Ranthambore

Ranthambore

is best known for its large tiger population. As tourism in the park increased, so did the population of neighbouring villages. This led to increasing amounts of fatal human-tiger interactions and poaching. The Indian Government started Project Tiger in 1973 with an allotted area of 60 mi². It was later expanded to become what is now called, the Ranthambore National Park. Besides tigers, the reserve has thriving bird population with more than 270 different species of birds here.

In 2005, there were 26 tigers living in Ranthambore. This was significantly lower than the recorded tiger population of the reserve in 1982, which then stood at 44. According to non-government sources there were 34 adult tigers in the Ranthambore National Park in 2008. More than 14 tiger cubs were also recorded. This was largely attributed to sustained efforts by forest officials to curb poaching. Villagers in the region were being given incentives to stay out of the park and surveillance cameras were also fitted across the reserve. The Indian government also committed US$153 million for the efforts. These efforts have been successful with Ranthambore having enough tigers to participate in the Sariska Tiger Reserve relocation efforts. The first aerial relocation of the male tiger (Dara) from Ranthambore to Sariska was done using a Mi-17 helicopter on 28 Jun 2008 by Wing Commander Vimal Raj. Unfortunately, this translocated tiger died on 15 November 2010 due to poisoning.

Pushkar -The Holy Lake,Ajmer,Rajasthan,India

Pushkar

  is a town in the Ajmer district in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is situated 14 km (8.7 mi) northwest of Ajmer at an average elevation of 510 m (1,670 ft) and is one of the five sacred dhams (pilgrimage site) for devout Hindus. According to Hindu theology , the pond at the Katas Raj temple Near  choa saidan shah in Chakwal district of Pakistan has a theological association with Lord Shiva; it was formed by the tears of Lord Shiva which he is believed to have shed after the death of his wife, Sati. The story goes that when Sati died, Lord Shiva cried so much and for so long, that his tears created two holy ponds – one at Pushkara in Ajmer in India and the other at Ketaksha, which literally means raining eyes, in Sanskrit. It is from this name that the word Katas is derived. It is often called "Tirth Raj" – the king of pilgrimage sites – and has in recent years become a popular destination for foreign tourists.

Pushkar is one of the oldest existing cities of India. It lies on the shore of Pushkar Lake. The date of its actual origin is not known, but legend associates Lord Brahma with its creation.

Pushkar has many temples. Most of the temples are not very old because many temples were destroyed during Muslim conquests in the area. Subsequently, the destroyed temples were rebuilt. The most famous among all is the Brahma Temple built during the 14th century CE.

Pushkar Fair

Pushkar fair continues for five days and these five days are a period of relaxation and merry-making for the villagers. This fair time is the most busy time for them, as this is one of the largest cattle fairs in the country. Animals, including over 50,000 camels, are brought from miles around to be traded and sold. Trading is brisk as several thousand heads of cattle exchange hands. All the camels are cleaned, washed, adorned, some are interestingly shorn to form patterns, and special stalls are set up selling finery and jewellery for the camels. Camels at the Pushkar fair are decorated with great care. They wear jewellery of silver and beads. There are silver bells and bangles around their ankles that jangle when they walk. An interesting ritual is the piercing of a camel's nose. It has more than 400 temples including the only one temple in India dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Brahma, the Creator of the Universe.

According to Indian mythology, after visiting all the Hindu pilgrim towns and temples (Four Dhams), if Pushkar is not visited for worship, then salvation is not achieved. According to the Hindu calendar Pushkar Fair commences in Nawami (ninth day of fortnightly phases of moon) and ends in Purnima (Full Moon) in the month of Kartika (October or November according to the lunar calendar). In Pushkar, one of the biggest Cattle Fair is also held for trading purposes and the best cattle in all categories are awarded. Countless people in their colourful attire gather to take a dip in the Holy Lake and pray to the deities. The whole town comes alive with vibrant folk music and dances, magic shows, horse and camel races and various other traditional entertainment competitions.Pushkar, with more than 12 local fairs and festivals of 10–15 days duration is a year round destination. It is a mellow town by the great lake of Pushkar amidst the perfume of jasmine and rose flowers. About 4,000 to 6,000 visitors from all over the world come to Pushkar everyday.

GARDENS and TEMPLES

GULAB BAGH

Sajjan Niwas Garden is the largest garden of Rajasthan, sprawled over 100 acres of land. During 1850's, Maharana Sajjan Singh took the initiative to built this beautiful garden. Sajjan Niwas Bagh is well known for its numerous varieties of roses. Due to abundance of rose flowers, this garden is also known as Gulab Bagh or Rose Garden. Situated right beneath the banks of Pichola Lake on Lake Palace Road, Gulab Bagh is an interesting park in the southeast of City Palace complex.

The soothing vistas with unusual rose beds, robust trees, orchids and spacious lawns leave any visitor in a delusion. There is a toy train in the premises of the garden that would be cherished by children. The garden also comprises a small zoo that has number of animals like chinkara, leopards, tigers and birds.

