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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?

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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.

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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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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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Udaipur Travel Guide: Top 17 Things to Do

With so many wonderful things to do and see , Udaipur is probably our favourite city in India. This Udaipur travel blog is based upon our own travels in Udaipur , the land of puppeteers and churma . Look out for hotel recommendations at the end of this Udaipur travel guide.

Replete with dreamy lakes, palaces and gardens, this picture-perfect Rajasthani town beckons lovers, poets and families in equal numbers. Easily accessed from Udaipur Airport and Railway Station, a holiday here begins and ends with the impossibly beautiful Lake Pichola .

Table of Contents

Udaipur Travel Blog: Top 17 Things To Do

Mesmerising lakes, 1. stay on the banks of lake pichola.

All the best hotels in Udaipur are situated around Lake Pichola, which is the centre of the city. Wake up to the serenity of the lake and watch the spectacular sunset over its shimmering, palace-studded water.

2. Visit Swaroop Sagar just before sunset

On your way to Fateh Sagar Lake, you will pass Swaroop Sagar, a beautiful little spot where you can have a breather and enjoy the view of the dazzling lake, second only to Lake Pichola.

3. Take the last boat ride at Fateh Sagar Lake

Udaipur is indeed India’s Venice and Fateh Sagar Lake at dusk is an ethereal sight best experienced on the last boat ride of the day. Get there earlier to visit Nehru Garden and return at dusk.

Fragrant Gardens

4. explore the idyllic nehru garden.

Accessible only by boat, Nehru Garden is an idyllic spot in the middle of Fateh Sagar Lake. It is a wonderful picnic spot and has a restaurant as well.

5. Take a stroll at Saheliyon ki Bari

Udaipur is also a city of gardens and Saheliyon ki Bari is among the prettiest. Come here for a morning stroll and enjoy the fragrance of the myriad flowers. The lotus pool and Victorian statues are some of the remarkable sights in this garden.

6. Take your kids to Gulab Bagh and Zoo

Gulab Bagh is another beautiful park and in fact the largest in Udaipur. Also known as Sajjan Niwas Garden, it adjoins a zoo full of interesting birds and animals like bears, deer and even a tiger.

Active excursions

7. go for a cable car ride.

A not too expensive yet exciting activity in Udaipur is the cable car ride along the Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway. At the end of the short ride, an old temple awaits your exploration. But the real draw is the splendid view of the city and mountainside.

Cultural Attractions

8. watch a live rajasthani folk show at bagore ki haveli.

Every night at 7 pm, Bagore ki Haveli on Hanuman Ghat Road transforms into a treasure trove of Rajasthani folk art. Arrive early to grab front-row seats for this show including traditional music, dance and puppetry.

9. Immerse yourself in folk art at Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal

Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal or Folk Museum is worth a visit not only for its varied collection of Rajasthani and Indian folk art but also the free puppet shows playing on an hourly basis. There is a small entry fee.

10. Shop for handicrafts at Shilpagram

One of the lesser known attractions in Udaipur is Shilpagram, a government-funded model of a handicraft village, complete with artisans, musicians, dancers and little cottages typical of Rajasthani villages. You can buy an array of attractively priced jewellery, clothing, carpets and accessories here.

Atmospheric Palaces

11. trek up to monsoon palace (sajjangarh).

Rajasthan is India’s land of the kings and home to some of the most exquisite palaces from bygone eras. Monsoon Palace or Sajjangarh is set atop the Aravalli Hills and affords stunning views of Fateh Sagar Lake and Udaipur city. In the evenings, you will be able to spot the palace from any point in Udaipur thanks to its golden illumination.

12. Rediscover royalty at City Palace

Located near Lake Pichola and at the city centre, the City Palace is a must-visit while in Udaipur. A huge complex comprising 11 small palaces built in granite and marble, City Palace will take a while to explore.

Food in Udaipur

13. have breakfast at café namaste or cafe edelweiss.

View this post on Instagram Apple pie & Arabic coffee at Cafe Edelweiss in Udaipur A post shared by Ankita & Mohit 🌍✈️ (@trailstained) on Oct 15, 2013 at 9:21pm PDT

Dedicate your lunches and dinners to Rajasthani food and your breakfasts and tea-time snacks to the charms of Cafe Namaste or French Bakery and Cafe Edelweiss or German Bakery. You might also strike up a conversation with a foreign tourist while you sip on your coffee and tuck into some apple pie.

14. Enjoy an atmospheric dinner at Ambrai or Whistling Teal

Rajasthan is famous for both its vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare and a visit to Udaipur is incomplete without dinner at Ambrai, the beautiful garden restaurant at Amet Haveli and a thali meal at Whistling Teal. At Ambrai, don’t miss the lal maas and methi papad ki subzi .

Picturesque temples

15. pay homage at jagdish mandir.

As you exit Hanuman Ghat Road, you will come upon the majestic Jagdish Temple, whose architecture is so marvellous that you can spend hours running your palms along the walls. If you’re in Udaipur during a festive time, the area around the temple will be abuzz with activity and decorations.

Day Trips from Udaipur

Add a day for Chittorgarh Fort (116 km) and another for Kumbhalgarh Fort (85 km), both easily accessed by State Transport Buses (RSRTC).

16. Chittorgarh Fort

Just a two hour bus ride away is Chittorgarh Fort, one of the most impressive fort complexes in India. It is a World Heritage Site and was once the capital of Mewar. Set aside half a day to inspect its palaces, reservoirs and pillars.

Here are some great day trips from Udaipur that you can book:

17. Kumbalgarh Fort

Kumbalgarh Fort is a 15th century Mewar fortress on the western flanks of the Aravalli Hills. It is a World Heritage Site, hosting atmospheric sound and light shows in the evening. Lakhola Tank, a Ganesh Temple, and a Jain Temple are among the must-see landmarks within the fort complex.

Best Time to Visit Udaipur

Ideal for a trip of three to five days, greenery-rich Udaipur is most pleasant and cool in October-November.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Budget: Lal Ghat Guesthouse

We stayed here in 2013 and loved its location on the banks of Lake Pichola and proximity to City Palace although the accommodation was humble.

Boutique: Jagmandir Island Palace

Get the experience of staying in a palace in the midst of Lake Pichola that comes with its own spa, luxury dining and museum.

Luxury: The Oberoi Udaivilas

We dream of staying in this luxury palace resort some day, renowned for its views of the lake, idyllic gardens and temperature-controlled outdoor pools.

Explore Udaipur on your own with auto rickshaw tours or choose from many Rajasthan tour packages.

This post may contain sponsored/affiliate links.

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39 thoughts on “Udaipur Travel Guide: Top 17 Things to Do”

A really great description of Udaipur destinations 🙂

Thanks so much 🙂

You’re most welcome 🙂

Great post! Love Udaipur. I wish I had read this BEFORE I went. Oh well, there is always next time….

Thanks 🙂 Yeah, always good to have room for a second visit. 😀

Thanks very much for sharing this. We were in Udaipur for just 12 hours but had a great time there, especially Fatehsagar Lake. Definitely want to visit this amazing place once again. Your list is extremely helpful.

Most welcome 🙂

What about Saheliyon ki bari? Other places are definitely must visit too.

Saheliyon ki Bari is number 5 on the list.

Wow. very nice post.. will refer it when we plan for Udaipur..

Thank you so much 🙂

Beautiful places covered….been to few of these 😊

That’s great 🙂

Have travelled to India many times over the last 21 years, but I’ve not been to Udaipur since 1995. Great to read about it again! 😊😎

A lot must have changed since then 🙂

Actually, it sounds just the way I remember it! My other faves are Jaipur and Jodhpur, although I have yet to visit Jaisalmer, Bikaner and Pushkar… 🙂

Awesome place of Rajasthan wonderful post dear

Amazing place Udaipur and thanks to you for present article of Udaipur travel guide in beautiful way….

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Reblogged this on Hello Creatives Times .

Thanks for sharing your posts. 🙂

https://youtu.be/egvnZZBQjZI

wow u have covered a lot here… kumbhalgarh is another option

Yes it is 🙂

Thanks a lot for insights !! Happy travelling,cheers!! – Ransomebeardedman

My pleasure 🙂

Well described…

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my personal favourite place in udaipur is fatah sagar. we usually go there with friends for chilling out and have a cold coffee

That sounds like a great idea!

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Thank you so much for sharing this excellent content. Your list is very helpful. Thanks a lot for this Udaipur travel guide.

You’re most welcome.

Udaipur is a nice destination for travel. Lot’s of things are there in Udaipur, and most of the different things are culture. Great historical places in Udaipur. You shared the info about Udaipur travel is very helpful for tourist. Great guidance!

Thanks for sharing the posts . Keep up the good work

Really detailed and impressive post. Recently I also visited Udaipur. If any one is looking for weekend itinerary for Udaipur, do check out my blog Any feedback is welcomed!!!

Very informative blog, This post is very awesome because Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is the crown jewel of the state of Rajasthan. Udaipur is very beautiful city in Rajasthan.

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Udaipur Travel Blog – Fall in Love with Udaipur in 2 days

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We were warned – Udaipur (Rajasthan) would be too touristy for our tastes. But we decided against popular notions and sought to experience Udaipur for ourselves. And lo behold! With or without tourists, we were overwhelmed and fell in love with Udaipur . And hence, we thought of sharing our travel takes from the ‘city of lakes’. This Udaipur Travel Blog gives you the best of things to do in two days in Udaipur .

This city is like a movie set – well to be precise it was once used as the backdrop to a James Bond movie ( Octopussy , 1983), and perhaps there was a good reason for it. Udaipur, with all its stunning forts, gorgeous lakes, and centuries of layered culture and history, is undoubtedly one of the best travel locations in India.

The city of Udaipur formed the capital of the erstwhile Kingdom of Mewar, as per old Indian history. This was a short trip and we were hard-pressed with time. So we decided on “minimum hotel time and maximum street hours” during our two days trip to Udaipur. Mewar is a hilly and invigorating green part of Rajasthan. It lies in the windward side of the mighty Aravallis- one of the oldest mountains in the world.

In this post you will find -

Is Udaipur Worth Visiting?

Definitely Yes!

A lot of people around you might suggest that Udaipur is too ‘touristy’ and crowed, but we would suggest you not to remove Udaipur from your itinerary. Especially if you love history and have an attraction towards understanding the unique culture of Rajasthan . In Udaipur, we saw history (particularly of the erstwhile Mewar kingdom) unfold right in front of our eyes. And, as you might already know, Sonakshi has a major crush on historical events and monuments.

As for me, I loved Udaipur for some beautiful photo-ops this city can provide.

Our 2-day Udaipur Travel Itinerary

Well, our rush hour of two days in Udaipur was worth it and we yearn to come back for more soon. Whether you call this city “the White City” or “Venice of the East” or “The City of Lakes”, the fact that Udaipur will always be Udaipur.

This Udaipur travel blog doesn’t tell you exact address or store hours but instead pokes you for excitement to be there. The above itinerary is a firsthand experience of two young travellers trying to make the best of a famed city in two days. And below are the reasons that made us fall in love with Udaipur in just 2 days! 🙂

Things To do In Udaipur That Will Make You Fall In love With This Beautiful City

Lake pichola.

An interesting aspect of Lake Pichola that we found was that the whole city of Udaipur thrived around and in it – historically as well as to its present state. It is a man-made lake –interestingly by a gypsy, who is popularly known as “Banjara” in Rajasthan. Years later, Maharana Udai Singh, the founder of Udaipur built the city around this very lake.

We found that the Lake Palace Hotel, by the famed Taj group of hotels, to be the focal point. The shimmering lights of this hotel reflecting on the water is something that lingered on to our senses for a very long time. Udaipur leaves an imprint that is best felt when visited in person. We were told that several generations of the king had a similar penchant for the lake. Each generation contributed to enhancing the beauty of the lake by building palaces which they left behind on the four islands within the lake and the adjoining land.

The Bagore Ki Haveli Experience

One of the most attractive things to do in Udaipur is to visit palatial Haveli located on the shores of Lake Pichola, hence offering a brilliant view. The massive structures act as a live museum, giving a peek of the royal loves of the kings and queens. On our first day in Udaipur, we ended our day with the Dharohar Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli. It started around 7 PM and is an hour-long show in the courtyard. The balconies were beautifully lit up and the whole atmosphere was folk Rajasthani. Large mattresses are placed on three sides of the terrace on the floor and these serve as seats around the stage. The Dharohar dance show is a lively show that is an effort to exhibit the tradition and culture of Rajasthani folklore in an alluring way.

