Udaipur (India)

Udaipur, a minor wonder of Rajasthan. I remember having long discussions with sadhus (Hindu holy persons) on the shore of the lake whilst watching the sun descend then finally set. I spent hours strolling the city's little streets, simply observing the everyday scenes and the fevered energy of India. 

Udaipur is home to a large number of skilled craftspeople. When you visit India, don't be reluctant to stop and buy souvenir gifts: prices are very competitive, and you'll find items made here that are unlike any found elsewhere.

Don't forget to visit the palaces and temples, which are absolutely superb. I remember I often finished the day drinking a lassi on a terrace by the lake. The city has numerous hotels by the water, a little away from the center. I have on occasion spent long and very pleasant weeks at these.

Rajasthan alone is a good enough reason to visit India. If this entire 'Maharajah' region is a treasure chest, then Udaipur is its pearl. Udaipur, with its narrow streets, its lake, its palace, its windows, its balconies...

First thing you should do is visit City Palace, the biggest and best in India. It's still inhabited by the Maharana - a noble title that is similar to Maharajah. He's called Mahendra Singh and he splits his time between Udaipur and London. A red light is lit above the palace when he's in residence. Things to see. The palace is huge, granite and marble fortress. A labyrinth of gardens, reception rooms, narrow corridors, staircases; each room is a work of art in itself. The Mirror Room, the bedroom, the Peacock Courtyard, a mosaic reception room, the Ladies Chamber, the gardens - each one as beautiful as the other. I also suggest you have a walk through town. Sitting next to a lake, you can see women washing clothes on the ghats whilst men play cards nearby.

In front of the Jagdish Temple, you'll find vegetable stalls, shops selling religious trinkets, little grocery stores and street restaurants. And all under the watchful eyes of Vishnu, Ganesh, Shiva and Durga, whose statues observe their realm. A tour on Lake Pichola during the evening will give you an amazing view of City Palace, when the sunset covers its white walls a golden glow. It's stunning!