udaipur travel tips

My Udaipur Travel Guide: 18 Wanderlust things to do in Udaipur for a 3 day itinerary

Last Updated on April 28, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa

In this Udaipur travel guide, I’ll take you through 14 best things to do in Udaipur Old city for first time solo travelers to Udaipur.

Travel friends would always say they loved Udaipur, The Venice of India .  I thought it was just hype. Until I traveled there…

it’s taken me a while to get myself to Udaipur. Now that I look back on why I’ve held out for so long, I realize that I just didn’t want to acknowledge that hype about a city can be real.

Udaipur, romantically known as the “City of Lakes” is located in Rajasthan. It is known for its historical significance and Rajput royalty, ornate palaces and architectural beauty. Driving into Udaipur from Jawai Bandh, the city is surrounded by the Aravalli Range, a series of beautiful lush and vibrantly green rolling hills. That was my first welcome to Udaipur and it set a different tone from other more arid Rajasthani cities I’ve been . Instantly, I was relaxed and calm. The city is also situated around several lakes, it has a rich heritage and unlike cities like Delhi , Mumbai or Goa , it’s one of those cities that has preserved its heritage and traditional practices.

Check out my Rajasthan trip 8-day itinerary

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Table of Contents: My Udaipur Travel Guide: 18 Wanderlust things to do in Udaipur for a 3 day itinerary

• 0.1 Udaipur Old City: An Authentic, Laidback Vibe
• 1.1.1 1. Jagdish Temple
• 1.1.2 2. City Palace
• 1.1.3 3. Boat Ride on Lake Pichola
• 1.1.4 4.Jag Mandir or Lake Island Palace
• 1.1.5 5. Bagore Ki Haveli: Cultural Extravaganza in Heritage Walls
• 1.1.6 6. Ropeway to Lake Pichola View: Aerial Spectacle
• 1.1.7 7. Karni Mata Temple: Serenity on Machla Magra Hills
• 1.1.8 8. Lok Dharohar cultural performance
• 1.2.1 9. Street Food  Tour in Udaipur
• 1.2.2 10.. Do a walking tour Udaipur Old city
• 1.2.3 11. Visiting a Local Temple
• 1.2.4 12. Miniature Painting Gallery
• 1.2.5 13. Saheliyon Ki Bari: Royal Gardens of Tranquility
• 1.2.6 14. Fateh Sagar Lake.
• 1.2.7 15. Monsoon Palace or Sajjangarh Palace
• 1.3    Solo Travel Resources
• 1.5.1 16. Animal Aid Unlimited
• 1.5.2 17. We love Strays
• 1.5.3 18. Taking a Cooking Class
• 1.6 Where to Stay in Udaipur

Udaipur Old City: An Authentic, Laidback Vibe

I was visiting Udaipur to scout it as one of the cities for my group tour . Udaipur is… as my friend and local operator Komal of Women for World put it … “charming”.

When you get there, it’s easy to understand why. It’s not only the palace, the ornate architecture, but the locals too. The locals will win your heart over.

As a popular region in India, Rajasthan has its share of touts at every attraction. Touts are one thing about India that can jade travelers. Arriving in Udaipur Old City, I had my armor on when folks approached me in the cafe or restaurants. Some locals would literally pull out a chair at my table to chat with me as I awaited my meal.

I’d keep thinking to myself—” okay, what’s your real agenda? When are you going to want me to come to your shop or sell me something?”

But honestly, they were just friendly. Udaipur Old City has the mentality of a small village where everyone knows everyone. Locals love to strike up conversations and while they would love for you to visit their shop too, they’re also there to enjoy their moments in the day and fill their curiosity.

Read Getting your Indian tourist visa for Americans

Udaipur City Guide: 15 Wanderlust Things to Do in Udaipur’s Old City

today you’ll spend your entire day exploring the old city, starting from the middle and eventually making your way to the Aranvalli

1. Jagdish Temple

Constructed 1651, Jagdish Temple is an Indo-Aryan temple that stands in the heart of the Old City, surrounded by bazaars and souvenir shops. You cannot miss it- it’s easy to spot as there are stone steps leading to the temple and it is raised above the street.. Jagdish Temple is an ode to Lord Vishnu. Its intricately stone-carved designs of pillars, walls and ceilings narrate the Mewar dynasty.

Attend the morning or evening aarti. Definitely one of best things to do in Udaipur.

2. City Palace

Begin your Udaipur trip guide with a visit to the City Palace , an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends Rajasthani and Mughal styles. It’s a glimpse into royal history and its lifestyle in Udaipur. Constructed in 1559, this historic gem is large and houses several rooms and wings where generations of royal families once resided. Part of the palace is built around a tree, which you can still see today. The palace has various photogenic nooks and crannies for romantic selfies, as the ornate architectural design, artwork, exhibitions, and stylish rooms offer visitors much to explore. It also offers panoramic views of Lake Pichola. Udaipur trip guide enthusiasts will appreciate the ₹300 entry fee for adults, ₹100 for students with ID. This is a MUST and one of my favorite Udaipur highlights. It’s worthwhile.

Tip: Hire an official guide to get the most out of your visit and learn about the rich history and stories associated with the palace. Guides are available near the entrance. Arrive at 9 AM when the palace opens to avoid the crowds. Around 10 AM, you’ll encounter more tourists and local high school excursions.

You can also purchase Skip the Line tickets and get both, the City Palace and a boat ride on one ticket .

3. Boat Ride on Lake Pichola

ake a boat ride on Lake Pichola to experience the serene beauty of the waters and see the cityscape that dubs Udaipur as the “Venice of India.” It’s a short 10-minute boat ride, typically on a packed passenger boat, but it’s a relaxing experience. The lake is calm, peaceful, and clean, unlike the  Varanasi boat rides. The boat takes you to the Jag Mandir, the Lake Palace. Costs range from ₹500 to ₹700.

Tip: Combine the City Palace with the Lake Pichola boat ride . They are so close together!

4.Jag Mandir or Lake Island Palace

Jag Mandir, also known as the Lake Palace, sits upon Lake Pichola. This 17th-century island palace, once a pleasure retreat for Mewar Maharajas, is a white marble and intricate Rajput architectural gem. Jag Mandir isn’t just a monument; it offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Rajput royalty. You can get to the Lake Island Palace by the boat above. The boat will drop you and you can spend as much time as you want. There’s not much to do there. You can see the palace and the garden. It is now a hotel and you can have lunch there.

5. Bagore Ki Haveli: Cultural Extravaganza in Heritage Walls

On the shores of Lake Pichola, Bagore Ki Haveli, is an 18th-century haveli  turned into a museum, offering a journey into the royal lifestyle. There are cultural performances held in the eveningaround Rajasthan’s vibrant traditions. There are breathtaking views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace from the rooftop as the sun sets

6. Ropeway to Lake Pichola View: Aerial Spectacle

One of the unequivocably best things to do in Udaipur is to take the ropeway to the top of the Machla Magra Hills (aka Fish Hill). You’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking aerial view of Lake Pichola and its surroundings.

At the top of the ropeway you’ll find a restaurant and some food concessions. It’s a worthwhile ascent as this ropeway will lead you to two panoramic vantage points where you can view the stunning Udaipur city and lake– a lookout point and the Karni Mata temple lookout and temple. Admission: ₹300 for adults. It’s one of the fun and romantic highlights of this Udaipur trip guide.

Tip: Take the ropeway at sunset and stay til night falls to witness the glowing Udaipur city lights.

7. Karni Mata Temple: Serenity on Machla Magra Hills

Perched on the Machla Magra Hills (aka Fish Hill) sits the Karni Mata Temple . Not only is it a sacred site dedicated to the revered rat goddess Karni Mata, but it is also a vantage point offering stunning panoramic views of Udaipur. The temple holds deep religious significance, drawing devotees and tourists alike. There is a sister Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok (Bikaner) where free-roaming rats reside in the temple as part of the worship. The Karni Mata Temple in Udaipur is a smaller temple and the rats are kept in a cage near the entrance of the temple.

Reach the temple by a short uphill climb or opt for the ropeway for a picturesque and leisurely ascent.

Explore the temple grounds, and take in the breathtaking sunset views over the city. Entry is free. It was easily one of my best things to do in Udaipur for a solo travel itinerary.

Tip: At night, the temple is lit with colorful lights to give it a special ambience and festive feeling. You can take the ropeway or hike the hills to get there. The hike is a paved walkway, but it will take you 20 -45 minutes (it’s a small hill) depending upon your health.

Tip:  Do a Udaipur Night Walking tour with a guide .

8. Lok Dharohar cultural performance

Lok Dharohar is a beautiful cultural show that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of Rajasthan . It is a popular tourist attraction in Udaipur, India, and has been running for over 23 years. The show features a variety of Rajasthani folk dances and a puppet show and live music.

The show is held daily at Lok Dharohar Haveli, located on Samor Bagh Road, near Karni Mata Ropeway. There are two shows each day, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. Check website

This second day is for waking up to the city, gathering your bearings and then visiting attractions outside the Old City and beyond.

9. Street Food  Tour in Udaipur

Indulge your taste buds by touring Udaipur’s street food scene . Experience local flavors from vendors offering an array of delectable dishes from lassi to kachori, deep fried cheese sandwich, dabeli, and jalebi . .Start with breakfast street foods., All the food vendors are open and preparing fresh foods from the fryer. Street foods are sold hot. This is the best time to experience them

Read Decoding Indian food

Prices vary, providing a budget-friendly culinary adventure for solo travelers on the best things to do in Udaipur list. You can also do an Udaipur pub crawl .

As you wander through the vibrant streets of Udaipur, immerse yourself in the local culinary scene by indulging in these iconic street foods that have become synonymous with the city’s flavors.

Read my food safety tips for eating street food

10.. Do a walking tour Udaipur Old city

There’s a lot to see on foot in Old Udaipur. It’s always recommended to hire a guide , to give more infotainment to your city sights. Hiring a guide in Udaipur can be inexpensive, costing anywhere from $24-40/day.

At night, Udaipur is electric, so your day should not end just because the sun goes down. Souvenir shops and cafes are still open, as are temples.  Take a guided walking tour at night,  a tour exploring Udaipur’s hidden gems, or do a day tour with a private guide and car .

11. Visiting a Local Temple

 Experience the spiritual tranquility of Udaipur’s temples. Jagdish Temple and the Karni Mata Temple are highlight picks but Udaipur also has small temples. I stumbled upon a small upstairs temple for Radha – Krishna’s consort- where an artist was doing a four day exhibition. The day I visited, his installation was a colored powder painting upon water. It was pretty phenomenal. It’s also a lively temple.

12. Miniature Painting Gallery

Discover the intricate world of Rajasthani miniature paintings at the City Palace Museum. Admire the details and vibrant colors of this traditional art form. You can also find galleries around town where you might be invited to see the artists at work. There are different levels to miniature paintings: Student, Professor and Master and to be able to buy the specific painter’s brush for this, you need to be a certified artist.

For many artists, this is a handed down craft and it’s a very serious art. The paintings are tedious and meticulous, the more you get to the master level and it can take weeks to months to paint. You might see trees with individual leaves or animals with painted hairs.  It’s definitely a tradition that’s been handed down through the ages. You’ll find a lot of student work in souvenir shops and on the streets; some are even replica prints. But if you buy it from an art gallery, it’s more likely to be real.

13. Saheliyon Ki Bari: Royal Gardens of Tranquility

Saheliyon Ki Bari (“Gardens of the Maidens”) is an 18th-century garden built for royal queens on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. I haven’t visited this as my time was short at Fateh Sagar Lake. But it sounds wonderful.  Intricately designed fountains, kiosks, and a lotus pool punctuate the grounds. It’s a haven for photographers and a peaceful retreat for solo travelers. Entry costs ₹10 for Indians and ₹50 for foreigners, making it a serene retreat for Udaipur trip guide seekers.

14. Fateh Sagar Lake.

Fateh Sagar Lake is a man-made lake and one of the four lakes in Udaipur. It houses three islands and two public parks. You can go boating on the lake and visit the parks.

15. Monsoon Palace or Sajjangarh Palace

Built-in 1884 on the Aravalli hilltop, Monsoon Palace or Sajjangarh Palace to observe romantic moonlit nights. The palace was featured in the James Bond film Octopussy and offers a breathtaking sunset view. The palace was originally intended to monitor the monsoon clouds, but it has become a vantage point for visitors seeking panoramic views of Udaipur. To reach the palace, hire an autorickshaw to navigate the winding roads that lead to the top. From the top you’ll get a panoramic vista of Udaipur’s lakes, palaces.

Visit during the evening hours to witness the city illuminated against the canvas of the setting sun.  See the tourism board website for hours and admission.

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Day three is to enjoy the day souvenir shopping , extra cultural activities and visiting locations that are a little on the outskirts of Udaipur.

Animal Welfare Volunteer Programs in Udaipur

16. animal aid unlimited.

Make a meaningful impact by volunteering at Animal Aid Unlimited , an animal welfare sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals. You can take a guided tour of their facilities, where a volunteer will tell you about all the work they are doing for the various animals they have from cows, goats, donkeys, handicapped/paralyzed/senior dogs and hospital patients. It is a huge sanctuary grounds area with many staff and animal houses. When I went, I saw a lot of work being done from volunteers making food to staff massaging a cow to help it to recovery.  There is a hydrotherapy facility to aid animal recovery as well.  It’s pretty near a farm.

Visit their website to apply for volunteering opportunities. It is free to volunteer but you must find your way to their location.. Many travelers volunteer there. You can volunteer for as long as you want. Donations are welcome to support the sanctuary’s efforts or you can buy merch from shop to support the cause.

Hire a rickshaw to get there. It’s located around 20 minutes outside of Udaipur, but the taxi ride won’t cost much and its a nice way to get out and see additional surrounding sights of Udaipur.

17. We love Strays

One of the things I loved about staying in the Old City is you’ll see locals feeding the homeless street dogs and cows. Along the way, you’ll see water troughs marked Support Strays , a reminder to be kind to the street animals.  It is a one-woman team and she takes volunteers, although you’d need to contact her to learn more ( Call/WhatsApp – 6378669665)

18. Taking a Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Rajasthan with a hands-on cooking experience. Learn the secrets of Rajasthani cuisine by taking a cooking class in Udaipur  and preparing your own local delicacies.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Little Garden Guesthouse This 200 year old eclectic and renovated family-owned and run haveli is a boutique gem that I loved loved loved staying at. Everyone was warm and welcoming. Akshay is a very hospitable host and they check to see you’re okay. Hot water baths and rooms are homey, well designed with a touch of retro. Has a lovely rooftop view of the City Palace. Perfect for a female solo traveler!  Location is ideal in the heart of the city and walking distance to all the top highlights.

What would you add to this Udaipur travel guide? What of these wanderlust things to do in Udaipur would you add to your Udaipur trip itinerary?

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A Complete Travel Guide to Udaipur for the First-Timers

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Get ready for an insider’s look at Udaipur — I’ll show you how to arrive, get around, and where to bunk down for the night. With tried-and-tested tips, you’ll dine where the locals do and see the city’s best without the guesswork. Let this travel guide for Udaipur be the bridge to your unforgettable experience in the city of lakes, where every step tells a story and every sight is a memory in the making.

A clear lake with ancient palaces in the background – that’s Udaipur for you. It’s the kind of place that stays with you, you know?

The city’s vibe is so chill, and those lakeside meals? Just wow. Plus, dining on a rooftop under the stars with the city lights twinkling and the lake mirroring it all – it’s unreal.

I keep going back for the sunsets alone; they’re like nothing else. Trust me, you’ll want to see it for yourself.

And when you do, just take it all in – it’s exactly why I can’t stop talking about this place.

Travel Guide for Udaipur: Things to Know Before Planning a Trip to Udaipur

Where’s udaipur.

Udaipur’s this gem in Rajasthan, northwestern India. It’s ringed by lakes, which is why people love to call it the City of Lakes . It’s also called the Venice of the East and It kind of feels like one when you see all the water around.

Udaipur is also called the White City because many of its buildings and the famous City Palace are made from a particular type of white marble.

The city’s packed with history – think palaces that tell tales of old royalty, like the famous City Palace, and gardens that are just a feast for the eyes.

And then you’ve got these intricately carved temples. Plus, the Aravalli Hills are all around you, adding to the charm. It’s like stepping into a royal story, but it’s real, and it’s all set in some seriously pretty nature.

Best Time to Visit Udaipur

Udaipur, like the rest of Rajasthan or North India for that matter, remains super hot during the summer season (March to June) so obviously, it’s not wise to plan a trip to Udaipur during summer.

The monsoon season (July to September) is again not recommended as outdoor activities are not possible at all.

But then the rainy season has its own perks. It’s when the lakes, filled up with water, look captivating, and the Aravalli Range, covered in lush greenery, teems with life.

The winter season (October to February) is a perfect time to visit Udaipur. The weather is pleasantly cool and sunny (mostly) which makes sightseeing less hectic and more fun.

If you plan to visit in December (around Christmas and New Year holidays), make sure to book flights and accommodation well in advance.

Read More: A Complete Bucket List for India

How Many Days in Udaipur

Ideally, you’d want to set aside at least two to three days to really soak in the essence of this city.

Say you’ve got a weekend in Udaipur, it’s definitely delightful, but trust me, it’s just a teaser. You’ll get a taste of the city, sure. You cruise on Lake Pichola, catch the sunset, and maybe snap some epic photos. It’s great, but Udaipur deserves more of your time.

If you want to (you must) explore the historic forts, cultural landmarks, and unique temples scattered around Udaipur (there are tons), I recommend at least a week in Udaipur.

The first time we hit Udaipur, we only had two days. Not nearly enough. We were rushing around, trying to see everything, but it was a bit of a blur. We didn’t even get a chance to step outside the city.

The next trip, we wised up and stayed for four days , focusing only on the city, no side trips, no distractions. That’s when I really got to know the place. But, that was part of a bigger Rajasthan trip that lasted two weeks . We saved the places outside Udaipur for the road trip portion, which was a blast and took us all the way to Jodhpur .

The heart of the matter is that Udaipur is not your typical rush-around kind of place. It’s the kind of place where you can take a deep breath, wander around at your own pace, and really get the feel of things. More like a luxury in the busy buzz of India!

How to Get to Udaipur

Udaipur is well-connected by air, rail, and road to the major cities in India.

Located in Dabok , Maharana Pratap Airport serves Udaipur. About 22 km from the city, it’s a domestic airport that receives flights from the major cities in India. The leading airlines that have regular flights to and from Udaipur are Indigo, SpiceJet, Vistara, and Air India.

There’s nothing quite like the freedom a road trip offers. A strong road network links Udaipur to most of the Indian cities.

In cases where the driving distance is more than we can drive in one go, we break our journey at any city en route. Like if you’re driving from Delhi to Udaipur, Jaipur or Ajmer can be chosen for a night halt.

Also, if you don’t want to use your own car, you can hire a car. There are many tour operators that provide cars for rent.

We didn’t want to drive on our own so we chose a chauffeur-driven car for our trip to Rajasthan.

If you’re also touring Rajasthan and exploring the major cities of Rajasthan, it’s wise to hire a car and driver. You not only save time and hassle but also get to explore the off-center attractions or hidden gems.

A strong bus network connects Udaipur to various Indian cities. You can choose from AC coaches or state-run buses depending upon the budget.

The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) buses connect Udaipur with other major cities in Rajasthan.

Udaipur City Railway Station (UDZ) is the nearest railway station. There are direct trains from Delhi (Chetak Express and Mewar Express) Mumbai (Bdts Aii Udz Express), Kolkata (Annanya Express), Jaipur (Udaipur City–Jaipur Intercity-Express), Indore (Udaipur City Express), and Ahmedabad (Adi Udz Express).

How to Get Around Udaipur

Udaipur is a relatively compact city. Auto-Rickshaws, taxis, and local buses (limited) contribute to the public transportation system. The narrow lanes of the old city are best explored on foot as all the attractions are located within walking distance.

If you don’t want to walk, you can opt for an auto-rickshaw. A shared auto-rickshaw comes cheaper but it sticks to the fixed route and stops at the designated (popular) stops. A private auto-rickshaw is a bit pricey but it goes anywhere you name.

For the attractions outside the city like Monsoon Palace, Badi Lake, Chittorgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Ranakpur, Eklingji, and Nathdwara – a taxi is ideal. Uber and Ola are available in Udaipur.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

When in Udaipur, you’d want to stay in the old city for three reasons – firstly, most of the attractions are close by, secondly, you can drink in the views of the iconic Lake Pichola, and lastly, the old city is where the soul of Udaipur lies.

From boutique heritage hotels, and hostels, to guesthouses, and luxury hotels – the old city has all types of properties to suit your budget and style. Make sure you book in advance to score a Lakeview room.

If budget is your concern and you are looking for a hotel that offers value for money, we recommend Jagat Niwas Palace and Amet Haveli.

Located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, Jagat Niwas Palace is a favorite among travelers for its perfect location, courteous staff, A1 service, and good food.

Located on the northwestern bank of Lake Pichola, Amet Haveli is highly rated for its services, cleanliness, location, staff, and facilities. The hotel is best known for Ambrai Restaurant, one of the best fine-dining restaurants in Udaipur. It’s where you can have delicious food with an amazing view of Lake Pichola.

If you don’t mind splurging and are looking for sheer luxury, your options are – Taj Fateh Prakash Palace , Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel , The Leela Palace , The Oberoi Udaivilas , and the Taj Lake Palace Hotel . If you ask me to suggest to you the best among all, floating right in the center of Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace Hotel is a class apart. Exquisite is the word!

Find the last-minute deals for accommodations in Udaipur

What and Where to Eat and Drink in Udaipur

Like most of the cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is a great place to try Rajasthani specialties like Laal Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi, Dal Bati Churma, Ker Sangri, Chakki ki Sabzi, Ghevar, Mirchi Bada, Pyaaj Kachori, Samosa, and Chaat.

Udaipur’s charm lies in rooftop lake-view restaurants and cafes. More than food, what matters here is the view you get.

From Sheesh Mahal , Upré , Ambrai , Tribute , Khamma Ghani , Charcoal by Carlsson , Jagat Niwas Palace , Restaurant Harigarh , Chandani by the Oberoi Udaivilas , Jharokha by Lake Palace Hotel , Paantya by Shiv Niwas Palace , and TWG by Hemang are quite a few amazing fine dining restaurants that offer food with a view.

All of these restaurants (except TWG Hemang which primarily serves international cuisine) offer International as well as Rajasthani cuisine.

Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar & Bakery , a cafe perched over Lake Pichola is where you can enjoy some free time with a cup of coffee or chocolate shake.

If you’ve got enough of the views (which is unlikely), you can head to the restaurants that might not offer you the iconic views but are celebrated for various other reasons.

A charming old-world colonial house restored into a restaurant, in 1559 AD , a bistro lounge restaurant, and Royal Repast , a specialty restaurant are great places to dine out. Both these restaurants are highly appreciated for their warm staff, speedy service, and vintage ambiance.

For travelers who want to enjoy a traditional Rajasthani thali – Garden Restaurant , Natraj Dining Hall and Restaurant , Krishna Dal Bati Restro , Padam Thal , Navidya By Amantra Hotels , and Udaipuri .

We also liked Udai Art Café , Brew Villa , Yummy Yoga , and Cafe La Comida . Located right in the heart of the old city, both cafes serve great coffee and snacks.

If you are a health aficionado, Millets of Mewar is for you! The first-ever dedicated health-food restaurant in Udaipur, Millets of Mewar uses locally sourced and organic ingredients. They very well know how to make healthy eating fun and creative. Its menu also includes vegan and gluten-free options.

You Might Like: Chand Baori Stepwell in Rajasthan

What to See and Do in Udaipur

There are tons of places in Udaipur, each with its unique charm. First off, the City Palace is a must-see. This colossal structure is steeped in history and grandeur.

Then there’s Lake Pichola. A boat ride there during the golden hours of sunset is just spellbinding.

Don’t miss the Jagdish Temple. Its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere are utterly captivating.

Next up, you can reach Karni Mata Temple by a hearty trek or a swift ropeway ride – the choice is yours, but the breathtaking views are a given either way.

The gardens of Saheliyon-ki-Bari are perfect for a leisurely and peaceful walk.

The Monsoon Palace is your ticket to the best sunset view in town – the city lights up like a jewel.

And if you’re chasing art and culture, the Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum showcases the best local crafts.

And there’s more than just the mainstream attractions.

Find solace at the calm Ambrai Ghat or the tranquil Badi Lake. Pay respects at the Ahar Cenotaphs and soak in the beauty of Fateh Sagar Lake.

And there’s the Neemach Mata Temple – it’s not as crowded and the climb is pretty refreshing. Plus, the view? It’s like you’re watching over Udaipur.

Evenings in Udaipur are for Bagore Ki Haveli. The Dharohar dance show is epic – the dances, the music, the vibe – it’s all real Rajasthan.

And, of course, shopping in Udaipur is an experience in itself. The markets such as Bapu Bazaar, Ghanta Ghar, Hathipol, Malda’s Street, and more are alive with colors, crafts, and endless rows of shops waiting to be discovered.

Let’s not forget Maharana Pratap Samarak. It’s a tribute to a local hero, Maharana Pratap, and you can feel the pride in the air. It’s this outdoor space with a big statue of him and his loyal horse, Chetak, which is pretty awesome to see.

And you must find out some time to visit the Shilpgram Museum, a living arts village that celebrates the traditional crafts and lifestyle of the local folk. A little out of the city, it’s is like a portal into the heart of Rajasthani village life and of course, the best place to immerse in the local culture.