Sadly, photo and video recording of the show isn’t permitted, and thus we don’t have any photos to show. However, here is a quick snippet from the show organisers ????

Fateh Sagar Lake

A trip to Udaipur is loaded and this makes planning a short trip here a Herculean task. Nevertheless, hoping that we do not miss the crucial spots, our next in the list was Fateh Sagar Lake. Named after Maharana Fateh Singh, this is another artificial freshwater lake created in the 1680s. The lake has several islands, the largest being a park called the Nehru Park.

The lake also houses a solar observatory known as the Udaipur Solar Observatory on one of its islands. We drove around the Moti Magri road and that gave us a total view of the lake. Although we were unable to visit, we heard in one of the islands there was a café in the shape of a boat and is highly recommended. Udaipur is riddled with numerous shopping places, as you would expect an acclaimed tourist destination to be. So irrespective of whether you are visiting a palace or a lake, there is no dearth of shopping spots.

We wanted to get a more engaging experience of the lake so we took a 30 minutes boat ride, and apart from the bracing experiences we took home some amazing pictures. There are various boat riding options and no matter how touristy it sounds, it is a very interesting experience in Fateh Sagar Lake.

Udaipur City Palace

The City Palace was quite visible from our hotel window. Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, this grand palace is an unequaled visual of the status and charm of the Mewar dynasty. A visit to the Udaipur City Palace is incomplete without visiting the palace museum. This is one of the best things to do in Udaipur.

One of the first complexities that unfolded before we were purchasing the entry tickets. There were 20 different combinations of experiences! And each one seemed lucrative than the other. But since time was a factor in these two days in Udaipur, we decided that the City Palace and Palace Museum combination works best for us. The entry is from 9:30 AM till 4:45 PM.

We made our entry through a beautiful triple-arched gate guarded by men in handsome uniforms. We were surprised to walk through a mundane door, only to be mesmerized by total grandeur inside. We entered a hall that displayed a wide range of archaic weapons and the flags of the Mewar rulers fluttered everywhere inside the hall. Inside the museum is a plethora of glass inlay work and marble idols.

We have a blissful time sitting down in the Central Garden within the museum. This garden had beautiful flowering shrubs, trees, water basins, and arched pavilions. The cage of pigeons was another walk through history for us on this tour. Pigeons were used as messengers in ancient times. While the city palace might seem rustic in its exteriors, the interiors presented a different story altogether.

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Sonakshi loves to pose, especially in palaces!

Jag Mandir, situated on the island with the same name in Lake Pichola, was constructed by a series of rulers. Although ‘mandir’ translates to a temple, Jag Mandir is a palace . This palace has quite a history to its name as it served as a refuge to the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. What amazed us was the large elephant statues that welcomed people to the beautifully landscaped island, which was used by the royal family to hold parties, around 300 – 400 years ago.

Interestingly, Udaipur that’s seen as one of the highest tourist footfalls in India, is not just about lakes or mountains or palaces. Of late, it has emerged as a preferred venue for celebrity wedding of unimaginable scale and grandeur. Industrialists, film stars, celebrated artists to sports stars, Udaipur has seen them all.

We entered the Jag Mandir complex via a jetty and that is where we were greeted by the white elephant statues. The palace has a beautiful garden within the courtyard. Within the complex is the “Palace of the Twelve Stones” built on twelve solid marble slabs. A museum inside the Jag Mandir complex displays some of the most important parts of the Mewar dynasty and its culture. Our list in these two days in Udaipur was certainly getting better and bigger. And so is our Udaipur travel blog getting its right dose of content.

Saheliyon Ki Bari

Maharana Bhopal Singh has created this beautiful garden for the female attendants who accompanied the queen as part of her dowry. Built near the Fateh Sagar Lake, is comprised of beautiful gardens, lotus ponds, and even has a small museum. What we realized in our two days in Udaipur is that it is an experience of a lifetime to be here. The city defines what an oasis is. Udaipur, in all fairness, has so much to offer that adjectives fail and words fall short to describe it.

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Saheliyon Ki Bari is a beautiful location for photos, but it is difficult to get a frame without the crowd photobombing!

Vintage Car Museum

We decide to extend our experience of the old world charm with a visit to the Vintage Car Museum. Situated on Gulab Road in Udaipur, the Classic and Vintage car museum is a collection of motor cars used by the Maharana of Mewar. The collection includes several Rolls Royce and Mercedes models, but what rolled us over was an ethereal 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom. The curious café, the aged Shell Petrol Pump, the rustic museum, and very elegant vintage cars all around presented a very retro ambience. We were particularly impressed with the staff, who were so willing to show around and talk about the history of these wonderful cars. It is fascinating to see old school British, American, and German engineering excellence find a common shed in India.

We decided to end our wonderful stay in Udaipur with an evening Light and Sound show at Moti Magri. Moti Magri or Pearl Hill overlooks the Fateh Sagar Lake and has a memorial of Maharana Pratap. The first thing that we saw here was this huge statue of Maharana Pratap and his horse ‘ chetak ’ . This statue is entirely made of bronze and celebrates the companionship of a man and his horse. A Japanese Rock garden laces the fringes of the memorial ground.

Complete List of Places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days

The relics of the grand Rajputana pride are visible in the architectures of the city, its culture, food, and the courtesy that the locals bestow on you. It would be unfair not to mention a complete list of the grand palaces, beautiful lakes and gardens that have made Udaipur what it is today.

Below is a list of all the places to visit and see Udaipur attractions and a few things to do as well:

• Lake Palace:  for a Royale Architecture
• City Palace:  a Magnificent (but slightly overrated) palace
• Jag Mandir:  Religious Place
• The Monsoon Palace:  Hilltop Palatial Residence
• Ahar Cenotaphs:  Archaeological Significance
• Fateh Sagar Lake:  Serene Lake
• Saheliyon Ki Bari:  Beautiful Garden
• Bagore Ki Haveli:  Oldest Haveli
• Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum:  For Art Lovers
• Shilpgram:  Handicraft And More!
• Vintage Car Museum:  Automobile Beauties
• Lake Pichola:  Prominent Site
• Karni Mata Temple:  The Temple Of Pride
• Jawahar Nagar:  Aerial Views
• Jagat Niwas:  Heritage Mansion
• Hathi Pol Bazaar:  Artisanal Products
• Ambrai Amet Haveli:  Scenic View
• Tribute:  A ‘Tribute’ To Chetak
• Doodh Talai Musical Garden:  Music In The Air
• Eklingji Temple:  Religious Excursions
• Jagdish Temple:  Stunning Marvel Architecture
• Maharana Pratap Memorial:  Homage
• Udaipur Solar Observatory:  Intellectual Hours
• Crystal Gallery:  Royal And More!
• Jaisamand Lake:  Second Largest Artificial Lake
• Bada Bazaar:  Market That Offers Everything!
• Gangaur Ghat:  Serene Ambiance
• Bapu Bazaar:  For Udaipur Decoratives
• Mewar Biodiversity Park:  Vibrant Flora And Fauna
• Marvel Water Park:  Adventurous And Refreshing
• Aravali Nature View:  Stunning Sights
• Udaipur Ghat:  Mesmerizing Sunsets
• Sahastra Bahu Temple:  Seek Blessings Of Lord Vishnu
• Under The Sun Aquarium:  Witness Beautiful Fish Swim By

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Broadly categorising, there are 2 main areas to stay in Udaipur – (1) around lake Pichola, and (2) a bit far from the central area. Well, this is assuming you are not planning to stay right in the middle of the lake – Taj Lake Palace !

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The supreme view from our hotel’s roof top restaurant

Choosing a hotel around the lake has its own advantages, but there are also a few negatives of it.

Advantages of staying near Lake Pichola: > The view! Majority of the hotels in this area have rooftop restaurants. And, being right next to Lake Pichola, it will be dinner with an awesome view! > All the major attractions are practically at a stone’s throw distance. > There are a variety of hotels, falling in different tariff ranges – from budget to posh.

Disadvantages of staying near Lake Pichola: > Being the central spot, it will be crowded – especially during the peak season. > The lanes are too narrow to take your car inside. We had to park our car around a kilometre away from our hotel.

Since we didn’t have any issues with staying in a crowded place, we had chosen a nice and highly-rated 3-star hotel right next to Lake Pichola! Additionally, staying here gave us the added advantage of reaching many spectacular photo-spots just by taking a quick stroll.

But, if you would prefer to stay away from the hub-hub of Udaipur, we would suggest you select a hotel slightly towards the outskirts of the city. These hotels are primarily the luxury ones (though there are a few budget hotels as well).

Where to Eat in Udaipur + what to try

• Kabab Mistri:  A Fine Dine Restaurant
• Jaiwana Haveli:  Rooftop Restaurant
• Raas Leela:  Lakefront Restaurant
• Charcoal By Carlson:  Scrumptious Delicacies
• Sheesh Mahal:  Gorgeous Restaurant
• Upré By 1559 AD: Finedine with a photogenic location
• Natural View Restaurant: as the name suggests…
• Sunset Terrace: ideal for a romantic dinner for 2

Well, there are plenty of amazing fine-dine restaurants in Udaipur, and we did try a couple of them. But, surrounding Lake Pichola, we found an array of contemporary as well as quirky cafes and restaurants. One of them was ‘ yummy yoga ’. We had never heard about it before, but the name caught our attention, and we went in to try it out.

And it turned out to be a wonderful and cherishable experience. The menu was unique and the staff were warm and cordial. Like western cafes, we found a few puzzles kept inside. One of the staff members challenged me if I can solve the ‘snake-cube’ under 1-min, they will offer free desserts. And………….. ????

In the end…

If you love tantalizing your travel buds, Udaipur is the city to explore. A city that will drive even the sluggish human being from a hotel room to action on the streets. The landscape, for a moment, might make you reminiscent of the foothills of the Himalayas, but its unquestionable warmth will remind you of the aroma of the desert. Udaipur, with an ever-present history, can only be felt through the senses. So go ahead and relish the local cuisines, poetic language, and friendliness of the locals. You are in the right place when you are in Udaipur. 

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FootLoose Dev

Travel blog by an Indian travel blogger.

Udaipur: First Impression, Places to Visit, How To Travel, and More

Before stating how much I loved Udaipur and suggesting useful travel tips in this blog — from best time to travel, to places to visit, to recommended hotels — let’s talk about my previous trip to Rajasthan…

In November 2018, my first visit to Rajasthan happened. I planned a nearly 2-week backpacking trip across Rajasthan covering Jodhpur , Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Ajmer, and Jaipur . I started from New Delhi on a train and chose Jodhpur as my first destination.

But as I reached Jodhpur, I hated it (I now wish that I had travelled to Udaipur first). I hated it for its atmosphere, the overrated attractions, and everything else in between. My dream for a town just as romantic as all those Instagram-perfect pictures portrayed was scattered. Instagram, with all those fancy pictures of the Blue city Jodhpur, created a wrong impression in my head (also, read how Instagram lied about Dawki River in Meghalaya too).

I spent the next three days looking for reasons to start liking Jodhpur again, but I couldn’t. I was, in fact, so demoralized that I decided to discontinue my Rajasthan adventure. “If Jodhpur is so boring and unworthy how can other destinations in Rajasthan intrigue me?” I remember wondering. And I never travelled to Udaipur or Jaisalmer or any other destination in Rajasthan.

And that was it. Three days later, I booked my return journey to New Delhi, and there has been no introduction to Rajasthan ever since. Read the full experience here: Jodhpur travel blog (it also includes useful travel tips).

But this time, as I planned a Delhi to Bangalore road trip , I ended up in Rajasthan again. And Udaipur happened to be one of the towns two towns I visited (the other town was Jaipur).

I haven’t written any articles on Jaipur because I stayed there for only one night and couldn’t explore it well.

But from whatever little I’ve explored, I found Jaipur a beautiful place to visit. I think Jaipur looks more beautiful and charming at night.

