Why is Udaipur known as the 'City of Lakes'?

Udaipur is frequently mentioned along with the famous catchphrase ‘The City of Lakes’. Every time you ask somebody what is Udaipur famous for or what you like the most in Udaipur, indeed the majority of blogs and people end up mentioning the exquisite lakes. But basically why is it called the city of lakes and what is so famous about the lakes that make it so different from the other tourist places in Rajasthan? Read to find out.

Here's Why Udaipur Is Known As The City Of Lakes -

History Of The Lakes In Udaipur

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Earlier, Udaipur was pa rt of Mewar before the 13th century. The residents suffered from water shortages and poor sewage systems in this city. So to solve this problem, the rulers constructed 7 artificial lakes namely Lake Pichola, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, Fateh Sagar, Badi, Madar, and Udai Sagar. Moreover, these lakes formed a chain in the saucer-shaped Udaipur valley and the result is that the water keeps moving forward without drowning the city.

Second Largest Artificial Lake

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India's second-largest artificial lake named Jaisamand Lake is in Udaipur. It is also known as Debar lake. The purpose of the lake was to build a marble dam across the river Gomti. The lake is spread over an area of 36 square miles and is 14km in length, 9 km wide and 102 feet deep. Moreover, this lake is home to three islands. The Bhil tribe owns one of them and the other two are Baba ka Magra and Piari. Lastly, boating is the best way to explore this lake.

All The Lakes Are Interconnected

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Udaipur hosts 7 lakes and all of them are interconnected to each other within the boundaries of the city. This ensures that there is no overflow and yet enough water for all needs. Lake Badi, Choti Madaar and Bada Madaar lakes are the source of Fateh Sagar. Identically, the overflow of both the Madaar lakes meets the Ahar river (natural river) and the overflow of Lake Badi meets Fateh Sagar. Similarly, the overflow from Lake Pichola (artificial lake) meets with Fateh Sagar and lastly, the overflow from Fateh Sagar merges with the Ahar river. Interesting isn’t it? 

Every Lake Has Its Own Uniqueness

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Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola is one of the oldest and biggest lakes in Udaipur. It homes various small islands in itself. The enchanting views of Lake Pichola are undoubtedly something that won't disappoint you. Therefore, it is among the five lakes considered the most beautiful and picturesque lakes in the city.

Fateh Sagar Lake

Also known as ‘Pride of Udaipur’, Fateh Sagar Lake, with mountains on three sides, is an artificial lake. Surprisingly, it is also home to Asia’s best solar site namely Udaipur Solar Observatory which is sure to draw you in if you are interested in astronomy.

Udai Sagar Lake

Udai Sagar lake offers a commanding look of evening silhouettes. Incidently, it is one of the most celebrated lakes in Udaipur. Overall, it is an outcome of the dam that was constructed on the Berach River to ensure adequate water supply to Maharana Udai Singh’s kingdom.

Rajsamand or Rajsamudra Lake

Rajsamand or Rajsamudra Lake is an artificial lake created in the 17th century. Particularly, it is famous for its awe-inspiring and peaceful appearance. Enjoy the blissful atmosphere and spend time watching the beautiful view at this unique location.

Swaroop Sagar

Located near Lake Pichola and Lake Fateh Sagar, it is one of the artificial lakes constructed to specifically fulfil the water needs of residents. Thus, it is also known as ‘Kumharia Talab’. It is named after Maharana Swarup Singh of Udaipur.

Goverdhan Sagar

This lake is known for the properties that surround it and is the smallest artificial lake in Udaipur. Hence, it is less crowded and more peaceful than the other lakes where you can indeed sit and relax for hours.

Badi Lake

This lake is situated 12km away from the city and thus provides a peaceful aura. Above all, the location is filled with wide cactus trees giving you the feeling of being in Arizona.

Jaisamand Lake

Jaisamand or Debar lake and is the second-largest artificial lake in Asia. Besides, there are six, intricately carved marble cenotaphs on its embankment. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Udaipur and surely a must visit.

Here A Lake, There A Lake

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Wherever you go, you are never far from the lakes. Interestingly, Udaipur offers a view of the water from every part. Whether it is the cafes peppered throughout the city, the gorgeous Monsoon Palace or some empty road you drive on - a beautiful lake is always nearby. Furthermore, this also keeps the city cool and lends an aura of romance to the entire city.