Udaipur

Udaipur
Name	Udaipur
Settlement type	City
Coordinates	24, 35, N, 73...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	India
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Rajasthan
Subdivision type2	District
Subdivision name2	Udaipur district
Established title	Founded
Established date	1559
Founder	Maharana Udai Singh II
Government type	Municipal Corporation
Governing body	Udaipur Municipal Corporation
Area total km2	64
Elevation m	598
Population total	451,100
Population as of	2011
Population density km2	auto
Demographics type1	Languages
Demographics1 title1	Official
Demographics1 info1	Hindi, English
Demographics1 title2	Regional
Demographics1 info2	Mewari
Timezone1	IST
Utc offset1	+5:30
Postal code type	PIN
Postal code	313001–313024
Area code type	Telephone code
Area code	+91-294
Registration plate	RJ-27
Website	udaipur.rajasthan.gov.in

Udaipur, historically known as the "City of Lakes," is a major city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Mewar kingdom as his new capital following the siege of Chittorgarh, it is renowned for its picturesque Aravalli-ringed lakes, lavish Rajput-era palaces, and vibrant cultural heritage. Often described as the "Venice of the East," the city serves as the administrative headquarters of Udaipur district and is a globally significant hub for tourism, history, and art.

History

The city's foundation is intrinsically linked to the Sisodia Rajput dynasty of Mewar, with Maharana Udai Singh II establishing it after advice from a sage. It served as the capital of the Kingdom of Mewar, which fiercely resisted Mughal expansion under rulers like Maharana Pratap, who fought the Battle of Haldighati against the forces of Akbar. The city witnessed relative peace and prolific architectural patronage during the 17th and 18th centuries under Maharanas such as Karan Singh, Jagat Singh I, and Sangram Singh II, who commissioned many lake palaces and gardens. Following the Anglo-Maratha Wars, Mewar became a princely state under British suzerainty via the Treaty of 1818 with the East India Company. After Indian independence in 1947, the last ruling Maharana, Bhagwat Singh, acceded to the Dominion of India, and the territory was integrated into the state of Rajasthan.

Geography

Udaipur is located in the southern part of Rajasthan, nestled within the ancient Aravalli Range, which is among the world's oldest fold mountain systems. The city's unique topography and climate are defined by several interconnected artificial lakes, most notably Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, and Doodh Talai Lake. These lakes, created by building dams in the Kotra, Berach, and Ahar river systems, are central to its landscape and history. The region features a hot semi-arid climate with distinct seasons, including a hot summer, a monsoon season influenced by the Arabian Sea branch, and a mild winter.

Demographics

As per the 2011 Census of India, Udaipur city had a population of approximately 451,100 inhabitants. The broader Udaipur Metropolitan Region encompasses a larger populace. The major linguistic groups include speakers of Mewari, a dialect of Rajasthani, alongside widespread use of Hindi and English. The city is religiously diverse, with Hinduism being the majority religion, followed by significant communities of Muslims, Jains, and others. Social structures historically influenced by the Rajput and Mewar kingdoms remain part of the local cultural fabric.

Economy

Udaipur's economy is multifaceted, with tourism being its most prominent and fastest-growing sector, driven by its UNESCO-nominated heritage sites and luxury hospitality. It is a major center for mining and marble processing, with the region rich in resources like zinc, lead, and calcite, overseen by companies such as Hindustan Zinc. The city is also a renowned hub for traditional handicrafts, including Pichwai paintings, silver jewelry, and textile printing. Other significant economic activities include agriculture, education with institutions like Mohanalal Sukhadia University, and a growing information technology services presence.

Culture

The cultural life of Udaipur is a vibrant tapestry of Rajput and Mewar traditions. It is famous for its classical music and Kathak dance, with the annual Mewar Festival celebrating the arrival of spring. The city's architectural heritage is showcased in landmarks like the City Palace complex, Jag Mandir, and the Jagdish Temple. Local cuisine features dishes like Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Mohan Maas. Udaipur has also become a popular location for Bollywood film shoots and destination weddings, featured in movies such as *Octopussy* and *The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel*.

Tourism

Tourism is the cornerstone of Udaipur's identity, attracting visitors to its majestic palaces, serene lakes, and historic temples. The iconic Lake Palace, now a Taj hotel, appears to float on Lake Pichola, while the Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh) offers panoramic views from a hilltop. Key attractions include the sprawling City Palace museum, the Bagore Ki Haveli cultural center, the ancient Eklingji Temple complex, and the Ahar archaeological museum. Visitors enjoy boat rides on the lakes, shopping for handicrafts in the Hathi Pol bazaar, and attending sound and light shows that dramatize the city's history. Its romantic ambiance has earned it global recognition as a premier heritage and leisure destination.

Category:Udaipur Category:Cities in Rajasthan Category:Tourism in Rajasthan