Maharana Pratap Smarak Udaipur

Maharana Pratap Memorial is a historic site that is dedicated to the gallant Maharana Pratap. Situated at the top of Moti Margi or Pearl Hill, the memorial overlooks the Fateh Sagar Lake. In Hindi, memorial is known as "smarak" and smarak is always made in the memory of loved ones. Maharana Pratap Memorial was constructed with the initiative taken by Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar with the help of a public trust.

The memorial comprises a life-sized bronze statue of Maharana Pratap balanced on his loyal and favorite horse, Chetak. It is believed that Chetak was a faithful horse. He was extremely protective towards Maharana Pratap and stood by his master till his last breath. Chetak was killed in the battle of Haldighati. People visit this memorial to pay their homage to the Rajput hero, Rana Pratap and his loyal mount 'Chetak'.

This outstanding statue has also been picturised for various Bollywood movies. If you are a photographer, then you will truly love this place. From the comfortable height of the hill, you can click some of the best pictures of Udaipur city. One can also visit the attractive Japanese Rock Garden and the remnants of one of the forts of Udaipur, which are located near this hill.

History of Maharana Pratap Memorial
It was constructed by Maharana Bhagwat Singh of Mewar. The place has a life-size bronze statue of the legendary Rajput ruler of Mewar, Maharana Pratap riding his favourite and loyal horse ‘Chetak’. The statue is based on a white platform and is surrounded by a lush green landscaped garden. The people visit this place to pay homage to the Rajput hero, Maharana Pratap and his loyal mount ‘Chetak’.

Maharana Pratap was born in 1540 A.D. in the royal family of Mewar. He succeeded to the throne of Mewar in 1572 A.D. at the death of Maharana Udai Singh. The Mughal Emperor Akbar wanted to subjugate Mewar, but Maharana Pratap wanted to remain free and live with honor. So he preferred a life of struggle and hardship to that of a life of ease and security by acknowledging the suzerainty of Akbar.

He with his meager resources continued to fight against the Mughal forces for 25 years, but the royal forces of Akbar failed to defeat him. He fought the most famous battle of Haldighati in which his loyal horse Chetak got wounded, but he carried his master to safety and then breathed his last. Maharana Pratap passed away in 1597 A.D., but he is still remembered for being a champion of liberty, a great warrior and a great leader of men.

How to reach Maharana Pratap Memorial
The Maharana Pratap Memorial is a famous tourist spot in the city; hence, it is easily accessible.

Airport- Maharana Pratap Airport is located 23.3 km away from the Memorial. You can take a private cab to reach the Memorial.

Railway Station- The Udaipur railway station is located at a distance of 2.4 km away from the Memorial. You can either hire an auto rickshaw or cab to reach your destination.

Public Transport- Udaipur is a well-connected city; you can either ply a private or a state-run bus to reach the Memorial, which is located 5 Km away from the City Palace. Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh Transport Authority run buses regularly in and out of the city. You can also take a road trip to Udaipur as it is connected to National Highway 8.