Udaipur is one of the best places in Rajasthan and it is known as the “City of Lakes” or “Venice of the East”. Udaipur is a must visit gem in every Rajasthan tour packages , where you can discover the rich culture and natural heritage.
One of the best historical places in Rajasthan, is the Gangaur Ghat of Udaipur where you can unveil the fascinating charm of sacred vacation spots, where history, faith, and culture seamlessly intertwines.
Get ready to be fascinated by the scenic waters of Lake Pichola, the incredible architecture of Gangaur Ghat, and the colourful festivals that celebrate the goddess Gauri in our Gangaur Ghat travel guide. Get to know about history, significance, how to reach, best time to visit, places to visit nearby and much more.
About Gangaur Ghat Udaipur
Gangaur Ghat Udaipur is a prime ghat located near the waterfront of Lake Pichola in Udaipur. It is situated near the Jagdish Chowk region. Gangaur Ghat is one of the must-visit places in Udaipur to enjoy the culture of Rajasthan.
It serves itself for various purposes, which includes the convenience of locals, peace for travellers, and a hanging spot for the young people of Udaipur. It is a perfect retreat place for all the photo-capturing fanatics, offering the opportunity to seize the beauty of the old city in a single frame.
Apart from that the sunset and sunrise from the Gangaur Ghat are celestial. You can make yourself cushy on the steps at the Ghat that take you to the water. The Ghat fetched its name from the well-known festival of Mewar, the Gangaur Festival.
Gangaur Ghat Udaipur History
Located in the enchanted metropolis of Udaipur, the spot has a rich and vibrant history. The Gangaur Ghat history dates back to the time of the Mewar dynasty, which ruled this area for centuries. The ghat was constructed at the banks of Lake Pichola and has served as a central landmark and gathering region for the local people and tourists alike.
The Gangaur Ghat history holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. It is assumed that the ghat was named after the optimistic festival of Gangaur, which is devoted to Goddess Parvati. According to the mythology, Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, went through rigorous penance at this place to win Shiva’s heart. Hence, the Gangaur Ghat became associated with love, devotion, and marital bliss.
The impact of the Maharajas of the Mewar dynasty can be seen in the architecture of Gangaur Ghat. The Maharajas were vigorous patrons of arts and culture, and they played a great role in shaping the city’s terrain. They built elegant luxurious palaces and temples, enclosing those around Gangaur Ghat Udaipur, which are still located today as a testament to their magnificence and opulence.
Architecture Of Gangaur Ghat Udaipur
Gangaur Ghat is well-known for its incredible ghats and steps that gracefully descend into the waters of Lake Pichola. The architecture of Gangaur Ghat is a wonder to behold, with intricate carvings and elaborate designs. The steps leading down to the ghat are embellished with colourful tiles, making it a picturesque backdrop for visitors to seize the grandeur of the environment.
Enclosing Gangaur Ghat, several temple complexes add to the spiritual aura of the area. The temples are devoted to diverse Hindu deities and showcase excellent craftsmanship. The architecture of Gangaur Ghat’s complicated and intricate sculptures is a testimony to the mastery and artistry of the craftsmen who constructed these temples centuries ago.
The complicated carvings and artwork at Gangaur Ghat mesmerises everyone. The walls of the temples and buildings are decorated with special sculptures portraying various scenes from Hindu mythology. Each carving tells a different historical story. As the visitors explore the ghat, they can immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Udaipur.
Gangaur Ghat Festival Udaipur
Gangaur festival is one of the most important festivals in Rajasthan. It is celebrated in many places like Gujarat, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh. As anticipated, any spectacle in Rajasthan is bright and colourful, but this festival celebrated by the gorgeous and traditionally outfitted Rajasthani women to honour the Goddess Gauri is a significant cultural treat.
The Gangaur Ghat Festival is a celebration of the togetherness of the lord Shiva and goddess Gauri. The name Gangaur is a mix of Gana for Shiva and Gauri or Parvathi, signifying adoration of each. This festival has been carried on for centuries as per the Hindu rituals of the region. It is well known in all parts of the state with tiny variations according to the regional customs.
As per the Gangaur historical story or Gangaur Katha, Goddess Parvathi is the epitome of devotion, and through her long penance and devotion, she was able to get Lord Shiva to marry her. During Gangaur, she goes to her parent’s home to seek blessings and spend a delightful time with her parents, relatives, and friends.
