Explore the 'City of Lakes'- Ultimate Udaipur Travel Guide for Tourists"

Uncover the enchanting city of Udaipur Udaipur, nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, India, with this comprehensive travel guide. Renowned as the "City of Lakes" or the "Venice of the East," Udaipur boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture that captivates visitors from around the globe. This guide offers essential information for making the most of your trip to this magical destination, including the best time to visit, must-see attractions, and valuable travel tips.

Best Time to Travel Udaipur

Udaipur experiences a semi-arid climate with three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. The best time to visit is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for exploration. The scorching summer temperatures make the summer season less favorable for tourists. During monsoon Udaipur's weather turns pleasant & the nearby mountain range of Aravali turns green and one cannot miss to witness this beautiful picture of Udaipur. Light showers with pleasant weather makes a good combination to visit Udaipur during monsoon.

Places to Visit in Udaipur

1. City Palace

The City Palace stands as an emblem of Udaipur's rich history and architectural brilliance. Perched on the banks of Lake Pichola, this palace complex is a harmonious blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. As you wander through its courtyards, intricate chambers, and picturesque balconies, you'll be transported to a bygone era of opulence. The panoramic view of Lake Pichola and the surrounding city from the palace is a sight to behold.

• City Palace Museum is a must interaction here, tickets are just ₹300 per person, guide cost ₹500 and it takes around 3 hours to explore the entire museum.
• Museum also includes a restaurant to have food & drinks.

2. Lake Pichola

A visit to Udaipur would be incomplete without a tranquil boat ride on the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola. The lake is adorned with two islands - Jag Niwas, which houses the iconic Lake Palace Hotel, and Jag Mandir. As you glide across the lake, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the City Palace, the Aravalli hills, and the ghats along the shoreline. The reflections of the palaces in the water during sunset are truly magical.

3. Jagdish Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Jagdish Temple is a stunning architectural marvel located in the heart of Udaipur. Built in the Indo-Aryan style, the temple boasts intricate carvings, splendid sculptures, and a towering spire that seems to touch the heavens. The temple's spiritual aura and the intricate craftsmanship on display make it a must-visit for both devotees and architecture enthusiasts. Do visit during the evening aarti time mostly after sunset, to indulge yourself in the spiritual vibes it has to offer.

• Note- Jagdish temple is just 5 minute walking distance to Bagore Ki Haveli so you can visit both and plan accordingly.

4. Saheliyon-ki-Bari

Known as the "Garden of the Maidens," - Saheliyon-ki-Bari is a serene paradise offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Built by Maharana Sangram Singh II for his queen and her maids, the garden is adorned with lush lawns, lotus pools, marble pavilions, and enchanting fountains. It's a place where you can unwind amidst nature's beauty and relish the intricate waterworks that were designed to entertain the royal women.

5. Fateh Sagar Lake

Fateh Sagar Lake, another captivating lake in Udaipur, is surrounded by hills and offers a tranquil ambiance. Boating on its serene waters is a popular activity, providing visitors with a chance to soak in the picturesque surroundings. The Nehru Island, located within the lake, houses a garden with pleasant views and is accessible by a short boat ride.

6. Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)

Perched on a hilltop, the Sajjangarh Palace offers panoramic views of the city and its lakes, especially during the monsoon season when the landscape is draped in lush greenery. The palace was built to watch the monsoon clouds, hence its nickname "Monsoon Palace." The sunset views from this vantage point are simply breathtaking and offer a different perspective of Udaipur's beauty.

• About 4km away from old city, Ola / Uber / Rapido available here. But they might charge extra above the price quoted in their respective app.
• Ticket : ₹155 per person.
• Note: Vehicle charges are extra & distance from entry gate is 4kms uphill.
• Shared cab available at 106₹ to and fro (45-1hr waiting) also private vehicles allowed but drive safely as it is totally uphill road with many bends.
• Time to explore Fort is around 1-1.30 hr although nothing much toh explore in the palace, just good views & a restaurant is available at the palace.

