Project Report Pure
Project Report Pure
This is to certify that the project report entitled "Udaipur: The City of Lakes - A
Geographical Perspective" submitted by Preeti for partial fulfillment of the Bachelor of Arts
in Geography, Semester VI, embodies the record of authentic research work carried out at
the Department of Geography, Khalsa College, under my supervision. The present research
work reflects the candidate’s ability for critical examination and independent judgment. The
project report is complete in all respects and fit for submission.
STUDENT SUPERVISOR
PREETI PROF. TANSY WALIA
Class : B.A. ( Assistant Professor)
Semester : VI P.G. Department of
Roll. No : 5315 Geography
Univ. Roll. No : 2206317 Khalsa College
COUNTERSIGNED
Head
Department of Geography
Principal
I hereby declare that the project entitled "Udaipur: The City of Lakes - A Geographical
Perspective" submitted to Khalsa College is a record of original work done by me under the
guidance of Professor Tansy Walia , Department of Geography, Khalsa College. This project
work is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the B.A. Geography degree.
The results embodied in this work have not been submitted to any other university or
institute for the award of any degree or diploma.
PREETI
Class: B.A.
Semester: VI
Roll No: 5315
Univ. Roll No: 2206317
DATE:
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I express my deepest gratitude to the Almighty for blessing me with the strength and
perseverance to complete this project successfully. I am immensely thankful to Professor
Tansy Walia, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography, Khalsa College, for his invaluable
guidance, insightful suggestions, and constant encouragement throughout this research. His
expertise has been a beacon of inspiration for me.
I extend my appreciation to the Head of the Department, Dr. Gorakh Singh Teja, for providing
me with the necessary resources and support. I am also grateful to my parents and friends
for their unwavering support and assistance in data collection and refining my ideas. Finally, I
acknowledge the works of various researchers and organizations that have enriched my
understanding of Udaipur’s geography.
PREETI
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Certificate i
- Declaration ii
- Acknowledgement iii
- List of Tables iv
1 Introduction 1-4
1.2 Objectives 2
Udaipur, a city steeped in history and natural splendor, stands as a remarkable geographical
anomaly in the arid landscape of Rajasthan, India. Known as the "City of Lakes" and often
romantically dubbed the "Venice of the East," Udaipur’s charm lies in its serene water
bodies, majestic palaces, and the rugged embrace of the Aravalli Range. Unlike the vast
stretches of the Thar Desert that dominate much of Rajasthan, Udaipur presents a lush,
verdant contrast, a testament to human ingenuity and nature’s resilience. This introduction
sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of Udaipur’s geography, delving into its
physical attributes, human dynamics, and the pressing environmental challenges that
threaten its unique identity.
The city’s lakes, artificial marvels crafted by the Mewar rulers centuries ago, are not merely
aesthetic features but lifelines that have sustained Udaipur through its arid surroundings.
However, the modern era has brought unprecedented pressures—urbanization, a booming
tourism industry, and climate variability—that jeopardize this delicate ecosystem. This
project aims to unravel the intricate interplay between Udaipur’s natural environment and
its human inhabitants, offering insights into how geography shapes, and is shaped by,
societal forces. By examining its topography, climate, population, and conservation efforts,
the study seeks to highlight Udaipur’s significance as a case study in sustainable urban
development within a challenging regional context.
Udaipur’s geographical setting is both its strength and its vulnerability. Nestled amidst the
Aravalli Range, one of the world’s oldest mountain systems, the city enjoys a natural barrier
that shields it from the harshness of the Thar Desert to the west. This range, with its
weathered peaks and rolling hills, has historically influenced Udaipur’s climate and
hydrology, creating a microclimate that supports its iconic lakes. These water bodies—Lake
Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, and others—contrast sharply with the arid expanse of
Rajasthan, offering a visual and ecological respite. Yet, this very uniqueness is under threat.
Rapid urbanization, driven by population growth and economic opportunities, has led to
unchecked construction, encroachment on lake shores, and deforestation in the surrounding
hills.