On the last day of the Gangaur, she is completely dressed traditionally and given a grand farewell to return to her husband. In this context, Gauri Pooja is honoured in this area. This is similarly an optimistic time to fix marriages. This is practised even in the tribal areas when the women pick their partners.
Gangaur Ghat Festival Celebration
This reassuring festival is celebrated on the second day from Holy on Chaitra Masa, Shukla Paksha Tritiya day, as consistent with the Hindu Almanac, and is carried on for sixteen days. The first day is a day of fasting, which the women religiously follow. After that, all women, both married and unmarried, conduct the Pooja.
This is performed for marital happiness and to seek God’s blessings. The married women aspire to seek blessings for their husbands’ health, and the unmarried women do the Pooja in search of advantages for getting suitable husbands.
The figures of Goddess Parvathi usually are made of clay. Some might use freshly painted wood images, or a few may use simple images of the Goddess for the Pooja. Women begin their arrangements the preceding night by applying Henna on their palms.
Then, they get up early in the morning on the festival day, take an oil bath, get dressed in sleek new silk clothes, and prepare for the Pooja. Then, all the materials required for pooja like flowers, turmeric, kumkum, culmination, coconuts, camphor, incense sticks, and others are prepared. The very last thing of the Pooja is unique festival cooking, which is like dishes of the Goddess, are offered as Nivedyam after being taken as Prasadam.
Spiritual Rituals And Practices Of Gangaur Ghat Udaipur
1. Aarti Ceremony
Every night, as the sun sets over Gangaur Ghat, locals and visitors gather to glimpse the captivating aarti rituals and practices of Gangaur Ghat. This religious ritual includes the delivering of prayers and hymns to God, followed by the rhythmic vibration of drums and the harmonious sound of bells. The flickering flames of the aarti lights create a soulful atmosphere, eliciting a feeling of peace and quietness within the hearts of all those present.
2. Hindu Pilgrimage
Gangaur Ghat Udaipur has long been considered a respected pilgrimage site for Hindus. Pilgrims from far come to search for blessings and purify their souls inside the holy waters of Lake Pichola. It is assumed that taking a dip in the holy waters of the ghat rinses away one’s sins and brings spiritual sanctification.
3. Ganga Snan
Ganga Snan, or ceremonial bathing in the river, is an important part of Hindu religious practices. While the location of Gangaur Ghat is on the banks of the holy Ganges, the waters of Lake Pichola are taken into consideration as similarly holy to the locals. Believers can be seen doing Ganga Snan on the ghat, engaging themselves in the divine waters and replenishing their prayers to the gods.
How To Reach Gangaur Ghat Udaipur?
If you are wondering about how to reach Gangaur Ghat? Well, don’t worry because it’s very easy to reach Gangaur Ghat. Located at the heart of the city of Udaipur it is very simple to reach the ghat.
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport (Udaipur) which is 23.3 km away.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station which is 2.4 km away.
By Road:
- Udaipur is well connected with other major cities; also many private buses and vehicles ply directly to Udaipur.
Best Time To Visit Gangaur Ghat Udaipur
The best time to visit Gangaur Ghat is mostly during the sunset, as you can witness the celestial views of the setting sun. At the location of Gangaur Ghat, Holi is celebrated magnificently so this might be the best time to visit Gangaur Ghat if you want to witness the allure of the Holi festival in Rajasthan.
Mostly the city of Udaipur can be visited during October and March. A visit to Udaipur can be enjoyed all over the year, with each season offering its special allure. The best time to visit Gangaur Ghat is during the post monsoon and winter season.
Gangaur Ghat Udaipur Timings & Entry Fees
Here are the complete details about Gangaur Ghat timings and entry fees that you must know in advance to make most of your visit. When here do not miss to witness the soulful aarti which is the best one amongst various ghats in Udaipur.
- Gangaur Ghat Timings: 4:00 AM to 7:30 PM (Opened All 7 Days)
- Aarti Timings: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Morning Aarti- 5:30 AM, 8:15 AM, 9:15 AM, 11:30 AM followed by Afternoon Aarti- 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, and Evening Aarti- 5:00 PM, 6:30 PM)
- Entry Fees: Free
Pro Tip: The aarti looks spectacular at the sunrise and after the sunset. The timings for visiting the Ghat may differ on special days and festivals.
Places To Visit Near Gangaur Ghat Udaipur
Here are some of the best places to visit near Gangaur Ghat Udaipur for an ultimate experience.
