Udaipur is an NRI destination wedding hotspot

Udaipur appeals to a wider range of immigrants coming to India to organize weddings or just to relax

By Akanksha Dean

When one thinks of Udaipur, the mind immediately conjures up visions of palatial palaces, maharaja style dining and a celebrity wedding. But today, local hotelier industry in the city confirms that most of their overseas guests ask for charming, low-key places that provide the five-star amenities in a more secluded setting.

One such spot that is fast becoming a Westerners’ favorite is Zana Lake Resort. The resort is Udaipur’s smallest superior five-star, occupying a stunning space beside Lake Udai Sagar. It offers secluded opulence across 30 rooms as well as vegetarian dining and an outdoor infinity pool with an almighty view.

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A winding road zigzaging up from the Maharana Pratap Airport makes you reach, Zana Lake Resort — a splendor on a serene lakeside. Here the air is filled with fresh air and yet it is far away from the hubbub of the city. Locals gossip about how Hollywood celebs sometimes choose secluded spots such as these in the city for their India holiday!

Looking at the privacy the place provides one could easily believe this. Reception is a discreet affair – and the check in is done in the room itself. A complimentary drink on wheels is offered to guests, at check in. This resort is a pleasingly chic spot-on Lake Udai Sagar’s shore.

Expect panoramic glass windows that draw the eye to the verdant lake surroundings and contemporary interiors, with comfy sofas, elegant furnishings and large potted plants. With only thirty rooms, the hotel has an intimate residency-like feel.

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Rooms are contemporary, with a bespoke English bent and interesting names (mine was called George). All rooms have balconies or semi-private terraces with views of the garden and the lake.

The young team exudes a laid back vibe and is ever ready to curate a route for you to experience the amorousness that the terminus has to offer, counting an exploration of charismatic spots and significant gems like Lake Pichola, City Palace, Badi Lake, and the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace among others.

In the communal space, the expansive open-plan area seamlessly extends indoors into the garden, while trendy armchairs and tables add a chic touch.

Sip on superbly crafted cocktails post a liqueur and liquor tasting at the poolside or sit back and catch some rays by the infinity pool. Soak at the Spa and leave your kids at Toddle Wobble, a dedicated and fun play area.

The food is excellent (resort is vegetarian but serves eggs too) and can be served at the lawns on special request (and cost). It is comfort cooking with a contemporary touch; try the Thai curry with jasmine rice, cheesy pizzas and Tiramisu.

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Lifetime highlights and particular moments are feted here with the balminess and mystic that they merit at their two sprawling lawns ‘Santa Maria’ and ‘Sao Gabriel’, named after a gigantic ship that they resemble. Against the milieu of the perfect waters of the Udai Sagar Lake and the image of the glittery night sky, festivities here never lack vivacity.

Where: Zana Lake Resort, Udaipur, near Udainiwas, Udaipur, Rajasthan – 313004
Wallet: Lakefront Room with Balcony rages between $150 to $200 plus taxes per night inclusive of breakfast and airport transfers
Call: M: +91 7838 203 203 W: zanaresorts.com

(Akanksha Dean is an independent chef, events specialist & food & travel writer)

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