The tourism industry, while a boon to Udaipur’s economy, exacerbates these pressures. With
over 1.4 million visitors annually drawn to its palaces, lakes, and cultural heritage, the city
faces strain on its infrastructure and natural resources. Hotels, roads, and commercial
developments have mushroomed, often at the expense of green cover and water quality.
Environmental challenges, such as pollution from sewage and industrial runoff, siltation from
eroded hillsides, and erratic rainfall patterns linked to climate change, further imperil the
lakes that define Udaipur’s identity. This project explores these issues, asking a critical
question: How can Udaipur maintain its status as a sustainable lake city amidst these
mounting threats? The stakes are high—not only for the city’s ecological balance but also for
its cultural heritage, which is intricately tied to its natural landscape.
The problem is multifaceted, involving physical geography (e.g., lake degradation), human
geography (e.g., population pressures), and environmental management (e.g., conservation
strategies). Udaipur’s lakes, once a symbol of resilience, now face existential risks, with
implications for water security, biodiversity, and tourism. This study seeks to illuminate these
challenges, offering a geographical perspective on how Udaipur can navigate its future while
preserving its past.
1.2 Objectives
The objectives of this project are designed to provide a holistic understanding of Udaipur’s
geography and its contemporary challenges:
These objectives collectively aim to bridge the physical and human dimensions of Udaipur’s
geography, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding its past, present, and
potential future.
1.3 Methodology
This study relies on a robust methodology grounded in secondary data collection and
analysis, reflecting the scope of a BA-level geographical inquiry. Data have been sourced
from authoritative government publications, including the Census of India (2011) for
demographic insights, Rajasthan Tourism reports for economic and visitor statistics, and
environmental assessments from the National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP). These are
supplemented by academic journals, books on Rajasthan’s geography, and credible online
databases, ensuring a broad and reliable evidence base.
To present this data effectively, cartographic techniques are employed. Maps illustrate
Udaipur’s location, topography, and lake network; graphs depict trends such as rainfall
variability; and tables summarize key statistics like population growth and lake restoration
efforts. These visual tools enhance the report’s clarity, making complex geographical
relationships accessible. Qualitative analysis plays a pivotal role, interpreting the socio-
economic and environmental dynamics of Udaipur. For instance, it examines how tourism
boosts the economy while straining resources, or how cultural practices reflect adaptation to
the arid environment. Cross-verification with recent studies ensures the findings remain
current, particularly given Udaipur’s evolving challenges as of March 26, 2025.
While primary fieldwork would enrich this study, the reliance on secondary sources aligns
with the project’s scope and resource constraints, providing a solid foundation for
geographical analysis. The methodology thus balances empirical data with interpretive
depth, offering a nuanced perspective on Udaipur’s unique landscape.
Udaipur is strategically located in southern Rajasthan, near the Gujarat border, at 24°35′N
latitude and 73°41′E longitude. The city proper covers an area of 64 square kilometers,
nestled within the larger Udaipur district, which spans 13,430 square kilometers. Its position
on the eastern slopes of the Aravalli Range—a geological relic dating back over a billion
years—sets it apart from the flat, sandy expanses of the Thar Desert to the west. This range,
with elevations reaching up to 944 meters at Sajjangarh, not only frames Udaipur’s scenic
beauty but also influences its climate and water systems, creating a distinct ecological niche.
The city is renowned for its seven artificial lakes, a legacy of the Mewar dynasty’s foresight in
harnessing monsoon runoff for survival in an arid region. Lake Pichola, constructed in 1362
AD by Rana Lakha, spans 6.96 square kilometers and is the largest, followed by Fateh Sagar
Lake (1678 AD, 4 sq. km) and others like Rang Sagar and Swaroop Sagar. Five of these—
Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, Rang Sagar, and Doodh Talai—are currently under the
NLCP, reflecting their national significance for conservation. These lakes, interconnected by
canals, are fed by the Aravalli catchments, making them vital for water supply, irrigation, and
tourism.
CHAPTER 2: PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY OF UDAIPUR
Udaipur’s physical geography is a captivating blend of rugged terrain, climatic variability, and
ingenious hydrological systems, setting it apart in the arid expanse of Rajasthan. Nestled
within the Aravalli Range, the city’s landscape and water bodies reflect both natural
processes and human adaptation. This chapter examines Udaipur’s location and topography,
its climate and rainfall patterns, and the lakes that define its identity as the "City of Lakes,"
providing a foundation for understanding its environmental dynamics.
