Udaipur's Most Thrilling Hiking Trails: 6 Dangerous Routes To Explore
Udaipur, also known as 'City of Lakes,' is famous for its beautiful palaces, calm lakes, and cultural heritage. But, behind its royal elegance is a hidden side that calls out to all adventure lovers – the thrilling and risky hiking trails that lie on the city's borders. These trails present a wonderful combination of scenic views, heart-racing experiences, and an opportunity to get lost in the wilds of the Aravalli Range. These trails near Udaipur promise to offer the best getaway for an adventurer looking to escape the noise of the city life. The following mountains are considered to be some of the most difficult yet exciting hikes that every adventure enthusiast should try at least once.
1. Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace Trail
The Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is renowned among tourists for its breathtaking views from the peak of Banswara Peak. Gaining access to its majestic views is a hiking trail which many know of, but few dare to actually hike. The hike starts at the base of the mountain and is full of moderate level challenges such as dense forestry, rocky paths, and a steep elevation. During the monsoon season the hike is especially challenging, as the trail can be extremely slippery and dangerous. Although, if you are able to endure through these hardships, the rewarding view of Udaipur city, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the entire Aravalli hills is absolutely marvelous. While the hike may not be suitable for faint-hearted individuals, the thrill-seeking seasoned hikers will love the challenge.
2. Kumbhalgarh Fort Trek
Kumbhalgarh is approximately 85 kilometers away from Udaipur, and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is without question one of the finest forts in all of Rajasthan. The trek to the fort is nothing short of mesmerizingly beautiful. It includes dense forests, steep climbs, and narrow ridges as well, which provide magnificent views of the landscape. One of the most defining features of the fort is its massive walls, spanning over 38 kilometers, which reinforce its historical significance. The trek is incredibly arduous, but the rewards are just waiting to be relished. The trek is particularly risky during the rainy season, so many precautions must be taken.
3. Haldighati Pass Trek
The Haldighati Pass is renowned for the Haldighati battle between Maharana Pratap and the mughals and is rich in history. The pass is difficult to reach as it is both thrilling and challenging. There is a glimpse of dense forests, steep slopes and rough terrain which shows the rich history and natural beauty of the region. It gets its name from the yellow colored Turmeric or haldi as it is called in the local language And the remarkable views of the surrounding valleys and hills are a bonus. The trek is not well marked which makes it dangerous, but ultimately rewarding for history enthusiasts and adventure fans.
4. Jhar Waterfall Trek
Jhar waterfall is located approximately 50 km from Udaipur and is a beautiful waterfall. The trek to reach the waterfall is exciting yet risky, particularly montPlayersaun season when the water supply is high. The path is very difficult with the dense forests, steep slopes, and rocky surfaces. The majestic waterfall drops from an approximate height of 150 feet. One needs an average amount of physical fitness in order to complete the trek. There are some risks involved, such as the rocks and water around the waterfall can get very slippery. In the end, taking a dip in the water in the summer makes the trek worth it.
5. Chandresh Trek
Set to the northeast of Udaipur is the Chandresh Trek, one of the least studied trails in the area. The trek is about 30 kilometers away from the city and takes you through deep forests mixed with rocky outcrops and steep climbs. The pathway is not clear so this makes it a risky endeavor for inexperienced hikers. The beauty of Chandresh comes in the form of untouched nature which many outdoor enthusiasts appreciate. Alongside, the trek also provides jaw-dropping views of the Aravalli Range. It is best to hire a local guide for this trek, as the route is difficult to navigate.
6. Badi Lake Trek
About 12 kilometers southwest of Udaipur lies Badi Lake, known as 'Badi Ka Talab' in the local dialect. The lake is calm and picturesque making it ideal for tourism and relaxation. Badi Lake is popular amongst travelers which in turn attracts lots of wildlife to the lake. The trek is not very long and offers a thrilling experience. Indeed, the panorama is quite stunning while you take in the lake and the hills surrounding the lake. The idyllic landscapes offer breathtaking sights for every outdoor lover. Although the trek is moderate in difficulty, it does become particularly treacherous in the rainy season therefore proper gear as well as caution is a must.