Last but not the least, you can’t miss a trip to Chittorgarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Standing proud a little way from Udaipur, it’s where the dramatic history of Rajasthan unfolds.

With more time, you can take a few eventful day trips from Udaipur. Just a short drive from the heart of Udaipur, you’ll find Eklingji, an ancient Hindu temple complex that’s a sanctuary of peace and spiritual energy.

A little further, there’s a cozy little town of Nathdwara famous for its temple of Shrinathji. It’s all about timing your visit to catch the temple ceremonies, which is quite the experience with all the singing and hustle.

Haldighati is another important spot near Udaipur. It’s where the iconic battle involving Maharana Pratap took place, and you can almost hear the clash of swords. Nearby, the Maharana Pratap Museum adds layers to the story, offering insights and artifacts that bring the historical saga to life.

And you can’t miss Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s this massive fort with a wall you can see for miles. People say it’s like India’s version of the Great Wall of China. The view from up there are simply breathtaking.

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• Udaipur Travel Tips: Know What To Do And Not To Do Before Visiting The City Of Lakes!

29 May 2023

Udaipur in Rajasthan is popularly known as the ‘City of Lakes.’ It has many beautiful palaces, forts, museums, gardens, and places of sightseeing. This city is nestled by Aravalli hills and every palace is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and intricate work. It used to be a historical capital. Visit this city to marvel at the beauty and architecture of the palaces and museums. Lake Pichola and Lake Palace are the most popular attractions in the city. Beyond that there are many things which the touristers must know before visiting Udaipur. To ensure a hassle free trip, here are some of the best Udaipur travel tips which one must know before planning.

9 Essential Udaipur Travel Tips

Here are some of the best travel tips which one must keep in mind before planning a vacation in the city and enjoy a great time.

1. Best Time To Visit Udaipur

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The city gets very hot during the summer. The summer months are best avoided when you want to travel to Udaipur. Winter is the best season to travel to Udaipur. The weather is pleasant and you get the best view of the scenic spots in the city when you travel in this season. September to February are the best months to travel to Udaipur. You can enjoy the stunning view of Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Doodh Talai musical gardens, and more.

The majestic gardens and lakes look picturesque and breathtaking when you visit them during these months. You can spend time at these places and enjoy the view along with the beautiful weather. All the hues of nature paint a beautiful picture making your visit worthwhile. The sunsets at the Jag Mandir palace are not to be missed. You can also shop for crystal artworks and many handmade textiles from local markets.

Must Read: 9 Best Places To Visit Near Sikar To Get Closer To The Rajasthani Roots

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2. Best Way To Commute

You can enjoy sightseeing Udaipur at your own pace. Those who love hiking and driving around can hire a scooter or a bullet and cruise around the city at your own pace. You can hire a taxi as well to go sightseeing in the city on your schedule. Group tours are not recommended as you will not enjoy the beauty of exploring the city leisurely.

Spend time at the lake for as many hours as you want, take pictures, and soak into the beauty of architecture and landscapes of the palaces and gardens. Get a glimpse of the local culture and heritage by choosing to watch locals, their lifestyle, and culture. You will not be in a rush if you choose your schedule and not sign up for tour groups to visit places of interest as you can organize your itinerary and go about it.

Suggested Read: 14 Places To Visit Near Alwar That’ll Help You Make Your Rajasthan Trip More Productive

3. Choices For Accommodation

Stay in a palace hotel if the budget suits you as this is an extraordinary experience you can have visiting Udaipur. Choose a lakeside budget hotel if you want to experience Udaipur at its best. If you are a solo traveler you can choose a homestay or a hostel that provides home-cooked local cuisine. This is one of the best options to experience the famous Rajasthani cuisine.

Hotels and guest houses are available at a budget price. You can choose a heritage villa by the lakeside or jungle to get the best view of nature and wildlife. Holiday homes and budget guesthouses close to the tourist places are the best accommodations you can choose in Udaipur. Luxurious hotel palaces organize many entertainment options for guests to stay.

Suggested Read: Find Out The Best Places To Visit In Sikar: Rajasthan’s Hidden Gem!

4. Do Not Say Anything Bad About The Fatehnagar

Fatehnagar lake is a popular picnic spot where people chill and relax. Do not say anything bad about the lake or Fatehnagar as people get offended. This is the place locals love for its serene beauty and romantic history. Do not speak ill about the culture or heritage of Rajasthan. People in the city are conservative and might not welcome your comments.

When you visit religious places cover yourself and wear traditional Indian clothes. Take your shoes off before entering any temple in Udaipur. If you are visiting a Gurudwara cover your head as it is considered a mark of disrespect if you do not follow these rules. Avoid wearing short clothes or sleeveless clothes when you are visiting religious places in Udaipur.

Suggested Read: Explore Top 13 Things To Do In Sikar: The Magnificent Desert City Of Rajasthan!

5. Take Heritage Walks At The Palaces

The Monsoon Palace, City Palace and many other royal palaces have opulent gardens where you can take a heritage walk and know of the history and culture of the palace. Take note of the architectural details and artworks of these palaces which are built in the Indo-Mughal architectural style and have distinct features. Rajasthani architecture is unique and intricate, unlike what you would see in different historical monuments.

Soak into the grandeur of these palaces and enjoy the scenic view of the sunsets of the lake palaces. A few palaces are built with European and mixed architectural styles like the City Palace. Every palace has distinct features and design elements that you can take note of. Udaipur is one of the most suitable places to take a romantic holiday. You can attend the light and sound shows organized at most of the historical palaces in the city.

Suggested Read: Popular Cafes In Bikaner To Hangout With Your People On A Rajasthan Trip

Planning your holiday in Rajasthan but confused about what to do? These Rajasthan travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

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6. Bargain And Do Not Act Ignorant

Local markets are the best places to shop for handicrafts. Bargain at half the price and do not act like a tourist as you are likely to be scammed. Keep your belongings safe from pickpockets. The Hathi Pol Bazaar is one of the most famous street markets in Udaipur to do some street shopping. You can shop for souvenirs, textiles with bandhani prints, and get good deals by bargaining.

A rule of thumb is to always bargain even when you go to shops as you can get items at a good price. Do not accept hospitality from strangers or any free food or drinks from them. When shopping for expensive items like jewelry do not accept exaggerated hospitality as it is done to lure the customers to buy cheap items at a high price. Check the worth of the metal before you want to buy expensive jewelry or items.

Suggested Read: 15 Places To Visit In Rajasthan In January Which Has Something More Than Just The Palaces!

7. Do Not Walk Alone In The Night

Though Udaipur is safe for solo women travelers it is advised not to venture alone after 20.00 hours. Pubs and lounges are open up to the wee hours and are not ideal places to venture alone. You can leave the solo hiking to day time. Carry maps, GPS, and know-how to read the signboards when you visit Udaipur. Avoid wearing scanty clothes even during the day time. Wear comfortable and unrevealing clothes to avoid stares from the locals.

You are likely to get stares from the locals as they do it blatantly. Do not wear any clothes that can invite trouble or make them pass remarks. Locals are friendly and traditional. Respect the traditions of the place and do not mingle with strangers. Avoid autos or rickshaws who want to show you a good place to stay. You are likely to find beggars in front of the historical places, do not encourage them.

Suggested Read: Get The Rajasthani Bohemia On! 17 Amazing Shopping Places In Jaipur To Explore!

8. Always Keep Cash And Change

Most of the places you shop at or want to eat might not accept credit or debit cards. Keep cash handy. This is one of the best ways to experience the local life and culture. Avoid drinking tap water as it is not safe. Always ask for bottled water at the places you eat. There are many local markets to shop for sculptures, sarees, cushion covers that have Rajasthani needlework.

Savior the street food at Fatehnagar. There is a list of local foods you can relish such as Jalebies, Kachori, daal baati, Dabeli, Chaat, chai, and paan. You can eat the Rajasthani thali at the restaurants that offer vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian food. Enjoy the Thandai which is a Rajasthani traditional drink at the eating joints.

Suggested Read: 7 Places To Visit Near Rajasthan For A Cultural Holiday Experience

9. Only Use Licensed Guides

Check the photo ID of the guides before you opt for one for touring. Do not accept auto wallas or the rickshaws to tout you towards the tourist guides or coax you into shopping more. You must be alert when traveling in busy areas and check for the authenticity of the items you shop for. Only buy travel tickets from authorized dealers. Get a receipt for every item you purchase. You must know that most of the people in Rajasthan are known for their business acumen and only mean business.

You might not even get the information about a route for free. You might be charged for asking the route. Do not get offended as this is a common practice found in Rajasthan. You might not get any information for free. There are no freebees in Rajasthan as they are known to be business people. Though hospitality is high, these are pointers to keep in mind when you travel to Udaipur. Water will also be charged in restaurants.

Further Read: Monsoon In Jaisalmer: A Guide To See The Best Sights Of The Golden City Of Rajasthan!

Udaipur has the most stunning manmade lakes and beautiful palaces. This is one of the most romantic cities to visit for its architecture and landscape beauty. Do not forget these travel tips to enjoy your vacations in Udaipur like a local. So, now when you plan a vacation in Rajasthan , make sure to visit Udaipur and enjoy a great time exploring the beauty of the place without any hassle.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Udaipur Travel Tips

Is Udaipur safe for women at night?

Udaipur is a safe city but do not venture anywhere alone at night.

What is the best time to visit Udaipur?

Winters months are the best time to visit Udaipur. November to February has the best weather to view the scenic lakes and landscapes of the city.

What are the best areas to stay in Udaipur?

Choose areas near the lake palaces for as staying in Udaipur. There are many budgets as well as luxury options in these areas.

Do they accept credit cards in Udaipur?

Most of the restaurants and places of sightseeing only accept cash. Very few places accept credit cards.

What type of clothes to wear in Udaipur?

Pack light clothes even when you are visiting during the winter season. The weather is chilly but not very cold.

How many days trip can you plan to Udaipur?

You can plan a 3-4 days trip to Udaipur to view places of sightseeing and explore the cities delights.

Which are romantic places to stay at Udaipur?

Oberoi Udaivilas, Leela Palace, and hotels near Jag Mandir palace are the most romantic places to stay in Udaipur.

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Udaipur Travel Guide: Is Udaipur Worth Visiting? [2023]

· everything to know about visiting india's city of lakes, including the best things to do and where to stay ·.

If you’ve been planning a trip to Rajasthan, there is a good chance that Udaipur is on your radar. Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, the city’s own artificial lake, this gorgeous city has been a playground for wealthy Indian vacationers for a long time. From taking a boat ride to Jag Mandir to soaking up the views from the high-up Monsoon Palace, there are plenty of reasons to add this beautiful city to your Indian trip itinerary.

This Udaipur Travel Guide will break down everything you need to know before visiting the City of Lakes, including our answer to the question “is Udaipur worth visiting?”

This post contains affiliate links through which we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own.

Best Things to Do in Udaipur

1. explore the udaipur city palace museum.

Udaipur’s City Palace is its top attraction, and it took over 400 years to build. This grand palace complex is easily one of the top tourist attractions in Udaipur, as it draws in thousands of visitors per year thanks to its well-curated art and artifact collections, its stunning construction, and its beautiful views of the city and lakes.

Of all the major attractions in Udaipur, the City Palace Museum was easily our favorite.

Entry tickets cost 300 rupees (about $3-4) for foreign adults and are bought outside of the palace. The palace is walkable from the city center of Udaipur, and the full museum will likely take you hours to get through. Be sure to eat before you enter!

2. Take a Sunset Boat Ride on one of Udaipur’s Stunning Lakes

Udaipur’s nickname is the City of Lakes, and well, there are a lot of pretty lakes. In the past, rulers from the Mewar Royal Family decided to create an artificial freshwater lake, and then another…and then another.

One of the top things to do in Udaipur is to catch a ride on a small passenger boat in the evening to watch the sunset from the middle of one of the serene lakes. Lake Pichola is the biggest and most popular lake in Udaipur, and this is where we recommend doing a sunset boat ride.

We recommend Lake Pichola because of its size, views, and the beautiful palaces that are floating in the middle of it. If you go for a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, you may pass the Gangaur Ghat, Jag Mandir Temple or the Taj Lake Palace, for example. On either Fateh Sagar Lake or Jaisamand Lake, you’ll probably still have a great experience.

3. Ascend to Sajjangarh Palace (the Monsoon Palace)

Sajjangarh Palace, more commonly referred to as the Monsoon Palace, is a palace built on a cliff at the peak of a tall mountain overlooking Udaipur. Getting to the Monsoon Palace can be a bit of a journey, but it is worth every second.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Travel Family | Angel, Greg, & Nicola (@the.present.perspective)

As the road to the top of the mountain is pretty steep, windy, and treacherous, private vehicles are not allowed to make the trip. Instead, guests need to buy tickets at the entrance at the bottom and hire an official, affiliated driver to take them to the top. I was pretty terrified on the way up, if I’m being honest, but the palace was absolutely worth the hassle.

The Views Are Incredible

Once we got to the top of the mountain, we were met with a beautiful palace, some wild monkeys, and stunning views that spanned for miles in every direction. Much like going to Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro , it’s incredible to realize how high up you are and how far into the distance you can see.

Another popular thing to do while in this area is to visit the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary. It was closed during our trip, but many visitors say it is a good place to check out if you have the chance.

4. Admire Jagdish Temple

Jagdish Temple is one of the most famous temples in all of Udaipur. Honestly, of all the beautiful temples that we visited in Udaipur, our favorite was easily Jagdish Temple. Located on a hill in the heart of Udaipur, Jagdish Temple is a really pretty place to check out for a quick visit, and the exterior of the main building is gorgeous.

Entrance to the temple complex is free, and there is a small, local art gallery tucked away in a building next door. A local tour guide eagerly met us at the entrance, explained each building’s significance, and showed us the art gallery.

My one piece of advice is to wear socks. As with any Hindu temple, you need to take off your shoes before you enter the grounds. As it is outdoors and in the heart of a busy Indian city, it isn’t a place where I would be comfortable going barefoot. Many of our travel companions felt the same way!

5. Eat Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant

Udaipur’s biggest claim to fame is obviously its lakes, and you should take any opportunity you can to soak in their beauty. One of the best ways to do this is to eat dinner at a rooftop restaurant! Rooftop restaurants are very common in Udaipur, and some of them provide the best views you’ll find of the lakes and their shores.

We ate at two really nice rooftop restaurants, and I highly recommend both. The first of these is Rainbow Restaurant , which is located just a short walk north of the City Palace Museum. The food was great, the prices were good, and the views of the lake were stunning.

The second restaurant I recommend, which we enjoyed even more than the first, is Atari Cafe and Restaurant . This rooftop restaurant is located to the west of Lake Pichola, and it provides entirely different views. The food was great, and we enjoyed the tables right along a glass wall looking out toward the lakes.

Best Places to Stay in Udaipur

One of the main reasons to visit Udaipur is to stay in a luxury hotel. Udaipur is known as the most romantic city in India, and this is due in large part to the glamorous resorts dotted around Pichola Lake and beyond in its surrounding countryside. There are three resorts that we highly recommend based on what locals and other travelers told us, but full disclosure, we only stayed in one of them.

All of these resorts are very expensive by Indian standards, but we recommend staying in one of them for at least one night if you are able to afford it. Most visitors who opt not to stay in one of Udaipur’s best hotels regret it afterward! Each of these hotels is a short drive (or boat ride) away from the city center and all of the other top places to visit.

1. Taj Lake Palace

The Taj Lake Palace has a reputation as one of the top palace hotels in India. This beautiful palace is located on an island in the middle of Lake Pichola, and guests can’t stop raving about it. It is certainly an expensive option, but most people will tell you it doesn’t get much better than this. If you can’t afford to stay at the Taj Lake Palace or it is sold out, consider scheduling a lunch or tea there instead.

2. The Oberoi Udaivillas

Located on the shores of Lake Pichola, the Oberoi Udaivillas is another beautiful place that guests just love. We had hoped to stay here, but it was well above our budget. If you are looking for true unapologizing luxury, this is a place to consider. Again, if it is beyond your nightly budget, consider stopping in for tea or lunch.

Aurika Udaipur by Lemon Tre e is where we stayed for the full duration of our visit to Udaipur. While it is not as glamorous as the other two resorts on this list, it is absolutely still a luxurious place to stay. This 5-star resort did not disappoint, and the price was significantly lower than the other two options I listed above.

At Aurika, the staff takes you up the mountain to your accommodation via golf cart, the spa is great, the restaurant is delicious, and the rooms and views are gorgeous. We highly recommend staying here if you are able.

How to Get to Udaipur

Flying directly into udaipur.

The city of Udaipur is pretty far away from most major destinations in India, and your best bet is usually to fly right into Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) . It is very small, but there are no other major airports nearby. From the Udaipur airport, you can either hail a cab or call an Uber, and the ride should take anywhere between 30 and 45 minutes.

Flying from a Foreign Country into a Different Indian City and then Transiting to Udaipur

Udaipur’s airport is pretty tiny, and it serves very few airlines. If you are flying to Udaipur from a country other than India, it might make sense to take a larger international airline to get to a major city in India , and then fly on a regional budget airline to get to Udaipur.

We flew on SpiceJet to get from Delhi to Udaipur and Air India to get from Udaipur back to Delhi. Flights are available from most of India’s biggest cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Indore, and Hyderabad.

We do not recommend SpiceJet, but had a fine experience with Air India.

Driving to Udaipur from Other Nearby Indian Cities

Simply put, Udaipur isn’t very close to any other major cities in India. While it is referred to as one of the three major cities of Rajasthan, it’s important to realize that Rajasthan is massive. The closest major cities to Udaipur are Jodhpur and Ahmedabad, which are both about 4.5-5 hours away. From either of these cities, the roads are generally good and hiring a private driver is a great option.

Beyond these two cities, the next two closest major cities are Jaipur (7 hours) and Jaisalmer (9 hours). We initially planned on flying from Jaisalmer to Udaipur, but our flight was canceled. We wound up hiring a private driver through Lucky Tours and Travel to take us 9 hours from Jaisalmer to Udaipur.

If you are anywhere else but these four cities, I wouldn’t recommend driving to Udaipur. The drive will be long and likely will not be a straight, easy drive on the highway.

Taking a Train to Udaipur

Udaipur does have a train station, which is clean and safe. Udaipur Railway Station is well-connected to other nearby major cities, including Jaipur and New Delhi. However, the train to New Delhi takes over half of a day, making it impractical compared to cheap budget airline options.

Taking a train from Jaipur might make sense, but from just about anywhere else it probably takes longer than necessary. There are no trains connecting Udaipur and Jaisalmer.

How to Get Around Udaipur

TAXI | RIDESHARING | TUK TUK

If you stay in one of Udaipur’s nice resorts, there is a good chance that you will not be within walking distance of much. the historic center – or old town – of Udaipur is very walkable, but most of the best resorts are a bit of a drive away from this part of the city.

If you need to get somewhere in Udaipur that is not within walking distance, you have three main options: taxis, ridesharing services, and tuk-tuks.

Taxis in Udaipur

Generally speaking, taxis in Udaipur are safe and very cheap. I never recommend taxis over ridesharing services, but they are available in a pinch. Drivers likely will not speak much English, and payment will probably be required in cash. As always, be sure to agree on a price before getting in the cab.

Ola and Uber in Udaipur

Ola and Uber are both available in Udaipur, but there are some things you should know before you hail a ride. Many Uber and Ola drivers in Udaipur think they are underpaid by the apps, and it is very common for drivers to refuse to pick you up unless you agree to pay extra money for the ride.

Uber drivers will demand that you pay them extra for the ride.

Generally speaking, there is no way around this. While the drivers are clearly breaking the rules set forth by each app, they all do it. If you want the safety that comes with taking an Uber or Ola, you’ll have to pay a slight cash premium for it.

Tuk-tuks in Udaipur

Our favorite way to get around Indian cities is by tuk-tuk, or auto rickshaw. A tuk-tuk is essentially a three-wheeled motorcycle with a closed-in cab area for passengers. They are able to effectively weave through traffic, cost significantly less than Ubers, and can be found on almost every street in Udaipur.

If you’re unsure what they look like, just look out for their green and yellow paint. They’re unmissable. To hail a ride, simply strike up a conversation with the tuk-tuk driver, mention where you want to go, and agree on a price before hopping in.

The Best Time to Visit Udaipur

The best time to visit Udaipur is between November and March. This is the winter season, when temperatures are very pleasant both during the day and in the evening. While I almost never recommend visiting a place during its peak season, Udaipur is an exception.

This is the only time when the weather is enjoyable, and Udaipur’s best activities are almost all outdoors. While accommodation prices will be higher and crowds will be larger, visiting Udaipur in the winter is absolutely the best option.

If you want to save some money, consider visiting between August and October. This is Udaipur’s monsoon season, which means you should expect a lot of rain. However, the temperatures are tolerate – especially in the evenings – and the accommodation prices will likely be much lower than they are in the winter.

I would not recommend visiting Udaipur during the summer months of March through July, as the daytime weather can be unbearably hot and can really impact your visit.

Is Udaipur Worth Visiting?

Getting to Udaipur can be a hassle, and this often deters foreign visitors from making the trip. Due to its remoteness and how disconnected it is to other major Indian cities, it makes sense to ask “is Udaipur worth visiting?”

In our opinion, the answer is yes. On our most recent trip to India, the only place we might have enjoyed more was the Taj Mahal . As a city, Udaipur was our clear favorite thanks to its comparative cleanliness, its gorgeous lakes and palaces, and its luxurious resorts. While Udaipur doesn’t have a reputation as the top tourist attraction in India, we definitely think it ought to be in the running.

Udaipur is the perfect place to escape from the madness of New Delhi and Mumbai, and it is a great place to learn about local Rajasthani history.

While we have not been to Jaipur, we have been to Jaisalmer, and we think Udaipur is a much better place to visit.

Final Tips for Visiting Udaipur

Udaipur is a great city to visit in India, and we really enjoyed our visit. However, there are a few things that we wish we knew before we arrived. Knowing the best Udaipur travel tips ahead of time will help you to avoid any hassles or issues during your time in the so-called Venice of the East!

Beware of the Monkeys

A monkey literally stole our baby’s banana from our hand.

If you have ever been around monkeys in the wild, you probably already know that they aren’t the nice, cute creatures that we make them out to be. Monkeys can be very violent – especially when there is food involved.

When we were visiting the Monsoon Palace, we were in the middle of taking a nice family picture when a monkey came out of nowhere, ripped a banana out of our toddler’s hands, and ran off a few feet away to eat it. Luckily, there were no scratches or bites involved, but there easily could have been. If you see monkeys, do not pull out any food, and do not try to pet them.

Prepare to Negotiate Uber Prices

In the section on how to get around Udaipur, I mentioned that Uber and Ola drivers in Udaipur often demand extra cash. In this situation (which will probably happen more often than not), I recommend doing whatever you are comfortable with.

If you stay at a luxury hotel outside of the city, there is a good chance you won’t be able to get a ride unless you agree to pay them extra. If you are already in the city, you might be able to. Either way, it is just important to know that the typical Ola or Uber driver in Udaipur will demand extra money.

Using a Stroller Is Impossible

This tip only applies to people with small children, clearly. We found this to be true in all of India, but especially in Udaipur. There aren’t reliable sidewalks, there are a lot of stairs, and folding up a stroller to fit in a tuk-tuk is nearly impossible unless you have a Babyzen YoYo (our favorite stroller. You can purchase it through Amazon HERE ).

We recommend bringing a baby carrier , which will alleviate all of these problems. We are big fans of the BabyBjorn One Air (buy on Amazon HERE ), but really anything will work as long as it is comfortable for both you and your little one.

Allow Plenty of Time to Visit the Most Popular Attractions

In India, long lines are incredibly common. While we didn’t experience very long lines for anything, we heard that we were lucky. We visited during the peak season and it seemed like we never had to wait for anything. However, one great way to have a stress-free trip is to allow yourself extra time to get from Point A to Point B, and I would bank on having long lines for this reason.

That’s all we have for you about Udaipur! Hopefully this Udaipur travel guide has answered anything you needed to know about Rajasthan’s white city. Most Udaipur travel guides we came across before visiting lacked some important points about visiting Rajasthan’s prettiest city, and we hope that this post answers them!

Have you been to Udaipur? Are you planning a trip and have more questions for us?

Please comment your thoughts and questions!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Parjatakguru

Nice blog author. Thank you for your share. Keep it up.

Optima Travels

You have rightly said that Udaipur truly lives up the tourists’ expectations. The pics you have posted are really amazing. Udaipur, actually, beckons with its enchanting blend of history and beauty. Nestled around azure lakes, the city is a canvas of majestic palaces, vibrant markets, and intricate architecture. The City Palace, a symphony of marble and mosaic, stands as a testament to royal grandeur. Boat rides on Lake Pichola offer breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Udaipur’s cultural tapestry, rich traditions, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination, where every cobblestone exudes a timeless charm.

I fully agree!

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Udaipur Itinerary: how to spend 3 days in Udaipur

This post is a travelguide with a 3 day Udaipur itinerary. Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes” and the “Venice of the East”, is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan known for its stunning architecture, beautiful lakes, rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes

Udaipur is one of my favourite cities in Rajasthan . Both times I visited, it was a welcome respite from the overwhelming experiences elsewhere in India. The city is less hectic and the relaxed atmosphere enticed me to stay much longer than the 3 day Udaipur itinerary that I initially planned. 