7. Bagore Ki Haveli

For a glimpse into the royal lifestyle and culture of Udaipur, a visit to Bagore Ki Haveli is a must. This historic mansion has been transformed into a museum that showcases the artifacts, costumes, and traditions of Rajasthan. The evening cultural performances featuring folk dances and puppet shows add a touch of liveliness to the experience.

• Note: Gangaur ghat & Bagore ki Haveli is next to each other so you can visit this ghat to which has some perfect sunset view and peaceful to sitback and take a break. Plus ppoint you can get some good shots for your Instagram.
• Bagore Ki Haveli holds Dharohar show every 7pm
  • Ticket - ₹100 per adult
  • Showcases Rajasthani folk dances & puppet dance.
  • 1 hour of full entertainment
  • Tip Entry starts from 6.30pm, better to reach early to grab front seats.

8. Vintage Car Museum

For automobile enthusiasts, the Vintage Car Museum is a hidden gem. It houses a fascinating collection of vintage and classic cars that once belonged to the royal family. These meticulously maintained cars provide a glimpse into the regal lifestyle and automotive history of Udaipur.

9. Bahubali hills

Located approximately 15 kilometers from Udaipur's city center, Bahubali Hills gracefully rises near the lesser-known Badi Lake. In recent times, this picturesque location has gained significant popularity among both locals and tourists, particularly those seeking picturesque settings for pre-wedding photoshoots. The hill's 360-degree vistas of the serene Badi Lake, framed by the majestic Aravalli range, provide a feast for the eyes and a tranquil atmosphere that draws visitors in. A must visit place for sunrise when in Udapur.

10. Badi lake

Badi Lake, situated in the village of Badi, is approximately 12 kilometers from Udaipur's city center. To reach the lake from Udaipur, consider hiring a taxi or a auto driver for the day, ideally negotiating the fare with a group to share the cost or rent a scooter for the day.

For those interested in trekking to the summit of Bahubali Hill, one of the best place in Udaipur to get amazing views during sunrise / sunset. The moderate trek, lasting about 20-30 minutes, offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscapes. However, please note that the terrain is somewhat rough and rocky, making it less suitable for young children.

Best Foods to Try in Udaipur

Udaipur's culinary scene is a treat for the senses. Don't miss these delectable dishes:

• Dal Baati Churma: A traditional Rajasthani dish comprising lentil curry, baked wheat balls (baati), and sweet crushed wheat (churma).
• Gatte ki Sabzi: Gram flour dumplings cooked in a spicy yogurt-based gravy.
• Laal Maas: A fiery Rajasthani mutton curry with a rich blend of spices.
• Mirchi Bada: Deep-fried spicy fritters stuffed with a tangy filling.
• Some street foods to try are Kachori, Samosa, Rabdi, Kulhad Chai, Rabdi.

How to Reach Udaipur

Udaipur is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it accessible from various parts of India.

• By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport is the nearest airport, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
• By Rail: Udaipur City Railway Station connects the city to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.
• By Road: A well-maintained network of national and state highways provides easy access to Udaipur by road.

Note - Udaipur is best explored on foot as the roads are narrow & has steep climbs. Although rickshaws are available and should be cost friendly to go anywhere in the city. Uber and Ola services are also active in Udaipur for you to explore.

• You can also opt for rented scooters that are available at a rate of ₹300/500 per day.

Accommodation Options and Budget

Udaipur offers a wide range of accommodation options catering to different budgets:

• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses can be found for around Rs 500 to Rs 1500 per night.
• Mid-Range: Comfortable mid-range hotels and boutique stays range from Rs 2000 to Rs 5000 per night.
• Luxury: Udaipur is famous for its heritage and luxury hotels, with prices ranging from Rs 8000 to Rs 25000 and beyond.
• Hotels / Restaurant recommendations : The Village, Marwadi Bhojanalaya/ Paliwal/ Roopji.

Average Duration and Budget

An ideal visit to Udaipur can last around 3 to 4 days to cover the major attractions and immerse yourself in the local culture. The average budget for a mid-range traveller, including accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing, could range from Rs 3000 to Rs 5000 per day.

