Lake Pichola, Artificial lake in Udaipur, India.
Lake Pichola is an artificial lake in Udaipur featuring four distinct islands with marble palaces and gardens along its shoreline. Historical structures and temples rise from the water, creating a layered landscape of architecture from different periods.
The lake was created in 1387 by Rana Lakha Singh and named after the nearby Picholi village. Its existence played a key role in Maharana Udai Singh's decision to establish Udaipur as his capital.
Mohan Mandir temple on one of the islands serves as a traditional gathering place for the Gangaur festival, marking the spring season with local ceremonies and rituals. This site holds deep spiritual meaning for residents who celebrate here regularly.
Visitors can explore the water by boat from several departure points along the shoreline. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer better lighting and fewer crowds for experiencing the surroundings.
One island was once used for ammunition storage and now shelters uncommon water birds including tufted ducks, coots, egrets, and kingfishers. This transformation reveals how abandoned military spaces have become important refuges for wildlife.
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