Settled around the banks of tranquil Lake Pichola and against the backdrop of the verdant Aravalli hills, Udaipur is indisputably one of the most stunning and romantic cities in Rajasthan. Built under Maharana Udai Singh II’s rule in sixteenth century, the royal history of Udaipur spills-over from the majestic City Palace to engulf the entire city in its opulence. It is commonly referred to as ‘The City of Lakes’ and attracts tourists from across the globe. You can experience a flawless amalgamation of the rich history of Mewar and the booming café culture as the echoes of prayers from several ghats sway you along.
If you’re looking forward to visiting the beautiful city of Udaipur, this blog is just the one-stop- guide you’ve been looking for.
What’s the Best Time to Visit?
While Udaipur is known as the City of Lakes, summers in Rajasthan can be pretty ruthless. Therefore, the best time to visit is the winter season from December to March.
It may sound radical, but a visit during the monsoons can also be rewarding. During July and August, the Aravalli hills bloom in all shades of green, and the hotels also lower their rentals to enable a more budget-friendly trip.
How to Reach Udaipur?
Udaipur is well-connected with all means of transports and promises to suit every traveller’s budget.
By Air
The most convenient way to arrive at Udaipur is to take a flight from Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai or Ahmedabad to Maharana Pratap Airport, UDR. Multiple flights operate regularly and directly from these cities. However, if you’re flying from another country, Jaipur International Airport is the nearest connecting airport.
Find your flight connection here.
By Rail
Several trains offer a direct connection to Udaipur. Trains are operational from major Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai, to list a few.
Find your train connectivity here
By Road
The city of Udaipur is also well connected by State and National Highways. If you desire the comfort of your car, a road-trip to Udaipur might be a good idea. It is only 663 km away from Delhi and 252 km away from Ahmedabad.
Regular buses are also functional from cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Indore, Kota, and other cities in Rajasthan that connect Udaipur with the rest of the country.
Getting in and Around Udaipur
The best means to explore this colorful city of Rajasthan is by mapping the streets on foot and trotting along narrow alleys.
If you prefer a more comfortable transfer from one tourist attraction to another, a ride in tuk-tuks or auto-rickshaw might be more suitable. The old city’s crammed roads do not allow free passage of cars and, more often than not, drop the tourists way before the drop location.
Hot Tip: Book autos through apps like Uber and Ola to avoid being ripped off by auto drivers.
Another way to explore this lovely city at your own pace is to hire a two-wheeler. There are many of rental services that offer bikes like Activa, Royal Enfield and Vespa to tourists. You can check out ONN Bikes , Royal Brothers and Udaipur Bike Rentals for more information.
Where to Stay?
Since Udaipur attracts a large number of tourists from across the globe, there is a plethora of hotels and guest houses to fit everyone’s budget.
Budget Stays
Hostels
GoStops Udaipur
GoStops Experiential Hostel is situated at Hanuman Ghat and offers Lake Pichola’s splendid views from its colorful terrace.
Book here.
Zostel
One of India’s largest renowned hostel chain is also in Udaipur and offers an extremely safe and friendly environment to unload your backpacks.
Book here.
Hosteller
If you wish to stay closer to Gangaur Ghat and Jagdish Chowk, Hosteller is perhaps the best suited accommodation in the area.
Book here.
Guest House
The Girdhar Niwas
Girdhar Niwas guest house is supremely popular among budget travellers seeking a home-away-from-home experience in Udaipur. Its proximity to City Palace and Jagdish Mandir also makes it a top pick.
Book here.
Namaste Guest House
Namaste Guest House is another frequent pick among budget travellers. The stay offers basic amenities provided by a friendly staff.
Book here.
Mid-range Stays
Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel
This 17th century Haveli turned into a hotel is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful properties to stay in Udaipur. You can experience the heritage of Rajasthan while enjoying a stunning view of Lake Pichola.
Book here.
Kankarwa Haveli
This heritage hotel in Udaipur has been in the Kankarwa family for the last 180 years, and it is renowned for its prime location and vibrant rooms overlooking Lake Pichola.
Book here.
Luxury Stays
Aurika Hotel & Resort
If you’re looking forward to enjoying the serenity of Udaipur while indulging in the royalty and opulence that the city is famous for, Aurika Hotel by LemonTree will be the perfect choice.
Book here.
The Oberoi Udaivilas
The Oberoi Udaivilas offers one of the most luxurious and the premium stays in India. The beautiful architecture against the backdrop of the City Palace is sure to charm you away to royalty.
Book here.
Taj Lake Palace
Taj Lake Palace is perhaps one the most unique hotels in India, with a rich history. Constructed in the middle of Lake Pichola, this hotel has been the top pick of several eminent personalities apart from being the shooting location for James Bond’s Octopussy.
Book here.
