Udaipur Travel Guide

Relevantly known as the Venice of the East, and the Kashmir of Rajasthan, Udaipur is one of the most romantic destinations in India. Serene lakes, romantic spots, and fantasy like castles, whitewashed havelis are what each traveler will encounter when in Udaipur. Additionally, known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is full of sky blue water lakes, lavish hills, doused with beauty and romance, and intriguing sights.

The Mewar regal family has done a lot to protect and make open the tradition of their predecessors, who established Udaipur in the sixteenth century. Notwithstanding this dignified quality, Udaipur is a laid-back city that offers extraordinary incentive for a wide range of voyagers.

The 1983 James Bond film “Octopussy” was shot there, as well!

Contents

Best Time to Visit Udaipur

The ideal opportunity to visit Udaipur is throughout the colder time of year season, for example from November to February. The temperature and atmosphere are cool and makes it an ideal chance to encounter Udaipur more than ever. Additionally, being the pinnacle season, it is likewise the ideal opportunity for some significant fairs and celebrations including, Shilpgram Utsav.

The cool, dry, and bright months from October to February are generally plesant and draw the groups. Evenings do get chilly during the center of winter, however the days are radiantly warm, with temperatures of up to 79 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius). In the event that you’d incline toward a more quiet experiencer, the September season after the rainstorm could be awesome.

Getting There to Udaipur

Udaipur’s airport is 30 to 40 minutes east of the city. It’s a small domestic airport that receives flights from Jaipur and major cities in India, including Delhi and Mumbai.

Udaipur is situated about five hours south of Jodhpur, and there are several attractions (such as Kumbhalgarh fort and Ranakpur Jain temple) to check out on the way. Therefore, it makes sense to hire a car and driver to travel between these two cities if you’re exploring Rajasthan. You can also drive from Jaipur to Udaipur, or vice-versa, and spend a night in Bundi to break the journey. (Bundi is about five hours from Udaipur and four hours from Jaipur).

Indian Railways trains stop at Udaipur, although services are quite limited. The railway station, Udaipur City (UDZ), is only five minutes east of the City Palace area.

Getting Around: Udaipur’s narrow lanes are best explored on foot, so make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes. Auto rickshaws are easily available and should cost cheap under 100 rupees ($1.40) to go anywhere within the city. App-based cabs Uber and Ola are the most convenient way of reaching attractions on the city’s outskirts.

Travel Tip: If hot weather is not an issue, the Gangaur festival takes place in April and is the biggest festival of the year in Udaipur. The three-day Mewar festival, dedicated to showcasing the region’s culture, is held alongside it and is a fun experience.

Best Things to Do in Udaipur

Udaipur has a compact but captivating collection of museums that showcase the region’s culture and heritage. Simply wandering the streets and soaking up the atmosphere are among the most enjoyable things to do in Udaipur. Those who are feeling energetic can cycle around the city, hike in the hills, or even go horseback riding. Cooking classes are a hit with foreigners.

Udaipur is renowned for its unique miniature paintings, and they make great gifts. You can even paint your own. Many tourists love shopping in Udaipur because of the abundance of irresistible handicrafts. Do allow some time for a day trip or two into the surrounding countryside—there are some interesting options, including ancient forts and temples.

City Palace Museum

The city’s main attraction is the Udaipur City Palace, former home to the 19 Maharajas of Mewar. In 1969, the palace was opened as the City Palace Museum and the public was finally allowed a glimpse into the world of the Maharajas. The City Palace complex is giant taking more than 400 years to complete! Being so massive, there are many things to explore.

Entering from the courtyard, you’ll see the Palace of Kings, the assembly hall, a gallery dedicated to the warrior Maharana Pratap, the garden palace, and many more buildings and courtyards. The buildings blend beautifully with one another along the waterfront. Going inside the palace is a great way to spend the afternoon and it can take several hours to really explore.

2. Ambrai Ghat

Just like palaces and forts, Udaipur abounds in ghats and kunds. The Ambrai Ghat offers a beautiful view of Udaipur and is considered to be one of the most romantic spots in the city. It is located just outside the City Palace and is also close to the famous Hanuman Ghat.