Tips To Stay Safe When Hiking Near Udaipur
While the trails are fun, they also come with a certain level of risk. Follow these tips to remain safe:
Get a Local Guide: Most of these trials are not marked, and a local guide will resolve this problem.
Come Prepared: Sturdy hiking shoes, first-aid kit, and adequate amounts of water and snacks are a must.
Mind the Weather: Do not plan any hikes during the monsoon season or extreme weather conditions.
Stick to the Trail: Leaving the trail can be harmful, especially if you are in a new area.
Let Someone Know: Make sure that someone is aware of your hiking itinerary along with the time you plan to return.
Final Thoughts
Udaipur is rich in history and natural beauty, making it one of the most beautiful places to hike in Rajasthan. The trails in this region are quite favorable if you want to experience the untouched nature of the Aravalli Range. For seasoned hikers, and even beginners, the trails near Udaipur are guaranteed to be memorable. Grab your bag and hiking boots and get ready to explore!
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7 hours ago
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Udaipur's Most Thrilling Hiking Trails: 6 Dangerous Routes To Explore
Udaipur, also known as 'City of Lakes,' is famous for its beautiful palaces, calm lakes, and cultural heritage. But, behind its royal elegance is a hidden side that calls out to all adventure lovers – the thrilling and risky hiking trails that lie on the city's borders. These trails present a wonderful combination of scenic views, heart-racing experiences, and an opportunity to get lost in the wilds of the Aravalli Range. These trails near Udaipur promise to offer the best getaway for an adventurer looking to escape the noise of the city life. The following mountains are considered to be some of the most difficult yet exciting hikes that every adventure enthusiast should try at least once. 1. Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace Trail The Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is renowned among tourists for its breathtaking views from the peak of Banswara Peak. Gaining access to its majestic views is a hiking trail which many know of, but few dare to actually hike. The hike starts at the base of the mountain and is full of moderate level challenges such as dense forestry, rocky paths, and a steep elevation. During the monsoon season the hike is especially challenging, as the trail can be extremely slippery and dangerous. Although, if you are able to endure through these hardships, the rewarding view of Udaipur city, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the entire Aravalli hills is absolutely marvelous. While the hike may not be suitable for faint-hearted individuals, the thrill-seeking seasoned hikers will love the challenge. 2. Kumbhalgarh Fort Trek Kumbhalgarh is approximately 85 kilometers away from Udaipur, and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is without question one of the finest forts in all of Rajasthan. The trek to the fort is nothing short of mesmerizingly beautiful. It includes dense forests, steep climbs, and narrow ridges as well, which provide magnificent views of the landscape. One of the most defining features of the fort is its massive walls, spanning over 38 kilometers, which reinforce its historical significance. The trek is incredibly arduous, but the rewards are just waiting to be relished. The trek is particularly risky during the rainy season, so many precautions must be taken. 3. Haldighati Pass Trek The Haldighati Pass is renowned for the Haldighati battle between Maharana Pratap and the mughals and is rich in history. The pass is difficult to reach as it is both thrilling and challenging. There is a glimpse of dense forests, steep slopes and rough terrain which shows the rich history and natural beauty of the region. It gets its name from the yellow colored Turmeric or haldi as it is called in the local language And the remarkable views of the surrounding valleys and hills are a bonus. The trek is not well marked which makes it dangerous, but ultimately rewarding for history enthusiasts and adventure fans. 4. Jhar Waterfall Trek Jhar waterfall is located approximately 50 km from Udaipur and is a beautiful waterfall. The trek to reach the waterfall is exciting yet risky, particularly montPlayersaun season when the water supply is high. The path is very difficult with the dense forests, steep slopes, and rocky surfaces. The majestic waterfall drops from an approximate height of 150 feet. One needs an average amount of physical fitness in order to complete the trek. There are some risks involved, such as the rocks and water around the waterfall can get very slippery. In the end, taking a dip in the water in the summer makes the trek worth it. 5. Chandresh Trek Set to the northeast of Udaipur is the Chandresh Trek, one of the least studied trails in the area. The trek is about 30 kilometers away from the city and takes you through deep forests mixed with rocky outcrops and steep climbs. The pathway is not clear so this makes it a risky endeavor for inexperienced hikers. The beauty of Chandresh comes in the form of untouched nature which many outdoor enthusiasts appreciate. Alongside, the trek also provides jaw-dropping views of the Aravalli Range. It is best to hire a local guide for this trek, as the route is difficult to navigate. 