Swoon, sigh . . Udaipur is, without doubt, the most romantic place I’ve ever visited. I thought I was just coming for a couple of days, but fell head-over-heels in love with the city on the day I arrived. Five days later, I’m already feeling nostalgic for this glorious, dreamy lake city as I prepare to jump on the night train to Delhi.
There’s been a fair amount of sitting in lovely lakeside or rooftop restaurants, gazing at the lake and its palaces:
I’ve also made like a Maharaja, exploring the palaces belonging to the Mewar dynasty and enjoying a truly delightful “fake it till you make it” few hours at the Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel’s marble outdoor swimming pool (which I had all to myself for the afternoon!)
Back in the real world, I’ve got lost in the overgrown Sajjan Niwas Gardens (where I briefly became a celebrity as lots of excited children decided to try out their English on me: “Hel-lo! Hel-lo! Hel-lo!”)
Continuing on this theme, I then went and got lost in the city’s colourful bazaars, until the nice boys in Udaipur’s premier brass instrument shop set me on my way via some delicious jalebi sweets, a cup of chai and a coconut juice.
Memorably, I also stumbled upon an evening of dancing at the fairy-light-tastic Jagdish Temple, which was just amazing – seemingly the whole city was gathered in the courtyard, singing along and clapping as the DJ spun tracks and a few brave souls got up to dance in front of the crowd.
And that’s without even mentioning the, um, significant contribution I’ve made to the local economy. Sigh, swoon . . . Udaipur, miss you already.
“… significant contribution I’ve made to the local economy” – that would be the surprise holiday at the Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel that you’ve booked for your aged parents.
Oh Fran what a shame I didn’t make it there this trip!! Never mind, I am writing from Helsinki Airport and have decided I love Finland; so clean and shiny and practical and useful. MUST come back here! Have a wonderful time with Lara & with your friends, and I eagerly await your next post! Claudine x
Hey Fran, these photos are fab! It’s great to read about your travels, hope you’re having a lovely time! Xx
Very romantic! I can see why you fell head over heels with it!