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Lake Pichola is the heart of Udaipur. An artificial lake enlarged in the fourteenth century and later by the Maharanas, it lies at the foot of the City Palace, with islands, ghats and hills around it. The lake is the reason many people choose Udaipur, and it is at its best at sunset, when the palaces turn gold and the water takes on the colour of the sky.
What you see on the water
- The City Palace rises directly from the east bank, a long, layered facade of balconies and domes.
- Jag Mandir is a smaller island palace that was a retreat for royalty. Boats can stop here for a visit and a cafe.
- Jag Niwas, the island with the Lake Palace, is a white marble palace now operating as a hotel. You can see it from the water, but access is limited to hotel guests.
- The ghats, such as Gangaur Ghat and Lal Ghat, are lined with temples, havelis and cafes.
- Hills and ridges, which are especially dramatic at dusk.
The boat ride
The standard boat ride lasts around an hour, leaving from the City Palace jetty near Lal Ghat. It circles the lake and may stop at Jag Mandir for a short visit. The boat is covered or open, depending on the operator. Sunset rides are the most popular and sell out in winter, so book ahead through your hotel or a trusted operator.
If you prefer a quieter experience, a morning ride is calmer and the light is soft. Some hotels offer private boat transfers for guests.
Best time to visit
The lake looks best from October to March, when the air is clear. After a strong monsoon, the lake is full and the setting is at its most dramatic. In years with weak rains, the water level can fall, and the edges lose some of their charm. In summer the evenings are the most comfortable time.
Practical tips
- Book your boat at least a day ahead in peak season.
- Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early for sunset boats.
- Wear a hat and carry water; the sun can be strong on the open lake.
- Hold your camera carefully, and keep bags off the boat floor.
- Ask your boatman about stops before you agree the ticket.
- Remember that the lake is a living part of the city; do not throw litter into it.
Walking the ghats
A walk along Gangaur Ghat and Lal Ghat at dusk is one of the best ways to enjoy the lake without a boat. Look for the Bagore Ki Haveli museum and evening performances, rooftop cafes with views, and local shops. Photographers will find good vantage points at the Chand Pole bridge.
Combine it with
Pair the lake with the City Palace in the same day: palace in the morning, lunch by the lake and a sunset boat. Add the Jagdish Temple and the old city lanes for variety.
Plan it with us
Lake Pichola is a centrepiece of our Udaipur plans. See the Udaipur guide and the Jaipur and Udaipur honeymoon, or tell us what you would like.