Udaipur is not a big city, but there are plenty of things to do. I would say that 3 days in Udaipur will allow you to see the most important highlights. After that the charm of Udaipur lies in meeting its friendly people, relaxing in one of the organic restaurants or wandering along the ghats.

You can also explore the scenic Aravalli hills with its rural villages like Delwara . If you are interested in charities you can volunteer at the animal aid rescue center or Seva Mandir .

3 day Udaipur itinerary

Udaipur itinerary day 1, the ghats of udaipur.

Start the first day of your Udaipur itinerary at the ghats. Ghats play an important role in India. They refer to places where steps are leading down to a river or a lake. It is where people come to pray, bath or celebrate important Hindu festivals . Most famous are the ghats in Varanasi , but Udaipur has it’s own ghats at the beautiful Pichola lake.

Gangaur Ghat is one of the most scenic ghats in Udaipur. During the day it is always busy with people bathing, washing, praying and performing ceremonies. Early morning is maybe the best time to visit this place in Udaipur. Everything is still peaceful and quiet and you can see the sun rise over the lake.

Another ghat with a beautiful view on the lake is Hanuman ghat on the other side of the lake. From here you can also see the city palace and get a sense of how big this complex really is. While Gangaur ghat is perfect to see the sunrise, Hanuman ghat is the best place in Udaipur to see the sun set. There are several restaurants where you can sit down to see this magical moment.

Lake Pichola

The ghats of Udaipur lead to Lake Pichola. The lake was man made in 1362 to meet drinking water and irrigation needs of the then small Pichola village.

There are two islands in the lake. The Jag Mandir island with the Garden Lake Palace and the Jag Niwas island with the expensive Taj Lake Palace hotel .

Both sun rise and sun set are the best times to enjoy Lake Pichola. It is very popular to take a boat ride to see the beautiful view on the city palace and the ghats of Udaipur or to visit the Garden Lake Palace.

City Palace 

After Gangaur ghat and Pichola Lake head to the Udaipur city palace. It is one of the largest palaces in Rajasthan. The palace was built over a period of 400 years and is actually more a complex with several interlinked buildings each with their own gateways, courtyards and gardens.

The city palace flourished when Udaipur was the capital of the Mewar kingdom. The Mewar kings have lost their royal privileges when India became independent in 1947, but the family still owns the palace. Furthermore, they still see it as their duty to work in favour of the development of Udaipur.

A large part of the palace complex is now a museum while the Shiv Niwas  palace and the Fateh Prakash palace have become a heritage hotel. The Mewar Maharana’s created the Mewar trust to use part of the profit they earn for charitable hospitals, educational institutes and environmental preservation.

The Garden Lake Palace

The garden lake palace on the Jag Mandir island is another former Mewar palace that is certainly worth a visit for its marble elephant statues and its beautiful gardens. Boats that will bring you to the island leave from the City palace.

Jagdish temple

After the city palace it is time to explore Udaipurs bazaar and temples. The Jagdish temple behind the city palace is one of the largest and oldest Hindu temples in Udaipur. The construction was finished in 1651 and has an idol of the deity Jagannath, a form of Vishnu.

The temple is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur to see Hindu religious ceremonies. The temple is always busy with devotees that come to pray. As a foreigner you are welcome to witness the singing and chanting. It is also very worthwile to look at the details in the beautiful carvings on the sides of the temple.

Udaipur’s bazaar 

Around the Gangaur ghat you will find a lot of tourist shops selling the famous miniature paintings and other souvenirs. Don’t be fooled this is the bazaar, to see the real Udaipur you must explore the backstreets behind the Jagdish temple.

The further you venture into Udaipur the more local the experience will get. You will find lots of handicrafts, hidden temples, shrines, mosques and excellent street food.

Udaipur’s Jain temples

In Udaipurs bazaar you will find several small Jain temples that have beautiful mirror and glass decorations. THey are a bit difficult to find, but certainly worth looking out for.

Bagore ki Haveli

End the first day of your Udaipur itinerary at Bagore ki Haveli. This mansion was built in the eighteenth century. After major renovations it is now a museum about the Mewar dynasty. There is also a daily cultural show at night.

I am not a big fan of cultural shows and rarely visit them, but I did really enjoy the Darohar cultural show. Set in one of the oldest haveli’s in Udaipur the location can not be better. Furthermore, it is fun to watch and will certainly make you laugh.

Udaipur itinerary day 2

Start the second day of your Udaipur itinerary in Delwara. One of the highlights of my time in Udaipur was Seva Mandir’s Delwara heritage walk . Seva Mandir is an excellent community based NGO working to improve the lives in the villages around Udaipur.

Delwara is a former royal principality 40 minutes from Udaipur where Seva Mandir worked hard on improving the water situation and garbage collection system. It is an incredible scenic and photogenic village with beautiful Jain temples. The history of the town and Jain temples make it a very worthwile visit.

It is an easy half day trip from Udaipur allowing you to take in some more sights around Udaipur in the afternoon.

Eklingji temple

22 kilometer north of Udaipur and south of Delwara you will find the beautiful Eklingji temple with a 50 feet high statue of Shiva made out of black marble. It’s a very important Shiva temple for Hindu devotees. Definetly worth a stop when you travel from Delwara to Udaipur.

Ahar cenotaphs

On the way back from Delwara to Udaipur you can also make a stop at the Ahar cenotaphs. Like the cenotaphs in Jaipur they receive not many tourists, despite its beauty. There are over 250 cenotaphs for the Mewar maharaja’s built over a period of 350 years.

Fateh Sagar lake

Udaipur is surrounded by several lakes and it would be impossible to visit them all in your Udaipur itinerary, even if you have 3 days in Udaipur.

Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Udaipur. It is home to three islands that can be visited by boat. One is having a Solar Observatory and the other one the popular Nehru park . At the banks of the lake you will also find the beautiful Mewar gardens of Saheliyon ki Bari. 

The Monsoon Palace

End the second day of your Udaipur itinerary at the monsoon palace for the best place to watch the sunset. The monsoon palace was once owned by the Mewar royal family, but lost most of its glory. What makes this place worth visiting is the location.

It is high up in the Aravalli hills. At 944 meters above Pichola lake the palace offers panoramic views on the city of Udaipur, the lakes and the surrounding countryside. This is probably the most romantic place to visit in Udaipur.

Udaipur itinerary day 3

Animal aid unlimited rescue center.

Start the third day of your Udaipur itinerary with a visit to the Animal Rescue center in Badi . You can either come for a short visit or spent one or more days volunteering to help take care of the animals. They have a special section for long-term residents like dogs that are paralyzed, but their aim is to release the animals back to where they came from once recovered.

I was very impressed by this project and the dedication of the people that work here. A must visit for any animal lover. Either take a tuk tuk taxi or take the local bus to Badi.

Badi is also home to one of the most quiet and pristine lakes near Udaipur. Far away from the crowds, but still easy to visit with public transport you will find little known Badi lake.

More than 3 days in Udaipur

The jain temples in ranakpur.

3 hours from Udaipur you can find one of the most important Jain temples in India. If you are coming from Jodhpur they are on your way. I took an early morning bus from Jodhpur and hopped off at Ranakpur. The temple is a huge complex of white marble full with detailed carvings of deities.

After visiting the temple I had a cup of chai near the road and quickly got on a bus towards Udaipur. The temples are worth a quick stop if you are travelling from Jodhpur to Udaipur or the other way around.

However, unless you are a big fan of temples or have a specific interest in Jainism I wouldnt make my way out there just for the temple. There are some small Jain temples in Udaipur and Delwara as well.

Udaipur itinerary travel tips

The best places to eat in udaipur, 1. al rehmaniya restaurant.

Udaipur is a vegan’s paradise. If you are not vegetarian and do love your meat once in a while, try the delicious curries at the Al Rehmaniya restaurant. They have two branches, one close to the mosque and one at Pichola lake with a nice terrace overlooking the lake.

2. Millets of Mewar

Udaipur had the best selection of organic restaurants I have seen in India, with menu’s offering something else than the standard Indian food. Millets of Mewar was my favourite because of its creative delicious salads and different curries. All vegetarian and organic for reasonable prices.

The best places to sleep in Udaipur

1. udai haveli.

Based on the reviews I had expected a bit more of Udai Haveli . When we arrived we were first shown a small room right next to the family’s noisy common area. We said we were not too happy about this and we were then shown a room on the fourth floor which was really nice.

It seems to be a labyrinth of several added floors and the quality of the rooms varies a lot. In between live the owners and their families who seem a bit indifferent towards the guests. They leave the running of the hotel to a very young and friendly guy.

2. Zostel Hostel

Zostel Hostel has become a reliable chain in India that stands for clean hostels with excellent facilities and friendly staff. Can’t really go wrong staying in a zostel and they have one in Udaipur too.

Other recommendations are

Budget : Musafir hostel

Midrange : Shemesh homestay

Midrange extra : Little Garden guesthouse

How to get around Udaipur

Uber and ola.

Uber is a good way to get around in Udaipur, but India has its own similar business called Ola cabs that is even more popular. The good thing about both Ola and Uber is that it is cheaper than a tuk tuk and you do not need to negotiate the price or explain where you need to go. Both offer a pool option in which you share your ride with others that makes it even more affordable.

Ola also has a tuk tuk option that is one of the best and most affordable way to travel for shorter distances. I never had to wait long for a Ola or Uber to come and most of the time when I ordered the pool option I had no other passengers.

There is of course always the option of stopping a tuk tuk on the road, but be prepared to negotiate about the price.

The best time to visit Udaipur

The best time to visit Udaipur is between October and March. In October temperatures cool down and you might have a chance to join the festivities for Dussehra and Diwali. India’s biggest festivals.

Temperatures remain pleasant till March. In April and May, Rajasthan in general, will be extremely hot. In June it is the start of the monsoon that lasts till September and will see a lot of rainfall.

Sustainable Travel in Udaipur

Udaipur is a very relaxed city compared to other Indian cities in Rajasthan. Tourism is growing though and has both positive and negative impacts. Traveling sustainably in Udaipur, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community.

Support the local community:  You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, markets and restaurants. It is better to try Northern Indian cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Northern Indian food is very vegetarian friendly and it is easy to follow a vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Udaipur has a well-developed public transportation system. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. Udaipur has a Hindu majority. Therefore, learn about the local customs and traditions beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Hindi, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with an Udaipur itinerary about how to spend 3 days in Udaipur contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

17 thoughts on “Udaipur Itinerary: how to spend 3 days in Udaipur”

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What an awesome looking trip!! Sweet baby goat cuddles and monkeys sitting on a wall?! Sign me up!!

Love how you go off the beaten path and find these gems! Enjoyed reading the post, and your pics are great! I would probably spend few hours on the terrace of that Monsoon Palace. 😀 Thanks!

I really don’t know this part of the well, other than Goa and that was a beach holiday not a cultural experience. So I think I need to follow in your footsteps and do something about it. Thank you. Kx

Udaipur is definitely not something which is on the tourist radar like Jaipur, and I am glad you made time to explore the city. It is indeed tranquil (well by Indian standards and offers a more laid-back experience. Really love all the candid photos!

I’ve always wanted to go to India. This is now on my list. The architecture looks amazing.

Very nice article! Wonderful pictures, Thanks for sharing this information with us

right, udaipur has so many more places to be visited, in previous year i visited to the observatory of solar sciences, which is very amazing experience for me, also the mansoon palace. always love this blog.

Thanks for sharing this amazing information with us.

This helps me a lot to plan my itinerary for the Rajasthan tour.

Very helpful information. The photographs are breathtaking, and the descriptions are very well done.

A very good Udiapur itinerary, Ellis. I have used most of your recommendations for my upcoming trip to Rajasthan. Thanks and keep writing.

Very comprehensive and informative! I think these tips and advice are much helpful. Thank you for such detailed description of the destination. Great Post. Thank you very much for sharing the interesting information, I read it completely. Excellent Explanation. Images are very nice.

Very comprehensive and informative! I think these tips and advice are much helpful. Thank you for such detailed description of the destination.

A good article with wonderful Explanation, Great Post, Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help. Wonderful travel blog along with beautiful pics.

Amazing! thank you for the information! I will definitely share your website with my closest friends

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Udaipur Travel Guide + Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 Days

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This Udaipur travel guide contains a list of the best places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days along with all the travel information to help you plan a trip to Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Udaipur, also known as the Venice of the East or the city of lakes, is aptly termed so. With many-a lakes set both within and outside the city limits as well as the delightful ghats set along the lake-side, Udaipur oozes a regal charm. In case you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know I spent a good 10 days exploring the cities of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan in India. While I loved spending time in all of these cities, the white marble structures, shimmering lakes, surreal sunsets and the striking havelis of Udaipur stole my heart. Walking along the narrow lanes of the old town set next to lake Pichola, watching the local vendors lure tourists inside their shops with colourful garments, glittering jewels, and fascinating turbans while gorging on the kachori , a local street food, was an experience like none other.

Apart from this Udaipur travel guide, if you're want to see more pictures of my trip to Rajasthan, then head over to my Instagram profile ( @thespicyjourney ).

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Table of Contents

Udaipur Travel Guide & Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 Days

This Udaipur travel guide and Udaipur itinerary listing all the places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days is an ode to this marvellous city of lakes, or shall I say Venice of the East. While I think 2 days is enough to cover all the major places to visit in Udaipur, spend at least 3 days to soak in the mesmerizing sunsets, eat your heart out in the many cafes overlooking Lake Pichola and to get a feel of the city. Nonetheless, this Udaipur travel guide contains all the travel info, sightseeing spots, food places and accommodation options to help you plan your Udaipur trip.

Must Read: What to Wear in Rajasthan

Best Time to Visit Udaipur Rajasthan

• Summer (April - June): Summer in the dry arid state of Rajasthan can get overbearingly hot which is why it’s best to avoid visiting Udaipur during this time.
• Monsoon (July - September): Even though the monsoon months bring a respite from the heat, the muddy streets and the humidity can hamper your sightseeing plans.
• Winter (October - March): The winter months are the best time to visit Udaipur. While December and January can get quite cold, the months of October, November, March and April have pleasant weather and are the best months to visit Udaipur.

How to Reach Udaipur

Nearest airport to udaipur.

Udaipur has an airport called the Maharana Pratap Airport, which is a domestic airport. The airport is only 22 km from the city center. You can book an Uber or Ola cab to get to the airport within half an hour from the city. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi cab to drop you to the Udaipur airport as well.

Nearest Railway Station to Udaipur

Udaipur has a railway station called the Udaipur City Station (UDZ) which has trains running between all neighboring cities in Rajasthan as well as other villages and cities within India.

Delhi to Udaipur

The distance between Delhi and Udaipur is roughly 660 km which can be covered by air, rail or road. There are frequent flights from Delhi to Udaipur. Additionally, there are multiple trains and state-run as well as private buses between Delhi and Udaipur city.

Must Read: A Complete Delhi Travel Guide

Getting Around Udaipur

A majority of the sightseeing places in Udaipur are set in the old city, around Lake Pichola. Due to this, if you stay within the old city, you can simply walk or take a tuk-tuk to almost all the places to visit in Udaipur. However, you may need to hire a cab or tuk-tuk for half a day to visit some of the other sightseeing spots which lie farther away from the city center.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Zostel udaipur.

View from the rooftop at Zostel Udaipur

Throughout my 3 days in Udaipur, I stayed at Zostel Udaipur which is next to the Swaroop Sagar Lake, right next to Lake Pichola near the old city. This backpacker hostel has both dorm rooms as well as private rooms. The best part about this hostel was the lavish rooftop cafe that had marble tabletops, metal chairs with elaborate designs on them along with plants and cheerful flowers. I cannot put into words how dreamy it was to watch the sunrise from here. Plus, the delicious dinners sitting at the rooftop, while watching the lights of the city reflect in the water of the lake ahead was nothing short of spectacular.

Find hotels in Udaipur on Booking.com

Hotels in Udaipur

Coming to finding other hotels in Udaipur, I strongly suggest booking a hotel near Lake Pichola, which will make it easy to access all the places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days. Additionally, there’s nothing like waking up to watch the sun glimmer in the waters of the lake, while staying at a hotel near the lake in Udaipur.

Best Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 Days

1. lake pichola.

Lake Pichola is an artificial lake, built-in 1362 AD in order to fulfil the agricultural and drinking water needs of the city. In the present day, Lake Pichola is the most popular attraction in Udaipur, with many other sightseeing places situated around the lake. There are 4 islands on this lake and visitors can indulge in a boat ride to visit these islands. I suggest taking a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola to watch the sun go down behind the Aravali hills in the distance, with its orange hues reflecting in the water of the lake. Apart from that, there are numerous cafes and restaurants offering the most amazing views of the lake both from up-close and from rooftops. Moreover, there are numerous ghats to sit and enjoy watching the sun setting behind the lake, with Gangaur Ghat and Ambrai Ghat being the most visited ones.

2. Ganguar Ghat

Gangaur Ghat is the main ghat on Lake Pichola that is located near the Jagdish temple area in the old town. The ghat is identified and made popular due to the iconic Bagore ki Haveli, which lies on one end of Gangaur Ghat. There are steps leading down to the lake here. In the mornings you’ll see locals walking along the ghat and bathing here whereas, in the evenings, the place is crowded with tourists sitting on these steps, waiting to watch and capture the sunset across the ghat. While I loved the view and the setting of the ghat, the place was dirty. It could definitely use some maintenance as well as some more benches for people to sit.

Must Read: Best Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days

3. Bagore ki Haveli

Bagore ki Haveli is a haveli, or traditional mansion, set along Lake Pichola, on one end of Gangaur Ghat. While the expansive palace is quite impressive, with over hundred rooms, multiple courtyards and incritate mirror work used for decoration, it's the cultural show at Bagore ki Haveli which is the highlight of the place. For one hour in the evening, the haveli lights up and becomes home to a traditional folk dance show. The tickets to the dance show can be purchased online or in-person on the spot at the haveli. This cultural show is held every evening at the Neem courtyard of Bagore ki Haveli.

Open all days 9.30 am to 5.30 pm

4. City Palace

Similar to most of the other places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days, the City Palace of Udaipur is set along Lake Pichola. A sprawling palace built in the 16th century, it is one of the main attractions in Udaipur. The Palace has many-a sprawling courtyards and glorious rooms in decadent colours signifying the opulence of the Rajput royal families that once lived here. Many of the corridors and rooms in Udaipur’s city palace open up to splendid views of the city. Not just that, the lavish mirror work in some sections is worthy of being labelled as instagrammable. Spare at least 2 hours to walk around, revel in the glorious history and to soak in all the royal vibes at city palace.

5. Jag Mandir

Jag Mandir, also known as the Lake Garden Palace is a palace built on a small island on Lake Pichola. The palace has been converted into a hotel owned by the HRH group. People wishing to stay at an island palace can book a stay at the rooms here. The hotel also has a restaurant with the most breathtaking view. For those who are not staying at the palace but who wish to visit it, can hire a boat ride from the Bansi Ghat jetty to visit the Jag Mandir Palace. Visitors can also dine at the restaurant here. Note that there is a minimum cover charge here and you need to reserve a table in advance so be prepared accordingly in case you wish you dine here. It’s best to visit the Jag Mandir around the time of sunset so that you can take a quick tour of the palace and then watch the sunset either from the restaurant or from the boat ride back. 

Open all days 10 am to 6 pm

6. Jagdish Temple

Jagdish temple is yet another one of the popular places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days. The architecture and the marble steps leading up to the temple are both very interesting. The temple is located just a short walk from both City Palace and Gangaur Ghat as well as Bagore ki Haveli. So if you’re going from the City Palace towards Bagore ki Haveli (and consequently Ganguar Ghat) or vice-versa, you can visit Jagdish temple on the way.

Must Read: Where to Find the Best Views of the Taj Mahal

7. Doodh Talai

Doodh Talai, translated to ‘milk lake’ from Hindi, is a tiny but picturesque lake next to Lake Pichola. Situated at a walking distance from some of the important sightseeing places such as the City Palace and Jagdish temple, the lake is surrounded by small hillocks, has clear water and white ornate structures all around it. There are lots of street food ventors around the lake and activities such as boating and horse rides are also provided here. Additionally, while you’re here, do take the ropeway up to Karni Mata temple for the most breathtaking sunset view.

8. Royal Cenotaphs

One of the most underrated places to visit in Udaipur, Royal Cenotaphs or Ahar Cenotaphs are a group of 250 cenotaphs built as a memorial to Rajput maharajas. While there is no entry fee for the cenotaphs, the nearby Ahar Museum charges a nominal fee to enter. Since the Royal Cenotaphs are located inside the city, you will need to hire a tuk-tuk or a cab to get here, if you're staying near Lake Pichola. Also note that there is a sign here saying photography is not permitted but hardly anyone follows this rule. If you’re looking for offbeat places to visit in Udaipur, then the Ahar Cenotaphs are the place to go to!

Shopping in Udaipur

Hathi pol bazaar, which lies within walking distance of Zostel Udaipur, is one of the best places to do shopping in Udaipur. There are innumerable shops selling clothing in local prints, handicraft items as well as traditional jewellery. Ahmedabadwala was one of the noteworthy jewellery shops that I discovered in this market. While it may look like a tiny, dismissive place, don’t judge it by its appearance. The sweet old man who runs the shop had the most amazing collection of jewellery in mirror work, Kundan work, Meena work, handpainted work and more. Not just that, the jewellery was available in multiple price ranges, going from a mere INR 100-150 up to thousands of rupees. I recommend this shop to anyone looking to shop for traditional jewellery in Udaipur. Furthermore, I picked up vintage handpainted postcards from Sakshi Art School, which is situated right next to Zostel Udaipur. Once again, the kind man who runs this art school was so sweet that I couldn't help including his store/ art school in this Udaipur travel guide.

Where to Eat in Udaipur - Best Restaurants and Cafes in Udaipur

No trip to Udaipur is complete without gorging on a scrumptious Rajasthani thali and sitting in a nice cafe or restaurant at Lake Pichola. While there are numerous places where you can do both of the aforementioned things in Udaipur, I’ve mentioned two of the top restaurants and cafes in Udaipur, based on my experience in the city.

What is one of the most amazing cafes in Udaipur city, Jheel cafe lies near Gangaur Ghat, sitting pretty right next to Lake Pichola. The cafe has two levels - the top floor where you can get a nice view of the lake and the section which has a more extensive menu. On the other hand, the bottom floor of Jheel cafe has a limited menu and limited seating. However, this is where there's a catch. What most people miss observing is that there’s a small door at the bottom level which leads to a small open-air section where it almost feels as if you’re touching the lake. I loved sitting here, enjoying a hot cup of tea on a cool wintery morning, taking in the beauty of the lake in front of me.

Must Read: Top 13 Varanasi Street Food Items You MUST Try!

Tribute Restaurant

Tribute restaurant is an upscale restaurant located directly opposite to Zostel Udaipur, on the other side of the lake. The restaurant has the most amazing view of the lake in the evening, with lights of the restaurant and the city shimmering in the placid water. Even though the restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, I would recommend sitting outside for the best views and a phenomenal ambience. The food tasted good but I did not enjoy the cocktails here. You may need to call ahead and reserve a table during the tourist season, in order to be assured a table.

Planning a Trip to Rajasthan?

In case you're planning a trip to Rajasthan, you may find these articles helpful:

• The Perfect Jodhpur Itinerary for 2 Days
• Complete Jaisalmer Travel Guide

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11 Comments

India is a huge bucket item list for me! Thanks for sharing!

I had planned for Udaipur in March but had to cancel.thats a great itinerary

I have been to all these places and I love Udaipur so much. Can’t wait to return someday.

Wow, what a destination! It looks like and incredible hat trick of lakes, palaces and temples, all lit up in a golden hue. Gorgeous. Thanks for sharing.

This looks like a great itinerary! Have bookmarked for when we do get to visit Udaipur – it looks like such a pretty place!

I didn’t have time for Udaipur on my last trip to India but I would definitely love to go next time I’m there. That cafe by the water looks amazing! I’ll definitely save this post for whenever I get the chance to go ? love your photos!

Such a lovely post! I was in Udaipur 8 years ago and need to go back again once travel opens up again. India is a special country to me and I would love to go back to Rajastan. I will keep your travel guilde handy for my next trip so I don+t miss out of anything:)

Udaipur was an absolute dream. One of my favorite Indian cities. Can’t wait to go back.

Very nice places Udaipur have. We have explore all these places. Thank you so much for provide such information

Very nice blog. thank you so much for sharing such information with us. I like your writing style, is so inspiring…keep sharing…

Udaipur is always my favorite place to drop by, have visited Lake palace and city palace many times just for the sculptures and magnificent infrastructure. I suggest people visit these places atleast once, else they could miss perfect spots to witness for their lifetime.

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• Udaipur Travel Guide + Things To Do

By: Author Emily

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

In this post, we’ll help you plan and perfect a trip to Udaipur, India. We’ll start by introducing Udaipur and some of the logistics that go into booking a trip there. Then we’ll dive into the best things to do in Udaipur, and also help you piece it together into an ideal 1 to 3 day itinerary. Keep reading to learn more about planning a trip to Udaipur!

In this post

What is udaipur like, plan your trip to udaipur, how to get to udaipur, things to do in udaipur, udaipur sample itinerary, is udaipur worth visiting.

Udaipur is the Paul Rudd of Indian cities. You simply cannot find anything bad about Udaipur on the internet, and for good reason.