Udaipur’s strategic location, approximately 415 km south of Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital, and
250 km northeast of Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s economic hub, enhances its connectivity and
historical significance. Positioned at 24°35′N latitude and 73°41′E longitude, the city lies on
the eastern slopes of the Aravalli Range—one of the oldest mountain systems in the world,
dating back over a billion years. This ancient range forms a natural barrier to the west,
shielding Udaipur from the harsh Thar Desert and influencing its microclimate and
hydrology. The Aravallis, with peaks like Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) reaching 944 meters,
create a rugged backdrop of rocky outcrops and undulating hills.
The city itself sits at an elevation of 598 meters above sea level, contributing to its scenic
ridges and fertile valleys. This elevation moderates temperatures compared to the
surrounding plains, while the terrain supports limited agriculture and shapes settlement
patterns. Historically, Udaipur’s location made it a vital trade and defense outpost for the
Mewar kingdom, with forts perched atop hills offering strategic vantage points. Today, this
topography enhances its aesthetic appeal, drawing tourists to its panoramic vistas and
natural beauty.
Udaipur experiences a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen: BSh), characteristic of Rajasthan yet
softened by its elevation and proximity to the Aravallis. Summers (March-June) are
scorching, with temperatures soaring to 44°C, driven by intense solar radiation and dry
winds from the desert. Winters (October-March), however, are pleasant, averaging 5°C to
30°C, making Udaipur a popular retreat during cooler months. The monsoon season (July-
September) is the lifeline of the region, bringing an average annual rainfall of 624 mm, vital
for replenishing its lakes and sustaining life in this arid zone.
Rainfall, however, is highly variable, with the Aravalli hills trapping monsoon clouds from the
southwest. Some years see abundant downpours, while others face deficits, reflecting
broader climate change trends. This precipitation, concentrated in a few months, supports
the city’s water systems but also poses challenges like flooding and erosion. The interplay of
elevation and topography creates a microclimate distinct from the surrounding desert,
underscoring Udaipur’s geographical uniqueness.
2.3 Lakes and Hydrology
Udaipur’s identity as the "City of Lakes" stems from its seven artificial lakes, a testament to
the Mewar rulers’ ingenuity in ensuring water security in an arid landscape. Constructed
between the 14th and 17th centuries, key lakes include Lake Pichola (1362 AD, 6.96 sq. km),
Fateh Sagar Lake (1678 AD, 4 sq. km), and Rang Sagar, interconnected by a network of
canals. These lakes, fed by monsoon runoff from the Aravalli hills, capture water from a
catchment area that channels seasonal streams into reservoirs. Lake Pichola, the largest, was
built by Rana Lakha, while Fateh Sagar was later expanded by Rana Fateh Singh, reflecting a
legacy of hydrological engineering.
These water bodies sustain Udaipur’s domestic needs, support small-scale fisheries, and
drive its tourism economy, with attractions like the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir drawing
global visitors. The lakes’ dependence on monsoon rains, however, makes them vulnerable
to siltation and pollution, challenges exacerbated by modern pressures. Together, Udaipur’s
topography, climate, and hydrology create a delicate yet resilient ecosystem, central to its
geographical narrative.
CHAPTER 3: HUMAN GEOGRAPHY OF UDAIPUR
Udaipur’s human geography is a vibrant tapestry woven from its diverse population, thriving
economy, and rich cultural heritage. As a city that bridges tradition and modernity, Udaipur
reflects the interplay between its natural environment and the people who have shaped it
over centuries. This chapter explores the demographic composition and growth of Udaipur,
its economic vitality driven by tourism and other sectors, and the cultural legacy that defines
its identity. Together, these elements highlight how human activity has both adapted to and
transformed Udaipur’s unique geographical setting.