3. Ranakpur Jain Temple

One of the most incredible places to visit in India is the Ranakpur Jain Temple. And it just so happens to be near Udaipur. It’s cheap (15 US$ by car) and easy to hire a driver for a day to take you out to the Jain Temple and we highly recommend it. It is magnificent to see the 1444 hand-carved pillars with beautifully carved intricacies of the marble. The temple was started in the 15th century and took more than 50 years to complete.

4. Kumbalgarh Fort

Now why you should visit Kumbhalgarh Fort? Well, it has the second longest wall after the Great Wall of China! But more than just its wall, it is also a fascinating place to visit in India. Dating back to the 15th century, it was the guardian of Rajasthan only falling once to the Mughals. This fort was the backbone of the Rajput Kingdom.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kumbhalgarh Fort is about two hours from Udaipur and can be included in a tour with the Jain Temple. You can book a day tour from Udaipur to see both the Kumbhalgarh Fort and Ranakpur Jain Temple.

5. Lake Pichola Sunset Cruise

Lake Pichola was created in 1362. Yes, you heard me correctly. It was created. Lake Pichola is man-made lake nearly 700 years old. A boat trip along the lake at sunset is a must when visiting Udaipur. The boat trips take you to see Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir Palace on Jagmandir Island, Jag Niwas Island palace and of course the Lake Palace Hotel.

6. Taj Lake Palace

Udaipur is so beautiful that it was used as the setting for the James Bond Movie Octopussy. I can still remember the scene in the movie where James Bond stays at a hotel in the middle of the water. I always wondered where such luxury could be. It is right in the middle of Lake Pichola at the Lake Palace Hotel.

Originally named Jag Niwas Palace, it is hard to believe that it was built in the 18th century by Rana Jagat Singh II. Today it is a heritage five-star hotel. It is beautiful enough to see it from the water, but if you want to go inside, make a reservation for dinner to experience the grandeur of the Maharajas summer palace. Or for pure luxury, book a romantic suite at Taj Lake Palace hotel for the ultimate in luxury in a historic destination.

7. Monsoon Palace

Being a James Bond fan, I was excited to visit Monsoon Palace, another filming location for Octopussy. Also known as Sajjan Garh Palace, Monsoon Palace sits high on a hill offering panoramic views of Udaipur. It was designed to keep track of monsoons (hence the name) and it contains 9 storied astronomical domes to view the skies. The Sajjangarh Wildlife sanctuary also surrounds Monsoon Palace.

8. Karni Mata Temple

It is probably one of the strangest temples you will ever visit. And it is not for the faint of heart. But if you are looking for something truly unique and offbeat to do in Rajasthan, a visit to the Karni Mata Rat Temple is a must. It is just a short drive from Udaipur and here you can visit the sacred rats of the temple who are believed to be reincarnated humans. If you keep an eye out for the white rat, you will have good luck!

You can reach here either by your vehicle or through a rope-way. Take a 5-minute cable car ride up the hill, starting at Deendayal Park and ending at the temple. The cable car offers panoramic views of the city, and you will be entranced by the sunset at the top. But get in line early or pay more to skip the queue

9. Jagdish Temple

Go inside to see the God statues of Ganesh, Vishnu, and Garuda at Jagdesh temple. It is free to visit and locals with welcome you inside. Standing 79 feet above Udaipur, you can’t miss it. Be sure to dress properly as It’s a temple, so make sure your shoulders and knees are covered.

10. Eklingji Temple:

This curiously-named temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and draws huge number of devotees every year during Shivratri. Boasting of a magnificent two-storey structure, it features a pyramidal roof and a carved tower – nobody quite knows how these un-Hindu elements made their way into the temple architecture. There is a series of steps leading to a lake located behind the temple.

11. Bagore ki Haveli:

This is one of the grandest palaces in Udaipur, built to house a whopping 100 living quarters scaled lavishly. It dates back to the 18th Century and is located on Lake Pichola. It features airy courtyards, many terraces and pretty gardens. Also check out the intricate mirror work and frescos on the walls. Today, the palace is a remastered arts and crafts museum whose most famous element is the puppet gallery. Also every evening a cultural dance show is organised here around 6:30 pm. Make sure to see it as its highly recommended.