Points to Remember When in Udaipur

1. Dress Code: Respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
2. Local Etiquette: Politeness and courtesy go a long way in Udaipur. Always seek permission before taking photos of locals.
3. Bargaining: Bargain at local markets, but do so with a smile and in good spirits.
4. Safety: Udaipur is generally safe, but like any travel destination, take standard precautions with your belongings.
5. Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any health issues.

Nearby Attractions You Can Visit From Udaipur

1. Kumbhalgarh:

While visiting Udaipur, consider taking a day trip to the magnificent Kumbhalgarh Fort, located just over two hours north of the city in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 15th century by the Mewar ruler Rana Kumbha, boasts a 36-kilometer-long wall that spans 13 hills, earning it the nickname "Great Wall of India." The fort is most famous as the birthplace of the legendary Mewar warrior, Maharana Pratap.

Explore the numerous ancient temples, palace ruins, step wells, and cannon bunkers within the fort, and take in the breathtaking sunset views. Keep in mind that the fort is approximately 2 hours from Udaipur, and Haldi Ghati, the site of a significant historical battle, is a popular stop along the way.

Visit Kumbhalgarh Fort between sunrise and sunset, with ticket prices set at ₹600 for foreigners and ₹40 for Indians. If you plan your trip around December 1-3, you can enjoy the annual Kumbhalgarh Festival, featuring captivating performances by local folk artists.

2. Chittorgarh:

Chittorgarh, the most significant fort of the Mewar dynasty, served as the capital of their kingdom for over 800 years until Mughal Emperor Akbar captured it in 1568. Subsequently, Maharana Udai Singh II established a new kingdom in Udaipur. However, Chittorgarh's history dates back to the 7th century when local Mauryan rulers initiated its construction. In June 2013, UNESCO recognized Chittorgarh as a World Heritage Site. This expansive fort, with easily accessible monuments by vehicle, houses ancient palaces, temples, towers, a reservoir inhabited by fish, and a royal cremation ground. The Tower of Victory provides stunning views of the fort and surrounding town. An evening sound and light show narrates the fort's history, although it is usually conducted in Hindi.

Location: Chittorgarh is situated approximately two hours northeast of Udaipur along the Udaipur-Chittorgarh Road.

Visiting Information: Chittorgarh is accessible from sunrise to sunset, daily. Admission to the fort is free and available at any time. To visit Padmini Palace, the main attraction, purchase a ticket for ₹600 (for foreigners) or ₹40 (for Indians).

3. Nathdwara:

Discover Nathdwara, a captivating town nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, famous for its revered Shrinathji Temple. Often referred to as the 'Apollo of Mewar', Nathdwara harmoniously blends Mewar's rich heritage with profound spirituality. The town echoes with centuries-old chants and artistry, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Experience Nathdwara

1. Visit Shrinathji Temple: A must-see for devotees and visitors alike, this temple is known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.
2. Shop for 'Pichwai' Paintings: Explore local markets and discover these intricate, traditional paintings that showcase the life of Lord Krishna.
3. Taste Local Delicacies: Relish Nathdwara's unique cuisine, including traditional sweets and savory dishes.
4. Relax by the Banas River: Enjoy the serene beauty of the Banas River, which flows through Nathdwara, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Nathdwara is approximately 46 km away, with a travel time of 1 to 1.5 hours by taxi or bus

Udaipur is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its awe-inspiring architecture, serene lakes, and vibrant markets, this city is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. To make the most of your trip, plan to visit Udaipur between October and March, and allow 3-4 days to explore its many attractions. Don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, and consider visiting the Vintage Car Museum or attending a cultural performance at Bagore Ki Haveli.

To help your friends and family plan their own Udaipur adventure, share this comprehensive travel guide with them. Happy travels!

Udaipur is a city that effortlessly transports you to an era of royalty and romance. With its captivating lakes, majestic palaces, and delicious cuisine, it's a destination that promises a memorable experience for travellers of all kinds. Plan your visit during the favorable months, explore its wonders, indulge in the local flavors, and relish the regal ambiance that defines Udaipur.