Apart from the natural beauty, Sajjan Nivas Garden has something more to offer. There is a library that was constructed by Maharana Fateh Singh. The Library is known as Saraswati Bhawan Library. Gulab Bagh also encompasses a museum, which was originally known as Victoria Hall Museum. It is famous for its collection of antiques, curios, royal household items and other interesting relics from the past.

SAHELIYON KI BARI

Saheliyon-ki-Bari or the 'Garden of the Maids of Honor' of Udaipur was once reserved for the royal ladies who came here for a stroll. A well planned garden, with extensive lawns and shady walks situated on the banks of the dainty Fateh Sagar Lake was constructed in 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for forty-eight young ladies-in-waiting sent to the royal house, as part of the dowry as a cool summer retreat for them. Its numerous fountains located strategically in the four scenic pools of the garden attract as much tourists as the chiseled and sculpted kiosks and marble elephants. However, they had been added later. A rose garden with over 100 varieties greets the visitors.

The garden's lotus pools and fountains have been so placed that they are at a lower level than the waters of Fateh Sagar Lake. The main fountain sports a white marble pavilion in the centre and the contrasting black marble for the four corners of the pond. The 'Savan-Bhado' fountain is on the left of the central square and there is yet another one on the right. The pond on the west features daintily sculptures chhatris (pavilions) of soft black stone, which are surrounded on all sides by more fountains. It is one of the finest examples of Hindu landscape gardening and is a favorite picnic spot of the city.

MAHARANA PRATAP MEMORIAL

Maharana Pratap Memorial is a historic site that is dedicated to the gallant Maharana Pratap. Situated at the top of Moti Margi or Pearl Hill, the memorial overlooks the Fateh Sagar Lake. Maharana Pratap Memorial was constructed with the initiative taken by Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar with the help of a public trust.

The memorial comprises a life-sized bronze statue of Maharana Pratap balanced on his loyal and favorite horse, Chetak. It is believed that Chetak was a faithful horse. He was extremely protective towards Maharana Pratap and stood by his master till his last breath. Chetak was killed in the battle of Haldighati. People visit this memorial to pay their homage to the Rajput hero, Rana Pratap and his loyal mount 'Chetak'.

NEHRU GARDEN

It was named after India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Nehru Garden in Udaipur is a beautiful garden, constructed on an island in the heart of Fateh Sagar Lake. This mesmerizing park can be reached by a pleasant boating from one side of the Fateh Sagar Lake. The park, established in a lawn of about 4.5 acres in spread, encloses many distinct water fountains ressembling those in Brindavan Gardens of Mysore. The fountains are of channel type and pyramid shaped. A floating restaurant, in a boat shape is an added attraction here, located in the north-west of the garden. The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

SUKHADIA CIRCLE

On the road to Ranakpur and Mount Abu, you will pass a beautiful, old-world square, Sukhadia Circle, in Udaipur's northern suburb of Panchwati. It is in fact a large roundabout with a 21-meter-high (70 feet), three-tiered fountain in the centre, and scalloped dishes surmounted by a wheatear motif symbolizing prosperity. There is a beautiful pond encircling the fountain and lush gardens in the vicinity. A popular landmark in Udaipur, Sukhadia Circle was built in 1968 and was opened to public only in 1970.

The circle commemorates Rajasthan's former Chief Minister Mohan Lal Sukhadia, a native of Udaipur.There is a beautiful fountain in the centre of the square surrounded by a pond.

JAGDISH TEMPLE

Jagdish Temple is one of the famous temples of Udaipur. Located in the City Palace complex of Udaipur, this temple is made in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture. In 1651, Jagdish temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh, who ruled Udaipur during 1628-53. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the preserver of the Universe. The gateway of this temple can be sited at a distance of 150 meters from the Bara Pol of the City Palace.

This three-storied temple is a wonder of architecture that comprises beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls. In those times, 1.5 million rupees were spent to raise this structure. The spire of the main temple is around 79 feet high that undoubtedly dominates the skyline of Udaipur. This shikhar (spire) is festooned with sculptures of dancers, elephants, horsemen and musicians making it truly a sight to behold.

EKLINGJI TEMPLE

Eklingji Temple, Udaipur is the most noteworthy temple positioned at a distance of approximately 24 kilometers away from the main Udaipur city. Just like the city itself is valued and admired by loads of voyagers similarly the Eklingji Temple in Udaipur is also the most esteemed temple and specially selected by the holiday makers.

The architectural radiance of Eklingji Temple resembles that of the Jain Temples of Gujarat and is the dwelling place of Lord Shiva who is portrayed here as a four faced Black marble image. The four faces of the Lord are whispered as the four faces of Vishnu (facing north), Surya (facing east), Brahma (facing west), and Maheshwar (facing south) and Shiva here is hence venerated as Parambrahma, which typify the "wholesome one".Lord Shiva and other deities are carefully cleaned up and studded with new flared clothes and also ornamented with trinkets. However, it also displays two tanks, which are commonly known as Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund located on the northern sides of the temple.

