The lake around which all of Udaipur revolves, originally created by a Banjara tribesman damming a stream in the 14th century, then enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh when he founded the city. On a clear morning, with the City Palace reflected in the water and the Aravallis behind, it is one of the most photogenic scenes in India.
A boat ride is essential. The public boats run from Rameshwar Ghat (about ₹400 per person, 30 minutes) and circle both island palaces. Go in the late afternoon when the light is best. The ghats on the eastern shore are worth walking at dawn, when women wash clothes and float oil lamps on the water.