During the night, the crowd is less and the old town of Jaipur is all lit up with artificial lights. I have made a Youtube video about it though if you are interested in visual action…

Now let’s start with the topic in hand and move forward with the destination we are discussing, and that is…

Before we go ahead, I want to confess that I didn’t stay in Udaipur for long but for only three days before continuing further south. But it was enough for me to fall in love with the place.

One reason I loved Udaipur the most was for its relaxing and laid-back vibe that I found missing in Jodhpur. There was some kind of calmness in its air.

Even in the months of December (December and January are the peak seasons for Rajasthan), the city would go absolutely quiet after the wee hours of sunset – with a sense of peacefulness flowing in the air. Just walk around one of the lakes in the town and you will know what I mean.

Other than a place to relax and unwind, I found Udaipur as one of the most romantic cities in India. Though I wish I had a few pictures to justify the statement myself (but since I was vlogging most of the time – on top of having limited time – I don’t) if you will Google for those pictures you will know what I mean. From Google images to other travel blogs, you will find enough material soliciting the statement ‘romantic’.

The many natural lakes around the town, perfectly beautified with a sunset make love float in the air. And if you want to know Udaipur closely, visit one of the tourist highlights and popular places to visit in Udaipur. Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Palace, and Taj Lake Palace are a few to start with.

And if that doesn’t suffice, how about a romantic dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants? Choose a perfect ambience with a perfect candlelight setting and let your story take a modern turn while stepping back in time at the same time.

Here’s a youtube video I have published on my Youtube channel , exploring the top places to visit in Udaipur…

Udaipur has a multicultural vibe!

I love towns that attract tourists from around the world and offer a multicultural experience, while still keeping a strong local taste, and Udaipur fits the description.

Despite a lot of local action, in Udaipur, you find people from around the world – Europeans, Australians, you name it. There are also a lot of Indians, representing different parts of the country. And that’s because it has something for everyone. Whether you’re holidaying with your loved one or alone as a backpacker, you will find enough to see and do in Udaipur – I am not talking about top places to visit there but much more than that. There isn’t much in the town for an adventure buff but for those looking for poetic inspiration, the city is certainly no disappointment.

When it comes to food too, Udaipur doesn’t disappoint. From local flavors to places serving international cuisines, it has everything. During my three days there, I tried street food to gourmet cuisines. Hot delicious Kachoris and Samosas, Dal Bhatti Churma, Sumptuous Thalis rooftop dining and wining – a travel holiday in Udaipur are no less about gaining calories either.

And if you’re looking for recommendations on top tourist highlights or what to see in Udaipur, let’s talk about that too, in detail!

Places To Visit In Udaipur

No matter what you taste, you will find enough things to see and do around Udaipur. From backpackers to honeymooners to family travellers, there is something for everyone – after all, it is one of the top holiday places to visit in India.

Speaking of the best places to visit in Udaipur, here’s what I suggest…

Lake Pichola

This is the oldest, the largest and the most frequented lake in the city. The best time to visit Lake Pichola in Udaipur is sunset or sunrise (sunrise for a quiet experience). Visit Lake Pichola to enjoy a romantic scene of lofty palaces, temples and bathing ghats, surrounding a mesmerising lake.

Here’s a Youtube Video of my Stay overlooking Pichola Lake and a boat ride across Lake Pichola…

City Palace

This is one of the best architectural marvels in the entire Rajasthan. Located by the banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace in Udaipur is certainly one of the top places to visit. From Rajasthan tourism’s website to most travel blogs on Udaipur, you will find humble mentions of City Palace, almost everywhere.

• Fateh Sagar Lake

Fateh Sagar Lake is an artificial lake named after Maharana Fateh Singh. It is one of the four prominent lakes and one of the best places to visit in Udaipur. Again, the best time to visit is either early morning (when the crowd is less) or evening sunset.

Sajjangarh Palace

Also known as Monsoon Palace, Sajjangarh Palace in Udaipur is located at the peak of Bansdara Mountain as high as about 944 m above sea level overlooking the famous Pichola Lake. A little climb to the Palace is worth it for panoramic views of the city.

Jag Mandir Palace

Located on the island of Pichola Lake, Jag Mandir Palace offers a beautiful view of the sunset (the best place for sunset in Udaipur). The spacious courtyard of the Jag Mandir Palace with black and white marble tiles is a striking feature that you will find in many guidebooks written about the city. A visit to the Jag Mandir palace, during your trip, is certainly a no-miss.

Other places to visit in Udaipur are…

• Ambrai Ghat
• Hathi Pol Bazar
• Jaisamand Lake
• Bagore ki Haveli
• Taj Lake Palace
• Lakeside ghat
• Nehru Garden
• Jagdish Temple
• Sukhadia Circle
• Eklingji Temple
• Monsoon Palace
• Gulab Bagh and Zoo
• Doodh Talai Musical garden
• City Palace Vintage Car Museum
• Mansapurna Karni Mata Temple
• Bagore-ki-Haveli heritage museum

Best Time To Travel Udaipur

Since Rajasthan is a desert state with tropical weather conditions (hot and humid). Unless you are travelling in extreme luxury the months of March to June and September to November are too hot to do anything – making them the worst travel months.

The best time to visit Udaipur, therefore, remains the winter months of December, January and February. This is when the maximum temperature remains around 25-degree Celcius giving the perfect to step outside and explore. But with perfect weather, comes the peak season. If you are one of those people who want to travel on a cheap budget in India , always looking for cheap travel accommodation in India , then consider travelling during monsoon.

The monsoon months are not too hot and the season is not peak, making them, if not the best, at least moderately good time to visit Udaipur.

How To Travel

Jaipur to udaipur.

Since both these destinations mark a commonly repeated trail (that starts from Delhi) many people travel from Jaipur to Udaipur too. Having said that, let’s briefly talk about that too.

The distance between the two places is around 400 km and it is possible to travel by bus or train very easily.

There are frequent Jaipur to Udaipur buses, leaving from the Jaipur bus station. They take about 7:30 hours in total. You can find both day and overnight buses. Use Redbus to book a bus that best suits you. An ordinary bus can cost about 250 Rupees, whereas a luxury bus can cost about 500 to 700 Rupees.

Alternatively, you can travel on a Jaipur to Udaipur train. There are at least a dozen trains every day that connect both destinations. Travel time on a train remains around 6 hours.

Delhi To Udaipur

If you are coming from Delhi, there are two ways to get there – on a train or on a flight. There are no direct buses from Delhi to Udaipur, hence we are not going to talk about that. It is moreover a nearly 650km journey so travelling on a bus is a bit of an effort.

Also, check my Delhi to Chitkul guide , and my Delhi to Munsiyari road trip if you are looking for more holiday suggestions from Delhi. You can even read my Delhi travel blog if you are a tourist in Delhi.

Delhi to Udaipur Train

If you want to travel on a budget and enjoy the scenic beauty of the journey, your best bet to travel from Delhi to Udaipur is on a train. There are nearly 10 trains every day that connect the two destinations Most of these trains, moreover, either start from Delhi or end there. So if you are coming from Delhi, the chances of them running late are quite less.

From old Delhi railway station to Delhi Sarai Rohilla Terminal railway station to New Delhi railway station, you can find Delhi to Udaipur trains pretty much everywhere in Delhi. Book a sleeper class for a budget trip or a 3AC for a bit of comfort. I suggest you use IRCTC’s website or their mobile app to book a train.

Delhi to Udaipur Flight

The quickest and most convenient way to travel is by a Delhi to Udaipur flight. You can find a flight for less than 5000 Rupees. The bus station in Udaipur city (located in the city centre) is around 22 km from the airport. And since there are frequent connections between the two destinations, you can easily travel on a bus (or book a taxi for more comfort).

Where To Stay In Udaipur

There are quite a few places to stay in Udaipur, including many budget hostels for backpackers. But given the fact that Rajasthan happened to be the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain, for anyone travelling to Udaipur, or somewhere else in Rajasthan, it’s a good idea to book a boutique stay and experience the same.

Having said that, I can recommend Burj Baneria located close to Lake Pichola.

A family-run small boutique stay, Burj Baneria offers 8 rooms and each one of them gives a spectacular view of Lake Pichola. Their rooftop dining area, however, is the best part of the entire premise where we also enjoyed a candlelight dinner.

The family of Baneria is part of the nobility of Mewar and three generations of the family have served in the bureaucracy of Mewar and later the state of Rajasthan.

“The whole idea behind the name “Burj” was that one gets a vantage view of Lake Pichola and the old city of Udaipur from our home. This led us to the name Burj because this word originally means a tower on the ramparts of a fort which gives a panoramic view of the surroundings. The design elements of the structure have been taken by the family from their ancestral fort in Village Baneria,” concludes Shivika, the owner of Burj Baneria.

Throughout my stay at Burj Benria, I felt the real hospitality of Udaipur and of Rajasthan of course!

Did you like this travel blog with where to stay, top places to visit and other useful tips about the city of Udaipur? Do you agree with my experience of not liking the place or did you like it and found me exaggerating my feelings? Let’s share your thoughts in the comments below.

You described Udaipur in a wonderful manner. The city is awesome as I can see in photos and destinations are really worth visiting.

What a fantastic blog post! Udaipur has always been on my travel bucket list, and your detailed account of your first impression and the essential information about the city has only intensified my desire to visit.

Your vivid description of your initial experience in Udaipur paints a captivating picture. It’s wonderful to hear how the city instantly charmed you with its stunning architecture, serene lakes, and a sense of timelessness. Your enthusiasm and genuine appreciation for the city’s beauty shine through your words, making me feel like I am right there with you.

Moreover, I truly appreciate the effort you’ve put into providing practical tips for traveling to Udaipur. From suggesting the must-visit attractions to sharing insights on how to get around, your advice will undoubtedly be valuable for anyone planning their trip to this enchanting city. It’s evident that you’ve done your research and have a deep understanding of Udaipur’s hidden gems.

I particularly enjoyed reading about the places you recommend visiting. The City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, and the vibrant markets all sound like incredible experiences that shouldn’t be missed. Your personal anecdotes and recommendations add a personal touch to the article, making it even more engaging and relatable.

Thank you for taking the time to share your first impressions and insights about Udaipur. Your blog post has not only sparked my curiosity about the city but also provided me with valuable information to plan my own visit. I can’t wait to explore the magical streets of Udaipur and create unforgettable memories.

Keep up the fantastic work, and I look forward to reading more about your travel adventures!

Best regards, Atinderpal Singh

The city of lakes, Udaipur, is a wonderfully stunning site that everyone should visit at least once.

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 would recommend that everyone should visit this- city of lake at least once.

Udaipur is a very attractive place, I would recommend that everyone should visit this- city of lake at least once. Thank you for 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.

Wonderful Pictures! It describe all things about Jaisalmer, it is very helpful blog, many people come and enjoy there holiday in Jaisalmer. Thanks for sharing with us.

Brother, your blog post about Udaipur is very well written and informative. Even, I have been to Udaipur once and it was such a marvelous experience.

Keep up the good work.

Hi Dev, I read your blog and saw the photos. Your video was awesome. Very impressive is your blog.

Hi Dev, Your video was fantastic.

Udaipur Is an Awesome place for an unforgettable travel.

Wow, such a beautiful article you have shared. Udaipur is a very attractive place, I would recommend that everyone should visit this- city of lake at least once. I also visit some places of Udaipur Rajasthan. Really Udaipur is a beautiful place it is amazing it’s nature, it’s culture all are mind blowing.

Most detailed Udaipur guide I have read online. Thanks for writing it so precisely.

I really like Udaipur. My favorite place is Fateh Sagar, City Palace, Lack Pichola, Bahubali hill. I would like to suggest every one to go these amazing places at least once in a life

I love traveling and I would like to suggest everybody to travel and explore the wold. Thank you so much for sharing these type of information with us

Wow, such a beautiful article you have shared. Udaipur is a very attractive place, I would recommend that everyone should visit this- city of lake at least once. I also visit some places of Udaipur Rajasthan. Really Udaipur is a beautiful place it is amazing it’s nature, it’s culture all are mind blowing.

Wow, such a beautiful article you have shared. Udaipur is a very attractive place, I would recommend that everyone should visit this- city of lake at least once. I also read an article on places in pixel they also explained their experience in detail. If you are planning a trip to Udaipur then must check out the article.

Great and awesome article! It was very helpful and btw(by the way) nice motorbike.