The royal city of Udaipur is the perfect amalgamation of rich culture and history, dotted with several temples and bohemian cafés to offer a wholesome experience to the tourists. It is highly recommended to plan a trip of at least 3-4 days to thoroughly soak the city’s vibe.
Exploring Udaipur
Udaipur might seem like a small city but it has endless possibilities and destinations to explore. On your next trip to this city in Rajasthan, you might enjoy witnessing some of the below listed attractions and experiences:
1. Dive into the royalty of Rajasthan at the City Palace
Built over 400 years, the City Palace of Udaipur is perhaps one of the most stunning palaces in India. The intricate architecture, labyrinthine corridors, and beautiful courtyards reflect the lifestyle and royalty of the Mewar family. The careful construction of the palace atop a hill offers the onlookers a lovely panoramic view of the entire city from all sides. You can also enjoy a thrilling light & sound show at the palace in the evening.
Timing for the museum: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Best time to visit: Early morning – 9:30 AM
Entry ticket for Indian nationals: 300 INR (for the palace and the museum)
It is advisable to visit the palace during opening hours for an uninterrupted slice of history and royalty.
2. An unforgettable lunch at Jag Mandir Palace
Commonly referred to as the “Lake Garden Palace”, Jag Mandir is built on one of Lake Pichola’s two natural islands. Its glistening and majestic white structure is sure to charm and intrigue you to cross the waters and explore it. This palace was used as a summer resort and pleasure palace by the royal Mewar family. However, it now welcomes guests to stay with them and experience the rich heritage.
Jag Mandir also welcomes day visitors to enjoy a slice of opulence in the middle of the lake. It is certainly one of the most picturesque and peaceful places to enjoy a romantic lunch against the backdrop of the glittering city of Udaipur.
To reach Jag Mandir, you must take a private boat ride from the City Palace before 4 PM.
3. A leisure boat-ride in Lake Pichola
The city of Udaipur is settled along the banks of the beautiful Lake Pichola. This artificial freshwater lake is best explored through a leisurely boat-ride, which takes you around Hanuman Ghat, Ambrai Ghat, Mohan Mandir, the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir. The boat-ride offers a vantage point to witness the city’s all-engulfing grandeur while enjoying the view of verdant Aravallis on the other side.
Government-run boat rides are available near Dudh Talai
Boat-ride (9 AM – 3 PM): 400 INR
Boat-ride (sunset): 700 INR
Private boat rides are available at the City Palace that includes a stopover at Jag Mandir Palace.
Boat-ride (10 AM – 2 PM): ≈400 INR
Boat-ride (2 PM – 5 PM): 800 INR
If you wish to absorb the beauty of Lake Pichola and spend uninterrupted time at Jag Mandir, we highly recommend a 4 PM boat-ride from the City Palace.
4. Cycle around the expansive Fateh Sagar
Fateh Sagar Lake lies adjacent to Lake Pichola and it is a common picnic spot among the locals. The ideal way to explore this artificial lake is to cycle around while enjoying the Aravalli hills’ scenic view. It is not uncommon to see the locals give in to the lure of the swaying waters and make a quick dive in to the lake.
Fateh Sagar is usually abuzz with tourists and locals, making it a hub for local cuisines. The people of Udaipur swear by hot and cold coffee at Shiv Sagar and bread pakoda for breakfast prepared by Ajay Bhai in Bombay Market. You can also savour fresh pyaaz kachori and poha at the stalls in Bombay Market.
For Bicycle Rental
MYBYK Hub offers comfortable bikes for hourly rentals at Fateh Sagar. Make sure you carry a valid government authorised identification to avail this service.
Contact: 070439 87987
5. Enjoy a blissful sunrise at Bahubali Hills
Bahubali Hills was founded by a group of college enthusiasts, which has now gained immense popularity among tourists. The true beauty of Badi Lake is best enjoyed at sunrise or during sunset. However, the quick ascent to the vantage point becomes breezier and more manageable during the early hours of the dawn. As the sun breaks away from the shackles of the night, it paints the sky in tangerine and reveals the magnificence of Bahubali Hills.
It is highly advisable to arrive at the hills as early as possible (6:30 AM), lest you fancy being swamped by pre-wedding photographers.
6. Date-night at a lakeside restaurant at Ambrai Ghat
Perhaps the most perfect way to conclude a busy day in Udaipur is by enjoying a candlelight dinner with the stunning views of Lake Pichola, glittering City Palace and the busy ghats of Udaipur.
You can dine in a cabana by the lake at the rooftop restaurant by Upré, Lake Pichola Hotel or visit the iconic Ambrai Restaurant by Amet Haveli.
7. Learn about the Rajasthani culture and folk dance at Bagore-ki-Haveli
If you wish to witness a celebration of the Rajasthani culture and heritage, Dharohar Folk Dance Show will certainly woo you. This hour-long show is a portrayal of the tradition of Rajasthan through folk dances, songs and puppetry. The melodious tunes, along with the lively dance performances, spin a magic every evening in the courtyard of Bagore-ki-Haveli that is sure to teleport you back to the age of opulence.
