Udaipur’s history is vast and it runs deep with all the incredible architecture and culture of the Mewar dynasty. Mewar has seen a number of great and just rulers, the most well-known of which is Maharana Pratap, the warrior who brought immense glory to Mewar. Maharana Pratap is a highly revered figure in Rajasthan, and Udaipur pays tribute to the valiant king through the Maharana Pratap memorial atop Moti Magri, the pearl hill that sits perched upon the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. The memorial shows Maharana Pratap atop his loyal horse Chetak, and even with the many great architectural marvels of Udaipur, Moti Magri manages to stand out. Here are some amazing things to know about Moti Magri and the Maharana Pratap memorial.
Interesting Facts
- The statue of Maharana Pratap riding Chetak is made entirely of bronze, and it shines our prominently on the hill.
- Moti Magri is situated on the eastern coastal part of Udaipur’s Fateh Sagar Lake. The monument pays homage to the Haldighati battle against Emperor Akbar that took place in 1575.
- The statue of Maharana Pratap is 11 feet high, with a weight of 7 tonnes. It was built in 1948 by Maharana Bhagwat Singh.
- The pearl hill is a spot of luscious greenery and is a perfect spot to look down upon the city of Udaipur.
- Many tourists enjoy a stroll along the small hill and capture the beauty of the city, amid the beautiful view of the Aravalli Hills in the background.
- It is a great spot to learn the history of the great warrior that was Maharana Pratap, and the Haldighati battle that it is paying tribute to.
- There is a Japanese rock garden alongside the memorial, which has proven to be quite a tourist attraction of Moti Magri.
- People come to pay respects to the esteemed king who valiantly rebelled against the Mughal rule in India, and the stories of Maharana Pratap are very common in Udaipur, which can be delved deeply into at Moti Magri.
- Maharana Pratap’s beloved Arab horse Chetak was his most loyal companion, and the history of Mewar associates the two together. Chetak was badly wounded during the Haldighati battle but he was known to be just as brave as his master. Chetak saved Maharana Pratap’s life during the battle despite being gravely injured, and the memorial pays tribute to the courageous horse as well.
Things to Do
- The Moti Mahal museum is a must visit to take a keen look at the various paintings including an outstanding one of the queen of Chittor, Rani Padmini and one of the saint Meera Bai. There are also some interesting models of the Chittor fort and the battle of Haldighati among others.
- Saheliyon Ki Bari, Fateh Sagar Lake and Swaroop Sagar Lake located nearby are also popular tourist locations of Udaipur.
- The 900-year rule of the Mewar dynasty over Rajasthan is portrayed in a light and sound show that takes place every evening, which should be attended to explore the rich history and tradition of Mewar and its brave rulers.
- The Japanese Rock Garden is located very close by and is a popular tourist spot when visiting Moti Magri.
- The quaint hilltop is a great place for photography.
Things to Carry
- Photography is permitted and there is no additional charge for it, so carrying a camera is recommended.
- Due to the fact that Moti Magri is a hilltop location, comfortable shoes should be worn for a trek that can be made to the top, but vehicles can also easily access it.
- Sunglasses and a hat will ensure a contented view of the city during the daytime.
Timings of Maharana Pratap Memorial at Moti Magri
9am to 6pm
Entry Fees
Adult- Rs.20
Child- Rs.10
Light and Sound Show Timings
Summer- 8.15pm
Winter- 7.30pm
Entry Fees for Light and Sound Show
Adult and child- Rs.35
Nearby Attractions
- The Fateh Sagar lake, on the banks of which Moti Magri is situated, is a great place for a sunset view.
- Saheliyon Ki Bari, a popular garden of Udaipur is easily accessible below the hilltop of Moti Magri.
- Bagore Ki Haveli is located close by, and the Doodh Talai Lake can also be visited during a visit to Moti Magri.
- Haldighati pass is the historic location where the battle of Haldighati took place between Emperor Akbar and Maharana Pratap during his rebellion against the Mughal rule.
- Haldighati is also the place that is home to a Chetak Smarak that Maharana Pratap built in honour of his loyal horse after the horse died post being fatally injured in the battle.
- Lake Pichola is close by with the various brilliant islands that consist of brilliant architecture of the bygone era.
Udaipur takes pride in its rich heritage and history, making the beautiful city a location of one of the greatest traditions of India. As the city honours, brave warriors and displays splendid Rajput architecture, Moti Magri adds to the magnificence of the charming city that is Udaipur.
