Saheliyon Ki Bari
Saheliyon Ki Bari
Designed in the 18th century for the ladies of the Mewar court, Saheliyon Ki Bari enchants with its marble fountains, lotus pools and free-roaming peacocks, just steps away from Fateh Sagar Lake.
North of Fateh Sagar Lake, Saheliyon Ki Bari — literally "garden of the Ladies-in-Waiting" — is an 18th-century royal garden designed for the ladies of the Mewar maharajas' court. Marble fountains, sculpted kiosks, lotus pools and freely roaming peacocks compose a space that is both intimate and refined, a rare example of Mughal-Rajput garden design in Udaipur.
Practical information at a glance
- Entrance : paid admission (differentiated rates for Indian residents / foreign visitors)
- Recommended duration : 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Dress code : no specific restrictions
- Access : by auto-rickshaw or taxi from Udaipur city center; parking available nearby
- Accessibility : pathways partly accessible, but marble flooring can be slippery
What to see
The garden is organized around several ornamental pools fed by a system of white marble fountains. Columned kiosks shelter sculpted elephants spouting water. Flower beds, rows of cypresses and pools covered with water lilies create an atmosphere of coolness contrasting with Rajasthan's heat. Peacocks roam freely between the paths.
History and context
The garden was laid out in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh II for the ladies-in-waiting of the royal family. These women, offered as dowry to the princess upon her marriage, spent their days in this reserved space. The name "Saheliyon Ki Bari" directly reflects this purpose: a place of rest and entertainment originally exclusively for women.
Highlights of your visit
The marble fountains
The water jets operated manually by the caretakers constitute the most spectacular moment. The elephant-shaped fountains and sprays erupting from the central pools illustrate the hydraulic expertise of the Mughal era.
The lotus pool
The grand central pool, covered with blooming lotus flowers depending on the season, is framed by finely worked marble kiosks. It is the most photographed space in the garden.
The small museum
An adjoining room displays objects related to the life of the Mewar royal court: porcelain, traditional dolls and decorative pieces. Modest but instructive for contextualizing your visit.
Photography tips
Morning light, before the crowds arrive, is ideal for photographing the fountains and reflections in the pools. The white marble kiosks stand out best in soft light. Avoid midday: harsh sunlight washes out sculptural details. Peacocks, present all day, offer spontaneous photo opportunities.
Location and access
Saheliyon Ki Bari is located in the northern part of Udaipur, near Fateh Sagar Lake. From Udaipur City Palace, allow about 15 to 20 minutes by auto-rickshaw. Fateh Sagar Lake is accessible on foot from the garden. The area is well served by city rickshaws and taxis.
Nearby attractions
- Fateh Sagar Lake — artificial lake bordered by hills, ideal for a boat ride at sunset.
- City Palace — palatial complex overlooking Pichola Lake, historic heart of Mewar royalty.
- Pichola Lake — emblematic lake of Udaipur with its island-palaces, including the famous Jag Niwas.
- Bharatiya Lok Kala Museum — museum of Rajasthan folk arts, minutes from the garden.
Frequently asked questions
The most pleasant season runs from October to March, when temperatures are mild. In summer (April-June), heat is intense but fountains provide welcome refreshment. The monsoon (July-September) greens the garden but can make pathways slippery.
No, Saheliyon Ki Bari is not a place of worship. No dress code is imposed. Light and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially in summer.
Yes, the two sites are close to each other. After the garden, a walk to the shores of Fateh Sagar Lake flows naturally, especially in late afternoon to enjoy the sunset.
Photography is generally permitted in the garden. Check on site whether restrictions apply inside the adjacent small museum.
Allow between 45 minutes and 1 hour to explore the garden at your leisure, visit the museum and watch the fountains in operation.
Auto-rickshaw is the most practical and common option. From City Palace or Pichola Lake, the ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Photos
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