Why Is Udaipur Called The City Of Lakes?

Udaipur, the jewel of Rajasthan, is often celebrated as the "Venice of the East" and, more affectionately, the "City of Lakes." This evocative nickname is far more than a simple descriptive term; it is a testament to the city’s masterful planning and profound historical foresight.  Surrounded by the ancient Aravalli Hills, Udaipur's landscape is dramatically punctuated by a series of magnificent, shimmering water bodies. These lakes—including the famous Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar—are not natural phenomena but brilliantly engineered, man-made creations. They form the very heart and soul of the city, reflecting its majestic palaces and serene ghats, and serve as a living symbol of the harmonious blend of human ingenuity and natural beauty that defines this royal destination.

Why Is Udaipur Called The City Of Lakes

The story of how Udaipur earned its title as the City of Lakes is deeply intertwined with the history and political strategy of the mighty Mewar Dynasty. Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II after the fall of his previous capital, Chittorgarh. Seeking a more secure and sustainable location, the Maharana chose this valley nestled within the Aravalli hills. The initial decision to build the City Palace along the banks of the existing Lake Pichola (originally constructed by a Banjara tribesman in 1362 AD) was not merely aesthetic; it was strategic. In the arid landscape of Rajasthan, a guaranteed and perennial water source was the key to survival and defence.

Over the centuries, the rulers of Mewar built an elaborate and interconnected system of artificial lakes to ensure water security, support irrigation, and mitigate the effects of drought and famine. Major water bodies like Fateh Sagar Lake (reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh), Udai Sagar Lake, and Swaroop Sagar Lake were meticulously engineered to harvest rainwater and recharge the city’s groundwater. These lakes were linked by canals and streams, creating the world's first known man-made micro water system. This hydro-engineering masterpiece secured the city’s sustenance, allowing it to flourish while neighbouring regions suffered from water scarcity.

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The Lakes Of Udaipur 

Here is a list of all the lakes you would see in the city of Udaipur!

• Lake Pichola: The oldest and most iconic lake, featuring the famous Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) and Jag Mandir.
• Fateh Sagar Lake: A large, pear-shaped lake known for its islands, including Nehru Park and the Udaipur Solar Observatory.
• Swaroop Sagar Lake: A small lake that acts as a vital link, connecting Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake.
• Doodh Talai Lake: A smaller, scenic lake adjacent to Lake Pichola, popular for its beautiful park and ropeway views.
• Udai Sagar Lake: A historic lake built by Maharana Udai Singh II to meet the city's water demands.
• Badi Lake (Jiyan Sagar): Located slightly outside the main city, built to counter famine and known for its tranquility.
• Goverdhan Sagar Lake: A smaller lake within the city's ecosystem.

Culturally, the lakes became the focal point of the city's identity. The majestic City Palace was built to overlook Lake Pichola, and its islands host architectural wonders like the floating Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) and Jag Mandir. These palaces, reflected in the water's surface, embody the royal splendour and romantic charm of the Rajput era. Furthermore, the ghats (steps) leading down to the water, such as Gangaur Ghat, are vibrant hubs for religious ceremonies, festivals like the Gangaur Festival, and community gatherings, cementing the lakes’ role not just as reservoirs, but as integral pillars of Udaipur’s unique culture and scenic allure. 

Image Credit: Pexels

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