NEEMACH MATAJI

Neemach Mataji is a temple located near Fateh Sagar. It is believed to be built in the year 1652-1680. It is also believed that Shree Nimcha Mata (also known as Ambaji) is the clan Goddess of the Royal family of the Maharanas. This stone idol of the Goddess is 56 inch in height and 23 inch in width. The offer idol of Lord Ganesh is 22.1 inch high and 12.1 inch wide. Outside the inner temple is a Hawan Kund for performance of Yojna.

Dr. R.K Agarwal is the person from Udaipur who took the initiative to develop the temple and the result of his efforts is, today this temple is known as 'Udaipur ki Vaishno devi'. According to sources, devotees used to carry bags filled with stone and bajri for developing the way to the temple.

KARNI MATA TEMPLE

Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple, is a temple dedicated to the female Hindu sage, Karni Mata. This temple is located on Machla Hills, near Deendayal Upadhyay Park in midst of natural beauty. Being situated at high point of the city, one can get panoramic view of Lake Pichola, Lake Palace, Sajjangarh Fort and Dudh Talai Park. One can reach to the temple either by stairs starting from Manikyalal Verma Park or by ropeway.

Source : udaipur.nic.in

Legend has it that Karni Mata was born in 1387 AD in village Suwap near Phalodi in Jodhpur district of Rajasthan. She was born as the seventh daughter in Charan family and worshiped as a reincarnation of goddess Durga. It is believed that she restored life of her dead son who reincarnated as rat and since then all her relatives take birth as rats after death and stay together as family.

There are white rats in this temple that are considered holy and, as per popular belief, feeding them brings fortune. Yet another belief is that visiting Devi Maa and worshipping her during morning and evening hours fulfills wishes and adds longevity to life.

RAJIV GANDHI GARDEN

Rajeev Gandhi Park is a major tourist attraction and local attraction.Beautiful lakes and gardens are the hallmark of City Udaipur.The distinguished feature of gardens here is that most of them are made in locations where even the concept of a garden is inconceivable. Be it Nehru garden which is situated in the centre of Fateh sagar, Moti Magri which is developed on a hill, or the recently developed Rajeev Gandhi Park which also is on a hill, all have added value of being situated at a different location than a normal garden. The 'view of the park' and the 'view from the park', both present an exotic scene. The design of garden is such that most part can be seen from distant place.The grandiose look of the garden and its location make it avery important tourist spot.

DOODH TALAI GARDEN

This is a beautiful, recently restored musical fountain situated near sunset point to the side of Machala Magra Mountain. The lovely, tranquil park in the area provide a romantic place from which to see the sun setting over Lake Pichola. For those who enjoy a brisk climb and an even wider view, there is a path to the top of the mountain upon which stands the ruin of an ancient fort

FORTS AND PALACES:Udaipur,Rajasthan,INDIA.

CITY PALACE

Standing on the east bank of Lake Pichola is a massive series of palaces built at different times from 1559. The balconies of the palace provide panoramic views of "Jag Niwas" (the Lake Palace Hotel), Jag Mandir on one side and on the other the city of Udaipur.

Its main entrance is through the triple-arched gate - the Tripolia, built in 1725. The way now leads to a series of courtyards, overlapping parations, terraces, corridors and gardens. There is a Suraj Gokhda, where the maharanas of Mewar presented themselves in the times of trouble to the people to restore confidence. The Mor-chowk (Peacock courtyard), gets its name from the mosaics in glass decorating its walls. The chini chitrashala is noteworthy while a series of wall paintings of Krishna are on display in Bhim Vilas. There are numerous other palaces such as Dilkhush mahal, Sheesh mahal, Moti mahal and Krishna vilas - in memory of a princess of striking beauty who poisoned herself to avert a bloody battle for her hand by rival prince. Now the palace contains many antique articles, paintings, decorative furniture and utensils and attracts thousands of visitors every day.The former guesthouse of the city palace, Shiv Niwas and the Fateh Prakash Palace have been converted into heritage hotels.

LAKE PALACE

The Lake Palace is located on the Jag Niwas Island and covers the whole of 1.5 hectare of the island in the middle of the Pichola Lake. Built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1743 it was meant as a royal summer palace and now converted in to a five star palace hotel. Here It is a magical palace and its image in the middle of the lake is like a leaf straight out of a fairy tale book with an excellent taste of intricate craftsmanship and the ethnic themes using the textiles and handicrafts all over highlight the beauty that is simply beyond compare the lake around makes a pleasant murmur with its rippling waves and lapping that adds to the mesmerising moments.

The Lake Palace is one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, arising out of the Turquoise Waters of the Pichola like an elegant fantasy in white marble. The Lake palace was built in the 17th century on a natural foundation of 4 acers of rock. It was initially called Jag niwas after its founder Maharana Jagjit Singh.