Awesome videos and a great explanation of what to expect in Udaipur for first-timers 🙂

Hi, dev. Lately, I have been referring to your site a lot while building my own travel blog. You have very good content on your site. Most of the tips to build your own travel blog has been very helpful. I am writing to you to say Thanks for being a Mentor to me.

I have traveled extensively in India. Now for the past few years, I have started to make trips to other countries that I could afford. I have this dream of seeing the Entire World in my lifetime. Indian youth who quit to become full-time Travelers inspire me a lot. We all know how Indian Passport gets in the way of becoming a full-time World Traveler. Keep up this good work.

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2 Days in Udaipur Itinerary: the White City of India

Thanks to its five lakes, Udaipur has often been dubbed the Venice of the East or the City of Lakes , and it’s one of my favourite cities in Rajasthan. This Udaipur itinerary for 2 days is perfect for first-timers . It will bring you to floating palaces, beautiful temples and breathtaking viewpoints.

Surrounded by the Aravalli hills, Udaipur was founded in the 16th century as the new capital of the Mewar Kingdom. It would remain like this until 1818 when it became a British princely state.

Today, Udaipur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan and it’s easy to understand why. With its serene lakes, colourful markets and peaceful gardens, it’s a city that does not disappoint.

2 days travel itinerary for Udaipur, India

Day 1: Lakes and temples

Let’s dive right into it! The first day of this itinerary will give you an idea of what Udaipur is all about. It will bring you to the city’s most romantic lake, its most famous temple and a spectacular viewpoint.

8:30 am: Lake Pichola

We’ll start the first day of this itinerary by exploring Lake Pichola and its surroundings. Lake Pichola is undoubtedly Udaipur’s most famous sight. It’s thanks to this artificial lake that Udaipur is considered the most romantic city in Rajasthan .

Some of the sights you cannot miss during a visit to Lake Pichola are Gangaur Ghat and Ambrai Ghat . You will have a beautiful view of the lake from both of these places. Note that you will have to pay a small fee (and an extra fee if you want to take photos) to visit Ambrai Ghat.

Tip : Lake Shore Restaurant is a nice place to have breakfast near Ambrai Ghat. You will have a stunning view of the lake here!

10:00 am: Monsoon Palace

The Monsoon Palace, also known as Sajjangarh Fort , is 10 km (6.2 mi) from Udaipur’s old town. You will need to take a rickshaw to get to the entrance of the palace, and then you can either take a jeep or walk to the top of the hill. The hike up takes approximately 1 hour.

This palace was built for Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1884, and it offers a stunning view over Udaipur. It’s believed that the Maharana built it here to get a view of Chittorgarh, his ancestral home and the previous capital.

Fun fact: The Monsoon Palace is also famous for being featured in the James Bond movie Octopussy.

12:30 pm: Lunch

Head back to the old town for lunch. Some of the rooftop restaurants I liked that are close to the Jagdish Temple (which is next on this itinerary) are Café Boho and Savage Garden (which is on top of Edelweiss Café).

1:30 pm: Jagdish Temple

After lunch, it’s time to head to the Jagdish Temple, which is the largest one in Udaipur. This Hindu temple was completed in 1651 and its architecture is simply stunning. You will find numerous statues of elephants, horsemen, musicians and dancers on the structure’s facades.

This temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu and according to the legend, the marble slab inside the temple has healing powers. It’s believed that if you rub your shoulders, knees or back against it, it will relieve pain.

>> Read next: What to Pack for India as a Woman

2:00 pm: Ahar Cenotaphs

A place that’s often overlooked on a Udaipur travel itinerary is the Ahar Cenotaphs , also known as the Royal Cremation Grounds . These are a 4 km (2.5 mi) drive from the Jagdish Temple, so the easiest way to get there is by taking a rickshaw.

Cenotaphs are small tomb-like structures that were built in honour of kings, queens and other important people. The Ahar Cenotaphs contain more than 250 of these structures. They were built by the Maharanas of Mewar approximately 350 years ago and they’re pretty impressive!

This is a nice place to enjoy some peace and quiet after strolling around the bustling streets of Udaipur’s old city.

It’s good to know that there is no entry fee to visit the Ahar Cenotaphs. There are guides at the entrance that will ask you for money if you want to take pictures, but this is not official. I gave them 40 INR but you don’t have to give them anything if you don’t want to.

4:00 pm: Saheliyon-ki-Bari

The last stop of the day is Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of Maids in English), a romantic garden that’s a 15-minute rickshaw ride from the Royal Cenotaphs.

These gardens were built by Rana Sanga of the Mewar dynasty to offer the queen and the maidens a peaceful getaway from palace life and political issues. You will find marble elephants, a lotus pool and multiple fountains here. It’s the perfect place to relax after a busy day of exploring Udaipur.

Tip: Rainbow Restaurant is another great place to have dinner with a gorgeous lake view. It’s located in the old town; a 40-minute walk or a 15-minute rickshaw drive from Saheliyon-ki-Bari.

Day 2: Palaces and views

On day 2 of this Udaipur itinerary, it’s time to enjoy some spectacular views and head to one of the city’s most famous sights; the City Palace.

9:30 am: City Palace

After breakfast, it’s time to head to the City Palace, a place that you cannot miss on a visit to Udaipur. Its mix of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles will take your breath away.

The City Palace was built in 1553 and it’s the largest royal complex in the state of Rajasthan. It was built at the demand of Maharana Udai Singh II when he moved the capital from Chittorgarh to Udaipur.

Inside, you will find splendid halls, amazing palaces, beautiful mosaics and an interesting museum.

11:00 am: Boat ride on Lake Pichola & Jag Mandir

Next, it’s time to head to the Lake Pichola Municipal Boat Ride Point, which is located opposite the City Palace. From here, you can take a boat ride on Lake Pichola and make a stop at Jag Mandir, the palace, which has now been converted into a hotel, in the middle of the lake.

This boat trip will offer you spectacular views over the lake, the ghats and the City Palace, and it’s one of the top things to do in Udaipur!

12:30 am: Lunch

A great place to have lunch in Udaipur’s old town is Sun & Moon Cafe , which is a 15-minute walk from the City Palace. This place claims to have the highest rooftop in the city. I don’t know if this is true, but there’s no denying that the view from their rooftop is spectacular!

1:30 pm: Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway

The Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway is located 1,5 km (0.9 mi) from the old city, so you can either walk or take a rickshaw to get there.

This cable car ride will take you to Machhala Hill , where you will find the Sri Karni Mata Temple . Although the temple isn’t that spectacular, you will find an amazing view over Udaipur here, which is what makes it worth heading to this hilltop!

Note that you will still have to walk up some stairs to reach the temple and viewpoint once you get off of the cable car.

4:00 pm: Explore the old city, shop for souvenirs and look for street art

Head back to the old city, which is located around the Jagdish Temple and the Clock Tower (Ghantaghar), and explore its little alleys.

If you’d like to shop for some nice souvenirs from India , this is the perfect place to do so. You will find many shops selling colourful clothes, beautiful jewellery, traditional paintings and more. Do make sure to haggle before buying something, though.

Keep an eye open for the colourful street art and murals that are scattered all over Udaipur’s old city while you’re there. These are Rajputana paintings and their use dates back to the Mewar era.

6:30 pm: Dharohar Dance Show at Lok Dharohar Haveli

Head to the Dharohar Dance Show at Lok Dharohar Haveli for the last evening in Udaipur. Here, you will get a taste of traditional Rajasthani dances, and it’s quite impressive, to say the least!

From puppet dances to Rajasthani women balancing (a lot of!) pots on their heads while dancing, it’s a spectacular show that you will definitely remember.

Although there are cultural Rajasthani dance performances in other cities in Rajasthan too, the one in Udaipur is known to be the most spectacular one, so don’t miss it!

Tip : The show starts at 7 pm but make sure to come early to get a good seat. The doors open at 6:30 pm but you can buy your tickets in advance (or book them online via the Dharohar Folk Dance website).

Map and schedule for the Udaipur itinerary

Udaipur itinerary day 1: lakes and temples.

8:30 am:  Stroll around Lake Pichola and the ghats (+ breakfast) 10:00 am: Visit the Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Fort) 12:30 am: Lunch in the old city 1:30 pm: See the Jagdish Temple 2:00 pm: Visit the Royal Cenotaphs 4:00 pm: Take a stroll at Saheliyon-ki-Bari 6:30 pm : Dinner at Rainbow Restaurant

Udaipur itinerary day 2: Palaces and views

8:00 am: Breakfast 9:30 am:  Visit the City Palace 11:00 am: Take a boat ride to Jag Mandir on Lake Pichola 12:30 am: Lunch at Sun & Moon Cafe 1:30 pm: Head to the Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway 4:00 pm: Explore the old town, shop for souvenirs and look for street art 6:30 pm: Go to the Dharohar Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli 8:00 pm: Dinner at Charcoal by Carlsson

How to get to Udaipur

Udaipur is a well-connected city that’s easily reachable by bus , train and plane , as the nearest airport (Maharana Pratap Airport) is located 20 km (12.4) from the city.

You can book bus and train tickets using 12GoAsia . This is the only website I could find that accepts payments with non-Indian credit cards. Note that when you’re travelling in the north of India, it’s essential to book transportation in advance .

How to get around in Udaipur

Many tourist attractions are within walking distance of one another, but not all of them. Besides walking, the easiest ways to get around in Udaipur are the following:

• Rickshaw: Although you will have to negotiate the price in advance, taking the rickshaw is a great way to get around in Udaipur. You will find rickshaws nearly everywhere in the city.
• Ola: When travelling in India, the Ola app is a true lifesaver. This app will allow you to book a car, rickshaw or bike to pick you up and bring you to your destination for a fair price. This way, you won’t have to haggle, as rickshaw drivers try to charge 10 times the local price for foreigners.
• Taxi: The most comfortable way to get around is by taking a taxi, but note that this is also the most expensive one.
• Rent a bike or car: If flexibility and freedom are things that you value, then renting a car or a bike to get around Udaipur is the best option.

Best time to visit Udaipur

Like many places in India , the best time to visit Udaipur is between October and March , when it’s not too hot.

In April and May, it will be very hot, as this is summer in India, and the monsoon season is between June and September. I visited Udaipur during the monsoon, in July, and although there were dry days, it did rain a lot.

Where to stay in Udaipur

There are plenty of hotels in Udaipur, it all depends on your taste and budget. You will find my top recommendations below.

Check out my guide featuring the best lake view hotels in Udaipur if you would like to have a beautiful view of Lake Pichola from your hotel.

• Little People House ( ⭐ 8.9/10) : This is a place I cannot recommend enough. Little Peepal House offers clean rooms for an affordable price and Parvat (the host) and his family will treat you as if you’re part of their family. On top of that, the location is perfect, the wifi is excellent and the home-cooked food is absolutely delicious!
• Amet Haveli ( ⭐ 8.3/10): This beautiful heritage hotel was built in the 19th century and it offers a fantastic view of Lake Pichola. The rooms are beautifully decorated and the restaurant offers some of the best food in Udaipur.
• The Oberoi Udaivillas ( ⭐ 9.6/10): This is one of Udaipur’s most luxurious hotels. You will feel like royalty if you stay here! The Oberoi Udaivillas has beautiful courtyards, pavillions, gardens and private pools, and the rooms come with a butler.

Udaipur FAQ’s

How many days is enough for udaipur.

It all depends on your interests and personal pace, but I would recommend staying in Udaipur for at least 2 days. This way, you will be able to see the city’s highlights. If you want to explore Udaipur’s surroundings too, 3 days is better.

Is Udaipur worth visiting?

Yes, Udaipur is definitely worth a visit. The city is full of beautiful sights, including Lake Pichola, the City Palace and the Jagdish Temple.

Is Udaipur safe?

As long as you use your common sense, Udaipur is safe to visit. I spent two weeks in Udaipur as a solo female traveller, and there hasn’t been a moment that I didn’t feel safe. You can read my guide on solo (female) travel in India here.

2 days in Udaipur trip itinerary – Final thoughts

I hope you enjoy this sightseeing itinerary for Udaipur for 2 days. If you have more time, there are other things to do in Udaipur too. You could take a day trip to the Ranakpur Jain Temple, for example, or head to Kumbhalgarh Fort, which is also called the Great Wall of India.