Let’s start with the obvious: it is beautiful. The city is nestled against the Aravalli Hills (the same hill range that borders Jaipur), which serves as a stunning backdrop and is home to some of the best vantage points in town. Udaipur has lovingly earned the nickname “City of Lakes,” in reference to the man-made lakes that are the focal point of the city. There are seven lakes, but Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake are the biggest and most popular.

Udaipur has an unmistakable charm and ease to it, that you won’t find in the Golden Triangle cities (Delhi, Jaipur and Agra). Udaipur feels very laid back and has an artsy vibe. There is less soliciting and hustle from salespeople, possibly because there are more stores to go inside versus market stalls and street carts. (Though Udaipur has the later, too.)

It’s also more walkable than the other cities, with wider streets, less vehicle traffic (more cows though), and even a pedestrian bridge. That said, auto rickshaws are still easy to hail and will get you just about anywhere around town for cheap.

Another nickname Udaipur gets sometimes is “Venice of the East.” While I think that comparison is a bit of a stretch, it does have a certain Mediterranean resemblance. The buildings stacked along the waterfront reminded me a bit of Greece and the art shops and galleries all around town did give off some Florence energy.

This type of city attracts a type of traveler. We noticed substantially more western tourists in Udaipur than any of the Golden Triangle cities. It seemed like most of the tourists in the golden triangle were domestic Indian travelers, while Udaipur was mostly western tourists. This makes sense because Udaipur does have a more western feel to it than the other cities in India that we went to.

A trip to Udaipur will mostly likely include stunning sunset views, walks through lively bazars and winding streets, hopefully a boat ride or two, and of course a stroll through the colorful City Palace.

So yeah, we also don’t have anything bad to say about Udaipur.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge that the Udaipur I talk about in this post is the tourist’s Udaipur. Like most of India, Udaipur has a lot of very intense poverty. We were riding the train with a young tech professional from Udaipur, and we told him we heard his city was lovely. He responded with a smile and said, “Yeah, it is if you’re a tourist.”

I never want to sound out of touch or over generalize an entire city. We saw the slums outside of the train station and the children running around barefoot. I am painfully aware that Udaipur is not all palaces and rooftop dining.

This post isn’t meant to ignore that fact. Instead, I’m trying to provide a realist overview of what a tourist will likely experience. We will focus on the touristy areas and the tourist experience, which I acknowledge is a privilege.

Before we get to the fun stuff, let’s go over the logistics of actually planning a trip to Udaipur. Things like how to get there and where to stay.

If you’ve read any of our other India itineraries for Delhi or Jaipur , you’ll find that some of these sections (like visas, vaccines and weather) look a little familiar. Some of the content is similar, but it has been tailored to Udaipur specifically so don’t breeze over it entirely.

India Visa requirements

To get to Udaipur, you’ll first need to get into India. India requires a Tourist e-Visa for visitors from almost every country. The eVisa is available for three available durations (30 days, 1 year, 5 years).

You can apply for an Indian Tourist e-Visa online. You will need a valid passport, passport photo, and credit card to pay the application fee. The application fee varies based on your nationality, but most applicants will pay $10 or $25 USD for a 30-day visa.

In most cases, this is a quick and easy process, but don’t put it off to the last minute. It can take longer if complications come up. Kenny’s took a few weeks to resolve, while mine was approved within 48 hours.

Recommended vaccines for Udaipur

Vaccines are not typically required to enter India (unless you’re traveling from a Yellow Fever country). However, you should probably check what vaccines you’re current on and what ones you might want to get. In the United States, the CDC recommends the following vaccines for travelers going to India. Other countries may have different guidelines.

( Disclaimer : We are not doctors and this is not medical advice. Consult your physician or a travel clinic for a professional opinion.)

• Hepatitis A
• Yellow Fever
• Cholera (not prominent in Udaipur)
• Malaria (not prominent in Udaipur)
• Japanese Encephalitis (not prominent in Udaipur)

We personally received or already had all of the vaccines that are bolded in the above list. We got the Yellow Fever vaccine a few years ago before traveling to Colombia, but we wouldn’t have otherwise gotten it for this trip. The only new vaccine that we got specifically got for this trip was Typhoid.

Typhoid spreads through contaminated water. We planned to be extremely careful with drinking water, but contaminated water can easily get into your system through sneakier ways. (There’s always the chance contaminated water was used to wash produce, clean cutlery or make ice, for example.) Even though we felt like our risk was low, this one seemed like it was worth it.

The Typhoid vaccine is expensive. It costs around $150 and most insurance doesn’t cover it. (Our insurance covered it for our child but not us adults.) It’s also really hard to find. In many cases you have to go to a travel clinic to get it, which can sometimes cost another few hundred dollars. Some CVS locations carry it though, especially in major cities, so be sure to check there first. (We got ours at a CVS in Astoria, NY, USA.)

When to go to Udaipur

The most important thing to consider when you’re planning a trip to Udaipur is the weather. Udaipur is hot all year, but it’s really hot in the summer. Plus there’s monsoon season to deal with.

Here’s a look at Udaipur weather by season. All temperatures are in °F.

• Summer in Udaipur (April – June): Summer is extremely hot with temperatures regularly hitting 100°F or higher.
• Monsoon Season in Udaipur (July – September): The monsoon season starts in late June and brings with it heavy rains and humidity. Highs dip down to the 80s with lows in the 70s.
• Fall and winter in Udaipur (October – January) : The rainy season gives way to a milder fall and winter. Highs still hover around 80°F but lows can dip down into the 40s and 50s.
• Spring in Udaipur (February – March): Temperatures shoot up in a hurry come spring, but can very day by day. Highs will steadily climb from the 80s into the 90s and lows will get up to the 60s.

From a weather perspective, the best time to visit Udaipur is in the late winter or early spring (January through March). You definitely want to avoid the summer’s crippling heat and monsoon season in Udaipur.

Other than weather, you may also want to plan around holidays and festivals. Some holidays that are celebrated fervently in Udaipur include Teej (July/August), Gangaur (April), Diwali (October/November), and Holi.

We personally celebrated Holi in Udaipur and it was the highlight of our entire trip to India. Holi marks the start of spring, and it is celebrated with a flurry of brightly colored powdered paint. There’s music and dancing and lots of “Happy Holi” well wishes as every stranger smears a bit more color onto your face. If it’s possible to visit Udaipur for Holi (February/March), you should absolutely prioritize it.

Getting around Udaipur

Getting around to different places in Udaipur will require a handful of different transportation methods.

• Walk: Walking is the best way to get around the old city area near City Palace and the surrounding bazars and shopping streets. The streets are narrow and windy, but there are lots of shops and restaurants along the way.
• Auto Rickshaw (tuk tuk) : This is the best way to cover medium distances across town. There’s tuk tuks available for hire all around the city, particularly in tourist areas. Be sure to agree on a price before you begin your ride. Rates are usually pretty reasonable. For example, a ride from City Palace to Rameshwar Ghat costs about Rs. 150 ($2 USD).
• Boat: It is basically required to take at least one boat ride in Udaipur. If you’re staying on Lake Pichola, your hotel might offer a shuttle boat service to get to and from the old city. Otherwise, boat rides are more for fun and sightseeing than for transit. Although the only way to get to Jag Mandir, a castle in the middle of Lake Pichola, is by boat.
• Uber: They do have Uber in Udaipur, so that’s the best way to cover further distances. This is the best way to get up to the hills (like to Monsoon Palace), get to hotels that are on the west side of the lakes or get to the train station or airport with all your stuff.

Udaipur does not have a metro or intercity train system.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

You can find really, really cheap places to stay in Udaipur and really, really expensive places to stay in Udaipur.

If you’re going the cheaper route, we recommend staying somewhere in the old city area on the northeast side of Lake Pichola. Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel is a popular and well-rated hotel in this area which goes for $50 – $100 USD a night. You can also get places much cheaper (like in the <$10 USD range), but we can’t say we recommend those if you can avoid it.

If you’re traveling on a luxury budget, you have some incredible options in Udaipur. One popular option is Taj Lake Palace, which is in the middle of Lake Pichola. Another is the Oberoi Udaivilas, which is the Udaipur location for the Oberoi brand which was named the World’s Best Hotel Brand in 2022 by Travel & Leisure.

We personally stayed at the Oberoi Udaivilas , and it was unreal . The entire property is stunning, the views are incredible, and the service is unmatched.

The Oberoi Udaivilas is located on the west side of Lake Pichola. They have complimentary boat service from the hotel to their jetty on the south side of Doodh Talai, which was then a short (Rs. 200) tuk tuk ride to City Palace. Honestly, the commute was half the fun everyday.

We used our Amex Platinum to book through the Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts portal which got us upgraded to an amazing room with a semi-private pool. Needless to say, our 2-year-old was impressed.

How many days do you need in Udaipur

How long you need to stay in Udaipur really depends on what you want to get out of it and also how much time you have. You can see and do a lot in just one day as part of a busy itinerary, but you can also stretch it out to fill your entire vacation.

• 1 day in Udaipur is enough if you’re already in the area. If you’re making your way through Rajasthan and Udaipur isn’t too far out of the way, one day is actually perfect. You can cover the must-dos in a single day, which is fine if you’re not wasting full travel days on either side to get there.
• 2 days in Udaipur is enough if you’re adding it onto the Golden Triangle or Mumbai. It takes a bit of time to get to Udaipur from Delhi or Mumbai, so you want to make it worthwhile. A 2-day trip is the perfect amount of time to enjoy Udaipur enough to justify the travel time.
• 3 days in Udaipur is enough to see most of the main attractions. If you want to see the highlights at a leisurely pace or pack in as much as possible, three days is generous. You won’t feel rushed, but can still do a lot.
• 4+ days in Udaipur is enough if you want to relax. You certainly don’t need four or more days in Udaipur. However, if you have the time, it’s a great place to spend it..

For most travelers, we’d suggest spending two days in Udaipur. That’s really the sweet spot. You can fill your mornings with activities and your evenings with rooftop drinks and sunset views. It’s not too rushed, but you won’t get sick of it either.

Udaipur is located almost exactly in the middle of Mumbai and Delhi. That means that it’s kind of a pain in the you-know-what to get to from either. (Honestly, I think that’s why Udaipur has been able to preserve its charm. If it was easier to get to, everyone would go there.)

If you’re going to Udaipur from either Mumbai or Delhi , it’s probably best to fly. From either city, the flight is only 1 – 1.5 hours, but it will still take the better part of the day when you factor in security and transit between airports and hotels. To get to Udaipur from Delhi , there’s also an option for an overnight train.

It’s also possible to add Udaipur to a Golden Circle itinerary, which is what we did. It fits in well between Jaipur and Agra. From Jaipur to Udaipur , it’s a 6.5 hour drive or 7-8 hour train ride. From Agra to Udaipur , its a 12-13 hour overnight train or 10.5 hour drive. We personally took the morning train from Jaipur to Udaipur and then overnight train from Udaipur to Agra.

Trains in India in generally are fine. They are relatively quick, mostly on time, and pretty cheap. We recommend booking through 12go Asia , and also be sure to book an AC cabin with a reserved seat or bed. The lower class cars are very hot, very crowded, and very much not for tourists. The overnight train (in First Class) wasn’t bad, but it was eventful. It’s definitely an experience I’m happy to say I had, but I’m also not in a rush to do it again.

There’s a handful of must-see things in Udaipur, which we’ll walk through in this section. Beyond that, Udaipur is really about walking through the bazars and enjoying the views over the town and the lakes.

Most of the tourist attractions in Udaipur are around the lakes, primarily Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake, and in the old city. The old city is the historical city center of Udaipur and refers to the area around the City Palace on the northeast side of Lake Pichola.

Most popular things to do in Udaipur

• Udaipur City Palace: This 400-year-old palace sits on east bank of Lake Pichola. It’s one of the largest palaces of its style, filled with colorful rooms and endless views. Many of the rooms showcase museum-style exhibits, historical artifacts and replicas, and art. Be sure to get there early (like, as soon as it opens) to beat the crowds and tour groups. There is a single route through the palace that has a lot of narrow passage ways, so once those get congested the experience takes a lot longer and cannot be sped up.
• Jagdish Temple: This is a Hindu temple at the heart of Udaipur’s old city. It’s a small, but beautiful temple with intricate carvings and nice views of the surrounding chowk (or market).
• Gangour Ghat : There are many ghats in Udaipur, which is a general term for steps that lead down to the water. Gangour Ghat is the main one because it’s the largest, most popular and prettiest. There’s an archway gate, some street art and a small temple. It’s a popular, free place to watch the sunset over Lake Pichola.
• Boat ride on Lake Pichola : It’s hard to miss Lake Pichola if you’re visiting Udaipur. It’s the massive lake that sits beside the City Palace and old city. The best way to experience it is to get on the water. You can buy tickets for the boat ride at City Palace, and then walk to the jetty at Rameshwar Ghat. The boat runs every hour and takes you out around the lake and to Jag Mandir, which is a palace in the middle of Lake Pichola.
• Rooftop bars and restaurants: The views are the highlight of Udaipur, so enjoying a meal or drink is a popular way to do that. There are several popular and well rated options including Rainbow Restaurant, Sun N Moon Cafe and Cafe Grasswood. We personally dined at Yummy Yoga , and the only thing better than the lake views was the Thali we ate. Definitely be sure to read reviews and do your research before dining or drinking out anywhere in India, as the water is not safe to drink and traveler’s diarrhea is common.

Other things to do in Udaipur

• Fateh Sagar Pal: Along the east bank of Fateh Sagar Lake is a pedestrian waterfront pathway. It’s a great place for a run in the early morning or a casual stroll in evening. There are some food vendors, shops and an aquarium along the way, but people mostly come to enjoy the lake views.
• Jag Mandir: This castle sits in the middle of Lake Pichola and is only accessible by boat, so you’ll probably combine it with the boat ride I’ve already mentioned. It’s a small castle and grounds with bar/restaurant and nice views.
• Panchwati and Saheliyon ki bari: Panchwati is the neighborhood to the east of Fateh Sagar Lake. It is lively and a bit more modern with several new buildings, a handful trendy coffee shops and an odd amount of burger restaurants. Saheliyon ki bari is located in this area and is a beautiful garden with several fountains.
• Pratap Gaurav Kendra : This is one of the more interesting tourist attractions in Udaipur and I can’t say that we personally experienced it. It’s a museum of sorts with several different types of exhibits including statues, gardens, films and art that explores the history of the region and Hindu culture. It specifically celebrates the life and legacy of former leader Pratap Gaurav Kendra.

Best views in Udaipur

• Monsoon Palace: This hilltop castle sits to the west of Fateh Sagar Lake and offers panoramic views of Udaipur City and the surrounding Aravalli Hills. It is a bit of a pain to get there, but you can explore the castle museum in addition to the views.
• Karni Mata Temple by Ropeway: This is a small, hilltop temple on the east side of Lake Pichola. The temple itself is not that impressive, but the views over the lake and city are incredible. What makes this experience even more fun is taking the Ropeway (cable cars) to the top. You can also walk if you’re really ambitious.
• Ambrai Ghat: This particular ghat offers some of the best water-side views of City Palace looming over Lake Pichola. There’s also some cool murals and street art and a temple.
• Neemach Mata Mandir: Head to this hilltop temple for the best views of Fateh Sagar Lake. Like most places in Udaipur, it’s particularly beautiful at sunset. It does require a 1K high and some stairs to get to the top, though.
• Doodh Talai : This is a small lake (more of a pond) just east of Lake Pichola. It’s surrounded by beautiful white domes and archways, which makes for a very scenic and photogenic visit. It seemed to be most popular with locals and Indian tourists, but we enjoyed our walks around it on our way to the boat jetty for our hotel.

Bazars & shops in Udaipur

• Bada Bazar: This is the main market street in Udaipur. The street is narrow, but still walkable. It is located on Mochiwada Road between Ghantaghar (notable clocktower) and the Jain Temple here . It’s a popular walking street for tourists, lined with shops and street vendors, along with several small, hidden temples and shrines.
• Jagdish Chowk: This refers to area around Jagdish Temple and includes many of the streets that branch out from the busy traffic circle in front of the temple. Shops in this area are primarily art and souvenir shops, with lots of restaurants and street food vendors.
• Ashoka Arts: Udaipur is famous for its miniature paintings, which where historically used as a way of record keeping and storytelling. There are several art shops around town where you can see and buy tiny paintings, and even chat with the artist who creates them. Ashoka Arts is popular and well regarded shop for these paintings.

Now we’ll take the best things to do in Udaipur, organize them by location and importance, and weave them into an easy-to-follow sample itinerary. This should help give you an idea of how much you can cover in a day, including how to move around to the different locations.

This itinerary covers three full days, but it’s organized with the most important things first. The itinerary will stand on its own whether you have one, two or all three days in Udaipur.

1-day Udaipur Itinerary

If you have only one day in Udaipur, you’ve got to hit the big ticket items in a hurry, which is exactly what we’ll do. This 1-day Udaipur itinerary gives you the chance to experience some of the very best things about Udaipur.

City Palace

Start your day early and arrive at City Palace when it opens at 9:30 AM. There are a few entrances, but the main one is near Tripoliya Gate , just up City Palace Road from Jagdish Temple. The ticket booth is right outside Tripoliya Gate and is clearly labeled.

For the most part, the City Palace has one route that will lead you through all the different rooms. There are several small corridors and staircases, so it’s prone to bottlenecks. If you get there early and move at an average clip, you can probably see the entire grounds in about 1.5 hours. However, if you catch the crowds, it will easy take two or three hours.

• Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM, everyday
• Price: Rs 300
• Tickets: You can buy tickets from the ticket counters located on the north and south ends of the palace.

Lake Pichola Boat Ride to Jag Mandir

If you haven’t already done so, buy your ticket for the boat from the City Palace ticket booth. While you’re there, ask for specific instructions on how to reach the boat jetty. The boat departs from Rameshwar Ghat, which is part of the City Palace complex on the south end.

The boat runs regularly throughout the day, so it’s best to just head down whenever you’re ready. Each trip goes around the lake a bit and stops at Jag Mandir, where you can get off the boat and explore. We didn’t personally take this boat ride (because our hotel had a private boat shuttle), so we’ll send you over to The Wandering Quinn who did and has some tips for you.

• Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM, everyday
• Price: Rs 500 during the day and Rs 800 for sunset (Sunset is defined as 4 – 6 PM April through September or 3 – 5 PM October through March.)
• Tickets: You can buy tickets from the City Palace ticket counter.

Lunch at Rainbow Restaurant

There’s a chance you have already eaten by now, either somewhere by the City Palace or the restaurant at Jag Mandir. If you’ve survived on packaged Masala Magic potato chips until now, then you’re probably starving and ready for lunch.

Hire an auto rickshaw from Rameshwar Ghat and ask for a ride to Lal Ghat. It should cost about Rs. 150. Rainbow Restaurant is located just steps from Lal Ghat. It’s a popular rooftop restaurant with great views over Lake Pichola.

Jagdish Temple & Chowk

After lunch, walk up Lal Ghat Road (the road that Rainbow Restaurant is on) until it ends, then turn right and you’ll hit Jagdish Temple. Depending on what time you get there, you might need to do the market streets first as the temple closes for a few hours in the afternoon (usually 1 – 4 PM and my guess is you’ll get here around 3).

For the sake of discussion, let’s start with the temple though. Walk up the stairs to the temple and remove your shoes at the entrance. There’s a shelf you can store them, or you can take them with you. If you leave your shoes someone will likely ask for a tip for “guarding” them.

After the temple, explore the rest of the neighborhood. There is a traffic circle in front of the temple with streets leading out in many directions. We’d suggest starting with City Palace Road, which is to your right when you exit the temple. Many of these shops were probably closed when you arrived at City Palace this morning. Then work your way around, going up each street a couple blocks and then back down to the temple.

The last street you get to will be the street that you took from Lal Ghat. This time, follow that street all the way to our next stop, Gangour Ghat.

• Hours: 4:15 AM to 1 PM and 4/5 to 8 PM, everyday
• Price: Free + tip for shoe storage
• Tickets: NA

Sunset at Gangour Ghat

From Jagdish Temple, walk west to Gangour Ghat. On your way, you might want to grab a coffee from Cafe Edelweiss or a snack or tea from one of the street stalls.

You can take a short walk around the ghat to see some of the artwork and the small temple, or peruse the souvenirs laid out on blankets. Find a seat on the steps and enjoy the view as the sun sets over the lake.

2-day Udaipur Itinerary

If you have two days in Udaipur, follow the above 1-day itinerary and then add the following schedule for your second day.

The first day was all about the tourist essentials. On the second day, we’ll see the city from some different perspectives (literally) and venture out to more of the city streets.

Karni Mata Temple by Ropeway

The Ropeway is a cablecar that provides easy access to Karni Mata Temple.

Start your day around 9 or 10 AM and head to the base of the ropeway. It’s located here , not far from Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Park. If you’re coming from the old city, you can take an auto rickshaw here for Rs. 150 – 200.

There’s a ticket office along the road where you’ll buy your ticket. Then follow the steps down to the boarding zone. If you arrive early, the queue is not very long, but the wait can get long later in the day.

The ropeway is a lovely cable car experience that takes you to the top of the hill. There’s a lookout point and a small temple, with stunning views in all directions. The temple is small and nice, but the views are really the highlight. After you’re done, follow signs to the ropeway station.

The station at the top is large and indoors. It has a VR experience, photo backdrops, restaurant and snack stands. Be sure to check in at the ticket counter when you get there. You’ll get a number which they’ll call over the speaker when it’s your turn to board.

The Ropeway isn’t a “must-do” in Udaipur, and many people complain about the long queues. We personally loved it, and you can avoid the queues by going early in the day. For our little one, who adores the Skyliner at Disney World , this was the highlight of their trip.

• Hours: 9 AM – 8 PM, everyday. (NOTE: The ropeway station at the top does not start running until 10:30 AM.)
• Price: Rs 190 per person round trip or a private cabin for RS 595 and up (depending on how many people you have). There are additional fees for the VR and 3D photo experiences.
• Tickets: Tickets are sold at both ropeway stations ( base and summit )

Doodh Talai

After the Ropeway, walk down to Doodh Talai. Lots of people will try to sell you a rickshaw ride when you exit, but don’t hire one just yet. Walk a little ways down the hill until you get to Doodh Talai.

Doodh Talai is a nice pond surrounded by pretty whites domes and arches. It’s a nice place to take a short stroll and snap some photos. Though it’s mostly popular with the locals, it’s still worth a stop since it’s so close to the ropeway.

Doodh Talai is open all the time and no tickets are required.

Lunch at Yummy Yoga

From Doodh Talai, hire an auto rickshaw — there will be plenty hanging out in this area. Ask them to take you to Daiji Bridge. (If they don’t know that bridge by name for some reason, you can also have them take you to Jagdish Temple. It’s only a 5 minute walk from Jagdish to the bridge.) It should cost about Rs. 200.

The bridge here is pedestrian only and is the shortest way to get to the restaurant. To go by rickshaw, you have to take a longer route, which is a bit more expensive but also just out of the way. The walk is nice.

Walk across the pedestrian bridge and on to Yummy Yoga. There is a sign at the entrance, and then you’ll have to walk up several flights of stairs to reach the rooftop restaurant. Trust me though, it’s worth it. Order the Thali for a traditional meal.

After lunch, head back over the pedestrian bridge toward Ghantaghar . It’s not particularly notable, but it’s a large clocktower and a helpful landmark to the start of the bazar.

Bada Bazar is a popular shopping street with lots of little shops and restaurants. Its about a half mile long, but there’s a handful of side streets and small temples that you can explore as well. Unlike some bazars and markets in India, this one is actually really pleasant to walk through. Traffic isn’t too bad and the soliciting is not very aggressive.

Most of the shops are open from 10:30 AM to 8 PM.

Sunset at Ambrai Ghat

Stroll back through the bazar (or take another route) and head to Daiji pedestrian bridge again. This time, head to Ambrai Ghat at the south side of this little peninsula.

Ambrai Ghat has some cool street art, but mostly you’re here for the views of City Palace and Lake Pichola. This is a great spot to watch the sunset.

3-day Udaipur Itinerary

If you have three days in Udaipur, follow the above 1-day and 2-day itineraries and then add the following schedule for your third day.

We’ve enjoyed lots of Lake Pichola views in the first two days, and day three is all about Fateh Sagar Lake and the Aravalli Hills.

We personally didn’t make it to most of these sites, since we only had two days. They were on our list and places we considered, so we wanted to be sure to include them here.

Monsoon Palace (also called Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace)

Start your day at Monsoon Palace. You can take an Uber or auto rickshaw to the the entrance of the grounds, but that’s still pretty far from the entrance to the actual palace (about 2.5 miles). Then you’ll need to take a special taxi, which will cost another Rs. 600-800. You want to get here early because the queue for these cars can get really long.

Once you reach the actual palace, you can explore the many levels of the palace. The best views are of course at the top.

We personally didn’t make it here (honestly it felt like a chore and kind of expensive), but people tend to love it or hate it. It seems like most people spend about 30 minutes inside the palace, but the entire experience can take a few hours.

• Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, everyday
• Price: Rs 80 per person for entry (cab service will be more)
• Tickets: Tickets are sold at the entrance

Neemach Mata Mandir

Our next destination is both a hike and a temple with a view. From the exit of Monsoon Palace, take an Uber to Neemach Mata Mandir. The temple itself is at the top of a hill, so they’ll drop you off at the entrance to the walkway. If you need to enter an exact address, use this one which is for the nearby parking garage.