JAG MANDIR PALACE(LAKE GARDEN PALACE)

Jag Mandir is a palace built on an island in the Lake Pichola. It is also called the "Lake Garden Palace".

Its construction is credited to three Maharanas of the Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar kingdom. The construction of the palace was started in 1551 by Maharana Amar Singh, continued by Maharana Karan Singh (1620–1628) and finally completed by Maharana Jagat Singh I (1628–1652). It is named as "Jagat Mandir" in honour of the last named Maharana Jagat Singh. The royal family used the palace as a summer resort and pleasure palace for holding parties. The palace served as a refuge to asylum seekers on two separate occasions.

BAGORE-KI-HAVELI

This is a very congenial old building built right on the waterfront of Lake Pichola at Gangor Ghat. Amir Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar built it in the eighteenth century.

The palace has over hundred rooms and some very interesting display of costumes and modern art. The glass and mirror in the interiors of the Haveli delicate work and well preserved too. It also preserves a fine example of Mewar Painting on the walls of Queen's Chamber. The two peacocks made from small pieces of colored glasses are fine examples of glasswork.

The haveli stages delightful evening's entertainment; the pleasurable performance of Rajasthani traditional dance and music in the moody surroundings of the haveli. It is an ideal place for an evening entertainment while enjoying the view of Lake Pichola.

SAJJANGARH PALACE

The Monsoon Palace, formerly known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, is a hilltop palatial residence in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan in India, overlooking the lake Pichola.

It is named as Sajjangarh after Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874-1884) of the Mewar Dynasty, who built it in 1884. It offers a panoramic view of the city's lakes, palaces and surrounding countryside. It was built basically to watch the monsoon clouds; hence, appropriately, it is popularly known as Monsoon Palace. It is said that the Maharana built it at the top of the hill to get a view of his ancestral home of Chittaurgarh. Previously owned by the Mewar royal family, it is now under the control of the Forest Department of the Government of Rajasthan and has been opened to the public recently. The palace provides a beautiful view of the sunset.

Source:udaipur.nic.in

Udaipur-Museums

City Palace Museum

City Palace Museum has a remarkable collection of ancient sculptures, curios, antiques and inscriptions of the bygone era. Located inside the complex of City Palace, this museum is also known as Pratap Museum. As you enter the City Palace, the straight way will take you to this museum of artifacts. The entrance gate of the City Museum is known as Ganesh Deori, which means "Door of Lord Ganesha".

On entering the door, you will find yourself in a courtyard, which is identified as Rajya Angan (The Royal Courtyard). This is the exact place where Maharana Udai Singh was asked to construct a city by a sage. After crossing the courtyard, you will find the armory museum that exhibits a vast collection of protective gear, weapons including the fatal two-pronged sword. Pratap Museum houses the armor of the chivalrous Maharana Pratap. You can trace the drums and bugles of Rana Sanga too.

The museum has priceless possessions of the former age like antique paintings of Mewar and detailed Rajasthani art. Here, you will find an unusual assortment of coins, sculptures, inscriptions, portraits and wall-paintings. In fact, the museum is divided into several pavilions and halls. Every pavilion has a distinct theme of its own. 'Zenana Mahal' is the main place where you can see arms and armor, paintings and photographs, majestic insignia, processional accouterments and various other objects that reveals the royal legacy and conventions of the Maharanas of Mewar and Sisodia. The museum is a perfect destination to trace the relics of the bygone era.

Vintage Collection of Classic Car Museum

The collection within the grounds of the Garden Hotel comprises a variety of classic and interestingly rare transportation vehicles; some stately and vintage like Cadalec, Chevalate, Morais etc., while the others are sleek and fast.

The Maharanas of Udaipur once possessed and used these regal splendours of automobiles as their luxuries but most of the other models are gradually being added to the collection ,since it provides a unique aristocratic safari for the exclusive guests.

BHARTIYA LOK KALA MANDAL

Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum is one of the most famous museums of Udaipur, exhibiting the brilliant collection of folk articles of Rajasthan. This rare compilation varies from typical rural-dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments, folk deities and paintings. The museum is comfortably located in the building of Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal near Chetak Circle in Udaipur city.

Mewar region of Rajasthan is known for its rich art and culture. Actually, the local handicrafts and things of art of this region have always been cherished all over the world. With the intention to maintain this rich tradition, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal took the initiative, to start an institution, to encourage the local arts and crafts of Mewar. Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum is a part of their program that displays the best art and craft of Mewar.

The museum portrays the remarkable collection of over past 44 years, gathered by the Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal. To provide a summarized idea of the folk heritage of India, traditional attires, ornaments, miniature paintings and many other art objects are displayed here. Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum of Udaipur definitely requires a visit to closely observe the artistic and culturally rich region of Rajasthan.