All in all, Udaipur is a city that has a lot to offer. I loved spending time on the city’s rooftops and I can’t wait to visit it again!

India travel planning guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Agoda . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw. 🚃 Use  12GoAsia  to book trains and buses in India. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

Read more about Udaipur:

• The Best Lake View Hotels in Udaipur for Every Budget
• Karni Mata Ropeway, Udaipur: A Useful Guide
• Ahar Cenotaphs, Udaipur: Complete Guide

Pin it for later: Did you find this itinerary for Udaipur useful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Yes, Udaipur is as Great as Everyone Says

I had high expectations for Udaipur.

And if you’ve read my blog for any length of time, you’ll know that usually means I’m going to end up disappointed.

Yes, the more I hype up a destination in my mind, the more likely it is that I arrive and mark it down with a big old meh . 

But everybody unequivocally loves Udaipur. It seems like every travel blogger who’s been to Rajasthan comes away listing it their favourite spot in the state. 

And so, I gave myself four days in the city — longer than anywhere else in Rajasthan — because if it did turn out to be my favourite place in India, I wanted to make sure I had enough time to soak up as much of it as possible. 

Yeah, I’d say my first impressions were pretty acceptable. Just look at that gorgeous light!

After checking in to our adorable guesthouse , Dave and I dumped our bags and set out for the ghats. Fortunately, they were just a five-minute walk from where we were staying. I’d read that Gangaur Ghat was one of the best parts of the city to catch the sunset, and I was immediately wowed by the scene in front of us. 

Teenagers crowded by the water, listening to tinny dance music on their phones, competing with an elderly man who was strumming  a tanpura several metres away. Stray dogs lazed in the warm breeze while a hundred pigeons flocked around a container full of food.

I wandered to the lake’s edge and sat down, eager to spend a few moments watching the calm waters lap beneath my feet, the sun drifting lower through the hazy orange sky. It was such a magical moment and I wanted to take it all in.

I stood up after half an hour of wide-eyed wonder and wandered over a bridge to nearby Ambrai Ghat — another vantage point that was also said to be the perfect spot for sunset. There’s a lot of those in Udaipur. 

As I stood by the water, I was hit by a sense of unease; almost like I was about to have a panic attack. Something felt really, really off. 

It took a solid 15 minutes to figure out why I was feeling so strange. 

It was so discombobulating to not hear the sound of horns and engines and bells and music. 

I wouldn’t describe Udaipur as peaceful, but in a country as loud as India, it was a novelty to stumble into areas where you could hear nothing at all. 

A quick check of my phone showed me that Yummy Yoga — one of the best-rated restaurants in the city — was a few minutes away and had a rooftop terrace with spectacular views over the city and lake. The two seemed at odds with each other: I typically associate restaurants with great views with mediocre food, but this was India. I had yet to have a bad meal in the country, so I decided to take a risk.

The owner greeted us with a warm smile, and handed us menus and a bottle of hand sanitiser. As we watched the city begin to light up before us, we filled our stomachs with one of the best meals from our time in the country. 

Talk about the perfect introduction to a city!

I couldn’t wait to delve more into Udaipur. 

Where is Udaipur? 

Udaipur is located in Rajasthan, the desert state of India, roughly mid-way between New Delhi and Mumbai. 

It’s one of prettiest cities in the state, spread out across a series of seven lakes and surrounded by the green, hilly Aravali Range. It often feels far more like a chaotic European city than a dusty, desert destination in India. 

And it has plenty of nicknames. It’s known as the White City of Rajasthan. It’s referred to as the most romantic city in India. Some people call it the Venice of the East, and some the City of Lakes. 

It’s known for being the place for chilling out and relaxing. It’s a city to visit with your partner and soak up the romance. It’s a beautiful spot, full of glistening palaces and historic havelis, with street art to take photos of, ghats to watch the sunset from, and peaceful lakes to wander alongside. It’s wonderful; as wonderful as everyone says it is. 

It’s because of this that many travellers opt to stay for a while. Been racing through India at breakneck speed and desperate for somewhere to rest for a week? Udaipur is the place!

And while there are plenty of things to do while you’re in town, it’s also a city where simply meandering through the streets is the perfect way to spend a day. 

I’ve put together a guide to share everything you need to know about visiting Udaipur. Let’s get stuck in with a list of some of my favourite things to do in the city:

Check Out the Jagdish Temple

One of the most popular attractions in Udaipur is Jagdish Temple — a Hindu temple that has been in continuous operation from 1651. It was so impressive! 

It’s easy to get templed-out in India, but I still really enjoyed my time at Jagdish. It’s one of those structures that looks just as impressive up-close as it does from afar. The closer you get to the intricate sculptures, the more you can appreciate the work that went into carving it. 

If you can, aim to time your visit with one of the daily aartis, which is a Hindu prayer ritual. They take place seven times a day and make for a truly spiritual experience.  

Take a Sunset Cruise of Lake Pichola

I almost skipped out on this because I thought it would be cheesy, touristy, and lame, but it ended up being one of my favourite Udaipur activities! It definitely helped that we managed to time our boat ride with a gorgeous sunset. 

There are two options when it comes to checking out the sunset from the lake: the budget option and the luxe option. You guys know I went for the former!

The more expensive option leaves from Udaipur City Palace at 3 p.m. and costs Rs800 ($11). You get taken to Jag Mandir, a palace on an island on the lake, where you can wander around and watch the sunset, then you jump back on the boat and head back to the city. 

Alternatively, you can head to Lal Ghat, and pay Rs300 ($4) for a sunset cruise, leaving from 5 p.m. You won’t get to walk around the island, but you’ll get to be on the boat for the sunset, watching from the centre of the lake. That was what swayed me: I wanted to see the sunset from the water, and the island, I’d heard, didn’t have much on it that was worth seeing. 

My sunset cruise was a peaceful experience, lasted for around an hour, and gave us a view of Udaipur and its beautiful buildings that we wouldn’t have otherwise been able to get. 

Admire the Street Art in Udaipur

More than anywhere else in Rajasthan, I couldn’t get enough of the murals in Udaipur! All around the Old Town, you’ll find traditional paintings adorning white-washed walls, and I think I took a photo of practically every one I saw. They were just so intricate and colourful!

I’d recommend setting aside an hour or two to wander through the narrow streets of Old Udaipur to try to spot as many paintings as possible. If you like the style of artwork, you can easily find tons of paintings in Udaipur to buy as a souvenir, or even take an art class to learn how to create them yourself!

Stroll Through Manik Lal Verma Park

One of my favourite peaceful spots in Udaipur is Manik Lal Verma Park.

In dry and dusty Rajasthan, it always feels good to get out amongst some greenery, and there was plenty of it around this area. I enjoyed simply sitting down by the water and people-watching in relative silence.

Hike to Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple

Now, if you’re anything like me, you’re probably going to be spending your entire time in India stuffing your face. As I’ve said over and over, the food was just mind-blowing in this country.

As my waistline rapidly expanded, I sought every opportunity to get active that I could find. 

You can take a ropeway up the hill to Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata, but when it’s only thirty minutes to climb up there, it’s best to walk. Karni Mata is a Hindu temple atop the Machla Magra hills, with a beautiful view over Udaipur, the Aravalli mountain range, and the nearby lakes. 

As an added bonus, there’s an old abandoned structure that you can see in the photo above, poking out through the trees. It’s pretty derelict these days, but you can still clamber up the rickety steps to get a view of the city without anybody else around. 

Sip on Ginger Tea at Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar at Sunset

There are so many great spots to watch the sunset in Udaipur. I quickly slid into a routine.

After a day full of sightseeing, I’d head to Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar an hour before sunset to order a lemon-ginger tea, while Dave would opt for a ginger coffee. They were so good! I even liked the ginger coffee, which is surprising because it sounded like it would be horrible. 

You Could Spend Half a Day at Udaipur’s City Palace

I learned from my time in Jaipur that if you want to see the best of an attraction, you should make sure you’re the first people at the gate for opening time. In this case, we did exactly that. 

The palace was so impressive! And having every single room and courtyard completely to ourselves made the entire experience all the more great. We spent three hours wandering from one area to the next, taking hundreds of photos and making sure to peek out of every window for some impressive views of the city. 

I Loved Exploring the Monsoon Palace

You can spot the Monsoon Palace from most places in Udaipur. It’s set high in the hills over the city and gets its name from its use as a popular spot where royals used to escape to during the monsoon. 

The palace itself is run down and abandoned, but the views over the city and surrounding hills and mountains are more than worth the trek up. While I visited in the afternoon, I think this would be a great place to catch the sunset one evening, too. 

If you don’t have your own transport or don’t want to walk the long walk to the top (you don’t), you’ll have to take a minivan transfer from the entrance gates.

You Have to Take a Day Trip to Chittorgarh

I’m probably going to write a blog post just about my day trip to Chittorgarh Fort, because I was so freaking obsessed with the complex there. I really wasn’t sure if it would be worth spending six hours driving time to spend three hours at the grounds, but it so was. 

Chittorgarh Fort is enormous — one of the largest in India — spread out over 700 acres on a hill looming over the city. The complex is full of temples, palaces, gates, and towers, and every single one was so intricate and majestic. I never thought I’d write an entire blog post about a fort, but I’m definitely going to be doing so for Chittorgarh. 

If you give yourself enough time in Udaipur to spare spending some of it on a day trip, this is the one I’d recommend. 

It’s a Great Place to Go Shopping

Like Pushkar , Udaipur was another great Rajasthani destination for shopping, and I loved wandering through its markets and stores. 

You’ll find saris, cushion covers, jewellery, slippers, trinkets, artwork, handbags, rugs, wall hangings, and they’re all colourful, vibrant, and ridiculously inexpensive. If you’re looking for souvenirs from your time in India, this is one of the best places to pick one up. 

Check Out the Dharohar folk dance show at Bagore Ki Haveli

For a taster of Rajasthani culture, head to Bagore Ki Haveli — a private palace — in the evening for the local folk dance show. Yes, it sounds touristy as hell, but you’ll learn a lot about the dances, music, and puppetry that’s important for this region of India, and find plenty of locals catching the show, too. 

The show starts at 7 p.m. and is regularly fully-booked, so make sure you book in advance. Tickets are Rs150, with an additional Rs150 to bring a camera in. 

Where to Stay in Udaipur

I loved staying in the old city of Udaipur and despite the noise, would recommend choosing a hotel in that area, as you’ll be so close to everywhere you want to go. Most hotels and hostels have rooftop terraces that give a seriously impressive view over the buildings. 

I splurged on  this beautiful guesthouse  — pictured above — in Udaipur at a cost of  $79 a night . It’s definitely pricey for India, but if you feel like treating yourself, I can highly recommend it. In chaotic Rajasthan, it was so wonderful to take a break from the pandemonium and stay in such a calming environment. The guesthouse had super-helpful staff, beautifully decorated rooms, and a fabulous breakfast. 

How to Get to Udaipur From Delhi, Jaipur, and More

I recommend booking your trains in India online and in advance through  12Go Asia  — an online travel agent that makes travelling around the country so easy. I used them for every train and bus ride I took in India, and was so grateful not to have to deal with scams, wasting time queuing in stations for tickets, and wrestling with websites that wouldn’t accept foreign bank cards. 

Tickets for train routes go up for sale 120 days before their departure date and they do sell out quickly, so if you know in advance when you’re going to be in Udaipur, I recommend booking your travel as soon as possible. I waited until a month before my trip date and was frustrated to see so many of the trains were fully-booked. 

To get to Udaipur from Jaipur, you’ll likely take the Jp Udz Superfast Special ,  which departs Jaipur at 10:10 a.m. and arrives at Udaipur at 12:20 p.m. — this was the one I travelled on. It’s $16 for a 2nd class 2-tier seat.

To get to Udaipur from Delhi, you’re best off going for the  Chetak Express , even though it means opting for an overnight train. You’ll be leaving New Delhi at 7:52 p.m. and arriving in Udaipur at 7:50 a.m. It’s $25 for a second-class sleeper.

You can travel for cheaper on the trains if you’re trying to save money in India, but I do recommend opting for second-class seats where possible. It was my favourite train class in the country, as the seats are comfortable and the carriages are calm, quiet, and safe.

There’s no direct train between Jodhpur and Udaipur, but I recommend hiring a driver to get between the two destinations anyway. You’ll be able to stop off at Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur along the way, which are both so impressive! I’ll be writing about that journey soon. 