12. Saheliyon Ki Bari

Since you’re visiting the Garden City of Udaipur, do make a pit stop at the famous Saheliyon Ki Bari. Located on the banks of the Fateh Sagar Lake, the garden was created for the companions of the queen. The maidens would use the garden away from prying male eyes – nobody was supposed to visit the vicinity when the Queen and her companions were using it.

13. Vintage Car Museum

All lovers of old cars should make a stop for this unusual museum. It houses a sizable collection of old and expensive cars, from Rolls Royce to Mercedes models. Most of the cars in the museum have been sourced from the stables of the erstwhile Mewar families of Udaipur, which were among-st the richest royal families in India. Many of the cars on display were custom-made for their owners, and you can study the plaques alongside to get more information on each car.

14. Lakes Of Udaipur

Udaipur is known as the City of Lakes. Besides Lake Pichola, there are four other major lakes, Fateh Sagar Lake, Swaroop Sagar Lake, Doodh Talai Lake and Rangsagar Lake.

All of them were built by Maharajas from the 14th to the 19th centuries. You can take boat rides on the lakes to view the various palaces, luxury hotels, temples or take walks along the stone walkways for a tranquil day on the water.

15. Hathi Pol Bazaar

Shopping in India is not for the faint of heart. The Hathi Pol Bazaar is Udaipur is most famous market and it is a busy place. Famous for miniature paintings of Rajasthan, Hathi Pol Bazaar is a great place to get souvenirs of your stay in Udaipur. Locals visit this market too, so you can count on quality being good and prices being fair.

16. Dharohar Cultural Show

Set within a small enclosed courtyard under a beautiful tree in Bagore-Ki-Haveli, an old private palace, the show is a mix of traditional Rajasthani music, dance, puppetry, colourful costumes, mixed with just a little humour.

Commencing just after sunset, the show starts slowly as local musicians enthral the crowds before an explosion of colour and dancing brings the show to life. Puppetry, and a little humour, will have you laughing before the enthralling finale brings the show to a close.

The shows commence daily at 7 pm, and tickets cost INR 150 per person (additional INR 150 if you want to take photos). In peak season, the shows book out well in advance, so book ahead of time.

17. Taste Traditional Mewari Cuisine

The Rajput rulers of the Mewar region, who founded Udaipur, were avid hunters. Meat-based dishes are therefore a feature of Mewari-cuisine, in contrast to predominantly vegetarian Rajasthani food. Laal maas (red mutton curry) is an iconic Mewari dish that’s fiery hot. Apparently, the royal cooks spiced it up to hide the aroma of the game meat that was used at the time.

The dish has a prominent place on the menus of restaurants that serve Mewari food in Udaipur including Hari Ghar, Khamma Ghani, Upre, Ambrai, and Paantya at the City Palace. In addition, the Bedla family serve recipes that have been handed down over generations at their heritage restaurant Royal Repast, located in their home.

18. Romantic Dinner at Ambrai Restaurant

Overlooking the majestic City Palace and the magnificent Lake Palace (Jag Niwas), Ambrai is the most romantic restaurant in all of Udaipur. Tasty food along with the jaw-dropping views over the floodlit city, this meal will long live in your memories.

Ambrai caters for both non-veg and veg, and with a huge array of tandoor and curries, as well as salads, breads and continental options. If you’re looking to splash out in Udaipur, we recommend booking a table at Ambrai.

19. Udaipur Heritage Walk

One of the top activities in Udaipur is slow travelling around the old city and getting to know more about the heritage. One can do the heritage walk on their own or with one of the companies organising walking tours. Among other things on the heritage trail in Udaipur, there’s a beautiful clock tower.

20. Indian Cooking Class

Udaipur is a fantastic place to expand your culinary skills by taking an Indian cooking lesson. You’ll learn all about the different spices and secrets to preparing Indian food.

21. Rooftop Restaurant Dining

Tourists dine on balconies and roof top patios as they overlook the city view of pastel yellows and creams.

Jheels Cafe & Bakery – Somewhat of a tradition in Udaipur, Jheels Cafe and Bakery is perfectly situated overlooking Lake Pichola, with great views from the rooftop sitting area. Serving a range of western and India food (mostly western), Jheels is somewhere to escape the chaotic streets, and to relax and enjoy the views.