The walk up the hill does some zigs and zags and includes inclines and stairs. The temple is pretty small but the view over Fateh Sagar Lake looks incredible.

This temple is open at all times and no ticket is required.

Saheliyon ki bari

After your hike, flag down an auto rickshaw. You might have to walk down to Udaipur road closer to the lake to catch one. Have them take you to Saheliyon ki bari, which shouldn’t be more than Rs. 100.

Not that Udaipur is particularly overwhelming, but this garden is nice for a city break. There are several fountains and pretty landscaping. It’s popular with Indian tourists and is very Instagrammable. It’s pretty cheap to enter and should only take about an hour.

There’s also several coffee shops in the area nearby, including a Starbucks, if you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a snack before or after the gardens.

• Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM, everyday
• Price: Rs 20

Sunset at Fateh Sagar Pal

From Saheliyon ki bari, it’s about a 15 minute walk to the south end of Fateh Sagar Pal. It’s a fine walk, but nothing you must do. If you prefer to skip the walk, you can hire an auto rickshaw for about Rs. 50.

Fateh Sagar Pal is a waterfront pedestrian pathway that follows the east bank of Fateh Sagar Pal. It has beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hills and is a popular place for an evening stroll. You can rent boats or kayaks, or even swim in the water.

Even though this is the last thing on our three-day itinerary, it is by no means the worst thing. So many people love Fateh Sagar Lake because it’s much less crowded and touristy than Lake Pichola.

You can stroll Fateh Sagar Pal at anytime and there is no ticket required.

The short answer is yes, Udaipur is worth visiting. The longer answer is that it depends how much time you have and what you’re willing to sacrifice to fit it in.

Why is Udaipur so great? It’s a more relaxing and scenic alternative to the more popular, loud and crowded cities in India. It’s more walkable and less intense than many other Indian cities, specifically the Golden Triangle cities. I think for most people, Udaipur serves as a much needed breather in the middle of trip to India.

Just like everyone else, we personally really enjoyed Udaipur. We did stay at an insanely nice hotel and celebrated Holi here, so both of those experiences definitely impacted our experience. It’s hard to know exactly how we’d feel if we stayed somewhere else on any other weekend, but I am pretty sure we’d still be sharing a positive review of the city as a whole.

The biggest problem with Udaipur is that it’s difficult to get to. In most cases, it’s going to take a day of travel on either side, plus at least a day or two exploring the city. That means you need at least four days to add a stop in Udaipur, which is a lot for most people

If you have two weeks, it’s worth adding Udaipur to the Golden Circle. If you have less time than that, I would go so far as to say I’d skip Jaipur to go to Udaipur instead. (That doesn’t always make sense given the geography, though.) I would not skip Agra or cut Delhi short to fit in Udaipur, though.

So yes, Udaipur is worth visiting if you have time for it. And most importantly, if there’s any way you can plan your visit during Holi, then it is a million percent worth visiting.

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Best Things to do in Udaipur in 3 days | A guide

Last Updated on January 5, 2023 by admin

Planning a visit to Udaipur? This is the best itinerary for things to do in Udaipur in 3 days that cover all the places to visit in Udaipur for first-time visitors.

Udaipur – the city of lakes is always on the list of must-visit destinations in Rajasthan. Known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur lures every kind of tourist, traveler, and backpacker. 

I have visited Udaipur over 5 times with my family, colleagues, and friends. Each visit has been amazing because of the gorgeous lakes, pleasant weather, and stunning architecture all around.

Check out this guide for things to do in Udaipur in 3 days!

Table of Contents

Things to do in Udaipur

Jagdish temple, udaipur.

Start sightseeing in Udaipur by taking blessings from Lord Vishnu at the Jagdish temple. 

Located in the center of the city, Jagdish temple is a large Hindu temple with historic importance. Earlier known as the temple of Jagannath Rai, this is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur. 

It is considered important for worship but brings architecture enthusiasts to this temple. The carvings on the exterior of the temple are stunning. Eklingji temple near Udaipur is another gem.

This three-storied temple is built on a raised platform and flaunts magnificently carved pillars, huge airy halls, and painted walls that are adorned with vibrant colours and intricately decorated ceilings which showcases Indo-Aryan architecture which is why it is one of the best architectural wonders of Rajasthan. 

The elephant carving certainly reminded me of the Mahakuta Temples of Karnataka and Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat . 

There is no entry ticket to the temple however if you wish to worship the deity, the temple doors open in two shifts –  4:15 am to 1:00 pm and 5:15 pm to 8 pm.

Feel like a royal at the Udaipur City Palace 

The most popular spot in Udaipur – The City Palace deserves a visit. 

City Palace Udaipur is one of the largest palace complexes in Rajasthan and visitors will feel every bit of royalty in almost every nook and corner. 

Located on the banks of Pichola lake with Aravalli hills as a backdrop, its extravagant opulence is noticeable everywhere. 

The palace is built with white marble and granite and the interiors are beautifully decorated with silver work, mirror work, inlay work, glass paintings, and murals. The architecture is a fusion of European, Mughal, Chinese, and Rajasthani work! Similar work is seen in Juna Mahal palace, a property of Udai Bilas Palace Dungarpur .

Places not to be missed within the complex are Sheesh Mahal, Mor Chowk, Surya Chopar, Krishna Vilas, Dilkhush Mahal and Suraj Gokhda.

A visit to Udaipur city palace will require over 3 hours. So, visitors can choose to have food at the in-house Fatehprakash Palace and restaurant. Although expensive the views are amazing and the food is delicious. 

Udaipur City Palace timings: 7 am to 11 pm (includes entry to restaurants)

Udaipur City Palace museum timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Know the history of Mewar through the Light and Sound Show

Immerse yourself a bit more into history by staying back in the Udaipur City Palace till evening. The palace complex hosts a Light and Sound show which is worth watching. 

Watch the Mewar sound and light show ‘The Legacy of Honor, which takes place at the Manek Chowk inside the palace complex between 7 – 8 pm. It is an amazing way to know the history of Rajasthan. The entry fees of this separate.

Explore the Jag Mandir Palace Udaipur

Many travelers miss this option of things to do in Udaipur but should not. 

Build on the Jag Mandir Island in Pichola Lake, Jag Mandir is a magnificent place. The medieval architecture and luxurious and royal surroundings make it a dream place to be in, and one of the best places for sightseeing in Udaipur.

The view of City Palace while going to Jag Mandir is worth the boat fees. Wander around Jag Mandir Palace gardens and fountains or just chill till sunset at the cafe for a chilled beer overlooking Pichola lake and the city palace.

Visitors have to head down to the City Palace jetty for a boat tour to get to the Jag Mandir Palace.

Catch the sunset over Pichola lake

Visiting Pichola lake is a favorite thing to do in Udaipur for the locals and tourists. The lake contains four islands namely – Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas, Mohan Mandir and Arsi Vilas.

Taking a boat ride on the lake is extremely therapeutic during sunset. 

If you don’t prefer a boat ride, chose a hotel on the banks of Pichola and spend the evening on the lakeside balcony or the terrace to soak in Lake Pichola.

Visit Bagore ki Haveli

Situated at the Gangaur Ghat, a visit to Bagore ki Haveli is one of the best things to do in Udaipur.

Haveli means a mansion and this mansion is decorated with mirrors. It showcases paintings, murals, clothes from yesteryear as well as intricate artworks. 

Bagore ki Haveli houses huge courtyards, balconies, jharokhas, decorative archways, fountains, and exceptionally decorated 138 rooms with mirror work. The walls of the Haveli are adorned beautifully with alluring glasswork and mural paintings. 

The Chambers of the Royal Ladies is worth visiting for its renowned glass windows that are colored beautifully. It houses two peacocks made with colored glass mosaic that is exceptionally crafted.

Bagore ki Haveli also has four museums apart from the haveli which are The Puppet museum, the Turban museum, the Weapon Museum, and the Wedding Depiction Section.

Get awed at Dharohar Folk Dance Show at Bagore ki Haveli

Attending a Rajasthani cultural dance show is one of the popular things to do in Udaipur at night. At 7 pm, the Bagore ki haveli turns into a dance showcase with the cultural folk dance show called ‘Dhanohar dance’.  

Visitors can buy tickets for the Haveli entrance as well as this show together. This one-hour folk dance show will enthrall you with 4 types of traditional Rajasthani dance forms – Ghumar, Chari, Kalbelia, and Bhavai.

Feel small at Badi Lake

Head a little bit away from the city towards nature for some offbeat things to do in Udaipur. 

Shop till you drop at Shilpgram Udaipur

Once you leave Badi lake and are towards the city, make a stop at Shilpgram, a living museum of traditional Rajasthani arts and crafts. It has a plethora of things to see and do if you have the time. 

If it’s a quick visit, you can shop for souvenirs right here and learn a little bit about the state’s culture. Possible things to shop for include paintings, ceramics, wooden handicrafts, clothes, etc. 

There are live performances in the amphitheater and you can check the timings of the same at the entrance gate.

Lake hopping at Fatehsagar Lake

I would suggest driving across Fatehsagar Lake and taking in the views of blue waters and having lunch at one of the restaurants with a lake view. 

Amidst the view of beautiful Aravalli hills and forests, the Fateh Sagar Lake looks beautiful. Like the other lakes, watching a sunset here is beautiful but since we need to adhere to an itinerary, I would suggest spending time at one of the lakes only. 

This lake has a periphery and enough space to walk around it, unlike Pichola lake which is crammed with restaurants, boats, and hotels. 

One can choose to take a morning walk or post-dinner walk here while eating ice cream from local stalls, making it one of the best places to visit in Udaipur for couples.

Feel the clouds at Sajjangarh Palace or Monsoon Palace

Sajjangarh Palace Udaipur is a hilltop palatial residence, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake. The foundation of the Fort is laid on marble pillars that have exclusive motifs of flowers and leaves carved all over it. The palace walls are plastered with lime mortar.

There is a vast central court with a stunning staircase and several quarters and rooms. The Fort has high turrets and guards monitoring each of the towers. The domes, fountains, and jharokhas all around the palaces are exquisite marvels of Rajasthani architecture. 

The palace offers a panoramic view of the city’s lakes, palaces and surrounding countryside. It was built chiefly to watch the monsoon clouds.

Visitors can easily spend an hour climbing the top, soaking in the views of clouds across the Aravalli hills. Spend the late afternoon till evening around 5:30 pm.

Another option here is to visit The Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Saheliyon ki Badi

Saheliyon ki Bari translated as ‘Garden for friends’ is a sprawling garden having marble elephants, fountains, manicured rose bushes and many trees all maintained in a manicured garden. No wonder it is a popular garden in Udaipur.

The yesteryear king, Maharana Sangram Singh built this garden as a gift for his wife and the queen’s 48 accompanists who came with her as dowry. The garden was built so that the queen and her friends could relax and retreat.

Visit the Ahar Cenotaphs

Ahar Cenotaphs is an offbeat place to visit in Udaipur.

Situated a little away from the city, cenotaphs are royal tombstones. With beautiful architecture and carvings on them, they attract a few tourists to visit them. Similar cenotaphs are also located at Indore and Bhuj .

Ride the Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway

One of the adventure things to do in Udaipur is riding the Ropeway in Udaipur to reach the Karni Mata temple.

Tourists can ride cable cars up the hill from Deen Dayal Park at Doodh Talai to Karni Mata temple. One can enjoy Udaipur city from the viewing platform there, hence it is another good place to watch the sunset in Udaipur.

Vintage Car Museum Udaipur

One of the unique things to do in Udaipur is to visit the vintage car museum. The cars showcased here were used by the Kings of Mewar in Udaipur, back then.

This museum is a gem for car lovers to get a rare insight into the maintenance and upkeep of vintage cars. They are meticulously maintained.

The car collection, opened to the public in early 2000, is housed in what was once the royal garage. There’s even an antique petrol pump there. Highlights of this museum include a 1924 Rolls Royce, a 1938 Cadillac, 1946 Buick, 1947 Chevrolet bus used for transporting children to the Maharana’s school and the first Rolls Royce jeep.

Shopping in Udaipur

Udaipur is as much a shopping destination as it is for visiting lakes and palaces. 

Hathi Pol is one of the colorful streets for silver jewelry, paintings, souvenirs, batik, and bandhani clothing as well as camel leather goods. Bring a big shopping bag and start shopping. These are the 5 things to buy in Udaipur. You can also check this Shopping in Jaipur guide. A lot of stuff is similar in both cities. 

Where to stay in Udaipur | Accommodation in Udaipur

Hotels in Udaipur are all over the city and unless you choose the right hotel you will spend a lot of time commuting to and from the hotel. I highly recommend choosing a hotel near any one of the lakes – Fatehsagar Lake, Udaipur or Pichola Lake, Udaipur. There are many resorts on the outskirts of the city that are perfect for a relaxing Staycation in Udaipur in case you don’t want to see the city. Read my review on Seven Stays Villa, Udaipur .

But if you want to check out all the attractions in Udaipur, then it is best to choose in the city. Since I am more inclined towards Pichola lake, my recommendation is near it.

Hostel: Zostel , GoStops Hostel

Home Stay: Lal ghat guest house

Mid range hotel: Amet Haveli , Kankarwa Haveli

Luxury hotel: The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace , Shiv Niwas Palace

Where to eat in Udaipur

Reserve a table at Ambrai for dinner and relish delectable Rajasthani treats with a gorgeous view. Sip on chai while enjoying the breathtaking views of Pichola lake at Jheel cafe or Upre Restaurant. Here is a list of Places to Eat in Udaipur .

Best time to visit Udaipur

In spite of being a city of lakes, summer season in Udaipur is hot. It is best to visit Udaipur in winter (November to March) and even Monsoons are pleasant.

One-day trips from Udaipur

If you have covered all the things to do in Udaipur and have more time in hand then head to the many destinations around Udaipur that are perfect one-day trips. Some options are:

Haldighati is 63km away from Kumbhalgarh and is a perfect one-day trip. It can be covered while going to Udaipur or while coming to Kumbhalgarh fort from Udaipur. Haldighati (translated as a turmeric-colored pass) is a mountain pass where the Battle of Haldighati took place between the Mewar forces led by Maharana Pratap, and the Mughal forces.

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh Fort is World Heritage Site and is the second-longest wall in the world. It is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli Hills. Read More Here: Kumbhalgarh Fort .

Ranakpur Jain Temple

Ranakpur Jain Mandir is one of the most important Jain temples in Jainism and ranks in the list of top 5 holy shrines of Jains. Ranakpur Jain temple is the largest Jain temple in India and has exquisitely ornamented interiors with sculptures made of marble. Read more here: Ranakpur Jain Temple .

Sustainable tips for Udaipur Travel Guide

• Cars are not allowed in a major portion of the city center. So think before packing that huge airbag without wheels. You can get an auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk) for hotel drop from many of the parking spaces available and allotted for tourist parking.
• Blend in the culture by wearing the right clothes. Skirts and pants till knee level are good. Avoid spaghetti and tank tops. Cover your shoulders with a scarf if necessary.
• Choose local food wherever possible
• Do not litter tourist places. Always use a dustbin.
• Do not harm the ancient palace and temple structures by carving or writing on it
• Do not enter places that are closed off, there’s a reason why they are closed.

I hope you found this guide on things to do in Udaipur helpful! Have you been to Udaipur? Which was your favourite place? Tell me in the comments below

Read More Rajasthan Blogs here

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

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That palace is amaaaaazing! What an amazing view of it from the lake too!

I went to Rajistan many years ago, but we never set foot in Udaipur. It looks like a lovely excuse to head back to that lovely area!!

Udaipur known as city of lakes and visited few places among it few years back.would love to visit it again for its never ending charm!! love the information you shared here.

Hey, I love this place. It has many things which attract me and nowhere i am reading good things about this city.

Wow, Very good itinerary. The Carvings on the Jagdish Mandir looks awesome. This place was on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

Looks amazing! I’ve never been to Udaipur but I hope to go one day! The travel tips at the end of your post are really useful too! Will bear them in mind when I do visit in the future.

Awesome photos! I’ve never visited it yet, but definitely adding Udaipur now to my bucket list! Thank you!

You have remarked very interesting details! ps nice web site.

This place is amazing, especially the lake, and so many nooks and streets to explore, the itinerary is well written, the pictures are beautiful, can’t wait to read some more posts

I hadn’t heard of Udaipur before but wow! Your pictures look great. I really need to see more of India!!

What an interesting place to visit! Love your photos!

Thank you so much Sarah

I regret visiting Udaipur just for one and a half day. There’s so much to see in 3 days! The Pichola Lake is my best spot in Udaipur. I remember hanging out there the whole evening. I am glad you covered so many places to visit in 3 days. Well Done! Great itinerary..

Thank you so much. It is amazing and that is why i can go back there any day inspite of the crowds 🙂

Really nice pictures. I need to visit India! Thanks for posting!

I’ve never heard of this place before, looks like you have a great 3 day guide for those wishing to visit! Great complimentary photos too. Badi lake looks very pretty to sit and relax at!

Thank you so much. Glad to know it makes you want to visit 🙂

The carvings on the Jagdish Mandir look absolutely stunning! Would love to visit this temple and the City Palace one day.

I am sure you’d love it 🙂

Woah those carvings on the Jagdish Mandir are amazing! They’re so intricate. That would be such a cool place to visit.

Udaipur is a very beautiful place. It could be a little hot during summers but an absolutely darling place. The pictures are breathtaking as if they transport you to that location.

Agree it can get hot. But thanks to those water filled lakes the temperatures are still bearable as compared to other Rajasthan cities.

Absolutely gorgeous! I loved your Udaipur guide

Really inspiring post, thanks for sharing! This corner of the world I have not explored enough, so this will be super helpful when I come to India. And going by these amazing photos I should go soon!

You should visit India and have a couple of months in hand to explore it 😀

Udaipur is one of my favorite destinations in Rajasthan. The best part is here walking tour is fun. Most of the attractions are close to each other.

Those elephant carvings on the Jagdish Mandir are amazing! And I would never have thought of doing a homestay here, thanks for the tip!

It’s definitely an amazing place and I can see why you keep visiting. Love the photo of the lady with the baskets. Amazing

Could not agree more with your sustainable tip about “eating local”…it is definitively one of the best ways to explore the local culture. The City Palace is quite impressive. I look forward to visiting India soon!!

I have been to Udaipur during my school days and I remember all these places. Udaipur has great architectures with rich cultural heritage. I would love to see folk dances in that authentic Rajasthani styled Haveli. Thanks for sharing detailed post.

Wow those carvings are just insane! I love the beautiful details, really impressive. I really want to visit this part of the world soon, thanks for sharing 🙂

How intriguing is Udaipur. Your pictures and stories are full of interesting details!

That Dhanohar dance is amazing, that is incredible balance that woman has! I think the place I would want to see most on your list is the Garden (as it’s translated). I absolutely love fountains! Also, nice tip on no cars in the city center-good to know for planning!

I have yet to visit India, but when I do, I would put Udaipur on the list for sure. Your itinerary shows that there is a lot to see. I would love to spend some time at the City Palace. I can see how it is a relaxing place.

What a cool visit! The architecture (and your photos) are stunning. What? A vintage car museum! I would definitely be going there.

Beautiful palaces, a lot of history and stunning nature! I think we would love to spend some time at Badi Lake and explore the area, do some hikes and just enjoy the scenery.

I haven’t been to India but saving this list for sure! It looks like the perfect three day itinerary for the area. The Jagdish Temple is so detailed and beautiful.

Udaipur is indeed the jewel in the crown of Rajasthan. The city is unique and offers so much to experience for travelers. Love the fact that Udaipur has something different from the other cities of Rajasthan like Jaipur and Jodhpur. This is a wonderful itinerary that allows one to really experience the royalty and heritage of Udaipur.

Love this post! You give such great detail about a fascinating place I’ve never heard of. I can see why it would be a great weekend getaway: I think I would most enjoy sitting by or walking along the lake shore, that seems like the most peaceful and relaxing thing to do there. Thank you for sharing!

Hey, I am so glad to read your thoughts because I really enjoyed reading this. The way you explain your travel experience is truly awesome. I must say the list is a great one. If you are visiting Udaipur keep this as the checklist to visit places and i bet you love them all. Keep travelling. Good share. The palaces are magnificent. Not only is there such beauty, there is the history that adds to their attractiveness. The landscape seems magical and what a great place to visit. good information about Udaipur. Thanks for providing valuable info on Udaipur.

I accidentally came across this blog and I am glad I did! Saving this itinerary for my next trip to Udaipur.

I absolutely love Udaipur, it is so magical! I stayed in Zostel when I was there, it had just recently opened and highly recommend it! The views from the rooftop are incredible!

Couldn’t agree more Demi. The views from most hotels on Pichola lake are breathtaking. I could spend an entire day on its banks!

Sounds great, I’d love to try the ropeway!

Udaipur looks so beautiful! India is so high on my bucket list, so I’ll be saving this post for later when I begin real planning. Thank you!!

I hope you make it to India super soon <3

When I did touring in Rajasthan I somehow skipped Udaipur and spent more time in Jaipur. Your pics are enticing and makes me want to go and visit those lake palaces and streets. Love the travel tips you have provided at the end!

Funny story but when I first went to Udaipur, I was not impressed, maybe because I overloaded with forts, palaces and opulence all over Rajasthan and Udaipur was my last place. But every visit after that has been special and an eye-opener, making me fall in love again and again. You must visit Rajasthan to visit Udaipur 🙂

Wonderful post – I regret not visiting Udaipur when I was traveling around Rajasthan a few years back. Will have to make another trip to go and see it for sure, it looks amazing.

Yes Anna, it is beautiful and you should visit in your next trip 🙂

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Udaipur Travel Guide

Planning to visit Udaipur? Want apt information to smoothen your travel experience?

Here we are with the most helpful Udaipur Travel Guide; this will include the following categories:

Best Time to Visit Udaipur

Udaipur being the most romantic city doesn’t experience extreme climatic conditions, to be simplified: The winters in Udaipur aren’t too chilly, summers in Udaipur aren’t too boiling and monsoons in Udaipur aren’t too muggy.

But the ideal time to visit Udaipur is in the winter season that lasts from the month of October to February , as one can enjoy the day-time travel as well with the ideal temperature of minimum 10 degree Celsius approximately and maximum 30 degree Celsius.

If the rains do not bother you, you must visit Udaipur in the monsoon season as the city with several lakes complimented with the Aravali range of mountains makes the site look heavenly with an approximate temperature of 23 to 40 degree Celsius. Monsoon months: July to September.

Also the summer season is considered to be the off-season for tourism in Udaipur as the maximum temperature can reach upto 44 degree Celsius. Summer months: March to June.

How to Reach Udaipur?

Udaipur can be accessed by several major cities of India including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Pune, Jaipur, Jodhpur and a lot more.

By Air: The Maharana Pratap Airport or The Dabok Airport is located at a distance of 20kms from the main Udaipur City; reputed airlines have scheduled routine flights including Indian Airlines, Kingfisher Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Deccan.

By Train: Udaipur has a well-connected rail network to several cities like Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, etc. Trains that run via Udaipur Railway Station: Bandra-Udaipur SF Express, Mewar Express, Gwalior-Udaipur Express, Chetak Express and Annanya Express.

By Bus: Udaipur is blessed with an efficient bus network connecting to various cities, some reliable bus operators in Udaipur are, Vishwakarma Tours and Travels, Shree Parshwanath Travels, Shrinath Travel Agency, Neeta Travels, etc.

Best Hotels in Udaipur

We’ve compiled 3 lists with the best 5 star, 4 star and budget hotels in Udaipur mentioned below:

5 Star Hotels in Udaipur

One can live in a royal palace transformed into a hotel and feel like a royal King/Queen; we’ve listed all the 5-star hotels in Udaipur below:

• Taj Lake Palace
• Oberoi Udai Vilas
• The Leela Palace
• Fateh Prakash Palace
• Trident Udaipur
• Lalit Laxmi Vilas
• TatSaraasa Resort and Spa
• Club Mahindra
• Raas Devigarh

All the hotels mentioned above are either a former palace built by the ancient Mewar rulers or the replicas of these palaces to provide a luxurious stay to their guests, with the ancient Rajasthani architecture equipped with modern amenities providing a satisfying stay in Udaipur.

4 Star Hotels in Udaipur

There are also several options available in 4 star hotels that will also offer lavish stays listed below:

• Chunda Palace
• Ramada Resort & Spa
• Radisson Blu
• Inder Residency
• Ram Pratap Palace
• Justa Rajputana
• Jhadol Safari Resort
• Golden Tulip
• Spectrum Hotel & Residencies

The hotels mentioned above will provide a delightful experience, and will be pocket-friendly as compared to other 5 star hotels in Udaipur.

Budget Hotels in Udaipur

Nowadays budget travelling is the latest trend, one believes in comfort stays that don’t prick a hole in their pockets. There are numerous options in Udaipur for budget hotels; we’ve gathered the best budget hotels in Udaipur that offer good services as well.

• Greco House
• The Lakeaway
• Hotel Vishnupriya
• Hotel Pichola Haveli
• Hotel Mukund Vilas
• Hotel Udaigarh
• Hotel Rangniwas Palace
• Shree Jagdish Mahal
• Hotel Mewar Haveli
• Hotel Kurabar Kothi
• Jheel Guest House
• Hotel Boheda Palace
• Hotel Thamla Haveli

There are several other budgeted hotels available in old city Udaipur, where you can have a pleasant stay.