The Best Time of Year to Visit Udaipur

Like all of Rajasthan, the best time to visit Udaipur is between October and March, as that’s when the temperatures are coolest. I visited in December and temperatures were around 23°C/73°F, which was perfect for exploring.

In the summer months, you’ll encounter temperatures twice as high, which sounds like it would make for a stressful, unpleasant time. 

Udaipur: Yes, It’s as Great as Everyone Says!

I arrived in Udaipur wondered if I’d be disappointed, and hoping to fall in love, and my wishes totally came true.

Udaipur is fantastic. It’s beautiful, peaceful, and one of my favourite spots in India.

If you’re planning on heading to Rajasthan, you must add it to your itinerary. 

Related Articles on India 💰 The Cost of Travel in India: A Detailed Budget Breakdown 🇮🇳 12 Reasons Why I Absolutely Loved Rajasthan 💗 Three Perfect Days in Delhi: I Love This City So Much 🙅🏼‍♀️ How Not to Spend a Day in Jaipur 🤩 The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Taj Mahal 💛 The Ultimate Guide to India’s Golden Triangle 🐪 Pushkar Travel Guide: 11 Things to Do in Pushkar 🎶 I Went to a Pink Floyd-Themed Cafe in India

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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13 comments.

I love the photos! Definitely gonna keep this place in mind for future travelling.

I haven’t been to Udaipur, or in any parts of India, but just by looking on your photos they have an astonishing and great place! I hope one day I can visit the place.

Udaipur looks absolutely beautiful! Your story does an excellent job of giving tips, suggestions and proving the perfect amount of info to follow – with enough wiggle room so one could also make their own adventure.

I’ve always wanted to go to Udaipur! Like you, I’ve read so many blog posts about how peaceful the city is in relation to everywhere else in Northern India, so I’d love to see it for myself. I’m glad to hear you liked it, as we always seem to like similar places.

I wish to enjoy these places. Your post is very informative and inspiring for the people who love to travel. Very well written about Udaipur and the images was stunning. Thank you so much for your post. Definitely gonna keep this place in mind for future traveling.

Loved udaipur.. I did jaiselmar, Mount Abu, udaipur, kota, Chittorgarh and agra

Loved it all

The fort in Chittorgarh is Amazing. Loving rajasthan

I love Udaipur! We spent seven days there and it was the highlight of my time in India.

I have always loved visiting Udaipur, it is surely an amazing place and I am always stunned by its beauty, I have been to Pushkar and Jaiselmer too and those places have different vibe. Loved your pictures.

Keep traveling and be safe :)

I am planning to go to Udaipur and my eyes caught your blog at the very right moment. I loved your blog and the photographs.

Ah, thank you! I hope you have an incredible time, Shalini! :-)

Hi Lauren! I not only loved the article but also the photos. May I know which camera or phone are you using? If I go to Rajasthan I am definitely visiting Monsoon Palace and Lake Pichola. I loved the view of you sitting atop Monsoon Palace.

Hi Laureen. Thank you for sharing your experience. We used all your blogs in our Rajasthan journey. The information was very useful and gave us a pretty accurate idea of what we found here. We are currently in Udaipur, our last stop in this area of the country. The aarti at Jagdish temple and the guesthouse were awesome recommendations.

Hi Juan! I’m so thrilled to hear that! Isn’t Rajasthan just the most amazing place? I can’t wait to return!

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12 awesome places to visit in udaipur in 2 days.

Udaipur is known as the “city of lakes” due to the beautiful lakes that surround it. Well worth visiting on any India backpacking adventure !

If you find yourself in wondering what to do in Udaipur for 2 days , then this guide has got you sorted!

And as well as the best things to do, it's packed full of other useful travel tips for planning your stay here. Such as when to go, where to stay and where to head to after.

It’s pretty much a full-throttle Udaipur travel guide!

Let's get started ...

Travellerspoint

Where to stay in Udaipur

Based on our experience, the best place to stay in Udaipur is just on the outskirts of the city . We stayed at a hotel called Treebo Trend Park Classic ; which is situated just outside of the main city centre. It's a quick 10 minute ride into the heart of the action, but you also have the choice to completely skip it out when exploring places to visit just outside Udaipur.

Location-wise, this hotel was great; but it certainly fell short in a number of other areas. Including customer service, dining and cleanliness.

Instead, here's a look at some much better accommodation in Udaipur, all designed to suit different budgets ...

Best Airbnb - Dera Baghdarrah Luxury Wildlife Camp

Located 20km outside of the city, this is perhaps the most unique and mesmerising place to stay in Udaipur. Sure, you will need to travel back into the city to see the sites; however this camp offers a whole new experiencein itself! The camp is located on the banks of Bagdara Lake, nestled wonderfully within a nature reserve. The camp was set up as a joint venture with the states Forestry Department, offering guests the chance to get up close and personal and live amongst the wildlife. You get to stay in your own private glamping tent and can opt for a package stay which includes all of your meals.

Budget Choice - Hostel Mantra

Located in Udaipur's Old City, it's the perfect choice if you're backpacking through India and are looking for a fun place to meet people and enjoy Udaipur's night life. The hostel is within walking distance of a number of bars, shops and restaurants and they offer a range of both dorm rooms and private rooms. So great if you are travelling as a couple and still want a bit of privacy (like us!).

Mid-range option - Trident Udaipur

Located just 5 miles from the city centre, this is the perfect location that we recommend for escaping the main noise of the city, but still being close enough to grab a quick taxi ride in. Compared to Western standards, this place offers PHENOMENAL value for money , and is nothing short of a 5 star resort! It's spread over a 43 acre site, right besides the gorgeous Pichola Lake. There is a huge outdoor pool and relaxation area, as well as 3 on-site restaurants.

Luxury pick - The Oberoi Udaivilas Udaipur

All across India, Oberoi hotels are some of the finest and most awe inspiring hotels you will find. Their Udaipur site is easily one of the finest, situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, spread across a 50 acre site, and designed in magnificent style to mimic the famous palaces of India . The 2 outdoor pools are heated and there are all of the luxuries and mod-cons you would expect including outdoor spa, high quality on-site restaurants and traditional outdoor music. Seriously, just check this place out!

Getting around Udaipur

There are many options for getting around Udaipur, including...

• Uber and Ola - Super convenient and a really cheap way to get around. Having a local sim is useful, that way you can use your data to order them from anywhere. We found that Airtel is the best network, and it’s super cheap to get a sim- you’ll just need your passport, visa and a passport photo and head into any Airtel store. ‍
• Tuk-Tuks - These can be rented via Uber and Ola too, or you can negotiate direct with a driver. A good thing to do is look on Ola and see how much the journey is supposed to be, then you’ll have a rough idea of what’s fair when you’re haggling for a price. Generally, you go 50 rupees higher than what the Ola says and you’ll probably come to a fair deal. ‍
• Moped - You can easily rent mopeds in Udaipur. There are vendors all over the main city advertising it and it’s cheap and fuss-free. They will take either your driving licence (don’t give your passport) or a deposit. This is how we got around, as a moped gives you more flexibility to visit the other lakes and sites we’ve spoken about without a time limit. If you have just 2 days in Udaipur and want to see all the brilliant places I recommended, then a moped is a good shout.
• Organised tour - If you don't feel comfortable riding a moped, and arranging your own transport fills you with dread, then it may be best to book onto a scheduled private tour each day. Such as this full day tour here which takes you to many of the best sites in Udaipur mentioned below. Plus, you get a nice air-conditioned car to sit in and a guide who can give you more information about each site as you are there.

The best places to visit in Udaipur India

Now for the good part, the top places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days! I will take you through the various places we visited, and some places we didn’t quite make it too. Because we work when travelling, it can cut our “sightseeing” time short, but if you’re just travelling, then you will manage all these sights with two days in Udaipur.

As with any 2 days trip, things are going to be busy, but this list is full of great places to go in Udaipur that really very little should be missed. Start your day early to take full advantage of what Udaipur has to offer.

1. City Palace

The Udaipur City Palace is one of the main, (if not the main) attraction in Udaipur and it should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days. It will take around an hour or so to explore this beautiful palace and it’s a cheap experience.

It opens from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm, and Bradley and I went at 4 and had enough time. It can get super busy, but if you go super early you might be able to beat the crowds. The palace complex itself is beautiful and there is a restaurant that serves actual gold coffee (As you can imagine, that's kind of expensive!)

I would recommend getting a guide to tell you all the stories and history of the place. It’s not expensive and whilst everything is in English, you still miss out on some of the essences without a guide.

Cost:   INR 300 (for foreigners)

Tour Option:  Unique city palace tour with a night show

‍ 2. Lake Pichola

Pichola Lake is an artificial freshwater lake and one of the largest and oldest lakes in Udaipur. It is famous for its scenic beauty & surroundings. Basically, it’s the tourist hotspot and it offers some fabulous dining options with a beautiful view of the lake. We dined at one of the restaurants near the lake for sunset dinner and drinks and it was well priced, great staff and good cocktails, plus the view were beautiful.

For the life of me I can’t remember the name of it, but I am pretty sure it was on the first page of Tripadvisor for restaurants near lake Pichola. I think the lake is best appreciated in the evening, so make sure you include it in your Udaipur 2 day itinerary. This is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur at night.

You can hire a boat for the day and go to the lake, or you can even take a sunset boat ride which whilst I didn’t do it, sounds pretty romantic.

Tour Option: Udaipur city day tour + Lake Pichola

3. Jagdish temple

This is a fabulous Hindu temple just outside the city palace. It’s dedicated to Vishnu (preserver of the universe). You’ll naturally see this site on your journey to the temple.

Tour Option: Cheap walking tour to Jagdish Temple

4. Fateh Sagar Lake

Another essential lake on your list of awesome places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days.

It’s located north of Pichola lake and is just as beautiful. It may even be considered more beautiful due to the fact there are fewer tourists there. Around sunset, you will see lots of local families standing around ready to admire the beautiful view, and you should too!

There are a couple of street food vendors around if you’re feeling peckish.

5. Monsoon Palace

If you seek beautiful views of Udaipur from above, then this is a great spot to visit. You can get an organised tour packages here from any of the tour agencies, rent a tuk-tuk or taxi, or rent your own moped to get up there. It’s on a hilltop so naturally offers panoramic views of Udaipur. Unfortunately, this is something I REALLY wanted to do, but couldn’t do, so please include it on your places to visit in Udaipur list and tell me what it was like! It’s open from 8 am to 6 pm.

Cost: 80 for foreigners/ 10 for locals

*Important note* You have to pay to enter the park that surrounds it.

Tour option: Half day tour to Monsoon Palace + Wild Life Sanctuary

6. Gulab Bagh and Zoo

This is the largest garden in Udaipur spreading over 100 acres, so if you like nature and beauty, this is a good place to visit in Udaipur. As a rose lover, this place will also delight you, there are LOTS of varieties of beautiful roses. Aside from the gardens, there is also a zoo on-site which is good for entertaining children. The zoo is open from 8.30am to 6 pm whereas the gardens are supposedly 24 hours.

Cost:   25 per person for Entry to the Garden/ 5 per person for Zoo Entry Fee/ 15 for Camera Fee (only for the zoo)

7. Udaipur Solar Observatory

Another spot I wanted to visit but didn’t get the chance to visit was the Udaipur Solar Observatory. (Well, I drove past it on the moped- does that count? :P ) It’s open from 10 am to 6 pm and there is no entrance fee. It’s regarded as the best solar observing site in Asia and since it’s on the lake, it’s probably best seen from afar.

8. Biological park

This is located just below the monsoon palace, and it’s the place I was saying you get charged to go into because you are going through it to get to the palace. (Or if someone knows different then tell me, but the guard insisted that’s what happens) It’s a zoological park filled with wildlife and plants galore. If you’re heading to the Monsoon Palace anyway, then I guess it’s worth a stop.

Cost: 300 for foreign tourists / 30 for local and there is a camera charge too

‍ 9. Markets

There are lots of chance to buy presents in Udaipur and there are lots of markets happening every day. I got myself my “famous” blue skirt in Udaipur for a couple of pounds. I say famous because you’ll notice I wear it a lot in my Indian travel photos . (I had a green skirt from home, but it ripped). Just wander around the main tourist area which is near the city palace and you'll naturally go by lots of markets.