Shilpgram Museum

Literally meaning a "Craftsmen's Village" is a living ethnographic museum depicting the enormous diversities in craft, art & culture between various Indian states, but the exquisite terracotta work mainly in dark red and dark brown sand material along with the wooden carvings are the forte of this ethnic village . Shilpgram comprises 26 huts set in 70 acres of natural surroundings at the foot of the Aravali Hills.A colourful craft festival during winter seasons to the whole set up induces viatanity and zeal.

Situated 3 kms west of Udaipur near the Havala village is the Centre's Shilpgram - the Rural Arts and Crafts Complex. Spread over an undulating terrain of 130 bighas (70 Acres) of land and surrounded by the Aravallies, the Rural Arts and Crafts Complex is conceived as a living enthnographic museum to depict the lifestyles of the folk and tribal people of the West Zone. Within this complex, huts of the member states are constructed incorporating traditional architectural features of different geographical and ethnic groups residing within the West Zone of India comprising of five Federal States.

AHAR MUSEUM

The Ahar Museum, Udaipur is named after the beautiful city Ahar, where this museum is located. Ahar is the capital of Sisodias and is about 3 Kms away from Udaipur, in Rajasthan. There are various types of iron objects and also a wide variety of other objects of art forms in the magnificent Ahar Museum. These objects are around 5000 years old. Earthen Pots are among the rare collection of antiquities in Ahar Museum.

The architectural pieces stored in the museum are extremely old, as a matter of fact some of the pieces date back to 1700 BC. One of the major attractions and an eye catcher is a Buddha statue, which is a 10th century figure made out of metal.

There are a huge number of cenotaphs in Ahar Museum in Udaipur, India. There are about nineteen cenotaphs of the great Maharanas which are cremated there. Among all the cenotaphs in Ahar Museum, Rajasthan, one of the most striking cenotaphs is that of Maharana Amar Singh, who ruled during the period 1597 to 1620.

Source:udaipur.nic.in

Udaipur-Venice of East

UDAIPUR also called city of Lakes......

PICHOLA

Pichola Lake is one of the most beautiful and picturesque lakes of Rajasthan, India. Located in the heart of the city, Pichola Lake is the oldest and one of the largest lakes of Udaipur.

Pichola Lake the beautiful expanse of water that surrounds the islands of the Lake Palace Hotel (JAG NIWAS) and JAG MANDIR. The backdrop of the overlooking City Palace gives this lake its name-Pichola.Apart from this there is also an another version about it's name.It says that the name comes from the nearby small village of Picholi and was originally created early in the 15th century by a local Banjara tribesman who transported grain.

In 1560, a year after Maharana UDAI SINGH II began building his new capital of Udaipur around the shore, he strengthened the dam and greatly enlarged the lake. Apart from the two large islands, there are several smaller ones, among them are ARSI VILAS, which is a heaven for birds, and a platform, NATNI-KA-CHABUTRA, which has its own legend . At the northern end of the lake is the old town with its ghats and ceremonial ghat where the Gangaur Festival is celebrated with fireworks and illuminations. The height of the dam is 15.24 m. in the Badi Pol area.

Along its eastern shore sprawls the massive CITY PALACE. South of this is the hill known as MACHHALA MAGRA where part of the old city wall and the small fort of Eklinggarh can still be seen. Beyond this is the SHIKARBADI HOTEL, once the Khasi Odi, or hunting lodge, of the Maharanas. When full, Pichola Lake covers an area of almost 1.5 sq km.

FATEH SAGAR

The pride of the City of Lakes, this lake was constructed towards the north of Lake Pichola.Lake and was built by Maharana Jai Singh but it got the name of Fateh Singh who rebuilt its dam. Fateh Sagar, the second of Udaipur's four man-made lakes.

In 1678, Maharana JAI SINGH (1680-1698), who had already constructed the famous JAISAMAND LAKE southeast of Udaipur, excavated this new but small lake. It lies immediately to the north of, and connected by a canal to PICHOLA LAKE, which had been established by Maharana UDAI SINGH II a century earlier.

Fateh Sagar is 2.4 km. long, 1.6 km. wide and 11.5 m. at its deepest point; when full, it covers an area of about 1 sq. km., being fed by the Ahar (Berach) river.

Three small islands grace Fateh Sagar, the largest being NEHRU PARK, a popular garden island with a restaurant and zoo, which is reached by inboard motor boats from the bottom of Moti Magri Hill. The Government of Rajasthan made the second island into a public park with a spectacular water-jet fountain, and the third houses the UDAIPUR SOLAR OBSERVATORY, the largest in Asia. A peaceful spot not far from the city centre, the lake is a popular leisure area for picnics and water recreation in hired pedal boats. Because of Fateh Sagar's blue waters and its backdrop of green hills, it is often referred to as the second Kashmir, an epithet often given to all of Udaipur.

