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Memories Of A Lost World

Chittorgarh

In Rajput history Chittorgarh epitomises valour and martyrdom. It was sacked thrice by different rulers and saw a tragic end when men went out for the final battle and women committed jauhar or mass immolation. However, the most famous battle remains the one between Raja Ratan Singh and Allaudin Khilji, the sultan of Delhi, over Rani Padmini, Ratan Singh's wife.

The first siege of Chittorgarh was in 1303 by Alauddin Khilji, the second in 1535 by Bahadur Shah of Gujarat and the final siege was in 1568 by the Mughal emperor, Akbar.

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Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh fort jauhar was committed can be seen in Padmini's palace. The fort has an air of romantic heroism. The complex also has a temple dedicated to the saint, Mirabai.

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Vijay Stambh

Vijay Stambh Erected by Rana Kumbha in 1468 to commemorate his victory over Mahmud Khilji of Malwa, the tower has nine storeys which can be climbed easily. Its walls are richly carved with mythological scenes. The stairs are narrow, you need to watch your head.

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Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola Lake Pichola in Udaipur was enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh after he founded the city. The lake is four km in length and three km wide. It is quite shallow and can actually dry up in severe droughts.

The lake has two islands -- Jagniwas and Jagmandir. One-hour boat rides around the lake can be boarded at the City Palace jetty during daylight hours.

Lying in the centre of the lake is the Lake Palace hotel run by the Taj group of hotels. Though it is open only to guests residing in the hotel, visitors can go for lunch and dinner. Otherwise, no visitors are permitted.

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City palace

City Palace The huge City Palace, towering over the lake, is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. It is a conglomeration of buildings added by various maharanas. Yet it has uniformity of design.

Construction was started by Maharana Udai Singh, the city's founder. The palace is surmounted by balconies, towers and cupolas and there is a fine view over the lake and the city from the upper terraces.

The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum. A section of the palace has been converted into two luxury hotels. Around the area, a lot of houses have been converted into paying guest accommodation.

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Shilpgram

Shilpgram Shilpgram, the crafts village, is situated 3 km away from Udaipur. It contains traditional houses from four states - Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Spread over 80 hectares it has daily demonstrations by musicians, dancers, or artisans from various states. Although it is much more interesting during festivals the village provides an opportunity to buy stuff directly from craftspersons.


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