Whether you are a beach-lover, or a mountain-nut, the hills always beckon. And with hills, we usually are welcomed by lakes too. There is always something about a combination of gigantic structures and waterfronts that make both kinds of travelers feel at peace. And what better way to do it in our lovely country, than Udaipur: The City of Lakes!
A much-awaited revisit may just happen sometime this year owing to the ease of lockdowns and safer conditions for travel. I cannot wait for some pyaaz kachoris and a whole ton of daal-baati-churma; yes, we are suckers for good food, and rajasthan never disappoints!
When it comes to lazing, exploring and enjoying, Udaipur works best. With a balance of sightseeing, some road trips and some excellent avenues to just relax and let go, the city is one of my favourite picks in Rajasthan. Surrounded by the Aravallis, its grand palaces and the shimmering lakes are mesmerizing at best. Brimming with traditionally designed architectural marvels, the City Palace, Jag-Mandir and the Monsoon Palace would be my first picks; history – boatride – scenic history!
Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, my recommendation to you would be to enjoy each at a plethora of boutique properties with their own share of artistic beauty, pampering hospitality and tastes to induce a food-coma. Shopping never stops, and their bazaars in the Old Town are full of sellers for miniature paintings, silver craft and marble decor; aaaaand, the best street food in the city. Yes, those pyaaz kachoris aren’t leaving my mind so soon!
For a city that is a little less than half of bombay’s true area, there isn’t much traveling to do for sightseeing, and staying on the outskirts offers an experience unmatched by a city hotel, to be very honest. So, if I had to, I’d pick Prem Kunj; a boutique experience amidst the hills of Udaipur. Away from the hustle and bustle, yet close enough to visit the various traditional attractions. For the budding ornithologist, Prem Kunj is a class-apart experience. Stay here, and you’re surrounded by chirping birds at any hour of the day. Of course morning works best, but when it comes to hospitality, a bird-watching tour can be arranged at your beck and call!
With just eight tastefully designed rooms, the property, apart from exclusivity and pampering, offers breakfasts served in mornings blanketed with nature, high-teas traditional style to fully take in what it means to be a rajasthani, a pool open to the views of the hills to completely unwind as well as a helpful team that plans your itinerary with you. After all, no experience of Udaipur is complete without at least a few picnics and bonfires!
So while I ruffle through my calendar to pick the best dates (monsoon to winter works best), you know those kachoris are calling out to you too!
Written By Mohit Gupta
Week 6, February ’21
