the City of Lakes - Udaipur is surrounded by a number of lakes mesmerising its visitors with its blue waters and scenic views. One such artificial lake that sits right in the middle of Udaipur city is Lake Pichola, built in the year of 1362 AD.

Named after the nearby village Picholi, Lake Pichola is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Udaipur. Flanked by islands, palaces, temples, mansions, ghats and restaurants, Lake Pichola offers something for everyone. The enchanting views of sunrise and sunset from the lake is something that should not be missed by anyone visiting the lake.

With dimensions of 3 miles in length, 2 miles in width and a depth of 30 feet, Lake Pichola has four main islands namely Jag Niwas, Jag Mandir, Mohan Mandir and Arsi Vilas.

Lake Pichola History

Mesmerising the visitors with its charm and enchanting beauty, Lake Pichola is an artificial lake built in the year of 1362 AD and one of the popular sightseeing places to visit in Udaipur. It was built by a Banjara tribesman, Pichhu Banjara who used to transport grain during the reign of Maharana Lakha.

The captivating lake attracted Maharana Udai Singh so much that he established the city of Udaipur on the banks of this very lake. Maharana Udai Singh is credited with enlarging the lake further by building a dam on the shore of the lake.

Later, several islands, palaces, temples, mansions, and bathing ghats were developed in the surroundings of the lake over a period of time, making it even more attractive.

One of the most famous attractions in the lake surroundings is Lake Palace that sits right in the middle of the lake, constructed on the Jag island. Mohan Mandir, built by Jagat Singh between the period 1628-1652 and Jag Mandir are other islands that are worth a visit.

City Palace is another famous tourist attraction in the lake surroundings from where boats ply to other parts of the lake from Bansi Ghat. Arsi Vilas which is a bird sanctuary and Sitamata Game Sanctuary on the western part of the lake are other attractions around the lake.

Ornamental arch bridges at various locations further beautify the lake. These bridges are built at places where the lake narrows so that the water can reach the banks.

Boating Timing in Lake Pichola

Best Time to visit Lake Pichola

Monsoons from July to September and winter months from October to February are considered as the best time to visit the lake as the weather is quite pleasant with temperature ranging between 25 to 35 degree celsius