10. Marvel Waterpark

Fancy something truly different whilst in Udaipur? Then add the Marvel Waterpark to your list of places to visit in Udaipur in two days. It’s cheap, cheerful and has very mixed reviews. Our plan was to go here, but we decided against it in the end, so I would love to know what people thought if they went.

I mean, for the price of 400 for adults and 250 for children, it’s not exactly a big loss if you hate it!

11. Lake Badi

When it comes to Udaipur tourist places, this one doesn't always make the list, but I don't understand why.

Without a doubt, my favourite lake in all of Udaipur. It’s quiet, beautiful, peaceful and you might want to spend all your time there. We visited twice and it’s a beautiful place to catch a sunset. I am so glad there aren’t many tourists here, because it truly feels like it’s just you (and the massive monkeys).

When you have a moped it’s easy to reach here. You can also “hike” above the lake to a viewing point, but I’ve only ever seen pictures on Instagram of this happening, so if you’ve done it, tell me!

Tour Option: Morning cycling tour to Lake Badi + more

12. Rent a moped and explore

Renting a moped is definitely the best way to see all that Udaipur has to offer. We decided to take ourselves well outside the city area on a day trip and see what other temples and views were on offer.

We visited Sas Bahu Temple and Shri Eklong Ji Temple, both of which were worth a drive. One temple was under construction and the other was totally abandoned and no way in, so we simply walked on top of it and looked in. Still worth exploring and seeing something different.

Udaipur two day itinerary

So, let’s break this two day Udaipur itinerary up into two actual days. Here’s what I recommend.

Places to visit in Udaipur: Day 1

• City Palace
• Sunset dinner at Lake Pichola
• Jagdish temple
• Monsoon Palace
• Biological Gardens
• Gulab Bagh and Zoo

Places to visit in Udaipur: Day 2

• Renting a moped and exploring outside Udaipur
• Marvel Waterpark in morning
• Fateh Sagar Lake
• Udaipur Solar Observatory

Udaipur itinerary 3 days

If you've got more than 2 days in Udaipur, then you can easily slow these places do and add other places to visit in Udaipur in 3 days. But, if you start your day early, then you can easily see all these awesome places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days.

Extra for 3 day itinerary in Udaipur

Day trip to kumbhalgarah fort.

You will see this advertised in all the tour agents in Udaipur, and it can be done as a full or half day trip. It’s a fabulous fort and it looks very interesting. We didn’t have time, and you would only be able to do it if you had 3 days in Udaipur.

Other Udaipur Travel tips and FAQ

How do you get to udaipur.

You can get to Udaipur via bus, plane or train.

Flights: You can get flights to Udaipur from all major airports, such as Mumbai and Delhi. Bradley and I flew from Mumbai and it cost around £35. It was only an hour flight, and I had enough of doing overnight train journeys, so it was totally worth it. From the airport, you can get an Uber to your hotel in Udaipur. Check Skyscanner for the best deals.

Train: You can get a train from all over the country to Udaipur. I recommend travelling in 2nd Class AC (although 3rd class AC is also doable, just no privacy). Buy your tickets at the station or a ticket agent to get the best price, and if a train is sold out online, then go to the train station as they typically have some seats left.

Bus: Buses are frequent around India and you can easily book a bus online with red bus. There is no need to print anything and you can track your bus which is quite convenient. Buses will be similar to a train price, if not cheaper.

We suggest using 12GoAsia for travel needs across India! 

When is the best time to visit Udaipur?

The best time to visit Udaipur is during the winter season. The temperature is more comfortable and it’s actually the peak tourist season for both locals and foreigners making their way through the cultural triangle. So, this makes the best months to visit as September, October, November, December, February and March.

You may also like: Our 3 week India travel video

How long should I stay in Udaipur?

Well this a two-day post, so naturally I would say two days it quite adequate, especially if you are on a strict timeline. You couldn’t see it all in a day, actually, a day would be wasteful because Udaipur is most beautiful when you explore outside of the city. You could easily stay here 3 days or more, depending on your itinerary. But India is a big country and if you’re taking it all on, then two days is where it’s at!

If you're looking for places to visit in Udaipur in 1 day, then I would recommend just choosing 4 things from this list and focusing on that.

ATMS in Udaipur

Udaipur has got a good variety of ATMs. If you use a Revolut card ( a travel card that gives you the best exchange rate on the market- so why not!?) then use the Bank of Baroda, as it doesn’t charge you for withdrawals. There is one or two in Udaipur. Most restaurants and hotels take card too and even the markets, but it’s best to have some small change for haggling or tuk-tuk fares.

Where to go after Udaipur

If you’re heading towards the cultural triangle, then I recommend hitting up Jodhpur next. It’s an easy bus ride away and there is a great guy in Udaipur who can organise buses and trains for the rest of your trip. He takes a 50 pence commission, so it’s worth the convenience, plus he can find you trains which are a nightmare to find anyway. Trains book up super quick. He’s a super friendly guy and the one we used, so I shan’t complain!

The bus he booked us to Jodhpur was super comfortable, clean and modern.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my post on the 12 awesome places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days. If you’ve got anything else you think I should add to the list, then let me know. Happy travels!

Other India travel blogs to help you plan your adventure:

• What To Pack For India
• Backpacking India Travel Guide
• Ideal India Travel Itinerary

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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!

15 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.

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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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2 Days in Udaipur – What to See in Udaipur in 2 Days?

If you’re looking for a weekend break in Udaipur, you’ve come to the perfect spot. Udaipur recently ranked as the world’s third greatest city, is a dream vacation for many. The most difficult decision we face while arranging a short trip is picking which places to visit.

We want your vacation to be fun rather than stressful, and we appreciate how difficult it can be to organize such short visits. Udaipur has it all, from luxurious hotels to primitive forts, and we’re here as your tour guide to assist you in experiencing it all in two days.

Table of Contents

Visiting Udaipur on Day 1:

1. jagdish temple.

This Indo-Aryan Jagdish temple , 150m north of the City Palace’s Badi Pol, is reached by a steep, elephant-edged set of stairs and is the most renowned and biggest temple in Udaipur. The magnificently carved main structure depicts Vishnu as Jagannath, King of the Universe, in black stone.

To approach the main shrine, ascend 32 marble stairs, which are obstructed at the end by a brass figure of Garuda, God Vishnu’s mount (Vahana). This three-story temple is a miracle of design, with elaborate and elegant sculptures, ornate ceilings, finely painted walls, and lush hallways.

Visit Timing: Approximately 30 Minutes

Opening and Closing hours: 5 AM to 2:30 PM and 4 PM to 10 PM

Entry Charges: Free

2. Karni Mata- Ropeway

Karni Mata temple is a great height in the Machhla Hills & gives stunning scenery of Lake Pichola , Sajjangarh, & Doodh Talai. It is also known as Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Mandir and is accessible via ropeway or steps from Manikya Lal Verma Park. It houses the white stone statue of Karni Mata.

From the cable car, one can enjoy spectacular Udaipur views featuring Fateh Sagar Lake, the beautiful City Palace Complex, and the sceneries of the Aravali Range. Because the ropeway is in the midst of the city, it is easily accessible. There is also a location where people gather to watch the sunset over the city. It is one of the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 days

Visit Timing: Approximately 1 Hour

Opening and Closing hours: 9 AM to 9 PM

Entry Charges: Indians: Rs. 72; Foreigners: Rs. 300

3. City Palace, Udaipur

Rajasthan is famous for its palaces and forts. What better way to begin your journey than with the Enormous City Palace itself? This castle is one of the most magnificent palaces in India, with stunning Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace is located on the east side of Lake Pichola and is divided into many sections.

It is topped with balconies, turrets, and domes that tower above the lake and offer a 360-degree view of the city and its environs. The museum is the crown gem of the palace complex since it is here that you can immerse yourself in the past of the Maharanas of Mewar & gain a genuine sense of their culture and majesty.

Visit Timing: Approximately 2 Hours

Opening and Closing hours: 9 AM to 5:30 PM (No Tickets After 4:30 PM)

Entry Charges: Indians: Rs.250 for Adults and Rs. 100 for Kids

4. Ambrai and Gangaur Ghat

Ghats are the stairs that lead down to a waterbody, particularly a sacred river. They are ideal locations that allow us to be near the ocean while experiencing everlasting tranquility. People also see Ghats as a place to bathe and wash away their sins from the past.

However, the Ghats of Udaipur are notable for their beauty rather than these beliefs. There are two prominent ghats that you should visit and spend a lot of time at Gangaur Ghat & Ambrai Ghat. The aroma and tranquillity of these sites, located on opposite sides of Lake Pichola, are enchanting. It is one of the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 days

Opening and Closing hours: Anytime

5. Dudh Talai

Dudh Talai, located near the gorgeous Pichola Lake , is a lovely and delicate pond in the heart of Udaipur. This lake, surrounded by breathtaking hillocks on all sides, also offers adventurous sports like camel and horse rides.

Furthermore, the parks of Manikya Lal Verma & Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay (also called the Rock Garden or Musical Fountain Garden) enhances the attractiveness of Doodh Talai by providing a stunning perspective of the tranquil Pichola & Doodh Talai. This tourist destination’s quiet setting is ideal for spending quality time with loved ones and friends.

Visit Timing: Approximately 30 minutes

• 2 Days Udaipur Package
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• Check More Packages for Udaipur

Visiting Udaipur on Day 2:

1. shilpgram, village.

Shilpgram is the ideal spot for everyone who enjoys admiring and learning about the culture. This Craftsmen’s Village, located 3 kilometers from the main city, is a beautiful destination to explore India’s many customs, crafts, amazing paintings, and culture. Aside from purchasing locally created things, visitors may also enjoy and participate in horse & camel riding activities, as well as classic dance and music.

An annual program is also held in December, where people from all over the world come to view the greatest art and craft and appreciate the area’s rustic charm. Shilpgram is one of the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 days

Visit Timing: Approximately 1 hour

Opening and Closing hours: 11 AM to 7 PM

Entry Charges: Indian: Rs. 30 and Foreigners: Rs. 50

2. Saheliyon Ki Bari

Saheliyon ki Bari , or ‘The Gardens of the Maidens’, is among the lushest gardens in Udaipur and a popular tourist destination. The park is adorned with crystalloid fountains, exquisitely chiseled kiosks, granite elephants, a wonderful lotus pool, and several other attractions that form a royal picture of a bygone period and are charming sights to see.

Above all, you may stroll across the beautiful green lawns, where a clump of bougainvillea will bow down to greet you. A tiny museum within the park displays a variety of rich imperial heritage supplemented by photos and paintings for history enthusiasts. You could even get to see a stuffed snake if you’re lucky!

Opening and Closing hours: 08:00 AM to 06:30 PM

Entry Charges: Rs. 10

3. Lake Badi

Badi Lake, about 12 kilometers from the city, is known as Badi ka Talab among the locals. It is one of India’s most beautiful freshwater lakes and a popular tourist destination. The area contains attractive flora and wildlife and a serene mood, which leaves you feeling closely linked to nature and entranced by its captivating beauty.

You may spend hours sitting on the coast and admiring the beauty of the lake. Three exquisite chhatris adorn the embankment (Kiosks or Pavilions). Free of economic activities and the bustle of the city, Badi Lake offers guests a view of an endless sweep and a tranquil ambiance.

Visit Timing: Approximately 1:30 hours

Opening and Closing hours: All the time (5:00 AM to 6:00 AM- Best Timings)

4. Monsoon Palace

This regal edifice, formerly called Sajjangarh Palace, is a beautiful hilltop palace. The palace is on a hill approximately 9 kilometers from the city center and appears from a distance to be one of those fairy-tale castles. The granite crest is massive and provides a panoramic view of the hills, beautiful lakes, snow-white palaces, and the sunset in the distance.

The palace is near the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, a one-day journey from the palace. The attractiveness of this location is enhanced during the monsoon season when it is nicely shrouded by clouds and offers an eye-catching view.

