Explore Udaipur’s Hidden Gems: The Landmarks You Didn’t Know Existed

Udaipur, commonly called the “City of Lakes” or the “Venice of the East,” is a city rich with historic culture, and stunning architecture. Famous for the resplendent palaces, beautiful lakes, and lively bazaars, Udaipur has always been a gem in the crown of Rajasthan. However, under the veil of the well-preserved heritage lies a maze of lost and neglected landmarks, which in the past, carved the Udaipur skyline along with its cultural ethos. These relics, although hidden beneath the magnificent structures, tell tales of a glorious past that is yet to be found and cherished. 

The Unknown Temples of Udaipur

Sas-Bahu Temple is one of them, sitting beside the banks of lake Pichola. While Gwalior has the famous twin temples, the one in Udaipur is relatively lesser known which explains the dilapidated state it is in. It was constructed in homage to Lord Vishnu, so like any temple dedicated to Vishnu, this too has exquisite carvings sculpted hundreds of years ago. Unfortunately, the temple has also fallen victim to neglect and urbanization.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple is located in the old part of the city and is often overlooked. While once it was a devotional center, now it is camouflaged within the modernity of Udaipur. The temple shikhara can hardly be spotted from the surrounding buildings, and the courtyard, that used to always resonate with devotion, now only witnesses time go by. 

The Missing Stepwells

Both architecturally and socially, stepwells or baolis were important to life in Rajasthan. These structures were not only reservoirs for water but also places where social gatherings took place. Udaipur had its own set of stepwells, however, most of them are now non-existent due to urban development and neglect. 

One such nonexistent site is Rani Baoli, which is located around the old city. As a heritage site of Udai Singh II, this stepwell was thought to be designed and engineered perfectly. The intricate carvings on its multi-tiered structure showcased the complexity and talent of the builders. Today, the stepwell is long gone and covered in debris. Only a handful of local people and historians know about this secret location.

Kumbha Baoli is another stepwell which seems to be forgotten with time, named after the famed Maharana Kumbha. This stepwell which used to be a major source of water for the City, now stands as a dilapidated monument. In the present day, this place is almost unrecognizable due to the pollutants and encroachments made to the structure. As a result, the once majestic structure is now crumbling to the ground. 

 

The Unknown Palace

The Ahar Palace located next to the Ahar Cenotaphs is one of many palaces and havelis that have been forgotten with time. The palace was built for the royal family, adored for the stunning gardens surrounding it. Udaipur is famous for the havelis/ palaces like the City Palace and Lake Palace and This masterpiece now only has some of its foundation left along with a couple of walls that are in ruins, showcasing what once was.

Overgrown weeds and general neglect have stricken Shikarbadi Palace with a great deal of sorrow and despair. Once a royal hunting lodge, it integrated Rajput-style with Mughal architecture. Exotic animals decorated the grounds which are now overcome with wildlife. Although the palace itself is structurally sound, it is in a decayed state and fading from the eye. 

The Forgotten Markets and Bazaars

Udaipur’s bazaars are a vibrant reflection of its cultural heritage. Despite this, old markets, which once thrived, have now become forgotten as Udaipur moves towards modernization. Bada Bazaar is a prime example, once highly regarded for its trade and artistry. Today, it has been surpassed by more commercialized markets and is slowly losing its historic charm.

Yet another neglected market is the Hathi Pol Bazaar, which derives its name from the Hathi Pol or Elephant Gate of the City Palace. This market used to be an active hub of commerce but today is a still and peaceful lane, having been modernized with no traces of its former shops and stalls. The charm of this bazaar and its narrow alleys and quaint shops have now become a thing of the past.

Preservation Efforts

The landmarks that have been lost and neglected in Udaipur are not merely remnants of a different time; Rather, they serve as a marker of the rich cultural and architectural history of the city. While these structures are in a state of disrepair, there is no denying that they are of great cultural and historical significance. There is a greater need now than ever to restore and protect them, not only for their beauty but also for what they represent. 

In order to achieve these goals, NGOs and government organizations have to come together to restore, document and promote these lost treasures. Public awareness campaigns can be designed to create a discourse around these landmarks and the need to incorporate them in the tourism infrastructure can also be addressed. In doing so, we are able to ensure protection of these landmarks while giving them the attention they need and aiming to inspire the following generations.

Conclusion

Udaipur is a city marked by beauty and history that enchants every visitor. Yet, obscured by its popular sites are astonishing treasures that time has forgotten. The temples, step wells, palaces, and bazaars are steeped in Udaipur’s historical glory but they will not last forever unless we do something about it. By taking appropriate actions to protect these landmarks, we not only preserve the heritage of the city, but also expand the cultural richness of Udaipur for years to come.

 

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