65 minutes from Mumbai is the jewel city of India, Udaipur. A city of lakes surrounded by hills and history, makes it one of the most romantic and historically significant place in India .
I sincerely believe that whoever created this universe might have Udaipur on its most favorite earth destination ever; for the natural beauty you witness here can leave you speechless for days at a stretch. The rhythmic ripples of Lake Pichola, grand palaces, lush green parks, and the warmth of the city people force you to leave a part of your heart in this magnetic city forever.
Udaipur is often known as the Venice of the East. It has risen to such high levels of popularity not only because of its charming landscape but also because it captured the imagination of many creative minds over a period of time.
There is something in the air of Udaipur that inspires imagination. Why else would Oodeypore (Udaipur) be the birthplace of Bagheera (fictional panther in Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling)? The James Bond movie Octopussy and countless other blockbuster Bollywood movies that have been shot here further confirm the above assertion.
Udaipur induces trance. It casts on spell that you cannot break. Visiting Udaipur is grand in itself but if you decide to sojourn at the Lake Palace run by Taj, the experience will leave you mesmerized.
The Lake Palace has been converted into a 5 star luxury hotel with marble flooring and walls. The beautiful workmanship is beyond any description. It is quite tastefully decorated and represents many elements from the great kingdom of Mewar. The palace is located on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola. Since the palace is in the middle of the lake, the hotel uses speedboats for transportation.
The quality of service at Taj is impeccable. They know how to make their guests feel special. Their thoughtfulness is a plus point and they display the same through little gestures throughout your stay at the palace, which is unique, and something you will cherish in your memories for years.
Some of my treasured moments at the palace were as follows:
•Refreshment platter while I waited for the boat.
•My first boat ride into the palace
•Being escorted to the palace by the royal guard who carries an embroidered umbrella.
•Showering of the rose petals
•A warm traditional Hindu welcome with "Khammagani (Namaste)", "Aarti" and refreshments.
•Boat trip to Jagmandir
•Evening cultural program that depicts various native art forms.
•Morning/ Evening flute playing and yoga sessions
•Surprise goodies basket in the room (everyday)
•Warm and genuine hotel workers
The team at Taj Lake Palace truly knows the true meaning of hospitality. They treat their guests like royalty, and it seems to me that "Atithi Devo Bhav" (Guest is God) is their motto. They walk the extra mile to make you feel like you made the right choice.
Experiencing the enchantment of Udaipur via Taj will leave you awestruck. For it will take you back and forth in time. So,"Padharo Marey Desh" ( Come visit my place) to all who fancy palaces, royal treatment, boat rides, bazaars, history, culture, arts and handicrafts.