Also we’re mentioning few hostels available, if you prefer to stay in a traveler’s hostel:

• Moustache Hostel
• Bunkyard Hostel
• Backpacker Panda Lake Pichola
• The Hostel Crawl
• Backpacker Panda Lake Fateh Sagar
• Banjaara Hostel

Best Places to Visit in Udaipur

Udaipur is a tourist’s deck, and therefore contains several sites to be explored. A list with all the places you must visit in Udaipur has been displayed below:

The City Palace :

This royal palace was built over 400 years ago; it is now open for public to explore along with the amusing museums with unique artifacts.

Lakes and the locations nearby:

As Udaipur is considered as the city of lakes, you must visit the prime lakes of Udaipur also various locations that shall increase the charm of the lakes, following are stated below:

• Pichola Lake
• Fateh Sagar Lake
• Ambrai Ghat
• Gangaur Ghat

Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh) and Sajjangarh Biological Park:

Built in 1884, the Monsoon Palace was constructed by Maharana Sajjan Singh so that he could admire the monsoon clouds from the top of a hill.

The Sajjangarh Biological Park inhabits various species, and is located beneath the Sajjangarh Palace.

Nehru Garden

Situated amidst the alluring Fateh Sagar Lake, this garden can be accessed by a boat ride that can be booked at the same time from the lakeshore.

Take a walk into the tribal cultural lifestyle of several regions in India maintained in form of a museum.

Gardens in Udaipur

For a peaceful environment you must visit the lush gardens in Udaipur that carry their own unique significance.

• Rajiv Gandhi Park
• Gulab Bagh and Zoo

Vintage and Classic Car Museum

20 ancient precious cars are showcased in this museum along with other worth-admiring products that should be explored once.

Temples in Udaipur

Each Temple has a story behind its construction, also with unique architecture. There are several temples in Udaipur that are worth exploring but mainly 2 temples you must see.

• Karni Mata Temple
• Jagdish Temple

Places to Visit Near Udaipur

As Udaipur is situated amidst the green Aravali range of Mountains, there are several sites near Udaipur that serves the best natural locations to hangout. Here are various places you must visit around Udaipur.

Natural Sites

These natural sites are a must visit for an ideal picnic, these locations are situated near Udaipur at approximately 20kms of distance from the main city, the following are mentioned below:

• Ubeshwar Ji
• Nandeshwar Ji
• Chandni Village
• Jaisamand Lake
• Thoor ki Paal

Eklingji Temple

There are 108 temples in the Eklinji Temple, the construction of these were started in 734 A.D. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, with several temples of many Gods and Goddesses surrounding it.

Haldi Ghati

Revive the epic Haldi Ghati battle that was fought between Maharana Pratap and Emperor Akbar.

Shrinath Ji Temple Nathdwara

Several far-flung worshippers of Lord Krishna come along to visit this holy temple to acquire peace from the lord.

Things to do in Udaipur

Now after being sorted with when to visit Udaipur? where to stay? what to explore? It’s time to decide what all you should do in Udaipur in order to cherish your experience in the City of Lakes and make it memorable.

Here is a list for the same:

You must measure the waters of Udaipur if you plan to visit the City of Lakes, and this can only be done by a boat ride. Apart from a normal boat ride, you can book a motor ride and sync with the speedy wind.

Cultural Shows:

Rajasthan’s authentic art from is considered to be the numerous dance forms that display the vibrant colors of the state. You must visit these cultural shows that are conducted at various places in Udaipur like City Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli, Shilpgram etc.

Explore the city from heights through the options listed below:

• Hot Balloon Ride
• Helicopter Ride
• Double Decker Bus Ride

Handicraft Shopping

The Local market of Udaipur inhabits gems in form of handicrafts; you must buy a unique hand-crafted product for your loved ones or to just to pamper yourself.

Binge at Lakeside

The lakes must be admired by having a gala time at the restaurants situated near the lakes; also a lake-side candle light dinner is a must to do in the Lake City.

Things to buy in Udaipur

‘Shopping reduces stress! And so does Udaipur City’, imagine fulfilling both the elements.

We’ve made a list of all the products that might get your shopping craving to its peak, these products can be easily found in the local market of Udaipur near the City Palace, Old City.

• Ethnic Sarees
• Pagdis (Turbans)
• Paintings and Sculptures
• Cushion Covers
• Authentic Jewellery
• Wall Hangings
• Mojadis (Footwear)
• Wall Clocks
• Traditional Rajasthani Attires
• Shawls and Stoles

There are several other options available in Udaipur’s market that you can explore and add it to your closets.

Best Restaurants in Udaipur

Here is the list of best restaurants in different categories.

Lake View Restaurants

• Hari Garh:  Rs900 for two people
• Khamma Ghani: Rs1000 for two people
• Tribute:  Rs1500 for two people
• Panna Vilas:  Rs750 for two people
• Inder-Prakash: Rs1300 for two people
• Bluemoon Kinaraz: Rs1000 for two people
• Raaj Bagh: Rs1500 for two people
• Greco House: Rs900 for two people
• Sun n Moon Restaurant: Rs750 for two people
• Ambrai – Amet Haveli: Rs1700 for two people

Rooftop Restaurants

• Aravali Radisson Blu: Rs2000 for two people
• Jagat Niwas: Rs1200 for two people
• Afeem: Rs1000 for two people
• Ananta: Rs2000 for two people
• Vintage Lounge: Rs1000 for two people
• Zannat: Rs1500 for two people
• Sun n Moon: Rs750 for two people
• Upre: Rs1900 for two people
• Panna Vilas: Rs750 for two people

Romantic Restaurants

• Hari Garh: Rs900 for two people
• Chandni – Oberoi Udaivilas: Rs5000 for two people
• Udai Kothi: Rs1800 for two people
• Neel Kamal – Taj Lake Palace: Rs5000 for two people
• Jag Mandir: Rs4000 for two people
• Lalit Laxmi Vilas: Rs3000 for two people
• Sheesh Mahal – The Leela Palace: Rs5000 for two people
• Trident: Rs4000 for two people
• Lakend: Rs2000 for two people

Family Restaurants

• Zeal: Rs1000 for two people
• Swayamwar – Shouryagarh: Rs1500 for two people
• Udaipuri: Rs700 for two people
• Chawlas: Rs1000 for two people
• Bramha Niwas: Rs1000 for two people
• Foodies – Valley View: Rs1500 for two people
• Hukum: Rs800 for two people
• Yellow Chilli: Rs1000 for two people
• Natraj: Rs350 for two people
• Gordhan Thal: Rs650 for two people

Veg Restaurants

• Ranaji: Rs900 for two people
• Mathara: Rs1000 for two people
• Curry Leaves: Rs900 for two people
• Fern Residency: Rs1500 for two people
• Tulsi Leaf: Rs1000 for two people
• Bramha Niwas: Rs1300 for two people
• Shouryagarh: Rs1200 for two people
• Ambrosiya: Rs1200 for two people
• Angeera: Rs600 for two people

Non-Veg Restaurants

• Kabab Mistri: Rs1000 for two people
• Bal Bal To: Rs500 for two people
• Take away: Rs900 for two people
• Urban Dhaba: Rs1000 for two people
• Kantons: Rs650 for two people
• Gala Bagh: Rs800 for two people
• Udai garh: Rs300 for two people
• R Paaji’s Kitchen: Rs300 for two people
• Vairo: Rs2500 for two people

Budget Restaurants

• Bawarchi: Rs600 for two people
• Meera: Rs300 for two people
• Daya: Rs350 for two people
• Hariyali: Rs650 for two people
• Vatika: Rs600 for two people
• Shree Venktesh: Rs650 for two people
• Green Chilly: Rs500 for two people
• Kailash Dining Hall: Rs300 for two people
• Honest: Rs600 for two people

Don’t Forget to Like, Share and Subscribe to My Udaipur City; let us know ‘Did you find this Udaipur travel guide helpful?’ in the comment section below. Also share any views, suggestions and opinions you have with us via comments, we also love to adore the alluring pictures you share with us, therefore continue keeping us updated with our Udaipur City.

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आपकी वेबसाइट बहुत ही अच्छी हैं । शहर में आने से पहले ही घर बैठे सब जानकारी मिल जाती हैं । आपने जिस तरीके से उदयपुर शहर के आकर्षणों को और कल्चर को प्रस्तुत किया हैं वह लाजवाब हैं। धन्यवाद

Thanks a lot Naresh for your kind words.

It’s really a amazing blog with varied information for everyone who wanted to witness the Udaipur City

Thanks sumit, I am glad that you liked it.

Wonderful work done, simply a great job sir, thanks a lot for all the details at finger tip.

Thanks a lot Krishna, I am so glad you liked our work.

Thank you for this extensive blog! It helped a lot for my visit to the amazing city. Helped me explore the place as a local.

Udaipur is the best place for tourism.

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Not that the city is perfect: insensitive lakeside development, appalling traffic along the old city’s maze of tightly winding streets and vast hordes of tourists mean that Udaipur is far from unspoilt or undiscovered. Even so, it remains a richly rewarding place to visit, and although it’s possible to take in most of the sights in a few days, many people spend at least a week exploring the city and the various attractions scattered about the surrounding countryside.

The best travel tips for visiting Udaipur

Best things to do in udaipur, best areas to stay in udaipur, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit udaipur, how many days do you need in udaipur, how to get here, travel ideas for india, created by local experts.

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Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

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Spreading around the shores of the idyllic Lake Pichola and backdropped by a majestic ring of craggy green hills, Udaipur seems to encapsulate India at its most quintessentially romantic.

This is a city with an intricate sequence of ornately turreted and balconied palaces, whitewashed havelis and bathing ghats clustered around the waters of the lake. Or, in the case of the Lake Palace hotel and Jag Mandir, floating magically upon them.

North of the city are the historic temples of Nagada, Eklingji, Nathdwara and Kankroli. To the northwest, en route to Jodhpur, lie the superb Jain temples of Ranakpur and the rambling fort at Kumbhalgarh. Renting a car or motorcycle saves time, though local buses serve both routes.

Rough Guides tip: Planning a trip to India? Browse our itineraries !

Jag Mandir Palace, Lake Pichola, Udaipur © Blue Sky Studio/Shutterstock

Udaipur, often referred to as the 'City of Lakes' and renowned for its timeless beauty, offers a captivating array of experiences that showcase its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture

#1 Take a boat trip around Lake Pichola

Udaipur’s idyllic Lake Pichola provides the city’s most memorable views. It’s a beautiful frame for the City Palace buildings, havelis, ghats, temple towers and other structures which crowd its eastern side – best seen from a boat trip around the lake.

The lake’s two island palaces are among Udaipur’s most famous features, and each evening Sunset Point, near Amet Haveli, sees flocks of onlookers keen to snap the sun setting to the west. Boat rides around Lake Pichola depart from the jetty towards the south end of the City Palace complex, offering unforgettable views of the various palaces.

All trips stop at the Jag Mandir. Tours depart hourly on the hour; to make the most of them, sit on the side of the boat facing the palace (they usually run anticlockwise around the lake).

#2 Sail past Jag Niwas Lake Palace, the most romantic hotel in the world

Closed to non-guests Jag Niwas, now the Lake Palace hotel, was built in amalgamated Rajput-Mughal style as a summer palace during the reign of Jagat Singh (1628–52).

Unfortunately, as a security measure following the 2008 gun attacks in Mumbai, non guests can no longer visit the hotel. That is a shame as what has often been called the most romantic hotel in the world can now only be seen it as part of a boat ride around the lake.

Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan state, India © Shutterstock

#3 Visit the wondrous Jag Mandir

Best visited as part of a boat tour, the Jag Mandir palace, on the island to the south, is arranged around a large garden guarded by stone elephants. The main building here is the Gol Mahal, which has detailed stone inlay work within its domed roof and houses a small exhibition on the history of the island.

The young Shah Jahan once stayed here and was apparently so impressed by the building that he used it as one of the models for his own Taj Mahal, though it’s difficult to see the resemblance.

Planning a trip to Udaipur? Browse our itineraries !

#4 Learn more about Udaipur at the City Palace Museum

Begin your circuit of the museum by wandering past propitious statues of Ganesh and Lakshmi, and winding upstairs to reach the first of the palace’s myriad courtyards, the Rajya Angan.

A room off to one side is devoted to the exploits of Pratap Singh, one of Udaipur’s most famous military leaders.

From here, steps lead up to the pleasantly sylvan Badi Mahal (Garden Palace; also known as Amar Vilas after its creator, Amar Singh II, who reigned 1695–1755).

Its main courtyard is embellished with finely carved pillars and a marble pool, and dotted with trees that flourish despite being built some 30m above ground level.

From the Badi Mahal, twisting steps lead down to the Dilkushal Mahal, whose rooms house a superb selection of paintings depicting festive events in the life of the Udaipur court.

City Palace and tourist boat on lake Pichola. Udaipur, Rajasthan, India © Sean Hsu/Shutterstock

#5 See artworks in black marble at the Government Museum

The small Government Museum, opposite the entrance to the City Palace Museum, is of interest for its impressive sculpture gallery of pieces from Kumbhalgarh. Look for some outstanding works in black marble.

#6 Delve into the kitsch world of the Durbar Hall Crystal Gallery

More interesting than the Government Museum in many ways – and certainly far more atmospheric – is the vast Durbar Hall in the Fateh Prakash Palace. This huge, wonderfully time-warped Edwardian-era ballroom with huge chandeliers, creaky old furniture and fusty portraits was built to host state banquets, royal functions and remains full of period character.

In a gallery overlooking the hall is the eccentric Crystal Gallery, housing an array of fine British crystal ordered by Sajjan Singh in the 1880s. It also features some outlandishly kitsch items including crystal chairs, tables and lamps – there’s even a crystal hookah and a crystal bed.

The extortionate entrance charge is a bit of a turn-off, though it does include an audioguide and non-alcoholic refreshments at the hotel’s Surya Dharshan Bar.

#7 Witness the Mewar sound-and-light show

Every evening, fifteen years of history is revived at the palace, as special effects and commentary recount stories from the Kingdom of Mewar in a show called The Legacy of Honour (Yash ki Dharohar in Hindi).

The Mewar sound-and-light show is held in Manek Chowk, and commentary is in English between September and April, and in Hindi for the rest of the year.

#8 Visit Udaipur’s most popular shrine at Jagdish Temple City

Just north of the City Palace, Jagdish Temple is one of Udaipur’s most popular and vibrant shrines. Built in 1652 and dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an aspect of Vishnu, its outer walls and towering shikhara are heavily carved with figures of Vishnu, scenes from the life of Krishna and dancing apsaras (nymphs).

The circular mandapa leads to the sanctuary where a black stone image of Jagannath sits shrouded in flowers, while a small raised shrine in front of the temple protects a bronze Garuda. Subsidiary shrines to Shiva, Ganesh, Surya and Durga stand at each corner of the main temple.

Jagdish Temple, Udaipur, India © Shutterstock

#9 Explore the Bagore-ki-Haveli museum

North of Jagdish Temple, a lane leads to Gangaur Ghat and the Bagore-ki-Haveli, a 138-room lakeside haveli dating from 1751. A section of the building has been converted into a worthwhile museum, arranged on two floors around one of the rambling haveli’s several courtyards.

The upper floors has several immaculately restored rooms with original furnishings and artworks, plus some fine murals. The lower floor has rooms full of puppets, women’s clothes, musical instruments, kitchen equipment and – the undisputed highlight – what is claimed to be the world’s largest turban. Traditional music and dance shows are staged here each evening.

#10 See a puppet show at the Folklore Museum

Just north of Chetak Circle in the new city, the hoary old Folklore Museum is home to a mildly interesting collection of exhibits. They cover the folk traditions of Rajasthan and India, with dusty displays of colourful masks, puppets and musical instruments.

Short, amusing puppet shows (tip expected) are staged throughout the day on demand. Well, the performers will probably hunt you down and drag you into the theatre shortly after your arrival. There are also two hour-long shows daily, with music, dancing and more puppets.

#11 Find Udaipur’s most striking fountain at Sahelion-ki-Bari

The “garden of the maids of honour”, Sahelion-ki-Bari was laid out by Sangram Singh (1710–34) as a summer retreat for the diversion and entertainment of the ladies of the royal household. However, the fountains weren’t installed until the reign of Fateh Singh (1884–1930).

The walled gardens, attractive and formal, are centred on a peaceful courtyard enclosing a large pool. Behind this, four elephant statues surround Udaipur’s most striking fountain, a fanciful tiered creation that looks a bit like a huge, multicoloured cake stand.

Saheliyon-ki-Bari or Saheliyon ki Bari or Garden of the Maidens is a major garden in Udaipur in Rajasthan state of India © Shutterstock

#12 Ride the cable cars up to the summit of Machlan Magra

Just south of the old city, opposite Deen Dayal Park, ruby-red cable cars float up to the summit of Machlan Magra hill on the Ropeway. The panoramic views from its summit are stunning, taking in sights such as Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir and the Monsoon Palace – a particularly nice place to be at sunset.

East of the Dutch Tala Lake, a winding pathway provides an alternative ascent route used by pilgrims visiting the small hilltop Karni Mata temple; it’s a fairly gentle walk through pleasant scenery.

#13 Enjoy the rural arts and crafts centre of Shilpgram

The popular rural arts and crafts centre of Shilpgram was set up to promote the traditional architecture, music and crafts of the tribal people of western India. It has displays dedicated to the diverse lifestyles and customs of the region’s rural population.

Around thirty replica houses and huts in traditional style are arranged in a village-like compound, with examples of buildings from various states. Musicians, puppeteers and dancers – hijras (eunuchs) among them – hang out around the houses and strike up on the approach of visitors (tip expected). You may also see people weaving, potting and embroidering as they would in their original homes – though most of the actual handicrafts on sale are fifth-rate, if that.

#14 Seek out the Monsoon Palace of Sajjangarh

Some 5 km west of the city, inside the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, the so-called “Monsoon Palace”, Sajjangarh, was begun in 1883 by Maharana Sajjan Singh to serve as a summer retreat. It comes complete with a nine-storey observatory from which the royal family proposed to watch the monsoon clouds travelling across the countryside below.

Unfortunately, the maharana’s untimely death the following year put paid to the planned observatory. Although the palace itself was finished by Singh’s successor, Maharana Fateh Singh, it was found to be impossible to pump water up to it, and the whole place was abandoned shortly afterwards.

The large though rather plain building is now a somewhat melancholy sight, but the views over Udaipur, more than 300m below, are unrivalled. The journey up to the palace takes a good fifteen minutes by taxi; really, the climb is too steep to tackle by bicycle, although some people try.

Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace Fort, Udaipur © Shutterstock

The best areas to stay in Udaipur will have lakeside views. Here’s where to look for accomodation .

Most accommodation is found on the east side of Lake Pichola in the weaving alleyways that dot back from the water. Lake views costs more but many hotels further back do have rooftop restaurants.

There are a growing number of excellent places on the far more peaceful northwestern side of the lake, just across the bridge by Chand Pol.

Read more about best places to stay in India .

The best places to eat are the lakeside restaurants, however there are plenty of decent rooftop bars and restaurants to pick from as well. A few of the rooftop places around the lake are licensed – good news, particularly around sunset.

For other entertainment, Bagore-ki-Haveli has nightly dance performances, while Shilpgram often hosts out-of-town performers.

There are plenty of good places to eat near the majestic City Palace which are usually a cut above the rest. Situated near the renowned Jagdish Temple, is a vibrant hub of cafes and restaurants offering splendid views of Lake Pichola.

There are some great street food stalls serving local cuisine around Chandpol.

Pottery workshop in Shilpagram, Udaipur © Shutterstock

From auto rickshaws to walking, it is easy to get around Udaipur. Here’s how to do it.

Udaipur's city centre is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore many attractions on foot. Quick cheap and easy auto-rickshaws are to be found all across the city and are a good way of getting around the lake.

Taxi-hailing apps like Ola and Uber work in Udaipur with prices similar to those of auto-rickshaws. Metered taxis are slightly more expensive but more reliable too should you need them.

The best time to visit Udaipur is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for boating on the lake. The city experiences moderate temperatures with sunny days and slightly cool evenings.

This period also coincides with Udaipur's festival season, including the Mewar Festival and Shilpgram Crafts Fair, adding to the city's vibrancy. But be warned: Udaipur can get crowded with tourists during peak season

Allocate at least 2 to 3 days for your Udaipur visit. This duration allows you to explore the iconic City Palace, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola and visit the stunning Jag Mandir.

With a couple of days, you can cover the major highlights and get a good sense of Udaipur's charm by wandering its backstreets and catching a dance performance in the evening.

Maharana Pratap Airport is located a full 20 km east of Udaipur. It welcomes flights from:

Trains pull in at Udaipur City station, southeast of the city centre. Services from Udaipur are surprisingly limited. Note that there are no direct services to Jodhpur; you’ll have to change at Kota (or take a bus).

Government buses leave from the main State Bus Stand at Udai Pol. Private buses depart from across City Station Rd, and are a better option for longer and (especially) overnight journeys.

Rough Guides tip: It’s easiest to book tickets for private buses through one of the many travel agents in town or, for ease, through your hotel/guesthouse.

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Ultimate Udaipur Travel Blog: Rajasthan diaries

Rajasthan is the undisputed hotspot for Foreign tourists. Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaiselmer, and Badhmer attract a huge chunk of visitors every single year. Rajasthan is huge and there are palaces and forts everywhere! But, if I had to recommend a short trip to experience the entirety of the state, I’d recommend Udaipur! Here goes my Udaipur travel blog .

Also, you don’t have to be Priyanka Chopra or Katy Perry and plan an extravaganza of a wedding to visit Udaipur. Although, if you decide to do that: invite me and I’ll plan your wedding for free.

Back to the blog, Udaipur is the most picturesque city in Rajasthan. Also dubbed as the “City of Lakes”, history and architecture make the soul of the city. My father has a special spot for Udaipur in his heart as he spent the initial days of his career there. We never understood his nostalgia till we actually toured there for 3 days in January winters.

Table of Contents

Udaipur Travel Blog: Best time to Visit

In general, it’s best to visit Rajasthan from autumn to spring. Never, plan a trip during peak summers(April-June) because it’s a desert and we are not bedouins.

How do I reach Udaipur?

A flying carpet is the most convenient way although trains and flights are good as well. Reach Udaipur by Train : The Udaipur City railway station connects to all major cities in India. Reach Udaipur by Flight : The Maharana Pratap Airport receives both domestic and international flights.

Taxis for intercity travel are available everywhere. There’s also the city bus that runs for tourists.

Where do I stay?

The entire city of Udaipur is sparsed with hotels around “Lake Pichola”. There is accommodation for all budgets, so you might as well just find the best place meeting your requirements. I’d suggest living around the “City Palace” for easy access to restaurants, markets, and transportation.

Here are some accommodations by the City Palace to check out on Booking.com:

I’m hungry!

Udaipur travel blog can’t be complete without food! See, with its immense foreign tourist load the city has a lot of restaurants that serve exotic tastes. However, for the authentic Rajasthani taste here’s what a friend of mine from Udaipur advised me:

• Neelam Restaurant: Gangaur Ghat Marg, Near Jagdish temple.
• Natraj Dining Hall: Located on the Bapu Bazar main road.

Trust me you’ll eat the best “Dal Bati Churma” and “Rajasthani thali” in these places.

Once you’re over with a full course meal, head towards Chetak circle for “The Udaipur Pyaaz Kachori” at “JMB Nashta center”. Conclude with a “Mava Kulfi” for your sweet tooth. AND! It’s a SIN to not have MILK and JALEBI in your breakfast. Try it! you’ll thank me later. Also, if you want to find more amazing places for other cuisines , Udaipur will not disappoint you.

What do I do there?

•  Appreciate the beauty of the city with its so many gardens and lakes.
• Relish in the history of Udaipur and the Mewar Kingdom.
• Indulge in the architectural wonders.
• Eat some of the best snacks (Pyaaz kachori and Doodh Jalebi: a winter delicacy).
• You plan your next trips to Haldighati and Kumbhalgarh.
• Say get married?

Interested in writing travel blogs? Check out this course on Udemy that’ll help kickstart your sailing dreams!

Your ultimate tourist guide for Udaipur:

City palace.

The Sisodia dynasty ruler Rana Udai Singh built it in 1553 and then the extensions kept adding up for the next 400 years. As I stood in the courtyard of that palace, I just kept wondering how this was the home to one of the bravest Rajputs. 400 years of history right before you, the doors through which Maharanas walked and the Jharokhas through which Maharanis would keep a watch on their kingdom.

Save   Save

Lake pichola.

It’s an artificial freshwater lake meant for storage purposes. Constructed in 1362 AD, one can only marvel over the prosperity and vision of rulers back then.

In the center of this lake, we see “Hotel Lake Palace” which used to be the summer palace of the rulers but is now one of the most expensive and grand 4-star hotels in the country.

Fateh Saagar lake

Fateh Sagar Lake,  constructed by Rana Fateh Singh and named after him, is another artificial lake. It’s a lively spot among locals as well the surroundings are bustling with shops and hotels.

Jagdish Temple

A representative of Maru Gurjara architecture. It’s claimed to be the most beautiful example of Hindu Iconography with 3 stories hand-carved in stone.

Saheliyon ki Bari Garden

It was made for queens by Rana Sangram Singh. There are fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants. It’s on the bank of Fateh Saagar lake and one can spend a good time with family here.

Ahar Museum(Cenotaphs)

Located 2 km from Udaipur in Ahar, this is a very fancy crematory. There are 250 cenotaphs commemorating the rulers of Mewar. 19 bigger Chhatris for the Maharajas. There’s scary air to the place. I remember having a dry mouth when the guide kept telling us about the place and how each raja died.

