Menar Village: Udaipur’s Best-Kept Secret | Best Travel Guide

 In Best Time to Visit, India, Rajasthan

Have you ever watched the iconic Bollywood film Hum Saath Saath Hain and dreamed of dancing just like in the movie, surrounded by peacocks in the heart of Rajasthan? It sounds beautifully cinematic, but have you ever wondered where you can actually find such a magical spot on your Rajasthan trip?

Welcome to the “Peacock Paradise”! Menar, a charming village along the Udaipur-Chittorgarh highway in Rajasthan, is renowned for its large population of peacocks that roam freely throughout the town. This picture-perfect village is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Come, let’s explore the stunning destination of Menar with our detailed guide to Menar village in Udaipur.

More About Menar Village in Udaipur

menar-village-in-udaipur
Source : UdaipurBlog

Menar, celebrated for its rich heritage and ecotourism, was honoured as the Best Tourism Village 2023 in the Silver Category. Situated in the historic land of Maharana Pratap and Mira Bai, it beautifully combines ancient temples with vibrant bird festivals and also the history of Menar Udaipur is truly fascinating.

Often called Menar Bird Village, it is renowned for its 250 bird species, including 100 migratory ones. From October to April, birdwatchers can spot species like the greater flamingo, white-tailed lapwing, and marsh harrier around the Brahma and Dhand ponds, which were officially recognized as wetlands on July 19, 2023. Notably, Menar also saw the rare red-necked grebe make its first appearance in Rajasthan in 28 years in 2022.

Best time to Visit Menar Udaipur

best-time-to-visit-menar-udaipur
Source : The Hindu

The best time to visit Menar in Udaipur is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather is pleasant and comfortable during this time, making it ideal for exploring the town and its attractions in Udaipur.

Here are some reasons why winter is the best time to visit Menar:

  • Pleasant weather: The average temperature in Menar during the winter months is between 10°C and 25°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.
  • Fewer crowds: The town is less crowded during the winter months, allowing you to enjoy the attractions without large crowds.
  • Festivals: Some festivals and cultural events may be held in Menar during the winter months, adding to the festive atmosphere.

How to Reach Menar Udaipur

how-to-reach-menar-udaipur
Source : The Hindu

Here are the ways you can reach Menar in Udaipur:

By Road:

  • Distance: Menar is approximately 40 kilometres from Udaipur.
  • Travel Time: The journey takes around 1-1.5 hours by road.
  • Options: You can take a taxi, cab, or bus from Udaipur to Menar.

By Train:

  • Udaipur City Railway Station: Take a train to Udaipur City Railway Station.
  • From Railway Station: From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or cab to reach Menar. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.

By Bus:

  • Udaipur Bus Stand: Take a bus from Udaipur Bus Stand to Chittorgarh.
  • From Chittorgarh: From Chittorgarh, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Menar.

Things to Do in Menar Udaipur

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Source : Outlook Traveller
  • Relax by the Menar Lake in Udaipur: Menar Lake is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a peaceful day in nature. Take a leisurely boat ride on the lake to soak in the scenic views and unwind. You can also enjoy a relaxing picnic by the Menar Lake in Udaipur.
  • Visit Temples: Menar in Udaipur has several ancient temples, such as the Shiva temple and the Hanuman temple. These temples are significant religious sites and offer a peaceful atmosphere, making it one of the best things to do in Udaipur.
  • Enjoy Nature: Menar is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including hills, forests, and a reservoir. You can enjoy activities like hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.
  • Explore Local Culture: Interact with the locals and learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.
  • Shop for Handicrafts: Menar is known for its local handicrafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewellery. You can find unique souvenirs at the local markets.
  • Birdwatching: Bird Paradise Menar Village is a haven for birdwatching, where you can witness a variety of birds, including some special ones, especially during the winter months.

Places to Visit Near Menar Udaipur

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Here are some popular places to visit near Menar that should be included in your Udaipur tour packages:

  • Chittorgarh Fort: A massive fort with a rich history, located about 10 kilometres from Menar.
  • Kumbhalgarh Fort: Another impressive fort with a history dating back to the 5th century, located about 100 kilometres from Menar.
  • Eklingji Temple: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 80 kilometres from Menar.
  • Nathdwara: A pilgrimage town known for the Shrinathji Temple, located about 120 kilometres from Menar.
  • Udaipur: The city of lakes, located about 100 kilometres from Menar. Udaipur is famous for its palaces, lakes, and temples.

Hotels Near Menar Udaipura

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Source : Weddingz
  • Tulsi Mangalam: A budget-friendly option, offering comfortable rooms and basic amenities at affordable rates. It’s a great choice for travellers on a tight budget.

Price: Approximately ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per night

  • Hotel Krishnaraj: A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, parking, and Wi-Fi. While it may not have the same level of luxury as some of the other options, it offers good value for money.

Price: Approximately ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per night

  • Raffles Udaipur: A luxurious resort located on Pichola Lake. It boasts stunning views, world-class amenities, and exceptional service. It’s one of the luxurious hotels in Rajasthan for those seeking a truly indulgent experience.

Price: Approximately ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 per night

  • ZANA Lake Resort: Another mid-range option with comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. It’s a great choice for travellers looking for a relaxing and peaceful stay.

Price: Approximately ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 per night

  • Padmini Bagh Resort by Inventree: A boutique resort offering luxurious accommodations, a spa, and multiple restaurants. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate personalized service and a tranquil setting.

Price: Approximately ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per night

  • The Fern Bambora Fort, Bambora: A heritage hotel located outside of Udaipur. It offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and multiple restaurants, as well as a unique historical setting.

Price: Approximately ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 per night

Conclusion

Menar Village, often called the “Bird Paradise Menar Village,” is a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. Recognized as the Best Tourism Village 2023 in the Silver Category, this charming destination in Rajasthan offers much more than just scenic views. From its rich heritage linked to Maharana Pratap and Mira Bai to its status as a haven for birdwatchers with over 250 bird species, including 100 migratory ones, Menar is a must-visit. The recently declared wetlands, Brahma and Dhand ponds, add to its appeal, making Menar a captivating spot for anyone seeking a peaceful yet enriching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Menar

What is Menar famous for?

Menar is famous for its birdwatching opportunities. Known as the “Bird Village,” it attracts a variety of migratory birds, especially during the winter months. The Menar lakes are a haven for bird enthusiasts.

How far is Menar lake from Udaipur?

Menar Lake is approximately 45 kilometres (28 miles) from Udaipur. The journey typically takes around an hour by road. It’s a popular day trip destination from Udaipur.

Is Menar a Ramsar site?

Menar Lake, covering an area of 104 hectares, is about to be recognized as a Ramsar site. This new status will greatly improve efforts to protect and preserve the lake.

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