UDAI SAGAR

A picturesque lake about the same size as Rajsamand Lake, 15 km. east of Udaipur on the Berach river. Maharana UDAI SINGH II (1537-1572), expecting the threat of war, ordered and laid the foundation stone of the massive dam in February, 1559, mainly to give the city a secure water supply and, later, for agricultural and leisure purposes. The lake was completed by 1565. Its greatest depth is 9 m.; it is 4 km. long, and 2.5 km. wide, and covers an area of 10.5 sq km. It has a storage capacity of 23.4 mil.cu.m. The 54-m. embankment was built with stones from the bund of other lakes.

Although it has withstood heavy rains, if the lake does overflow, the water will be channeled into the Berach River. In 1573, Kunwar MAAN SINGH invited Maharana PRATAP SINGH I to meet him on this embankment to discuss terms of surrendering to Mughal Emperor AKBAR; Pratap refused the invitation and insulted the Rajput traitor, which led to the Battle of HALDIGHATI (June, 1576). And it was near Udai Sagar that Maharana Raj Singh (1653-1680) defeated the army of Emperor AURANGZEB.

JAISAMAND

Jaisamand Lake is also known as Dhebar.The lake, built by Maharana Jai Singh in 1685, is the second biggest artificial lake of the world covering an area of 36sq km. The lake remained the largest artificial lake in the world till the building of the Aswan dam in Egypt.

Maharana Jai Singh named the resultant lake JAISAMAND after himself - its often-used nickname is 'Ocean of Victory' ('mand' meaning 'ocean').On the day of its inauguration, June 2 1691, Maharana Jai Singh walked around the dam charitably distributing gold equal to his own weight.

The statistics of the lake is really amazing - 9 miles in breadth, 102 feet deep at its deepest end, a circumference of 30 miles with marble staircases leading into the water. The summer palaces of the Queens of Udaipur surround Jaisamand Lake on all sides.

There are seven islands on this lake and the tribe of Bhil Minas (see People of Rajasthan) inhabits all There is a bund on the lake, which has to be mentioned due to its sheer size - 1202 feet long, 116 feet high and 70 feet broad at the base. On the dam are six exotic cenotaphs and a Shiva temple in the centre.

SWAROOP SAGAR

Swaroop Sagar is a small artificial lake that was created by Maharana Swaroop Singh. The lake was subsequently named after him. It is also known as Kumharia Talab. Located behind the famous Jagdish Temple, Kumharia Talab is near Chand Pol adjoining Rangsagar. The lake was actually built to provide water to the people of Udaipur. Kumharia Talab is connected with Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake.

BADI TALAB

Jiyan Sagar is another striking lake, located in the village of Badi. Built by Maharana Raj Singh, Jiyan Sagar was built to deal with the problem of famine in the area. The lake was named after Jana Devi, mother of Raj Singh. Jiyan Sagar is also known as Badi Ka Talab. It sprawls in an area of 155 sq. km. and the embankment of the lake extends to the length of 180 meters and width of 18 meters. Jiyan Sagar also adores three artistic kiosks (chattris)

Source :udipur.nic.in

Ranakpur,Pali,Rajasthan...

Ranakpur Jain Temple

Interior of temple

Front part of Ranakpur temple

Roof of temple

stone sculpture inside the temple 

Mahaveer Swami inside Jain temple

Stone sculpture

main pillar inside temple

stone pillars

Ranakpur Jain Temple is famous for its excellent sculptures and architecture. Surrounded by the Aravali hills and located on the banks of 'Magai' river this grand & gigantic four facet structures was erected in the 14th Century.The Temple is three storied, 102 ft. high and its spread over an area of 48000 sq. ft. The present structure of the temple came into being after the hard works of 50 years by various artisans & sculptors. the land of this temple which situated at the foot hill of 'Madri hills' was gifted by Maharana Kumbha of Mewar. Along with this temple a small town, about 2 kms. from the temple also came into existence. this town got its name from 'Rana' & was named 'Ranpur' which later came to be known as 'Ranakpur'. The temple is dedicated to the first Jain Teerthkar 'Lord Adinath'. it is built on high platform, which has about nine basement. it has 84 idols of gods and demi gods., 1444 pillars elaborately and beautifully decorated along with 4 'Megh Mandaps'. surrounding the main temple there are small shrines of Lord 'Parshwanath','Neminath'& 'Surya Narayan'.

Mucchal Mahaveer

This jain temple is situated about 5km from Ghanero in the kumbhalgarh Sanctuary. Its distinctive features is the statue of Lord Mahavira with a moustache. The two statues of elephants guarding the gateway are splendid example of architecture in the vicinity are the garasia tribal villages famous for their colourful too.

Narlai

Six Km from Ranakpur, lying at the base of a hillock on the top of the which is a classical statue of an elephant narlai has many Hindu and jain temples The temple of Adinath is an anicient one. The outer mandap of the temple has beautiful mural painting on its celling which still retain their original splendour.

Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. Mehrangarh Fort, spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down 125 meters, presents a majestic view on city horizon.
It was built on advice of a saint in 1459 to establish an impregnable head-quarter. This Fort is one of the best in India with its exquisitely latticed windows, carved panels, elaborately adorned windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture and the cannons on the fort's ramparts are well preserved.
	Jaswant Thada Close to the fort complex, lies Jaswant Thada. This 19th century royal cenotaph built in white marble in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and three other cenotaphs, stand nearby. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh holds the rare portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. A visit inside the cenotaphs, with some villagers of the region, would bring forward the reverence they still hold for their brave kings
Umaid Bhawan Palace The romantic looking Umaid Bhawan Palace was actually built with the purpose of giving employment to the people of Jodhpur during a long drawn famine. The royal family of Jodhpur still lives in a part of the palace.Another part of the palace houses a well-maintained museum, displaying an amazing array of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family - weapons, antiques & fascinating clocks, crockery and trophies
Government Museum  This museum has a rich collection of weapons, textiles, miniature portraits, local crafts and images of Jain Tirthankars. It is situated in the middle of the Umaid public gardens. Rai-ka-Bag Palace This palace is situated near Raika Bag palace railway station. It was constructed in 1663 by Hadiji, queen of king jaswant Singh-I. King Jaswant Singh-II liked this palace very much. He mostly stayed in the octagonal bunglow of this palace. In 1883 when Swami Dayanand Saraswati came to Jodhpur, his sermons were arranged for the public in the public ground of this palace. Even Jaswant Singh used to listen to Swami Dayanand in this palace only. Now income tax office functions in this palace.
Umed Garden Umed garden covers an area of 82 acres. developed by Maharaja Umed Singh, it has green lawns, towering Ashoka trees, roses and seasonal flowers, museum, fountains, library and a zoo.In 1978 'Walk-in Aviary' was constructed there one could see different types of birds, local, African and Australian parrots, ducks, rabbits etc; in their natural environment. There are large cages for bears, foxes, deers, lions leopard etc. It is place frequented by children and adults with equal interest.
Raj Ranchhodji Temple It was made by queen Jadechi Rajkanwar after the death of her husband, king Jaswant Singh. Major Part of the temple is made of red sandstone, carved with beautiful filigree work. The heart of the temple has the statue of Ranchhodji made of black marble.It has green, yellow and blue glassess fixed on its main door.
Achal Nath Shivalaya Achal Nath Shivalaya was constructed by Nanak Devi, queen of Rao Ganga. The construction was completed on 21st May 1531. A large water reservoir called Bawari was made near the Shivlinga which is known as Ganga Bawari. The Garbh Griha, Mandap and Kirtan Bhawan of the temple are made of carved Chhitar stone. Siddhnath Siddhnath Shiv temple is located between Takhat Sagar hills. On the road going from the right of filter house on Jodhpur-Chopasani Road, on crossing the stairs made by cutting rocks, one can reach Siddhnath temple. Many years ago it was an absolutely deserted place. And because of that, a hermit Veetragi Narain Swami started staying here. He was a highly worshipped and respected saint, known in the nearby areas. Once a handicapped saint named Gaurishanker, later known as Nepali Baba, came to this place. He had only four fingers in each of his hand and foot. He made a big temple by cutting stones, which is now known as Siddhnath. Ganesh Temple The area which is called Ratanada was named after a dog called Rata. About 150 years ago a teacher Radidas in a place called Gorunda saw a statue of Vinayakji in the hills of Ratanada. The statue is eight feet high and five feet wide.