Life was tough back then as a ruler. Since Hinduism doesn’t have a tomb system, but rulers’ site of cremation is often marked for future generations to pay their respects.

However, for the royal women death was epitomized differently.

Moti Magri Memorial

This is a rather recent memorial of Maharana Pratap with his horse Chetak – it’s a bronze statue. One can’t feel the significance of this “statue” till they visit Haldighati themselves and listen to the story of Rana Pratap and the War of Haldighati. Well, do bond with the locals as they tell you all about Rana Pratap: the sharpest sword of Rajputana.

Vintage Car museum

Yes – this is the place for automobile lovers. And it’s owned by the present heir of the royal dynasty of Sisodias who also owns the HRH Group of Hotels.

Mochi Bazar

SHOPPING! Udaipur is famous for “mojris” or “juttis” of all kinds for men and women. Mojris are a type of shoes and you must definitely check out the Mochi Bazar for them.

To conclude this travel blog, Udaipur has a vibe that makes everyone feel like they belong to the royal family. Also, the place begins to settle in you once you become familiar with the history, the war, and the Rajput way of life.

The amount of respect I have for the Rajputana and Maratha kingdom is just reflective of fact that there were people who fought for their self-respect. People who lived before us and ensured that we live in peace even if it comes at the cost of their lives. Ah! It’s just overwhelming. That settles my Udaipur travel blog :)

Read the next part of this Rajasthan travel blog here: Haldighati to Kumbhalgarh -Rajasthan Diaries

Other travel blogs on short trip destinations for you:

• A Complete Guide to Gir National Park
• Dandeli Itinerary for 2 Days
• Rajasthan Travel Blog: Top 5 Places to Visit

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7 thoughts on “Ultimate Udaipur Travel Blog: Rajasthan diaries”

Hi, Just wondering what would be the best time to travel for Thar desert safari?

You have rightly said that Udaipur truly lives up the tourists’ expectations. The pics you have posted are really amazing. Udaipur, actually, beckons with its enchanting blend of history and beauty. Nestled around azure lakes, the city is a canvas of majestic palaces, vibrant markets, and intricate architecture. The City Palace, a symphony of marble and mosaic, stands as a testament to royal grandeur. Boat rides on Lake Pichola offer breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Udaipur’s cultural tapestry, rich traditions, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination, where every cobblestone exudes a timeless charm.

Nice and informative blog author. Thank you. keep it up.

Wow, very nice blog. I have written a blog with more information about the Rajasthan Tour Package

Udaipur is most beautiful place I have ever seen, thanks for all the information and amazing click.

Great Blog on travelling, Udaipur is such beautiful place to travel among Indians as well as outsiders. So if you are a travelling enthusiast and travel on an affordable prices, click on this: Rajasthan Yatra, they provide tour packages based on your interest such as religious tour packages, wildlife tour packages, adventure tour packages, Rajasthan tour packages with a knowledgeable, friendly tour guides.

This is wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing this detailed itinerary. Images you clicked? Because these are awesome. Rajasthan is a great place to visit. It is very popular in all over world for its food, snacks, fort, temples, culture.

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Udaipur Travel Guide: 13 Best Places to Visit in Udaipur

Udaipur is not at all like the place shown in movies. Sure, it does offer you Rajasthani culture to look at but it is much more than that.

This peaceful city, surrounded by the Aravalli ranges, is one of the most picturesque cities you can ever be to. And there is a list of best places to visit in Udaipur that will show you how diverse and culturally rich this city is.

With its numerous lakes and palaces, it is different from all the places you have been so far. This is why it should definitely have a spot on your bucket list. Spend a week here and gorge on their delicious food and explore the beautiful palaces around. 

In this Udaipur travel guide, I will be sharing all the details about my trip to Udaipur including how to reach, when to visit, and the best places to visit in Udaipur.

Best Places to Visit in Udaipur

Udaipur is often called the  Venice of the East  and if you visit here then you would know that this actually holds true. This small Rajasthani city was previously the capital of the Mewar Kingdom and was founded in 1559 by Maharaja Udai Singh II.

It is a small city but is surrounded by the beautiful Aravalli mountain ranges and artificial lakes which makes it a popular getaways for a fun weekend from Delhi . And the best part about this city is that you don’t have to travel far to reach a place.

Most of the major attractions are located nearby which makes exploring this city easy and quick. In Udaipur, you will learn about the lavish royal lifestyle by heading to the City Palace, Jal Mahal, and so on.

So, if you are looking for a short break in a peaceful city while indulging in the Rajasthani culture and would like to taste some delicacies then Udaipur City is the perfect destination.

How to Reach Udaipur City

Similar to Jaipur, Udaipur is a popular destination in Rajasthani so it is well-connected to other North Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, etc. and a few places from the South and Central India as well. You have three modes of transportation to reach Udaipur City: Air, Train, and Road.

Maharana Pratap Airport is the main airport for the Udaipur City which is located in Dabok, 22km away from the Udaipur City. You will get regular flights to this airport from other major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, etc.

From the airport, you can hire taxis, cabs, or autos to reach the Udaipur City which will take about 30-35 minutes of travel time.

Udaipur City is well-connected to most of India via the Railway lines which includes Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ajmer, and so on.

In Rajasthan, you will find several passenger trains as well running daily which will connect Udaipur to other cities in Rajasthan. From the train station, you can take an auto or an Uber to your hostel/hotel. You can also walk to your accommodation place if 3-4 km is not a big deal for you.

From Delhi, there are only 2-3 direct trains to Udaipur so plan in advance your trip to the Udaipur City. A Sleeper coach in the Delhi to Udaipur City train will cost about 380 – 400 INR but make sure you book it in advance.

I, personally, reached Jaipur first and then took a Second Sitting ( 2S ) from Jaipur to Udaipur which cost me about 175 INR and took 6-7 hours to reach.     View this post on Instagram         

You will also find regular buses available to the Udaipur City from major cities like Delhi, Indore, Jaipur, Kota, etc. From local to private buses, you will get a lot of options to choose from depending on your budget.

With the Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation, you will also get buses to cities like Jodhpur, Chittorgarh, Bhilwara, and so on.

A.C Private buses from Delhi to Udaipur will cost you between 900 to 2000 INR and will take around 12 – 14 hours to reach.

Best Time to Visit Udaipur

Here is a detailed breakup of what to expect in Udaipur during different climates .

Winter Season

Whether you are visiting Jaipur or Udaipur, if you are looking for a cool climate, the winter months from November to February are perfect.

During this time, it is easier to stay out and explore the city. You will also be able to enjoy the lakes here at this time and will be able to spend more time in the palace complexes.

Since Udaipur City is surrounded by the Aravalli mountain ranges, this place remains cool most of the year.

Monsoon Season

Although Udaipur City experiences little rainfall, it doesn’t hinder your trip and can actually be a boon in disguise. This is because the water level in the lakes rises and you can witness the freshness of this city properly.

The colors are more vibrant during this time and the temperature is still bearable. So, if you wish to experience Udaipur in fresh and vibrant colors then monsoon is the best time to visit Udaipur.

The monsoon months are from July to September in Udaipur.

Summer Season

This is probably the worst time to visit Udaipur City because the temperature is high and the lakes are all dried up. So, avoid visiting Udaipur from April to June as you won’t be able to truly enjoy it.

13 Best Places to Visit in Udaipur

Udaipur City is smaller than most Rajasthani cities and towns but still has a lot to offer in terms of views and sightseeing. Here are a few places that you can check out on your short trip to this cultural city.

City Palace

Situated on the banks of Lake Pichhola, City Palace is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur City.

Constructed by Maharana Udai Mirza Singh in 1559, it boasts of a beautiful combination of architecture styles (European, Chinese, and Medieval). This palace has 11 palace complexes inside, built by different rulers at different time periods.

So, you have several courtyards, terraces, hanging gardens, etc. to explore in this giant mansion. 

It also offers you a gorgeous view of the Udaipur lake and the Udaipur lake Palace on one side of the palace. And you can see the entire Udaipur city from the other side of the palace which makes it a great spot for panoramic views as well.

Entry Fees: 330 INR for Indians (Access to palace complexes and museums, including photography)

Opening Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Duration: 2-4 hours

Gangaur Ghat

Located in the heart of Udaipur City, Gangaur Ghat is a prime location for watching sunsets or just hanging out with your friends.

Here, you will observe the locals going about their work, and the photography enthusiasts crowding this place during the morning time.

This is one of the main ghats of Udaipur City and gets extremely crowded during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Navarathri, and so on.

So, if you want to see a beautiful sunrise or sunset then Gangaur Ghat should be the place to visit.

Entry Fee: Free

Opening Hours: All day

Ambrai Ghat

One of the less explored yet best places to visit in Udaipur City, Ambrai Ghat is the perfect destination for evening strolls and night photography enthusiasts.

From here, you can see the entire Lake Pichhola in its complete glory along with the beautifully lit up City Palace, Jag Mandir, Jal Palace, and so on.

You definitely have to visit this place at the night time if you want to see the true beauty of Udaipur and you can also enjoy a delicious meal in one of the lakeside restaurants here.

Entry Fees: Free

Duration: 2-3 hours

Taj Lake Palace

One of the most royal and romantic resorts in India, Lake Palace was previously known as Jag Niwas but now has been taken over by the Taj group.

It has become one of the most sought-after resorts now and should certainly be in your itinerary if you are interested in Udaipur’s heritage and monuments.

It consists of several islands, on one of which lies the famous lake palace, and is situated on the famous Lake Pichhola which makes the views from this palace even more enchanting.

You can take a boat ride to this lake palace to enjoy the view and then head back to the city so that you don’t have to pay an exorbitant amount to stay at this resort.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Boat Ticket Prices: 450 INR (Approximately)

This small island in the middle of Lake Pichhola is quite popular for its amazing interior design and royal architecture style. Also, the view of the lake from this temple island is quite mesmerizing and the detailed sculptures on the marble make it truly an artistic marvel.

You can take a calm and peaceful boat ride to this place to enjoy the views and immerse yourself in the serene and peaceful vibes which are emanated by this place.

Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Duration: 1-2 hours

Monsoon Palace

Also known as the Monsoon Palace, this ancient fort lies on the outskirts of Udaipur and is situated some 12 km away from the Udaipur City Palace. Surrounded by Aravalli ranges, this is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur for anyone who wishes to just observe the green Aravalli ranges and enjoy the strong winds blowing through this palace.

This palace also provides you with a panoramic view of the Udaipur city, its palaces, and lakes and trust us, you would do better to not miss this absolutely gorgeous place.

Entry Fee: 90 INR for Indians

Opening Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Ahar Cenotaphs

Another less explored yet amazing place to visit in the Udaipur City is the Ahar Cenotaphs which is located next to the Ahar Museum.

This place contains around 250 cenotaphs of the Mewar rajas which were built over 350 years approximately. This is definitely a great spot for photography and one can spend an hour or two here quite easily.

However, if you are looking to do a proper photography session here, then you need to pay the guard 50 INR per person to get access. You can also check out the Ahar museum here to learn more about the royalties who lived here.

Entry Fee: 50 INR

Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m.

Udaipur City is popularly known as the City of Lakes so it is no surprise that there are some gorgeous lakes here which you have to visit when exploring the city. One such pristine lake is the Lake Badi which is situated 12 km away from the Udaipur City, in the Badi village.

This artificial lake was built by Maharana Raj Singh I in 1963 to help the people of Udaipur City during a devastating drought. It is one of the finest freshwater lakes in India and is a great place to relax and rejuvenate yourself. Trust me, this is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur and should definitely be a part of your Udaipur itinerary.

Entry Fee: 20 INR

Shilpgram is the Arts and Craft village in the Udaipur City where you can learn about the Rajasthan culture and lifestyle. If you love purchasing traditional arts and crafts or if you like indulging in the local traditions then you would love Shilpgram.

Here, you can observe the Rajasthani customs and be entertained by the scheduled dance performances that occur almost daily here. Explore the entire village and look at different huts displaying various Rajasthani items while depicting the lifestyle of Rajasthan.

Entry Fee: 65 INR

Opening Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Lake Pichhola 

Lake Pichhola is one of the main lakes of the Udaipur City which was named after a nearby village, Picholi. This lake is home to a few islands which holds a few famous monuments and palaces of the Mewar dynasty. Also, the gorgeous Aravalli mountain ranges offer an amazing backdrop to this lake and make it a sight to behold.

There are a couple of ferries which go to and fro on this lake. They will take you to the Jagmandir island to visit the famous Jag Mandir temple over there or to the Taj Lake Palace for exploring the monuments.

You can also spend some time on the Jaal Boraj Road. It lies between the Pichhola lake and the Dudh Talai lake and provides you with an unobstructed view of the lighted Jag Mandir temple at night.

Fatehsagar Lake

Fateh Sagar Lake is a gorgeous place to visit on your Udaipur trip where you can enjoy a nice and peaceful evening stroll and eat on the numerous stalls lined next to the lake.

This place can be called the Marine Drive of Udaipur where you can enjoy a short ride beside the lake or you can just sit down to experience the cool, soft breeze blowing here.

You can also take a ferry and cross the lake to reach the Udaipur Nehru Park, which is a beautiful place to stroll around and spend some time under the trees shade. This is a perfect picnic spot in Udaipur and spend a couple of hours, surrounded by the lake.

Ferry Ticket Price: 50 INR

Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Chand Pole Puliya

The streets get empty early at night around 11 p.m and there are only a few shops open. This makes it perfect for a night stroll to witness the silence and the beauty of this calm, peaceful city. Chand Pole Puliya is a narrow bridge which connects the Udaipur city over the underlying Lake Pichhola.

Take a stroll through this bridge at night because the whole of Udaipur is lighted up at night. And I swear the view from the bridge is too beautiful and indescribable.

In fact, the bridges are lighted up at night too. So if you are at Chand Pole Puliya, you are likely to see the other bridge lighted with lamps and bulbs. And the light is reflected on the flowing lake water offering you with a mesmerizing view.

Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple

Another place that you should not miss out on is the Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple which is only accessible by the ropeway. This temple is located on the Machla Magra hills, near Doodh Talai and offers the most amazing view of the entire Udaipur City.

You can also enjoy a beautiful sunset view from here along with a beautiful reflection on Lake Pichhola.

Karni Mata Ropeway Fee: 90 INR (approximately) for Indians

Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Also Read: Top Places to Visit in Jaisalmer

Top Things to Do in Udaipur

Watch a sunset from the karni mata temple viewpoint.

If you could not witness the sunset from Sajjangarh fort due to some reason, don’t be disheartened. Udaipur has its own Sunset Point in place for you to visit and enjoy the last rays of the setting sun while looking over the Udaipur lake and enjoying the pleasant breeze flowing around you.

After taking a ropeway to the Karni Mata Temple, you will find a tower from where you can witness a gorgeous sunset. You can also see the entire Udaipur City along with Lake Pichhola, Jag Mandir, etc. from this sunset point too.

Stroll Around the Fateh Sagar Lake

Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the best places to stroll around in the evening or at nighttime. You can watch the water moving smoothly in the lake or you can just hang out with your friends and enjoy each other’s company.

Trust me, walking around this lake is really peaceful, especially in the evening. And is a great way to enjoy your surroundings and have deep conversations with your friends and family.

Enjoy a Delicious Kulhad Coffee at Bambaii Bazaar

Lying next to the Fateh Sagar Lake, you have the Bambaii Bazaar which is quite famous for its delicacies and the authentic Kulhad Coffee.

So, you can enjoy snacks like Pav Bhaji, Chowmein, etc. along with a kulhad of coffee which has chocolate sauce in it.

I am not exaggerating but a visit to Udaipur City without trying the famous Kulhad Coffee is a trip incomplete.

Enjoy a Night View of the Pichhola Lake from Ambrai Ghat

As I mentioned before, if you want to take night shots of the beautifully lit City Palace, Taj Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, etc. then Ambrai Ghat is the perfect place. Just head to this place in the evening and watch the sun setting down and then the entire Udaipur City getting lit up with colorful lights.

Trust me, it is one of the most magical sights ever and you would be a fool to miss it.

Ride the Ropeway to Karni Mata Temple

Another popular activity to do in Udaipur City is to visit the Karni Mata temple via ropeway. Here, you can  enjoy the beautiful view in front of you. You can see Lake Pichhola along with the Aravalli mountain ranges while traveling in the ropeway which is, in turn, an amazing experience.

Taste Laal Maas in a Lakeside Restaurant in Udaipur City

For all the non-vegetarians out there, Laal Maas is a must-try dish in the Udaipur City. It is a popular delicacy here of Mutton and is quite delicious and unique. So, make sure you eat it in a lakeside for a delicious food with a view.

Watch the Sunset from the Monsoon Palace

One of the top places to watch a sunset in the Udaipur City is the Monsoon Palace which gives you an unobstructed view of the sunset. So, if you visit on a clear and sunny day then you can see the most gorgeous sunset from the balcony of this palace.

And the Aravalli mountain ranges offer a magical backdrop to this sunset, making it a perfect Instagram-worthy sunset to capture.

Shop at the famous Hathi Pol Bazaar

Hathi Pol Bazaar is quite famous for a shopping spree and offers you a range of clothing, accessories, etc. to choose from. You will find really colorful items here but your bargaining skills should be top-notch if you don’t want to end up spending a fortune here.

Have a Romantic Meal in the Lake view Restaurants

Okay, it doesn’t have to be a romantic meal with someone, you can enjoy some solitude here on a solo trip too. But, having dinner beside the lake is a must for a complete Udaipur City feeling. Unless you experience it, you won’t be able to see why people called Udaipur the  Venice of the East.

Spend an Afternoon Around the Badi Lake

I have been to Udaipur City twice but it was only on my second visit that I was able to explore the Badi Lake which I am glad that I did. This lake is situated a little away from the city which makes it peaceful and beautiful to explore.

You won’t hear a sound here and can easily spend a couple of hours just looking at the mountains and the surrounding lake water.

Trust me, one of the best things to do in Udaipur is to head out to this lake and spend an entire evening here. This such a unique lake that you won’t get bored of looking out at the views here.

How to Travel Locally

Since Udaipur City is small, you don’t have too many transportation options here as most of the places are at walkable distance. However, if you don’t wish to walk the entire day then here are a few ways to explore Udaipur City.

Auto-rickshaws

One of the major modes of transportation in the Udaipur City are auto-rickshaws which charge 75 – 100 INR for a 2-3 km distance. You will find auto-rickshaws at all the junctions and streets. But you would need to bargain a lot to get them to lower the prices.

If you have Ola app installed then you can Ola Autos here too.

Taxis and Cabs

Apart from the Autos, you have had an extensive network of Uber cabs here which cover most of the corners. The prices are decent but a lot of streets are one-way in Udaipur so they might drop you before your destination.

Walking and Cycling

One of the best ways to explore the Udaipur City is by walking or hiring a cycle. You can hire a cycle for a day for 100 – 200 INR and can easily cover most of the attractions here.

But if you don’t mind walking then you can easily walk to the City Palace, Fatehpur Lake, Ambrai Ghat, etc.

Where to Eat in Udaipur City

I am a foodie but I am not a person who believes in going to expensive or fancy hotels/resorts. So, here are a few places which I tried in the Udaipur City for budget meals which were delicious at the same time.

Natraj Restaurant

Natraj Restaurant is one of the oldest eateries in Udaipur City and is certainly one of the best too. You get the most delicious Daal Baati Churma here. But if you are craving some other cuisines, then you will get that here too.

They make particularly nice north Indian meals and have decent pricing. So, a meal for two people will cost about 400 – 500 INR .

Note: This is a purely vegetarian restaurant.

Al Rehmaniya Lake View Restaurant

For people who crave non-vegetarian, Al Rehmaniya Lake View Restaurant is a good choice. Here, you get the most delicious Laal Maas and also get a variety of chicken and other meat dishes. A meal for two will cost about 300 – 400 INR for two people and will be quite filling.

Vinod Fast Food, Fateh Sagar Lake

This is probably one of the cheapest eateries in the Udaipur City and serves the most delicious Pav Bhajis ever. You will also get a delicious Kulhad Coffee here and can try other snacks here like sandwiches, chowmein, dosa, and so on.

A meal for two people will cost about 200 – 250 INR here.

Note: Once you are done with your meals, make sure you try the Kulfi here. There are many Kulfi stalls available throughout Udaipur. It will cost just 20 INR per person and will be mouth-watering.

Where to Stay in Udaipur City

Udaipur city is a popular traveling destination so you will find several hostels, hotels, and resorts for your accommodation. Here are a few accommodation options to consider for yourself.

There are several hostels here that you can consider like Hostelavie , Hostel Moustache , Zostel , Gostops, etc. Most of these hostels will offer you a bed in the range of 100 – 600 INR for a night. It will include all the bathroom amenities, WiFi, entertainment options, etc.

So, you can check on Booking.com or Goibibo.com for the best options and reserve your place in these hostels.

Hotels/Resorts

Apart from the hostels, you also have some beautiful hotels and resorts here like the Oberoi Udaivilas, Taj Lake Palace, etc. But these resorts will be quite expensive. So, if you are on a budget then booking in these hotels might not be a wise idea.

You can check mid-ranged hotels like Treebo, Baghol Palace, Mewargarh Palace, and so on. They will cost you about 1000 – 2500 INR for two people for a 2-night stay. Again, you can check the Booking.com to find the cheapest rates for your stay here.

Also Read: Some Amazing Places to Visit in Bharatpur

Honestly, I have been to Udaipur multiple times now and each time, it surprises me with more beautiful places to explore and experiences to enjoy here.

2 days are definitely less to explore all the best places to visit in Udaipur and won’t even begin to cover what all this place has to offer.

However, sometimes, we are bound by our jobs and commitments so we have to make the best out of the available time. If that’s the case, then this Udaipur travel guide will come handy for you and will allow you to plan a kickass trip to Udaipur.

If you have been to Udaipur already, do let us know in the comments about your experience.

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Awesome blogs I love it while reading it is very informative for me well everybody loves travelling

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"The city of Lakes"

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Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," stands as a jewel in the crown of Rajasthan, India. Nestled amidst the Aravalli Range, this city captivates visitors with its regal charm, historic grandeur, and scenic landscapes. Located around stunning water lakes and enveloped by the Aravalli Hills in all directions, Udaipur is known for its azure lakes, magnificent palaces, vibrant culture and delectable food. Along with being a must-visit destination, it is also one of the best places to experience luxury in India.

Also known as the "Venice of the East", Udaipur is inarguably one of the most romantic cities in India. At the heart of Udaipur lies the iconic Lake Pichola , flanked by the majestic City Palace , a sprawling complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens showcasing exquisite Mewar architecture. Boating through the shimmering Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful sights and highlights of every Udaipur trip. The ethereal Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas, also known as the Lake Palace, appear to float on the serene waters of Lake Pichola, adding a fairytale touch to Udaipur's skyline. Another picturesque lake, Fateh Sagar , is embraced by hills on three sides and dotted with islands, offering a tranquil escape in the midst of nature. The Saheliyon Ki Bari , a historic garden adorned with fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants, is a testament to the royal lifestyle of the Maharanis. Udaipur's architectural splendors extend to the intricately carved Jagdish Temple and the Sajjangarh Palace , also known as the Monsoon Palace, which offers panoramic views of the city and its lakes. Udaipur's vibrant markets, like Bada Bazaar and Hathi Pol , beckon with traditional Rajasthani crafts, textiles, and jewelry, providing a delightful shopping experience . The Shilpgram Crafts Fair, held annually, showcases the rich cultural diversity of Rajasthan through traditional art, crafts, and performances. Culinary enthusiasts can savor the flavors of Udaipur with its delectable Rajasthani cuisine , including dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and the iconic dal kachori. The city's rooftop restaurants offer a perfect setting to enjoy a meal while overlooking the shimmering lakes and palaces. The best time to visit Udaipur is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions. A trip to Udaipur is often combined with a visit to nearby Kumbhalgarh (80km) and Mount Abu. The revered Nathdwara temple is about 60 km from Udaipur.

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Udaipur Itinerary – 2 Days In India’s Royal City of Lakes

Last updated: 24th February 2024

Out of everywhere we visited on our grand tour of India – Udaipur was easily our favourite city. We loved the peacefulness of Udaipur unlike the noise and chaos of other Indian cities like Delhi . It looks beautiful surrounded by the dramatic Aravalli mountains and feels romantic with its tranquil setting on Lake Pichola. In this 2 day Udaipur itinerary and travel guide we’ll show you the best things to see in Udaipur like the impressive forts and palaces. Plus what to do in Udaipur and where to eat and drink in Udaipur . I f you’re staying for a couple of nights like we did – w e’ve got you covered! lots of ideas worth adding to your Udaipur itinerary.

Table of Contents

About Udaipur – Rajasthan’s Romantic City

Udaipur is the small lakeside city in India’s Royal state of Rajasthan. Famous for its scenic location, Rajput-era Royal palaces, old havelis (merchant houses) and luxury hotels. Udaipur is Rajasthan’s romantic white city located on Lake Pichola. The lake is actually man-made built in 1362 to accommodate Udaipur’s water needs. In a very dry season, it can be completely empty.

Udaipur is small enough to explore on foot, we really liked that. We also loved the relaxed atmosphere and had time to chill rather than running around trying to see lots of sights. Wandering around the town’s narrow streets was a joy, getting lost and browsing leather goods shops in the bazaars and finding colourful doorways, murals and street art. The only downside of Udaipur were people constantly approaching us ‘Where are you from?” or “I like your shirt” or “I like your trainers … come see my shop and make me happy” it gets a bit irritating after a while. But a firm “no thank you” does the trick.

