The Journal
Lakes, Legends and the Fort of Valour: Udaipur and Chittorgarh
The heart of Mewar
Midway through the royal week, the Palace on Wheels enters the old kingdom of Mewar, home to two unforgettable sights that could hardly be more different in mood.
Udaipur, the City of Lakes
Founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, Udaipur is often called the most romantic city in India. White palaces are mirrored in Lake Pichola, the vast City Palace climbs the shoreline, and the Lake Palace seems to float on the water. It is a city built for sunsets.
Chittorgarh, the fort of valour
By contrast, Chittorgarh is Rajasthan's largest fort and its most solemn — a UNESCO World Heritage Site sacred to the Rajputs as the very symbol of courage and sacrifice. Its Vijay Stambh (Tower of Victory), palaces and reservoirs tell of sieges and legendary defiance, brought to life by an evening Light and Sound show.
Romance and heroism in a day
To see both in a single stretch of the journey is to understand Rajasthan's soul — beauty and bravery side by side. Read more on Udaipur and Chittorgarh.