Visit Timing: Approximately 1-2 hours

Opening and Closing hours: 9 AM to 6 PM

Entry Charges: Rs. 100 + Rs.30 (Parking)

• 10 Days Rajasthan Tour Itinerary
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5. Under the Sun Aquarium

Under The Sun, India’s largest public aquarium exhibit, is the newest popular tourist destination in the enticing city of lakes. The 125-meter-long aquarium houses 150 tanks and 180 types of fish and marine animals. This aquarium is remarkably constructed near Vibhuti Park on Fatehsagar Pal.

It has a beautiful display of aquariums with awe-inspiring aquascaping & delightful tropical freshwater fish species, a 3D aqua trick arts center, aqua live VR sets for experiencing sea creatures in immersive 360º surroundings, an OMG Tank where you can go inside and experience life underwater without getting soaked, and a Touch Pool piled with numerous sea creatures where you can place your fingers inside.

Visit Timing: Approximately 45 minutes

Opening and Closing hours: 8 AM to 11 PM

Entry Charges: Indians: Rs. 100 (Adults); Rs. 50; Foreigners: Rs. 200

Udaipur is known as India’s “City of Lakes”, and we’ve listed the Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Udaipur In 2 Days, above. Udaipur is renowned as the “city of lakes” because of the beautiful lakes that surround it. Any backpacking trip to India should involve a stop here.

Look no further than this guide for ideas on things to do in Udaipur for two days. In addition to the best things to do, it’s jam-packed with other crucial travel ideas for planning your time here. It’s essentially a comprehensive Udaipur travel guide.

Check more information on Rajasthan:

• 12 Most Famous Destinations to Visit in the Udaipur
• Top 10 Places Rajasthan to Visit in November
• 7 Popular Hill Stations In Rajasthan
• Top 10 Places to See in Bharatpur
• 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Rajasthan
• 10 Famous Places to See in Bundi
• Top 10 Destinations to Visit Rajasthan in September

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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Top Things to Do in Udaipur

Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” is a captivating destination nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, India. This enchanting city offers a blend of historic charm and picturesque beauty, making it a must-visit for travelers. With its shimmering lakes, opulent palaces, and vibrant bazaars, Udaipur presents a multitude of things to do and see.

Table of Contents

• Places to visit in Udaipur

Places to visit nearby

• Places to eat in Udaipur
• How to reach
• Best time to visit
• Places to stay in Udaipur

Things to do in Udaipur

Besides the popular tourist places in Udaipur, there are many fun and exciting activities you can do on your Udaipur trip.

• Join a Heritage Walking Tour of Udaipur . The walk takes you through the older parts of the city and hidden lanes, gardens, lakes, and local haunts. On this tour, you can shop at local bazaars, sample local food and more.
• Go on a wildlife safari at the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary , housing exotic flora and fauna, including hyenas, jackals, panthers, and deer species.
• Visit the Doodh Talai Musical Garden . This is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur at night and watch the musical fountain and play of lights, and enjoy a night picnic.

Best places to visit in Udaipur

From royal palaces and monuments to ancient temples, forts, and museums, there’s a host of places in Udaipur to explore. Most of these attractions in Udaipur are centrally located and can easily be travelled in a day or two. Here are some of the best places of Udaipur to visit – 

Udaipur Palace

• How to Reach – The palace is located at 2KM from the city bus station. You can take a local cab, auto, tonga, bus, or book a car to reach.
• Timings – 9.30 AM-5.30 PM
• Adult (Above 18 years) INR 300
• Child INR 100
• Student INR 100 
• Time Required – 3 Hours
• Tips – Stop by the palace museum to see ancient artefacts and relics.

Jagmandir Palace (&Hotel) 

• How to Reach – The island palace is located inside Lake Pichola, off the premises of the City Palace. You have to take the ferry ride to the lake palace to explore. 
• Timings – 10 AM-6 PM
• Entry Fee – Boat ride to palace: INR 400 (after 3 PM – INR 700), Palace entry separate. 
• Time Required – Less than 1 hour

Saheliyon ki Bari

• How to Reach – The garden is located at 4.4KM from the city bus station. You can book a local transport or rent a private car to reach.
• Timings – 9 AM-7 PM
• Entry Fee – INR 5
• Time Required – 1-2 Hours
• Tips – Visit in the afternoon through sunset for the best experience.

Monsoon Palace/ Sajjangarh Palace 

• How to Reach – The hilltop Udaipur fort and palace is located at 5KM from the city centre. You can take a cab, auto or private car to reach the base and trek or drive to the top.
• Timings   – 8 AM-6 PM
• Entry Fee – INR 10, For auto: INR 20, For car: INR 65
• Time Required – 3-4 Hours
• Tips – For treks and exploring neighbouring natural landscapes, visit only in winters or early spring when the weather is dry.

Vintage Car Museum

• How to Reach – The museum is within walking distance from Udaipur bus station. If you are travelling from any other location in the city, you can hire a local transport or book a car to reach.
• Timings – 9.30 AM-5.30 PM (all days)
• Entry Fee – INR 100
• Tips – You can also visit the Gulab Bagh Zoo, at a distance of 1.5KM from the museum.

Lake Pichola

• How to Reach – The lake area is at 4KM from Udaipur bus station. You can take the local bus, taxi, tonga, or book a cab to reach.
• Timings – 9 AM-6 PM
• Entry Fee – Free
• Tips – Do a sunset sail and take a ferry to the Jagmandir Palace Hotel on the river island.

Fateh Sagar Lake 

• How to Reach – The lake area is located at 5KM from Udaipur bus station. You can book any local transport or rent a car to reach.
• Timings – 10AM-5PM
• Tips – Join the World Music Festival in February, showcasing national and international artists for 3 days.

Bharatiya Lok Kala Museum

• How to Reach – The museum is located at 3.3KM from the city centre. You can book a cab, auto, local bus, or rent a car to reach. 
• Timings – 9AM-5.30PM
• Entry Fee – INR 20 (photography: INR 20, videography: INR 50)

Apart from the famous places in Udaipur, there are many other interesting sites near the city to explore. These are mostly places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days. Include some of these temples and lake areas in your Udaipur sightseeing. 

Eklingji Temple 

• How to Reach – The ancient temple is located at 22KM outside Udaipur city centre. You can book a cab or rent a car to travel and return.
• Timings – 4:30AM – 7AM, 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5PM – 7:30PM
• Time Required – 2-3 Hours 
• Tips – Also visit the Sahasrabhu Temple at 2KM from the Eklingji Temple.

Haldighati Battlefield

• How to Reach – The historical battlefield is located in Nathdwara, 40KM from Udaipur. You can book a cab or rent a private car for the day to travel and return. 
• Tips – Also visit the Haldighati Museum nearby, documenting all events that took place here.

Jaisamand Lake

• How to Reach – The lake area is located at 50KM from the city centre. You can get a local transport like taxi, bus, or auto, or rent a car in Udaipur for half-day to travel and return.
• Entry Fee – Free, Boat ride: INR 30-50 (depending on time and distance)
• Time Required – 2-3 Hours
• Tips – Visit the hilltop palaces, river islands, or the adjacent Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary on your trip.

Kumbhalgarh Fort 

• How to Reach – The ancient fort is located at 85KM from the city. You can get a local transport like taxi, bus, or auto, or rent a car for the day to travel and return.
• Timings – 9 AM-5 PM
• Entry Fee – INR 20
• Time Required – 1 day
• Tips – Also visit the Badal Mahal, a hilltop palace, at walking distance from the fort. 

Chittorgarh Fort 

• How to Reach – The historical fort is located at 115KM from the city. You have to book an outstation cab or rent a private car for a day to travel. 
• Timings – 9AM-6PM
• Entry Fee – INR50 (adults), INR 25 (children)

[Also Read: The Great Rajasthan Road trip – An 11-Day Itinerary for Offbeat Rajasthan ]

Best places to eat in Udaipur

You’ll find everything from traditional eateries to upscale contemporary cafés. Sample the city’s flavours at some of these top restaurants in Udaipur

• Jaajam Restaurant
• Millets of Mewar
• Royal Repast Restaurant & Bar
• Neelam Restaurant
• Restaurant Harigarh

How to Plan a Trip to Udaipur

How to reach udaipur.

There are two railway junctions – Udaipur City and Rana Pratap Nagar, at about 3KM from the city centre. There are daily and weekly trains to Udaipur from most cities like Delhi , Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kota, Agra, Jaipur, Ajmer etc. 

The city of lake is well-connected to all major cities and towns in the North and West India. There are regular state-run and private buses from Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Ajmer, Ratlam, Jodhpur, Kota, Mount Abu, etc. You can also book a private car from any of these places with a driver and drive to Udaipur . 

The city is served by Maharana Pratap Airport at Dabok, about 22 KM from Udaipur city. There are frequent flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, and Jaipur to Udaipur, among other major cities/towns in India. You can take a Udaipur airport taxi for a means of smooth transport.

Best time to visit Udaipur

The city sits in the southern corner of the state, and hence the weather is relatively better than in the rest of Rajasthan. But summers are still hot and dry, while winters are chilly but comfortable. November to February is the most pleasant time and also the peak time for Udaipur tourism. This period is also best to explore the outdoors. You can also visit right after the monsoon months when the summer temperature in Udaipur drops by a few degrees.

Magical city with magical palaces. #Udaipur pic.twitter.com/Utg7zrPdrp — Sanjiv Kapoor (@TheSanjivKapoor) September 5, 2021

About Udaipur

One of the most prominent cities of Rajasthan, Udaipur stands as an icon of art, architecture, and rich history. A fine blend of royalty, old-world charm, and modern lifestyle, its heritage has made Udaipur attractive to travellers of all kinds, from within the country and abroad.

The city’s legacy reflects in its ancient monuments , in its people and their culture, food, art, and their aesthetics . 

The city of Udaipur has a legacy of over 1000 years . It was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II, in 1559 , after whom the city was named. It was in the fertile Girwa Valley by the Banas River, where the Rajput king set up the new capital of the Mewar kingdom.

When Akbar conquered Chittor in 1567 , Udai Singh built seven gates to wall the city from invaders. These walls still exist and the area within these walls are called the “old city”. Nearly a century later, the then king, Rana Amar Singh, agreed to become a Mughal vassal and retained Udaipur as the capital of the state.

By 1818 it became a princely state of British India. Presently, Maharana   Mahendra Singh Mewar  is the 76th custodian of the Mewar dynasty. 

Hidden Facts

Besides the popular tourist places in Udaipur, there are many lesser-known trivia about the city that makes it interesting. 

• The Lake Palace Hotel sitting in the middle of the Lake Pichola was once voted as the “Most romantic hotel in the world”. 
• The Jaisamand Lake or Dhebar Lake is regarded as the second largest artificial lake in Asia. It consists of seven river islands and the largest dam in the region.
• Udaipur Palace or the City Palace was built over a period of 400 years.
• The city’s Jagmandir Palace (earlier known as Gul Mahal) was the original inspiration for Taj Mahal.

Best Places to stay in Udaipur

Hotels and resorts are integral to your Udaipur vacation. You can look for hotels near Lake Pichola, for great views. Try some of these best resorts and hotels in Udaipur – 

• Jagatniwas Palace Hotel
• The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace
• Chunda Palace
• TatSaraasa Resort and Spa
• The Pichola Home Stay 
• The Oberoi Udaivilas
• Taj Lake Palace
• Janak Vilas

Download our Savaari car Booking app for a smooth and pleasant journey. For exclusive discounts on your next Jaipur to Udaipur road trip, log in to the Savaari app or website

Last Updated on February 1, 2024 by Swati Deol

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Need information regarding the “City of Lakes”? Find everything you have been looking for on Udaipur blog page. Not just an overview, these Udaipur travel blogs will provide you with extensive information on the best places to visit, how to reach, and vibrant experiences. This Rajasthan city is always attracting tourists from India and abroad. In fact, the royal city is a very popular destination among foreigners. Many Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities have chosen to take their vows by the shimmering Lake Pichola. Udaipur is also a hub for arts and culture. Know which all famous events and music festivals are held here in Udaipur blogs. You may also find a curated list of high-end resorts and villas where you can enjoy lush life on your vacation. These Udaipur trip blogs will also give an insight to the city's best kept secrets. Udaipur is also an amazing destination for shopping. Discover what to buy and where to buy from Udaipur trip blogs. Who says you cannot plan a budget trip to the Venice of East? Udaipur blogs will help you find budget hotels and guest houses along with experiences from real travelers. Bookmark this page for all the latest information on Udaipur.

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