Other suggested rooftop bars: Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel, Upre at the top of Pichola Hotel, Aravali Lakeview at the Radisson Blu, Baro Masi at Udai Kothi.

22. Get Lost in The Old Town

One of the favorite things to do in Udaipur is to take a stroll through the old city out to the pier. People are very friendly in Udaipur and you will make many new friends. Sunset at the pier is a great place to meet the locals. As the sun goes down, the Royal Palace complex lights up and the lights of it and the city reflect in the water making for incredible photographs.

Shopping in Udaipur

Apart from being famous for vibrant temples and lakes, Udaipur also offers a unique shopping experience. From jewellery, wooden toys, cloth lanterns, dyed saris, handicrafts to antique items and paintings, shopping in Udaipur is unique in itself. Top spots one should visit for amazing experience includes: Bada Bazaar, Palace Road, Hathi Pol, Chetak Circle, Rajasthali

Where to Eat in Udaipur India

Distinct from predominantly vegetarian Rajasthani cuisine, the local Mewari cuisine in Udaipur features an assortment of rustic meat dishes, as the royal rulers of the region were avid hunters. Laal Maas (spicy red mutton curry) is the most famous dish. Fresh fish from the region’s lakes is part of the cuisine too.

Vegetarians can try regional specialties such as Gatte ki Sabji (steamed chickpea flour dumplings in a tangy tomato and yogurt curry) and Dal Bati Churma. Udaipur is also renowned for its deep-fried snacks such as Mirchi Bada (large green chilies stuffed with spices and potato) and Kachori (pastry discs with spiced lentils or onion fillings). For sweet tooths, there are desserts, including Malpua (pancakes fried and dunked in sugar syrup) and Ghevar (a cake-like dish soaked in sugar syrup and ghee).

Royal Repast
Run by the Bedla family, famed for their culinary expertise over years of hosting royal events, the restaurant is located within a plush, tastefully decorated home with an airy courtyard. Website

1559 AD
This charming old-world villa is a great hangout, with a coffee shop and a splendid bakery. The indoor and alfresco dining options are also well regarded at this lounge-like restaurant, named after the year Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II.

Sheesh Mahal
Located at The Leela Palace Udaipur, this is  a great spot for a romantic meal or just to gaze out at Lake Pichola’s serene waters while indulging in a traditional feast. Get the thali to remove the guesswork from your order. The restaurant is open only for dinner. Website

Upré
This popular lakeside restaurant by Arjun Shaktawat, of 1559 AD, is popular with both locals and tourists alike. Located at the Lake Pichola Hotel, it does a great kabab platter. Also recommended are the Rajasthani specialities that Udaipur is known for.

Millets of Mewar
Said to be the city’s first dedicated health-food restaurant, Millets of Mewar focuses on being creative, authentic and sustainable. Its ingredients are locally sourced and organic, and its menu includes vegan and gluten-free options. It’s known for its chapatti pizzas, so why not try one? Facebook page

Palki Khana
Drop by this lovely Art Nouveau café at the Shiv Niwas Palace, just before you embark on a tour of the palace’s museum, or after, when you need to rest. The coffee is splendid, and the food menu is European-influenced, contemporary and eclectic.

Tribute
The loveliest thing about this restaurant is its waterfront setting, from where you can birdwatch, as migratory avifauna traverse Swaroop Sagar, the lake near which the restaurant is located. Don’t be puzzled by the horse motifs around the restaurant; they are a ‘tribute’ to Chetak, the legendary horse of Maharana Pratap, the 16th-century ruler of Mewar. Website

Udai Art Café
This hip café is run by the charming Meropi Mitrou, a photographer from Greece, who first visited Udaipur in 2011 and later moved here in 2014, leaving home and family behind. Serving some of the best coffee in town, with crêpes that are fresh and sizzling, this is the kind of place where conversation flows freely between tables.

Where to stay in Udaipur

The majority of Udaipur’s accommodations are situated on Lake Pichola’s east side, in the Lal Ghat, Gangaur Ghat, and Chandpole areas bordering the lake. This is on the same side of the lake as the City Palace and is in the heart of the old part of the city, so you’ll have easy access to the main attractions. There are all kinds of properties, including boutique heritage hotels, guesthouses, and backpacker hostels.

Booking.com