The Real ‘City of Lakes’ Revelation: Discovering the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur
Udaipur. The mere whisper of its name conjures visions of the ethereal Lake Pichola, the regal Lake Palace, and the lively promenade of Fateh Sagar. These grand canvases of water are, undoubtedly, the soul of Rajasthan’s most romantic city. Yet, for the seasoned traveler—the one who seeks the silence beyond the selfie-sticks and the authenticity beyond the tourist brochure—a profound secret remains. The true spirit of the ‘City of Lakes’ lies in its periphery, within the silent, astonishing, and often unforgettable waters of the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur.
This is not another guide to the obvious. This is your passport to the quiet, pristine water bodies that locals cherish and most tourists miss. If you want to experience the authentic tranquility and raw, natural beauty that earned Udaipur its moniker, then join us on an astonishing journey to discover the 12 Astonishing, Untouched Lakes of Udaipur. Your travel narrative is about to become unforgettable.
Astonishing Escapes: Why the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur Offer the Best Experience
For years, the tourism spotlight has burned brightest on Pichola and Fateh Sagar. While magnificent, they can often feel overwhelming, their banks crowded, and their waters busy. The Untouched Lakes of Udaipur, however, offer a radically different proposition. They are sanctuaries of peace, framed by the rugged Aravalli Hills and untouched by commercial frenzy. Here, the air is purer, the reflections clearer, and the sunset views are purely unforgettable—it’s where you can truly connect with the natural landscape of Mewar. To discover the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur is to find the city’s heart, beating quietly outside its bustling centre.
The Allure of Seclusion and Serenity
- A Photographer’s Paradise: The pristine reflections and lack of visual clutter make for truly astonishing photographs.
- Nature Lover’s Retreat: These Untouched Lakes of Udaipur are often surrounded by dense forest, making them hotspots for birdwatching and local flora.
- Historical Significance Unveiled: Many were constructed by Maharanas centuries ago to counter famine, each telling an unforgettable tale of resourcefulness.
The 12 Astonishing, Untouched Lakes of Udaipur You Must Visit
This curated list moves beyond the well-trodden path to reveal the truly astonishing hidden gems. Each of these Untouched Lakes of Udaipur offers a unique glimpse into the natural heritage of the region.
1. Badi Lake (Jiyan Sagar)
- The Tranquil Giant: Constructed by Maharana Raj Singh I to help a local village recover from famine, this is perhaps the most accessible of the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur. It’s renowned for its calm waters, surrounded by three artistic chhatris (kiosks).
- The Bahubali Hill Viewpoint: A short, gentle climb up the nearby hill rewards you with an unforgettable panoramic view of the entire lake and the Aravallis. This vista is one of Udaipur’s greatest secrets.
2. Jaisamand Lake (Dhebar Lake)
- Asia’s Second Largest Man-Made Marvel: While a longer drive out, this lake often gets overlooked for a day trip. Its sheer scale is astonishing. It features seven islands and a surrounding wildlife sanctuary. A visit here is unforgettable for its size and its marble dam adorned with chhatris.
- A Wildlife Haven: The Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary, bordering the lake, is home to a rich variety of birds and animals, making it more than just a lake trip—it’s a full nature immersion.
3. Madar Lake (Badi and Choti Madar)
- The Twin Reservoir: Often separated into Badi and Choti, these two lakes are crucial feeders for the larger Fateh Sagar. They are nestled deep in the hills, offering an astonishing view of the Aravalli wilderness.
- The Perfect Picnic Spot: The quiet banks and lush surroundings make this one of the most serene Untouched Lakes of Udaipur for a quiet afternoon picnic, far from the city’s noise.
4. Udai Sagar Lake
- The Historic Waterway: Built by Maharana Udai Singh II, this lake is historically significant as it was where the Mughal forces often set up camp. Its location on the old route to Chittorgarh gives it an unforgettable historical aura.
- Sunset Views Beyond Compare: Being slightly further east, the sunsets over the western Aravallis are nothing short of astonishing from its shores.
5. Purohito Ka Talab
- The Mini Jaisamand: Referred to by locals with this endearing name, this smaller talab (pond/lake) is a pristine, little-known body of water. Its peaceful setting makes it an unforgettable find.
- Birdwatcher’s Sanctuary: Due to its quiet location, it attracts a beautiful array of migratory and resident birds, a true haven among the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur.
- 6. Alsigarh Dam/Lake: The ‘Kashmir of Rajasthan’—famous for dramatic, cinematic landscapes and its remote, astonishing beauty. (Focus: Adventure, Romantic Getaway)
- 7. Baghdara Lake: Known for its ancient dam structure and a quiet, forested area that is perfect for a full-day escape. (Focus: Seclusion, Ancient Heritage)
- 8. Menar Lake: Famous as the ‘Bird Village’—especially during winter, this lake is an unforgettable spectacle of migratory birds. (Focus: Eco-Tourism, Photography)
- 9. Goverdhan Sagar Lake: Often missed between the bigger lakes, this small, untouched lake of Udaipur offers picturesque, quiet evening walks. (Focus: Local Life, Evening Strolls)
- 10. Rayta Hills/Lake (The Green Dam): The area around the ‘Green Dam’ offers a breathtaking hilltop view of one of the astonishing reservoirs, ideal for sunrise treks. (Focus: Trekking, Sunrise Views)
- 11. Choti Madar Lake: The smaller, even quieter sibling of Badi Madar, this truly untouched lake of Udaipur is a secret within a secret. (Focus: Deep Seclusion, Off-Roading)
- 12. Bagela Lake (Near Eklingji Temple): A small, sacred lake next to an important temple complex, giving it an unforgettable spiritual calm often overshadowed by the temple itself. (Focus: Spiritual Calm, Architecture)
Planning Your Unforgettable Expedition to the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur
Venturing out to these secluded spots requires a little more preparation than a trip to the City Palace. Since these are the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur, modern amenities might be sparse, which is precisely where their astonishing charm lies.
Essential Tips for the Astonishing Traveler
- Mode of Transport: A private taxi or a scooter/motorcycle rental is highly recommended. Local transport is infrequent for many of these Untouched Lakes of Udaipur.
- Best Time to Visit: The post-monsoon period (September to November) is the most unforgettable time, as the lakes are full, and the surrounding Aravallis are at their lushest, emerald-green best.
- Pack Essentials: Carry your own water, snacks, and a trash bag—leave nothing behind to preserve the pristine nature of these astonishing locations.
- Embrace the Quiet: Unlike the main city lakes, these spots are about quiet contemplation. Put the camera down for a few moments and simply absorb the unforgettable tranquility.
Unforgettable Conclusion: The Enduring Magic of the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur
The majestic palaces and bustling streets are part of Udaipur’s story, but the true, unforgettable chapter belongs to the silent expanses of the Untouched Lakes of Udaipur.
To witness the astonishing raw beauty of Badi Lake from Bahubali Hill, to find quiet contemplation at Purohito Ka Talab, or to be overwhelmed by the scale of Jaisamand, is to understand why this city is truly the ‘Venice of the East’. You will leave with an unforgettable memory that transcends the typical tourist experience—the memory of silence, space, and a raw, astonishing natural grandeur. These 12 Astonishing, Untouched Lakes of Udaipur are waiting for you to find them. Don’t just see Udaipur; feel its ancient, watery heart.