Bonding In Udaipur: Discovering The City Of Lakes With James Bond

If you are a James Bond fan, you must have seen the 1983 Roger Moore classic Octopussy. Like most Bond movies, the exotic locales where the installations are shot become as much part of the movie's narrative as the characters themselves. There is one particular place in India where this Bond film has been shot quite a bit: the city of lakes, Udaipur. You don't need much of an excuse to visit Udaipur as the city offers many beautiful sights and exciting things for travellers. However, discovering the city through the lens of a Bond film is a pretty solid way to satisfy the movie buff in you. Let's start the action by tracing Roger Moore's steps through Udaipur.Shiv Niwas Palace: Bond's AbodeOne of the prominent locations in the film is the Shiv Niwas Palace, serving as James Bond's residence. This majestic hotel, once the residence of the Maharana of Udaipur, offers a glimpse into the regal lifestyle with its opulent decor and stunning views of Lake Pichola. Bond's stay, casino adventures, and encounters with other characters unfold within the grandeur of Shiv Niwas Palace.Address: Lake Pichola, The City Palace Complex, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001Contact: 0294 252 8016Taj Lake Palace: Octopussy's AbodeThe enchanting Taj Lake Palace steals the spotlight as Octopussy's lavish abode in the film. This floating palace, situated on the Jag Niwas island in Lake Pichola, exudes luxury and elegance. With its white marble walls and regal architecture, the Taj Lake Palace provides a fitting backdrop for Bond's rendezvous with Octopussy. The palace's scenic surroundings make it a perfect setting for the film's compelling scenes.Address: Taj Lake Palace, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001Contact: 0294 242 8800Jag Mandir Palace: Grand Exterior ShotsAdding to the allure of Udaipur's architectural wonders is the Jag Mandir Palace, featuring prominently in the exterior shots of Octopussy's home. Built on an island in Lake Pichola, this majestic palace, also known as the 'Lake Garden Palace', fascinates with its intricate design and scenic beauty. The palace's ornate elephant statues and picturesque gardens set the stage for several memorable moments in the film, showcasing the grandeur of Udaipur's heritage.Address: Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001Contact: 02942424186Hours: 10 am to 6 pm, all days of the weekMonsoon Palace: Villain's LairPerched atop a hill overlooking Udaipur, the Monsoon Palace makes a dramatic appearance as the residence of the villainous Kamal Khan. This historic palace, also called the Sajjan Garh Palace, commands a breathtaking view of Fateh Sagar Lake and was constructed in 1884. This palatial residence was commissioned for Maharana Sajjan Singh of the Mewar dynasty. With its commanding views and imposing structure, it adds an element of intrigue to the film's narrative. Bond's encounters with Khan and the gripping climax scenes unfold amidst the grandeur of the Monsoon Palace, highlighting its significance as a key filming location in "Octopussy."Address: Sajjan Garh Rd Near Mewar Garh Hotel, Udaipur 313001Contact: 01412822863Hours: 9 am to 5 pm, all days of the weekGetting ThereThe Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur is well-connected with flights from various cities across the country. There is also a railway station in Udaipur if you prefer to travel by trains.