Around Jodhpur

Mandor  Towards the north of Jodhpur is the ancient capital of Marwar, Mandor. It is just 8 Kms from the city. Main attractions of the place are hall of Heroes where sixteen huge figures which have been carved out of a single rock, the shrine of 330 million Gods and the royal cenotaphs. This area is of immense historical importance but what makes it worthy of a visit is the Hall of Heroes. Sixteen gigantic figures carved out of a single rock depicting popular Hindu and folk deities stand there in bright colours and are well maintained. But one can not miss the caves in crags and the sprawling gardens, which are now shelter place for monkeys and peacocks. Greenery of the place makes Mandor, in true sense, an oasis.
Ossian 65 Kms from Jodhpur, lies ruins of an ancient city called Ossian. This city is famous for Brahmanical and Jain temples, which belong to 8th and 11th century. Surya or Sun temple and the Sachiya temples are famous for their beauty. The shikhar of Sachiya temple is clustered by two rows of turrets, an ambulatory and a large assembly hall with an elaborate ceiling. This town which was once a great trading centre is an oasis and houses an abundance of peacocks. The largest of the 16 Jain and Brahmanical temples is dedicated to Mahavira, the last of the Jain tirthankars. In the same area the Surya temple has fascinating images of Durga, Surya and Ganesh. The sculptural intricacy of the Osian temples rival that of any of the famous temples of the country, be it the Sun Temple of Konark, or the Hoysala temples of Karnataka.
Balsammand Lake & Palace Many a times you must have dreamt of staying in a huge, royal palace on the sea-shore or on the banks of river or if not both at least a palace facing the water reservoir. There is such a place at Mandor in Rajasthan .The 19th Century sandstone palace built on a hillock facing Balsammand lake is one of such places that's definitely going to win your heart.
The palace was created by Maharajah Sur Singhji, as a summer pavilion. It is very finely carved with latticed windows that allow the soft, cool breeze to blow into the interiors of the palace. The embankments of the lake, in front of the palace, have domed structure that offers fabulous views of the lake encircled by hills. An artificial cascading waterfall, brings water down from the reservoir to the gardens. Mandor, is a part of Jodhpur but it enjoys the calmness by being far from the city crowd. The rooms and suites, the entire ambience here makes one feel as if you are staying in a royal palace. One can even enjoy a walk through the trees, the rose beds, pools covered with lilies and the groves of mango, plum, banana, pomegranate and so on. One will also get to see the peacocks, blue bulls, jackals and hundreds of flying foxes (fruit bats) in the trees.
Kaylana Lake Located 8 kms. West of Jodhpur, Kaylana lake was constructed in 1872 by Pratap Singh. It is spread over 84 square kilometers' area. Earlier this area had palaces and gardens made by two rulers of Jodhpur-Bhim Singh and Takhat Singh. These were destroyed to make Kaylana lake. Near the lake is a Dak Bungalow of PHED. Boating facilities have also been made available for tourists here.
	Guda Bishnoi This village is inhabit ated by the Bishnoi community. They are staunch believers in the sanctity of plant and animal life. Villages are marked by Khejri trees and deers which thrive.
Jaswant Sagar Dam  In 1892, Maharaja Jaswant Singh constructed Jaswant Sagar in Pichiyak village between Bilara and Bhavi of Jodhpur district.The Water from this dam is used for irrigating the greenest part of Jodhpur receives water from this dam. Boating facilities have also been made available for tourists here..

Where to Stay

The variety of hotels and guest houses in Jodhpur makes one feel at home. Accomodation here is available to suit tourists of every budget. Hotel Karni Bhawan, Ajit Bhawan are heritage hotels. Rajasthan tourist department has the Ghoomar hotel. The palace hotels as the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Ratanada Polo Palace, Taj Heri Palace, Rajputana Palace. Raj Basera also provides us with good accommodation facilities. There are low budget accomodation too.

YOUTH HOSTEL Youth Hostel, Jodhpur is one of the most euphonious hotels of Jodhpur. The Modern facilities with the finest hospitality and service make it the ideal Echoice for tourists. Whether you want luxury or best value, We have rooms to suit your requirements. At Youth Hostel you'll find all comfort the available on earth & many more. Eloquently designed rooms. Quick & humble staff service makes your stay More enjoyable. it is situated in the vicinity of residential and business hub of Jodhpur.  Modern facilities with the finest hospitality makes it the ideal choice amongst hotels in Jodhpur for businessmen and tourist.

Where to Eat

Delicious Sweets : Jodhpur is famous for its sweets. One can find a large crowd at every shop of sweet delicacies. Its in tradition of jodhpur that first you have to eat sweet and then start other food. One can't escape from sweet hospitality ("Mithi Manuhar") of Jodhpur and than quite appropriate that this is the secret of the sugary tone of the citizen of this city. 'Mave ki Kachori' , 'Besan ki Chaaki', 'Maakhan Vade' are some of the most famous sweets ofJodhpur. Janta Sweet Home, Jodhpur Sweet Home", Pokhar Sweets are some of the shop where one can find a quality and variety of sweets.

Where to Shop

Jodhpur is famous now, all over the world for handicrafts in wood, iron and camel bone.There are a lot of fabric shops, selling 'bandhini' (very fine tie & dye), hand block prints, silver shops selling jewellery by weight, and antique shops. The Sadar Market near the clock tower gives immense shopping pleasure to the local as well as the visitors.

The colourful but hectic bazaar consists of many narrow lanes, lined with tiny shops. Look for the tie & dye textiles, embroidered leather shoes, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets. Here one can buy exquisite Rajasthani textiles, clay figurines, miniature camels and elephants, marble inlay work and classic silver jewellery. Most Popular Items of Jodhpur Antiques Bandhini Footwear Mathaniya's Red Chilli Jodhpur is a veritable shopper's paradise. There are so many markets to fulfill your thrust of shopping viz. Tripolia bazaar, Sarafa bazar, Sardarpura Market, Sojati Gate, National Handloom is most popular departmental shop where one will find all types of accessories and cloths situated in Nai Sarak and if you are tired with shopping take Jodhpur speciality- Mrichi bada and some sweets available near this shop. Jodhpur is home to many talented and skilled craftsmen like textile dyers, metal engravers and'die-makers, and probably the last of the tailors of the classic 'Jodhpur' breeches. Specially Jodhpuri suit gives you a royal identity to your dressing.