1. Jagdish Temple
The Jagdish temple is situated in the centre of the Udaipur metropolis in Rajasthan. Previously known as the Jagannath Rai temple, it is now referred to as Jagdish-ji temple. The atmosphere of secrecy of the temple is calm, with the air holding chants and prayers that reflect spirituality. It is one of the best places to visit near Gangaur Ghat, visiting this temple is one of the best things to do in Udaipur.
2. Ambrai Ghat
Another one amongst places to visit near Gangaur Ghat is the popular Ambrai Ghat, situated in Udaipur, Rajasthan, is a panoramic waterfront on the banks of Lake Pichola. This spot offers a wide range of scenic views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, Jag Mandir and Sajjangarh Palace. Ambrai Ghat is a famous region for visitors and a must see amongst ghats in Udaipur, however it is also a desired spot for several locals who are in search of leisure and socializing, mainly in the evenings when the city lighting adds to its allure.
3. City Palace
The City Palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, is a great complex that stands as a testament to the majesty of Rajputana structure and heritage. Built over nearly 400 years, with donations from numerous rulers of the Mewar dynasty, the palace is perched on a hilltop with a dazzling view of Lake Pichola. Undoubtedly, it is one of the must see places to visit near Gangaur Ghat.
4. Bagore Ki Haveli
The Bagore ki Haveli is one of Udaipur’s most charming heritage attractions located right on the banks of Lake Pichola. Built in the 18th century by Amar Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar, this Haveli showcases the grandeur of Rajput architecture. The highlight of the Haveli is the evening cultural show
called Dharohar, where puppetry, folk dances, and music bring Rajasthan’s vibrant traditions to life under a starlit sky. With its lakeside charm, historic beauty, and cultural performances, Bagore Ki Haveli is a must-visit spot in Udaipur for travelers seeking heritage with a soulful experience.
5. Laal Ghat
Amongst various ghats in Udaipur, Lal Ghat is a lively spot situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, which is known for offering scenic views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir along with its vibrant charm. The Ghat is surrounded by rooftop cafes, boutique stays and heritage havelis. No doubt, it is a favourite spot for travellers seeking authentic lakefront vibes. Laal Ghat also serves as a boat ride point, making it a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation.
6. Nav Ghat
Nav Ghat is another popular spot in the list of ghats in Udaipur that offer a scenic and peaceful escape by the pristine water of Lake Pichola, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. It is a popular spot for locals to enjoy and relax on peaceful evenings. The best part of visiting the Ghat is its calm ambiance that captures Udaipur’s soulful lakefront beauty, and provides an excellent place for quiet reflection or leisurely walks.
Hotel Near Gangaur Ghat Udaipur
Here are some of the popular hotel near Gangaur Ghat Udaipur. While searching for a hotel near Gangaur Ghat Udaipur, you can find both luxury accommodations as well as places to stay on a budget.
- Hotel Mewar Inn Udaipur: This hotel offers an affordable stay with basic amenities.
- Hotel Pichola Haveli Udaipur: If you are someone looking for a luxury stay, then you can consider this hotel, which is a haveli with beautiful views.
- Hotel Sarovar Udaipur: Ideal for those looking for modern comfort by the ghat.
- Hotel Jaiwana Haveli Udaipur: A popular hotel known for its iconic charm and rooftop dining experience.
- Hotel The Tiger Udaipur: this hotel offers a cosy stay along with lakeside views.
- Hotel Uaigarh Udaipur: A boutique hotel which offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Whether you are chasing cultural vibes, romantic sunsets, or peaceful mornings by the lake, these accommodations ensure an unforgettable stay.
Gangaur Ghat Udaipur: Where Tradition Meets Timeless Beauty
Gangaur Ghat in Udaipur is more than a lakeside stepway, it is a place where devotion, culture, and beauty blend seamlessly. From witnessing the grand festivals like Gangaur to enjoying peaceful sunset over Lake Pichola, the Gangaur Ghat embodies the soul of Rajasthan.
Whether you are planning to soak in the lively evening vibes, or want to watch boats gliding across shimmering waters or even want to explore nearby heritage sites, the experience will leave you mesmerised.
And to truly embrace the charm and make the most of your Rajasthan trip, you are advised to plan your journey with WanderOn where curated experiences ensure you capture both the peace and celebration of this iconic Ghat.