Udaipur has experienced steady population growth, fueled by urbanization and migration
drawn by economic opportunities, particularly in tourism. According to the 2011 Census, the
city’s population stood at approximately 451,100, with the urban agglomeration exceeding
600,000 when including surrounding areas. The broader Udaipur district, encompassing
rural and urban zones, had a population of 3.44 million. This growth reflects a 12.1%
increase from 2001, when the city’s population was 389,438, driven by both natural increase
and influx from rural Rajasthan and beyond.
The literacy rate in Udaipur city is 77%, significantly higher than India’s national average of
74% at the time, reflecting investments in education and the presence of institutions like
Mohanlal Sukhadia University. The sex ratio stands at 958 females per 1,000 males,
indicating a relatively balanced gender distribution compared to other parts of Rajasthan.
This demographic profile is shaped by a diverse mix of communities, including Rajputs, who
historically ruled the region, and Bhils, an indigenous tribal group prominent in rural areas.
Jains, with their mercantile legacy, and Muslims, contributing to crafts and trade, further
enrich the social fabric.
These communities bring cultural richness, evident in Udaipur’s festivals, languages (Hindi,
Mewari, and Rajasthani dialects), and traditions. The Bhils, for instance, maintain agrarian
lifestyles and tribal customs, while urban Rajputs uphold martial and artistic legacies. This
diversity not only strengthens Udaipur’s identity but also poses challenges for urban
planning as the city accommodates growing numbers.
Tourism is the cornerstone of Udaipur’s economy, leveraging its lakes, palaces, and historical
charm to attract millions of visitors annually. In 2016, Rajasthan Tourism reported over 1.4
million tourists, a figure likely higher by 2025 given Udaipur’s rising global profile. The city is
home to luxury hospitality brands like Taj Lake Palace, a former royal residence turned hotel
on Lake Pichola, and Oberoi Udaivilas, an architectural marvel blending Rajput and Mughal
styles. These establishments have positioned Udaipur as a premier destination for weddings,
honeymoons, and leisure, drawing international and domestic travelers alike.
The economic impact of tourism is profound, generating employment in hospitality,
transport, and retail. Heritage hotels, boat rides on Lake Pichola, and guided tours of palaces
like Jag Mandir fuel a service-based economy. Beyond tourism, Udaipur thrives on
handicrafts, with artisans producing miniature paintings, silver jewelry, and textiles sold at
markets like Hathi Pol and Shilpgram—a rural arts village that hosts an annual fair. Marble
mining, tapping the Aravalli’s rich deposits, supports industrial growth, with Udaipur being a
hub for white marble used in construction and sculpture.
The education sector also contributes, with universities and schools attracting students and
faculty, fostering a knowledge economy. However, this economic reliance on tourism strains
infrastructure—roads clog with traffic, and lakes face pollution from visitor activities.
Balancing growth with sustainability remains a key challenge.
Udaipur’s culture is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Mewar kingdom, a Rajput dynasty
that ruled the region for over a millennium. This heritage is celebrated through festivals like
the Mewar Festival, held during spring to honor local deities, and Gangaur, a vibrant
celebration of marital harmony with processions and folk performances. The Shilpgram Fair,
an annual event in December, showcases rural crafts and dances, drawing artisans from
across Rajasthan and beyond. These festivals highlight Udaipur’s artistic legacy, blending
Rajput grandeur with tribal simplicity.
The city is renowned for its miniature paintings, an art form perfected under royal
patronage, depicting scenes of court life and mythology on silk or paper. Traditional dance
forms like Ghoomar, performed by women in swirling skirts, and folk music with instruments
like the sarangi and dholak resonate through Udaipur’s streets and palaces. Architectural
marvels further define this heritage. The City Palace, a sprawling complex overlooking Lake
Pichola, blends Rajput and Mughal styles with its domes, arches, and courtyards. Jag Mandir,
an island palace on Pichola, and Saheliyon Ki Bari, a garden with fountains and lotus pools,
reflect the grandeur of Rajput-era craftsmanship.
These cultural assets are not static relics but living traditions that fuel tourism and local
pride. The City Palace, now partly a museum, attracts visitors with its artifacts and
panoramic views, while Jag Mandir hosts events, merging history with modern use. This
heritage, however, faces pressures from commercialization and urban growth, necessitating
preservation efforts to maintain Udaipur’s cultural soul.
CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES IN UDAIPUR
Udaipur, known as the "City of Lakes," is celebrated for its natural beauty and rich cultural
heritage. However, rapid urbanization and human activities have led to significant
environmental challenges. This chapter explores key environmental issues in Udaipur,
focusing on water pollution, deforestation, urban expansion, climate change, and
sustainability.
Udaipur’s lakes, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, and Udai Sagar, are crucial for maintaining
the ecological balance and supporting tourism. However, increasing pollution from domestic
sewage, industrial effluents, and encroachments threatens their health. The major sources
of lake pollution include:
• National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP): This central government initiative focuses
on restoring and conserving lakes by implementing wastewater treatment plants,
desilting activities, and promoting community participation.
• Local NGO Efforts: Organizations such as the Lake Conservation Society and Jheel
Sanrakshan Samiti actively engage in awareness programs, cleanliness drives, and
advocacy for stricter regulations.
Despite these efforts, continuous monitoring, stricter law enforcement, and public
cooperation are essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability of Udaipur’s water bodies.
Udaipur's rapid urbanization has led to large-scale deforestation, particularly in the Aravalli
hills. This deforestation has several negative environmental consequences:
• Loss of Biodiversity: The Aravalli range is home to various plant and animal species.
Habitat destruction due to deforestation has threatened the survival of many
indigenous species.
• Soil Erosion and Landslides: Vegetation loss has reduced soil stability, leading to
increased soil erosion and landslide risks during monsoons.
• Air and Noise Pollution: The conversion of green spaces into urban infrastructure has
led to increased pollution levels, affecting air quality and contributing to rising
temperatures.
• Green Belt Development: Designated green belts around the city serve as buffer
zones to control urban sprawl and maintain ecological balance.
Climate change has emerged as a significant challenge for Udaipur, affecting water
availability, temperature patterns, and overall ecological balance. Some key issues related to
climate change include:
• Rising Temperatures: Over the past few decades, Udaipur has experienced a steady
increase in average temperatures, leading to heatwaves and water scarcity.
• Erratic Rainfall Patterns: Changes in monsoon patterns have resulted in irregular and
inadequate rainfall, impacting agriculture and lake water levels.
By integrating environmental policies with urban development, Udaipur can enhance its
resilience against climate change and ensure a sustainable future for its residents and
natural ecosystems.
CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Udaipur, with its blend of natural splendor and human ingenuity, stands as a remarkable
urban center in Rajasthan. This chapter synthesizes the key findings from the study of its
geography and offers actionable recommendations to address the environmental and
developmental challenges it faces. The analysis underscores the delicate balance Udaipur
must maintain to preserve its identity as the "City of Lakes" amidst evolving pressures.
Udaipur’s geographical setting—nestled within the Aravalli Range and dotted with artificial
lakes—creates a unique oasis in Rajasthan’s arid landscape. Its elevation of 598 meters and
monsoon-fed hydrology distinguish it from the surrounding Thar Desert, supporting a
microclimate that has sustained life for centuries. This physical geography, coupled with a
rich cultural heritage rooted in Mewar traditions, has made Udaipur a global tourism hub,
drawing over 1.4 million visitors annually to landmarks like the City Palace and Lake Pichola.
Economically, the city thrives on tourism, handicrafts, and marble mining, with luxury hotels
like Taj Lake Palace reinforcing its status as a leisure destination.
However, these strengths are overshadowed by significant threats. Rapid urbanization, with
a population exceeding 451,100 in 2011, drives deforestation and lake encroachment,
degrading the Aravalli ecosystem. Environmental challenges, including sewage pollution and
industrial runoff, imperil water quality, while climate change brings rising temperatures and
erratic rainfall, jeopardizing water security. These factors collectively threaten Udaipur’s
sustainability, risking the loss of its ecological and cultural essence if unchecked. The study
reveals a city at a crossroads, where economic growth and environmental preservation must
be reconciled to ensure a viable future.
5.2 Recommendations
These measures, if implemented cohesively, can safeguard Udaipur’s lakes, heritage, and
economic vitality, ensuring it remains a sustainable urban center for future generations.