head to one of the numerous roof-top cafes and restaurants by Lake Pichola, to get a glimpse of the setting sun.
Sipping down a glass of chilled ice-tea, as I saw the clouds decorate the sky and the felt the cool breeze blowing from the lake, I experienced the best of Udaipur that evening.
Regal and beautiful; nothing less than this
If only I could get a lifetime to revisit and relive Udaipur, as many times I wanted, and any time I wanted to! Udaipur City Palace is one of the most beautiful places across Rajasthan. Something so regal and beautiful must be celebrated in bounty.
Just when I thought there can be nothing more beautiful that what I just saw in the palace, I headed towards Jag Mandir. Sailing through Lake Pichola, a flock of pigeons brushed passed the boat. With delighted eyes, I sat in it seeing life around the lake city at its most active form.
It is difficult to part ways from places where you find your soul clinging onto. My trip to Rajasthan was one such experience. I am glad that the journey started with Udaipur. Udaipur, it was my pleasure to have been there. I wish to visit you sooner than ever!
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