6. Badi Lake Trek About 12 kilometers southwest of Udaipur lies Badi Lake, known as 'Badi Ka Talab' in the local dialect. The lake is calm and picturesque making it ideal for tourism and relaxation. Badi Lake is popular amongst travelers which in turn attracts lots of wildlife to the lake. The trek is not very long and offers a thrilling experience. Indeed, the panorama is quite stunning while you take in the lake and the hills surrounding the lake. The idyllic landscapes offer breathtaking sights for every outdoor lover. Although the trek is moderate in difficulty, it does become particularly treacherous in the rainy season therefore proper gear as well as caution is a must. Tips To Stay Safe When Hiking Near Udaipur While the trails are fun, they also come with a certain level of risk. Follow these tips to remain safe: Get a Local Guide: Most of these trials are not marked, and a local guide will resolve this problem. Come Prepared: Sturdy hiking shoes, first-aid kit, and adequate amounts of water and snacks are a must. Mind the Weather: Do not plan any hikes during the monsoon season or extreme weather conditions. Stick to the Trail: Leaving the trail can be harmful, especially if you are in a new area. Let Someone Know: Make sure that someone is aware of your hiking itinerary along with the time you plan to return. Final Thoughts Udaipur is rich in history and natural beauty, making it one of the most beautiful places to hike in Rajasthan. The trails in this region are quite favorable if you want to experience the untouched nature of the Aravalli Range. For seasoned hikers, and even beginners, the trails near Udaipur are guaranteed to be memorable. Grab your bag and hiking boots and get ready to explore!
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Gift this article "Did you know that the older name for Darjeeling was Dorje-ling, or the land of thunder? When the British arrived, they couldn't pronounce the original name and called it Darjeeling—a name that stuck on," says our tour guide, Rahul Thapa, as we travel from the pristine tea estates of Kurseong to the main town of Darjeeling. Locals such as Thapa are worried that the picturesque hill station nestled in north Bengal may soon acquire another name, 'Taarjeeling", due to the proliferation of entangled wires dangling across the main town. In fact, this quip has become a popular joke with which guides and taxi drivers greet tourists. "Did you know that the older name for Darjeeling was Dorje-ling, or the land of thunder? When the British arrived, they couldn't pronounce the original name and called it Darjeeling—a name that stuck on," says our tour guide, Rahul Thapa, as we travel from the pristine tea estates of Kurseong to the main town of Darjeeling. Locals such as Thapa are worried that the picturesque hill station nestled in north Bengal may soon acquire another name, 'Taarjeeling", due to the proliferation of entangled wires dangling across the main town. In fact, this quip has become a popular joke with which guides and taxi drivers greet tourists. As someone who has visited Darjeeling earlier—my last visit being nearly 14 years ago—the statement seems like hyperbole. That is until I reach Darjeeling's Mall Road. Landmarks such as the Planter's Club (now renovated) and the Darjeeling Clock Tower, which had once stood tall, framed by mountains all around, today seem to be peeking out from behind a veil of tangled wires. Views of exquisite neocolonial and Gothic architecture, with a smattering of beautiful Art Deco elements here and there, are impeded by shops and restaurants under construction. 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Also read: Planner: 5 events that make this weekend musical For those, who want to experience the old world charm of Darjeeling, there are still some stellar heritage structures, which often fall under the radar. Take, for instance, the house of pioneering industrialist Butto Kristo Paul—a mansion, with ornate wooden framed windows and traditional entrance, built between 1900 and 1910. A visit to the house of Chittaranjan Das, a freedom fighter and political activist popularly known as Deshbandhu, is also recommended. His home was witness to several historical events and the backdrop to films such as Sanyasi Raja featuring Uttam Kumar.'The film was based on a real incident from colonial times, when a zamindar was believed to have died. Several years later, he returned and there was a long legal battle to determine if the man who had come back was real or fake. 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