Udaipur is Rajasthan’s Romantic White City. Its setting on Lake Pichola is beautiful and serene

Old Palaces appear to float on the shimmering water

Udaipur is a really popular location for Indian weddings

Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II. Some people call it the ‘Venice of India’

Built on the shore of Lake Pichola, Udaipur is surrounded by the dramatic Aravalli mountains

Looking down at the street scenes of Jagdish Chowk

Tuk tuks vary in size by cities in India. In Udaipur, they are bigger and can seat 3 people

Udaipur Itinerary – Day 1

City palace.

Our itinerary of Udaipur for day 1 starts early morning at The City Palace, the huge landmark and the must-see sight of Udaipur. Built on a hill to overlook the city it’s one of the largest palaces in Rajasthan built in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II. Kings are called Maharajas in most of India, however in Udaipur they are called Maharanas which is a title for Rajput kings. The City Palace grew in size over another 400 years as 42 successive Maharanas made their mark by adding more palaces (called Mahals). There are 11 separate palaces inside, most are now a series of museums exhibiting paintings and furniture used by the Royal families. Apart from the Shiv Niwas Palace and Fateh Prakash Palace which are two luxury hotels.

The City Palace complex looks like a fort from the outside, the architecture is a mix of Rajput and Mughal-styles and built entirely in marble and granite. Inside there’s lots of courtyards, balconies, corridors and halls to explore. We spent 3 hours and had a registered guide to explain everything. We loved it here looking at the intricate glass-work, wall paintings, details and colours. The palace complex is very well maintained and everything shines as it did 400 years ago.

Garth was in his element photographing, the palace is ridiculously pretty and photogenic. Every window and doorway seems to make beautiful frames for composing photos. Although it’s pretty busy inside the City Palace, just wait a few minutes and you’ll get a clear shot. Lots of Indian tourists were also loving the coloured windows and walls, rocking their best poses, young men and women take it very seriously! Be sure to check out the panoramic views of the sprawling city from the palace windows.

TIP: Our guide told us the City Palace gets packed with people at weekends.

Bari Pol – the grand entrance gate to the City Palace

The incredibly beautiful City Palace – The must see attraction of Udaipur

As you pass the entrance a small statute of Ganesh from 1620 welcomes you to the palace

A blue room of the Queens chamber, part of the Zenana Mahal – the Queens Palace built in 1620

The pink entrance room leading to the Kanch Ki Burj chamber

The incredible and opulent Kanch Ki Burj chamber with mosaics of mirror, red and silver glass

Manak Mahal (The Ruby Palace) The light in this room from the coloured stained glass and mirrored walls is stunning

The beautiful Mor Chowk (Peacock courtyard)

The highlight of Mor Chowk are 3 mosaic peacocks which represent summer, winter and the monsoon season

The peacock designs and motifs are so elegant. The peacock is the national bird of India

The Mor Chowk courtyard was used to host dinner banquets

One of the outdoor marble terraces in the garden of the Badi Mahal (Garden Palace)

Phil doing his best Bollywood pose in the Badi Mahal

Window views from the Badi Mahal

Garth in the Badi Charur Chowk palace courtyard. This area was used for music and dance

Our favourite window in Badi Charur Chowk looking out over Udaipur

These two windows are just gorgeous! look at all the details. The blue tiles next to Garth are Chinese

The ornate windows make excellent frames for photos

As you exit the Toran Gate check out the doors with outward pointing spikes so elephants couldn’t charge the doors

Jagdish Temple

Within walking distance of The City Palace is another building over 400 years old – The Jagdish Temple built in 1651. It’s a famous Hindu temple devoted to Lord Vishnu – Lord of the Universe.

Once you’ve climbed the 32 steep steps, it’s free to enter, but you’ll need to cover up bare skin and take off your shoes. The atmosphere is calm with people chanting and playing instruments. The marble exterior is highly decorative with beautifully carved pillars. The intricate carvings tell the story of the creation of the universe.

The temple sanctum has a striking four-armed statue of Lord Vishnu carved out of a single piece of black stone. You’re not allowed to take photos inside the temple. Outside the main shrine are 4 smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Surya, Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva.

The Jagdish Temple was built in 1651

Two massive marble elephants welcome visitors and guard the temple

Sadhus sit outside the entrance to the Jagdish Temple. If you want to take pictures ask them first and offer some rupees

Phil next to the beautifully carved marble exterior

Is this a fish-shaped gargoyle?

Gangaur Ghat

After you’re done at the Jagdish Temple walk down to the lake and visit the Gangaur Ghat, it’s the most photogenic. Ghats are the steps that lead down to the water. People use them for bathing in the mornings and some ghats are used for washing laundry. India’s most famous ghats are in Varanasi , however, Udaipur has its own fair share to explore.

View of Gangaur Ghat with shimmering reflections in the lake

At Gangaur Ghat expect to see cows, monkeys and loads of pigeons

The pigeons at Gangaur Ghat make ace photos

Phil and Garth at Gangaur Ghat

Wander The Back Streets of Udaipur

Now it’s time to find a spot for a late lunch and spend the rest of the afternoon wandering around the bazaars, shops and homes around the narrow back streets. We loved just leisurely walking around, getting to know Udaipur, avoiding the holy cows and just watching daily life go by. We especially loved discovering murals that decorate many walls of people’s homes. Garth got pooped on by a bird whilst taking a photo of a mural. A local guy smiled and said “that’s good luck!”

Wandering around the back streets of Udaipur

Some beautiful murals can be found on walls around Udaipur

A lady transports her laundry

Don’t be surprised to see holy cows wandering around the streets

We saw more cows wandering the streets of Udaipur than any Indian city we visited

A surprising amount of places offer cooking classes

We came across many small hindu shrines in doorways

Love these old hand painted signs

What looks like the backyard of a kitchen

Some bold street art

Sunset From A Rooftop Cafe In Udaipur

Day 1 ends relaxing whilst watching a stunning sunset from a rooftop cafe – one of the best places to visit in Udaipur at night. We enjoyed a few cocktails and dinner on the roof terrace of Hotel Udai Garh the views are great because it’s high up and the vegetarian dishes were delicious.

There are lots of rooftop restaurants in Udaipur to choose from, including Charcoal , Rainbow Restaurant , Jaiwana Haveli and Lake View Hotel .

Watching the sunset from the rooftop restaurant of Hotel Udaigarh

Udaipur Itinerary – Day 2

Morning boat trip on lake pichola, jagmandir (island palace hotel).

Day 2 of our Udaipur itinerary starts in the morning at the City Palace complex river bank. We caught a boat to Jagmandir – one of the 4 small islands on Lake Pichola. Jagmandir is home to the famous Jagmandir Water Palace which used to be the Royal family’s summer resort. It’s now a luxurious hotel – Jagmandir Island Palace .

8 huge marble elephant statues welcome you as you arrive – they are happy elephants because their trunks are up. The smell of incense burning as we disembarked was lovely, we felt like we were somewhere very exotic! Musicians were playing bowls with wooden sticks, on what looked like rice bowls filled with water at different levels to produce different notes.  Just off the garden courtyard is a small heritage exhibition explaining the history of the palace which was built in 1620 designed to be self-sufficient and ‘a city within a city’.

We walked around the immaculately maintained gardens. There are some huge frangipani trees decorated with lanterns which must look beautiful at night. Before returning to the boat, we sat with a couple of beers at their bar and enjoyed the view of the City Palace. We thought this was the best bar in Udaipur because the setting on the water is just lovely. You can see and appreciate the scale of the City Palace complex which is enormous.

Boat trip on Lake Pichola to the Jagmandir Palace, now a hotel

Phil and Garth at the Jagmandir Palace

The garden courtyard has a central pool designed to reflect the sky

There’s a lovely ambience added to by the musicians

Exploring the immaculately maintained gardens

You can see why this former palace is now really popular for weddings

Frangipani trees decorated with lanterns

One of the marble elephants looking towards the City Palace from Jagmandir

Jag Niwas (Taj Lake Palace Hotel)

We also passed the striking Jag Niwas, another former Royal palace. Built in 1746 made entirely of white marble, the palace faces East so people could pray to the Sun god at dawn. It’s now The Taj Lake Palace – the best 5 star hotel in Udaipur and you can only see it if you are a resident guest of the hotel. Sadly visitors are not allowed to stop here since the Mumbai bombing in 2008. It looks like an illusion – appearing to magically float on the water. The James Bond film, Octopussy (1983) was filmed here.

The stunning Taj Lake Palace luxury hotel. It was a former Royal palace Jag Niwas

Lunch With A Fabulous View

Our favourite moment in Udaipur was our late lunch at the Ambrai Restaurant in the stunning Amet Haveli – a heritage hotel. It has the most amazing panoramic view of the City Palace complex right on the water. It feels high-end, because it is! and is absolutely fabulous!

We ate a mouth-watering triple starter of paneer, stuffed potatoes, and spinach paneer. Honestly one of the best meals we had in India . It was lovely and quiet at lunchtime and so relaxing watching the colours of the buildings change from white to orange as the afternoon sun went down. We sat here for a couple of hours just watching life go by on the water, chilling with our beers in hand. If you watched the 3rd season of the BBC tv series ‘The Real Marigold Hotel’ (2018) it was filmed here at Ambrai Udaipur. Also worth checking out the Ambrai Ghat next door where we saw a couple of wedding photo shoots going on, brilliant people watching!

Tip: Ask for a table in the corner which has the prime view overlooking the water with a few of the City Palace.

A relaxing lunch at the Ambrai Restaurant at the Amet Haveli heritage hotel

Our triple starter of paneer, stuffed potatoes and spinach paneer fritters

The fabulous entrance to Amet Haveli heritage hotel

Amet Haveli is stunning we would love to stay here next time we visit Udaipur

Admire Miniature Paintings in Udaipur

Spend the rest of the afternoon seeking out places that sell and paint miniature paintings. This Rajput art comes from the Maharanas who used to commission paintings. The incredible detail is jaw-dropping, tiny squirrel hair brushes are used to paint delicate brush strokes on silk, paper and wood. We visited the artist’s studio Janak Arts which offered art classes and henna tattoo lessons. It’s based on the ground floor of the Hotel Janak Niwas . We were even treated to some free masala chai and fresh hot vegetable samosas as we admired all the art on sale.

Miniature paintings for sale in Udaipur

These miniature paintings have tiny and delicate brush strokes

A minature painting makes the perfect souvenir to take home

Miniature nail art at the Janak Arts artist studio

Lessons in henna tattoos

Dinner at Rainbow Restaurant

For our last evening in Udaipur we ate dinner at the Rainbow Restaurant which is a fabulous rooftop restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and fab views over the lake.

Dinner at the Rainbow Restaurant

Evening Dharohar Folk Dance Show

Our Udaipur itinerary for 2 days ends with a live cultural dance show. Every evening at 7pm the Bagore Ki Haveli (a museum next to the Gangaur Ghat) put on a music and dance show featuring traditional Rajasthani folk dances, live music and a puppet show. We both loved the one-hour performance because it was much better than we expected it to be. We thought it was going to be some ghastly tourist show, but it’s not at all, it’s professionally done.

The setting is intimate in the haveli’s courtyard. Seating is on the floor and small benches and based on first come, first served, so queue early for a good spot (we got there at 6pm). Lots of young Indian girls were sat on the front row, they knew the dances and were very enthusiastic. It’s a fast-moving show linked by a compere explaining the stories of the dances. The show is dazzling from guys eating hot coals on fire, ladies dancing with bells, fire dancing or balancing clay pots on their heads whilst dancing on broken glass and skilful puppetry. Phil thought the repetitive movements in the bell dances were very hypnotic. The funniest dance is called ‘my camel is better than your camel’

Eating hot coals from fire

Dharohar Folk Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli Museum

A dance sat down using repetitive movements with bells

A fire dance

Other Udaipur Attractions

• Ahar Museum – Museum & various cenotaphs mark the Maharanas who were cremated here.
• Gulab Bagh – 100 acres of gardens, the rose garden is a highlight.
• Vintage Car Museum – Displays the cars owned by various Maharanas.
• The Monsoon Palace – A Palace on a hill 6 miles from the centre. Also called Sajjan Garh.
• Ekling Ji Temple – Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, 14 miles from Udaipur.

Practical Information For Visiting Udaipur

Phil and Garth’s Top 5 Udaipur Travel Tips

Phil and Garth’s Top 5 Udaipur Travel Tips

• Tip #1 : Like everywhere in India only drink sealed bottled water.
• Tip #2 : Try to book a hotel in the old town, so you can easily walk to all the sights.
• Tip #3 : Keep cash for buying food, drink, and shopping. Not everywhere accepts cards.
• Tip #4 : Men and women should dress conservatively.
• Tip #5 : Get a henna tatoo – they should fade away after 2 weeks.

Udaipur FAQ & Fast Facts

• What is the nearest airport to Udaipur? 13 miles away is Udaipur Airport (airport code UDR).
• How long is the Delhi to Udaipur train? The sleeper train from Delhi to Udaipur typically takes 11 hours 32 minutes.
• What time zone is Udaipur? GMT +5.30 hours. India Standard Time.
• What currency is used in Udaipur? Indian Rupee (Symbol: ₹)
• What language is spoken in Udaipur? English, Hindi & Mewari.
• What is the population of Udaipur? 569,000.
• What number should I use in an emergency? Call 100 for police, 108 for ambulance and 101 for fire brigade.
• What plug type is used in Udaipur ? Plug Types C, D & M . The 3 round pin type is the most common. Voltage is 230V / 50Hz.
• When is the best time to visit Udaipur ? October to March. October has India’s biggest festival Diwali.
• When is the worst time to visit Udaipur ? July to September is the monsoon season. Whilst April to June is too hot.
• What is Udaipur famous for? Royal palaces, lakes and ancient forts.
• What is the history of Udaipur ? Maharana Udai Singh established Udaipur in 1559 as the capital of Mewar Kingdom.
• What are the 5 must-see sights in Udaipur ? City Palace, Jagmandir Palace, Jagdish Temple, Gangaur Ghat and Bagore Ki Haveli.
• What is the local dish in Udaipur ? Dal Baati – baked unleavened bread served with dal (lentil curry).
• What is the best way to get around Udaipur ? It’s small enough to walk around. Grab a tuk-tuk for hotels outside the old town.
• What’s an interesting fact about Udaipur ? In medieval times Udaipur was mined for its rich source of copper and zinc.
• What movies have been filmed in Udaipur ? James Bond Octopussy (1983) worth watching before you go!
• Where is the best photo spot in Udaipur ? Badi Charur Chowk inside the City Palace.
• Where is a hidden gem in Udaipur ? The Ahar museum & cenotaphs.
• What is the best souvenir to buy in Udaipur ? A miniature painting.

Google Map Of Udaipur

• The Dharohar Folk Dance Show costs 150 INR (£1.50) and another 150 INR to use your camera.
• Our upmarket lunch with lots of beers at the Ambrai Restaurant was just 3,350 INR (£35) for the 2 of us.
• The City Palace costs 300 INR (£3) per person.
• Boat ride to Jagmandir island 500 INR (£5) per person or 800 INR (£8) to go at sunset.

How We Did It

• We stayed at the 3 star Hopp-inn Meera for 2 nights. It’s a short tuk-tuk ride from the centre of Udaipur.
• We visited in the middle of January the weather was perfect. Mild and sunny during the day, but cold in the evenings.
• We paid for a small group escorted tour of India with Explore Worldwide .

Pin our Udaipur Itinerary & travel guide for reference

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Thanks for the details and pictures ..Best wishes for more travel..Keep em coming

You have rightly said that Udaipur truly lives up the tourists’ expectations. The pics you have posted are really amazing. Udaipur, actually, beckons with its enchanting blend of history and beauty. Nestled around azure lakes, the city is a canvas of majestic palaces, vibrant markets, and intricate architecture. The City Palace, a symphony of marble and mosaic, stands as a testament to royal grandeur. Boat rides on Lake Pichola offer breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Udaipur’s cultural tapestry, rich traditions, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination, where every cobblestone exudes a timeless charm.

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Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes“, is a city in the state of Rajasthan in India. It is the historic capital of the kingdom of Mewar in the former Rajputana Agency. The important aspect of Udaipur tourism is the reflection of rich Rajasthani culture. This is one place where you can provide solace to your soul while experiencing leisure and pleasure. A tour to the romantic city of Udaipur would certainly become an unforgettable part of your memories and you will cherish these memories throughout your life.

So, why to wait, we are here to help you with our Udaipur tourism and travel guide featuring all about the Udaipur city. udaipurian.com is the leading travel and tourism information guide for Udaipur (Rajasthan) India. It provides comprehensive information about places to visit in Udaipur, tourist places around Udaipur, things to do in Udaipur and much more. Find the best hotels in Udaipur, the best Udaipur holiday packages and information on the best things to do in Udaipur, the best time to visit Udaipur and much more.

Udaipur: A complete travel guide.

Romantic and whimsical ,Udaipur will make you fall in love at first sight. The city of lakes is home to Rajputana forts, ornate palaces, resplendent temples, busy markets , stunning architecture , serene lakes and most romantic sunsets . The city has become a very popular destination for marriages , thanks to all bollywood and hollywood films that have been shot here. Yes I am a big James Bond fan and besides all scenic places that this city offers, I wanted to trace the foot steps of James Bond : Octopussy. The city is truly traveler’s paradise and frankly speaking Rajasthan had been on my bucket list ever since I read about it in my history books. Fantasizing about the royals, their heritage and cultural vibrance , I always wanted to experience the royalty of Rajasthan. So here it is Udaipur : A Complete Travel Guide that is surely going to leave an itch in your feet and desire to visit Udaipur.

How to reach :

Being one of the top travel destinations in India , Udaipur is easily accessible from all the major cities.

By Air : Maharana Pratap or Dabok Airport is located at a distance of 22 km from the city of Udaipur. Many domestic airlines connect the city to all the major cities of India including Jaipur, Mumbai and Delhi.

By Train : There are frequent trains which run to and from Udaipur connecting Jaipur, Mumbai and Delhi. For Luxury seekers , the train Palace on Wheels is a very good option . You can find more information about palace on wheels here .

By Road : If you want to drive to Udaipur , the roads are fairly good. There are many private and state buses connecting Udaipur to nearby cities and they are fairly regular.

Note : We drove from Ahmadabad to Udaipur and it took us 4 – 4.5 hrs to reach. To avoid traffic , I will suggest to leave early in the morning.

Best time to visit :

Rajasthan is home to the inhospitable Thar Desert. The summers are really hot and trust me can be really brutal. If you plan to visit Rajasthan I will suggest to do so between October – March. The winter season sees many regional festivals specially Mewar Festival which is surely not to be missed. This festival takes place sometime in March. If you happen to be in Udaipur during this time, it will surely be a treat!

Quick Tips :

• Rajasthan is largest state of India. There are 4 major cities that are recommended - Udaipur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur. If you plan to visit all these cities , it is recommended to stay atleast 2 nights in each city.
• If you are seeking , authentic Rajputana experience ( ambience of hotel) , try Havelis converted into boutique hotels. They will much more economical than luxury hotels and offer almost the same experience.
• If you plan to shop in Udaipur , be ready to bargain with vendors.
• There are plenty of options for local transport but as I suggested you will have to master the art of bargaining. You will find autos, tuk-tuks, tourist buses and cabs but for the best rates , refer to your hotels as they will give you better indication of rates.
• The entry fees to most of the palaces is very high. If you are a solo traveler , audio guide will work just fine. Else you can save money by just tagging along with groups who would have hired the guide. I know it is a cheap trick , but trust me when you visit Udaipur nothing is cheap :
• For photography lovers , try exploring city early morning. There are a lot of ghats in the city and it is beautiful to capture early morning life of locals on these ghats.

Things to See :

Experiencing Udaipur is all about reliving royalty and appreciating the city’s man-made beauty. Udaipur is rightly named as ‘Venice of east’ because it is around the azure lake, hemmed in by the lush hills of the Aravallis, a vision in white drenched in romance and beauty. One of India's most romantic cities, Udaipur is full of dreamy vistas and experiences. To experience this romantic beauty here are few things to see.

• City Palace : Symbolising the awesome architecture , city palace will be your first stop in Udaipur. The palace symbolizes the Rajput military architecture and Mughal-style embellishment built by 22 different different Maharanas between the 16th and 20th centuries. Much of it is now a museum, which is spread out through several palaces and is entered through the imposing Tripoli Gate. It is worth buying one of the catalogues that detail each room. If visiting take following things into account. You can get more details here .

Visiting hours : 9 am to 5:30 pm. Last tickets sold at 4:30 pm. ( note that irrespective of day , the ticket lines are huge. Add one hour of waiting time to get the tickets.)

Ticket Prices: Audio Tour available in French, Spanish, English and German @250 Rs. . If you plan to see light and sound show , you will have to buy separate ticket.

Note : In olden times the ruler was weighed on his birthday and his weight in gold distributed among his subjects. Yeah talk about royalty ;)

• Lake Pichola : Clearly the lifeline of Udaipur , you cannot miss visiting lake pichola. Pichola Lake is one of the most beautiful and picturesque lakes of Rajasthan. Located in the heart of the city, Pichola Lake is the oldest and one of the largest lakes of Udaipur (3 miles in length and 2 miles in width with upto 30 feet deep at places). Pichola lake is enveloped with lofty palaces , kothis , bathing ghats , temples and hills on all sides. How to best enjoy this lake? Take a sunset tour , and you will undoubtedly fall in love with this city. You will see many locals taking bath in the lake , but I will advise not to.

Visiting Hours : 9 am to 6 pm

Ticket Prices : Regular boat ride ranges between 200-300 Rs. If you plan to take sunset cruise , it starts from 500 Rs. Brush up your bargaining skills , and you might be able to get a better deal on this.

Money Saving Tip : If you plan to go on a sunset cruise in Lake Pichola, club it with visit to Jag Mandir. This will save you around 500Rs. You can take an evening trip to Hotel Jagmandir which will give you an opportunity to return back by sunset.

• Jag Mandir : Located majestically on an island on Lake Pichola, the only way to reach Jag Mandir is by a boat ride. This 17th Century architectural marvel is very famous for destination weddings and is very popular spot for film shootings. . The striking feature of this architectural marvel is the spacious courtyard with black and white marble tiles and gardens on the east side filled with flowers. As you enter Jag Mandir , you will see eight life size white marble structures of Elephants placed near the boat ramp in the island. You can definitely enjoy a good meal at hotel Jag Mandir , needless to say very expensive.
• SaajjanGarh Fort : Also known as Monsoon Palace , the first glimpse that you will get of this fort sitting as a crown on the top of Aravalli hills is from the City Palace. The problem with Udaipur is that whole city comes to life in the evening. Every nook and corner looks pristine and it is hard to prioritize what to see on a sunset. Sajjangarh is no different than Jag Mandir or Lake Pichola. The best time to visit this place is during sunset. I missed doing that since I was there for 2 days and 1 night , so I got to spend only one evening in Udaipur. Built in 1884 , Sajjangarh palace , is a is a hilltop palatial residence in Udaipur overlooking the Lake Pichola. It offers a panoramic view of the city's lakes, palaces and surrounding countryside. Since the fort is located on the outskirts of Udaipur, you will need a car or taxi/jeep to reach the hill top. The Fort is also surrounded by the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Timings : 09.00 am to 06.00 pm

Entree Fee : - Individual - Rs 80 , Car- Rs 20/65, camera/video- free/Rs20.

Fun Fact : This Palace also has a Hollywood connection it was used in the 1983 James Bond film Octopussy as the residence of Kamal Khan, an exiled Afghan prince.

• GanGaur Ghat : Gangaur ghat has different moods to it. If you visit this early morning , you will catch people doing the daily rituals, temples around resonating with chants , evenings adorned with twinkling of lights whereas in day it can become really chaotic and super busy. I visited the ghat early in the morning and I was happy I chose that because there was not much traffic and I was able to walk to the ghat. Also there were no beggars , so yes the place was calm. There is no entry fees for the ghats but yes it gets really crowded at times.
• Lake Fateh Sagar : Located towards north of Lake Pichola, Lake Fateh Sagar is a manmade lake. It is surrounded by a number of hills on the three sides and Pratap Memorial on the north. The best way to enjoy the lake is by boat ride. I will not say that it is a must do but an early morning or late evening walk around the lake will be more pleasant and save you money as well. A motor boat ride in Lake Fateh Sagar cost around 300 Rs.

Lake Fateh Sagar is open all days 08:00 am to 04:30 pm

• Jagdish Temple : Built by Maharaja Jagat Singh in 1651 , Jagdish temple is a true example of Indo- Aryan style architecture. Carved with the statues of Gods and Goddesses , Jagdish temple was built in Vastushastra style. The temple is situated in the town not far from Tripoli (Three arched) Gate of the Palace and there is no entry fees to visit the temple.

Udaipur is a paradise for architecture lovers and an incredible destination popular for its formidable monuments and colorful culture. The splendor of its palaces , the history of havelis , the magical narrow by-lanes of the old city and the natural beauty of the lake , - will surely cast a spell on you. Have you been to Udaipur? How was your experience, do share it in comments below. Thank you for stopping by.

PhotoCredits : PHOTOSTAINS

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Courtesy of The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

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Courtesy of Wildflower Hall, An Oberoi Resort

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