Show Timings: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Entry opens: 6:30 PM
Ticket: INR 90 (for Indian nationals)
8. Chase sunset at Sajjangarh Palace
Sajjangarh Palace, also famously known as Monsoon Palace, was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh to observe the monsoon clouds while enjoying a panoramic view of the city Udaipur. In the present day, this erstwhile palatial residence offers the most stunning and unobstructed sunset view in Udaipur, definitely making it worth a visit. Perched atop a hill, the palace has also been a part of the pop culture by being the villain’s residence location in James Bond’s Octopussy.
You can also savour finger food at the café by Chunda Palace or enjoy a cup of tea served inside the palace while watching the sun go down.
Timings for the Palace: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Best time to visit: 4:30 PM
Entry fee: INR 60/person
Shared jeep fee: INR 90/person
Personal vehicle (car) fee: INR 200
9. Shop till you drop at Hathi Pole Bazaar
Let the vibrant streets of Udaipur sway you into a shopping spree at the famous Hathi Pole Bazaar. It is a one-stop-market for all handicrafts, kurtas, bedsheets, jhumkas and mojaris. Look out for the beautiful and unique leheriya and ikat prints at various handloom stores.
Stores that you might enjoy shopping from:
Gujarat Jewellers, Taiyabi Handicrafts Emporium, Cotton Palace, Ganga Jamuna Saraswati, and Raj Mojri Centre
You can even take a lazy stroll in the alleys near the City Palace to purchase leather bags and diaries (be wary of the quality), postcards, quirky playing cards, Rajasthani textiles and pashminas.
Hot Tip: Don’t forget to bargain, for the shopkeepers generally quote a price way higher than the merchandise’s worth.
10. Pay obeisance at Jagdish Temple
Jagdish Temple is not only the most revered Hindu temple in Udaipur, but it stands tall and proud as an architectural marvel. Situated right beside the City Palace, this temple boasts the largest complex in the city whose grandeur spills over to its very entrance.
Morning Aarti: 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
11. Experience the labyrinthine umbrellas of Ahar Cenotaph
Built over nearly 350 years ago, Ahar Cenotaph consists of more than 250 memorials of the Maharanas of Mewar and 19 distinct chhatris. This seldom frequented archaeological site is a photographer’s haven.
You can also visit the Ahar Museum to dive deep into the history of the cenotaphs and the town of Ahar, which is considered to be “second only in town planning to the Harappans.”
Entry timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Hot tip: If you find the first entrance gate closed, ask around for the guard to open. Another alternative is to walk up to the next entrance, which is usually open for tourists.
Best Places to Eat
A visit to Udaipur’s colourful city is incomplete without savouring the mind-blowing cuisines being served at every other nook and cranny or rooftop restaurants in the city. Here are a few of the eateries that you must try for a flavoursome visit:
1. Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar
The café that has gained unparalleled fame in the past couple of years, Jheel’s Ginger offers a scenic view of Lake Pichola. It is often crowded with patrons seeking the much sought-after corner seats.
Do try their cold coffee and wood-fired pizzas.
2. Ambrai by Amet Haveli
Mutton Rana or Laal Maas, Ambrai Restaurant will win you over with its enchanting views and delectable food. Savour your food as the Udaipur skyline and the glittering City Palace keeps you company. It is advisable to make reservations in advance.
Ambrai Restaurant is also one of the most romantic dinners to enjoy a date night with your beloved.
3. Natraj Dining Hall and Restaurant
An unlimited food thali serving some of the most scrumptious Rajasthani cuisines, Natraj Dining Hall is definitely worth visiting.
Timings: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
06:30 PM – 10:30 PM
4. Vinod Coffee
Your visit to Udaipur might be considered half-fulfilled until you enjoy a hot cuppa in kulhad at Vinod Coffee. The people of Udaipur, for one, vouch strongly for it.
5. Café Edelweiss
If you’re seeking a good breakfast spot in the Old City, Café Edelweiss or German Bakery will offer you some of the best pies and good brews in town.
6. Millets of Mewar
Known for its vegan and healthy-cuisine options, Millets of Mewar is quite famous among tourists of other nationalities. Here, the local millet is used in place of wheat and rice grain wherever feasible.
7. Paliwal Restaurant
Paliwal is one of the oldest and sought-after eateries for traditional Rajasthani kachoris and samosas.
Udaipur, Rajasthan is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and scenic cities in the country, with a unique amalgamation of tradition and heritage that is definitely worth witnessing for yourself. The city will charm you with its stunning views, vibrant alleys and flavoursome cuisines that you’ll be left longing for more.
Are you planning your next trip to Udaipur? We’d love to hear what you’re looking forward to!
Happy travel!