Sajjangarh Sanctuary

For the adventure junkies, Sajjangarh wildlife sanctuary is a popular excursion, located a mere five kilometres from Udaipur. The wildlife sanctuary and the Sajjangarh palace that is within the area of the reserve, were the brainchild of Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874-1884). As the entire area stands 3100 feet above sea level and 1100 feet over the Fateh Sagar Lake, the Maharana planned to build a nine storey observatory but his dreams remained unfulfilled due to his premature death at 26 years of age.

The Sajjangarh palace is an excellent location for an exceptional view of the surrounding hills, pristine lakes and gleaming palaces of Udaipur. On a visit here, also make a short boat ride to Shikarbadi or the Khas Odi, a shooting box that lies at the southern end of the lake Pichola for a stunning view. It can be reached by car also.

The Sajjangarh wildlife sanctuary is a reserve for Nilgai, Sambhar, Wild boars, Hyena, Panther and Jackal. Birds also home in here as well as various reptiles. A nature trek starting from the Gorilla Point to the Jiyan Sagar or the Bari Lake is an excellent way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Aravalis and experience the wildlife up close.

A short distance away from the Sajjangarh reserve is an unusual small fish shaped hill that is known as Ekling Garh or Machla Magra locally. At a height of 2,469 feet above sea level, it is attached to the walls of Kishan Pol, one of the gates of Udaipur city. Once when Udaipur was attacked in 1764 by the Scindias, this hill was used as an ordnance dump. Some pieces of cannons are still here. This hill is an excellent short trek and again a vantage point for a beautiful view of the magnificent Udaipur city lying below.