Golden Sands and Timeless Tales: Srinivas’ Family Adventure in Udaipur and Beyond
For Srinivas Yerubandi, the idea of a family trip to Rajasthan began with a phone call from his friend who had just returned from the desert state.
“You have got to go, Srinivas,” his friend had insisted in an exciting voice. “There is something about Rajasthan - the colours, the stories, the people. It is magic. You need to see it with your family.”
His friend’s enthusiasm was infectious. That evening, over dinner, Srinivas pitched the idea to his wife and parents. To his surprise, his usually reserved father replied immediately.
“I have always wanted to go back to Rajasthan,” his father said. “We visited Udaipur when you were a child, but we could not explore much. It would be nice to see it properly this time.”
And so, the plan was set in motion. The Yerubandi family - Srinivas, his wife, daughter, and elderly parents- went on a journey to Rajasthan in October.
The Call of Udaipur’s Lakes
As their flight touched down in Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," Srinivas felt a quiet excitement brewing within. The family checked into the Bhairava Garg Palace, which perfectly blended heritage and modern comfort.
Their first stop was Fateh Sagar Lake. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, the shimmering water seemed to cast a spell on everyone. Srinivas’s daughter leaned over the edge of the boat as her reflection was rippling on the surface.
“Do you think the water remembers all the people who have been here?” she asked innocently.
Her question stayed in Srinivas’s mind as they continued their exploration. The gardens of Sahelion-ki-Bari were a serene contrast to the lively marketplace they had visited earlier. His parents recalled their younger days while his wife clicked photos of the delicate fountains and marble sculptures.
As the sun set, the family took a quiet stroll by the lake. Watching the changing hues of the sky, Srinivas’ father remarked, “It feels good to come back here, but this time, with all of you. It makes the place even more beautiful.”
Mount Abu was a Quiet Abode
The drive to Mount Abu was scenic, with winding roads and panoramic views of the hills. Upon arrival, the family settled into Sterlings Mount Abu surrounded by lush greenery.
Their first stop in Mount Abu was Sunset Point. The sight of the sun dipping below the horizon and painting the sky with shades of orange and pink was mesmerising. While holding a steaming cup of chai, Srinivas’ mother said softly, “This reminds me of the sunsets we used to watch from our terrace when you were little.”
The remark struck a chord with Srinivas. This trip was not just about exploring new places. It was about rekindling old memories and creating new ones.
Later, at Nakki Lake, the family indulged in paddle boating. Laughter echoed across the water as Srinivas’s daughter tried to race her grandfather’s boat, much to everyone’s delight. Afterwards, they wandered through the local market, bought trinkets and savoured street food.
As they returned to the hotel that night, Srinivas realised how much these simple moments mattered. They were connecting with each other in ways they had not in years.
Relieving History in Udaipur’s Palaces
Back in Udaipur, the family spent their final day exploring the grandeur of the City Palace. The intricate carvings, sprawling courtyards, and panoramic views of Lake Pichola left everyone in awe.
“Did you know,” the guide began, “this palace was built over 400 years by successive kings?”
Srinivas’ father, always intrigued by history, asked detailed questions, while his mother admired the crystal chandeliers in the gallery. However, his daughter seemed more interested in imagining herself as a queen, running through the corridors of the palace.
“You would make a good maharani,” Srinivas joked.
The day ended with a boat ride on Lake Pichola, where the family witnessed the palace illuminated against the night sky. Gazing at the reflection of the lights on the water, Srinivas’ wife said, “It feels like we are living in a fairytale.”
A Journey Beyond Places
As their trip came to an end, the Yerubandi family waited for their flight home at the airport. Srinivas sat with his father, who was flipping through photos on his phone.
“We have done a lot of trips as a family,” Srinivas said, “but this one felt...different.”
His father nodded. “Because it was not just a trip, Srinivas. It was a chance to pause and appreciate what we have. Places like Rajasthan remind you of the beauty in stories, in moments, in togetherness.”
His father’s words stayed with Srinivas long after they returned home. Rajasthan had given them more than breathtaking views and historic landmarks. It had given them time - time to bond, to reflect, and to rediscover each other.
As Srinivas unpacked his suitcase that evening, he found a small souvenir. It was a miniature model of a camel, bought from a vendor near Nakki Lake. He placed it on the mantle as a tiny reminder of a journey that had enriched their hearts and brought them closer as a family.
For the Yerubandi family, Rajasthan was a memory etched into their hearts, a story they would carry forward, and a promise to seek more adventures together.
Read more: Thrillophilia Udaipur Reviews