Rajsamand or Rajsamudra Lake is a 17th century construction, about km from Udaipur. Maharaja Raj Singh I had it built by constructing a dam on river Gomti. Constructed as a relief project, it is the oldest known such work in Rajasthan and cost nearly 4 million rupees at that time. A huge and awe-inspiring lake, it has a circumference of 7.5 km and a depth of 18 metres. in spite of its massive size, the lake has been known to disappear during droughts.
The lake has a massive white stone embankment, 183 m. long and 12 m. high, with terraces of large marble and stone steps that lead down to the water's edge at Kankroli on its southern end. These are known as Nauchowki or Nine Pavilions. The marble steps and ornamental arches were commissioned by Princess Charumati, from another branch of the Sisodia family, to show her gratitude to Maharana Raj Singh I, who married her to prevent her marriage to Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
The lakeside also has 27 stone slabs known as Raj Prahasti that were carved in 17th century and mention the history of Mewar in a verse of 1017 stanzas - the longest Sanskrit inscription known in India. Five toranas or weighing arches were the place for an event called Tuladan: in this tradition, the ruler was weighed in gold and silver and the equivalent value was distributed among the subjects.
Kankroli has a temple dedicated to Dwarakadhish, one of the seven forms of Lord Krishna and is an important religious site. The temple sits atop a small hill and has an excellent view of the pristine lake.
History
Maharana Raj Singh’s got an idea to built a huge and marvellous dam in that period and his efforts turned to reality. On the southern end of the lake, the huge embankment is composed of white. The history of Mewar is inscribed in 1017 stanzas, on 27 marble slabs, that are called the ‘Raj Prasasti’. It has been acclaimed as one of the longest engraving in India. It was used by Imperial Airways as a seaplane base during second world war for six years. At the embankment children park is developed and at one end Amba Mata Temple. While approaching one will find two massive gates, few other structures along the gates and a royal guest house where a magnificent fountain made of marble carved and decorated is significant, which are the marks of Royals. This Lake water provides glittering Sun-set view, with the miraculous light of sun.
Structure
This dam was created in the 17th century. On the southern end of the lake, the huge embankment is composed of white marble. It has marble terraces and stone steps that touch the waters of the lake. There are five toranas (weighing arches) where Maharana Raj Singh and his descendants organized the annual event of Tuladan. (Kings used to weigh themselves in gold and then distribute it amongst the Brahmans.). This process of alms-giving was followed by Maharaja Raj Singh and his descendants. Also on the embankment of the lake are nine pavilions or ‘nauchowki’ (nine ghats), which were constructed by Maharana Raj Singh. These beautifully carved pavilions are festooned with pictures of the sun, chariots, gods, birds and detailed carvings.
Udaipur Tourism that is also popular as ‘Venice of the East’, ‘Kashmir of Rajasthan’, ‘The most romantic city of India’ is the epicenter for performing crafts and arts is the capital of Mewar, the prior princely state. Edged by Aravali’s lush green hills, Udaipur is the beautiful land surrounded by the sapphire water lakes and it is also popularly known as city of Dawn. Architecture of the entire city is flattering and it adorns itself with temples, forts, palaces and hills. This makes it one of the most memorable and enchanting destination that attracts thousands of tourists. Abundance of copper and zinc mines is another fact that adds to the popularity of Udaipur Tourism. From all the major cities of India such as Mumbai, Jaipur, Delhi and Ahmedabad, the city of Udaipur is accessible easily.