Disclaimer: The author had visited Udaipur with her family a few years ago. Most of the recommendations in this article are from her personal experience. Also, this post contains a few affiliate links. If you click on them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read about our editorial policies.
Udaipur’s regal tapestry, with its grand architectural marvels, rich cultural heritage and mouth watering cuisine, is unparalleled.
The most interesting thing about my trip to Udaipur was, it not only unraveled the opportunity to marvel at royalty, but also granted me a first-hand, immersive experience of how some of the greatest rulers of India spent their leisure hours.
Whether you are planning a romantic escapade in India or about to embark on a solo expedition to quench your wanderlust, I’d recommend Udaipur, situated in the state of Rajasthan, India, as your next destination.
So here’s a detailed travel guide on Udaipur, the city’s main tourist attractions, finest restaurants, best shopping destinations and luxury heritage palace stays! Let’s begin with the first step — packing.
Contents
Things To Pack Before You Travel to Udaipur
Cotton clothes
Even if you visit Udaipur, India during the winter months of November, December or January, the days can get quite hot. So it is better to pack in some loose cotton clothes. There are strict dress codes in some temples. So you might want to purchase some modest Indian clothes from the local market once you reach Udaipur.
Light jacket
Winter nights in Udaipur can get chilly. So pack a light jacket or a cardigan if you are traveling during this season.
Sunglasses, Hats & Sunscreen
Sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are a must as an Udaipur trip would require you to spend a lot of time outdoors under the sun.
Water bottle
While mineral water bottles are available everywhere in Udaipur, I always preferred carrying my own 1-liter water bottle. You can do the same as it helps to minimize the use of plastic in India. However, beware of refilling your water at unhygienic places.
Loose cash
It is always better to carry some loose cash as you’ll need it to pay local food shops and auto drivers.
Comfortable shoes
A couple of tourist attractions in Udaipur, such as forts and palaces, may require you to walk or climb uneven roads. So pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Also, pack in a pair of cheap sandals (you can buy them locally) if you plan to visit the temples in Udaipur. This is because you need to leave your footwear outside before entering the temple premises.
Wet Wipes or Mist
Always carry a pack of wet wipes or a face mist with you as these come in handy in the hot weather.
Pack some paracetamols, painkillers, and anti-diarrhoea medicines. Also keep some band-aids (plasters), antiseptic lotion/cream and a glucose pack or some rehydration sachets on you for emergencies.
Dry snacks
Pack in some biscuits, protein bars, nuts and dry fruits to snack on during your travels.
Apart from the list above, don’t forget to pack your general travel essentials like your passport, photo ID, driving license, visa, photo ID, return ticket, travel insurance, toiletries, hand sanitizer, phone charger, universal travel adapter, portable charger, gadgets and other accessories.
What Is the Ideal Duration For Planning A Trip To Udaipur?
My Udaipur trip lasted 3 days. However, you can plan a 2-day itinerary, which is sufficient for covering all the popular tourist places in Udaipur. You can also check out some local Udaipur tour packages for your convenience. If you have more time in hand, you can also visit the historic Chittorgarh Fort, which is 2 hours away from Udaipur.
Which Months Are Best For Visiting Udaipur?
It is best to visit Udaipur between September and March when the weather is pleasant. October, being the festive season in India, is also a great time when the city is beautifully decked and lit up. However, certain tourist places, such as the City Palace, can get quite crowded around this time.
Transport Facilities That You Can Avail In Udaipur
I traveled to Udaipur with a tour agency. So apart from my parents, there were 5 other families traveling with us. The good thing about traveling with a tour agency is that everything from hotel bookings to food, and transport are pre-booked, allowing you to travel worry-free.
However, if you have planned on your own, don’t worry. Here’s a list of the best transport options that you can avail in Udaipur for both short and long-distance travel:
Auto – They are easily available and can be booked for the entire day. If you are booking one for 8-12 hours for local sightseeing within a 5-8 km radius, they may charge around INR 2000 (24.10 USD).
Scooters and bikes – These are available for rent at a very nominal rate.
Cabs/ Taxis – They are slightly expensive, but a good option if you want to escape the heat.
Travel agency cars/buses – These can also be booked for an entire day. Your hotel can also arrange one for you.
If you’ve planned a complete Rajasthan trip, you can easily travel from Jodhpur to Udaipur or Jaipur to Udaipur via trains or buses.
How Is The Weather In Udaipur?
In general, Udaipur experiences hot weather throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 35℃ to 19℃. The days are dry and hot, while nights are usually breezy, cool and comfortable. We visited Udaipur during October, and it was slightly hot and humid during the day.
Where Can I Exchange My Currency?
Certain banks like Axis bank, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank offer good exchange rates. There are also many authorized private foreign exchange dealers such as Frequent Forex Services Pvt. Ltd. Thomas Cook also offers a Buy/Sell Forex Online service on their website and has a doorstep delivery option. You can visit one of their local offices for detailed information.
What Are The Best Tourist Places To Visit In Udaipur, Rajasthan?
1. City Palace Museum, Udaipur
Sprawling over a vast area of 5 acres, the City Palace is one of the most visited places in Udaipur. It is a conglomeration of many palaces that have been built by the Mewar dynasty over the course of 4 centuries.
City Palace was the highlight of my Udaipur tour. The moment I entered through the Badi Pol (big entrance gate), it felt like I was transported to a glorious era in history when riches overflowed, master craftsmen handcrafted marble palaces, and the country flourished culturally.
Each palace is an architectural wonder, and as our guide explained, they display the exquisite craftsmanship of their era, showcasing a brilliant fusion of European, Chinese and Medieval art.
We hired a local guide from near the entrance gate. I’d suggest you do the same, as their narratives are far more interesting than the audio guides.
TWT Trivia: Presently Ex-Maharana Arvind Singh Mewar inhabits the Udaipur City Palace. He is an esteemed representative of the 24th generation of the Mewar lineage.
What To See Inside The Udaipur City Palace Museum?
Badi Pol
The grand and intricately adorned entrance gate, also known as the Badi Pol, marks the entrance to the City Palace museum. It also serves as the museum’s ticket counter, where you can get an audio guide. The Badi Pol was erected during the reign of Maharana Amar Singh I.
Manek Chowk
The Manek Chowk is the expansive palace courtyard adorned with a Mughal-styled garden attributed to Rana Karan Singh. It once acted as a stage for ceremonial parades and festivals for the Maharanas. With the Mardana Mahal (Palace of the Kings) serving as an exquisite backdrop, the Manek Chowk at present is a much sought-after venue for luxury wedding receptions and cultural events.
There are many small souvenir and handicraft shops in Manek Chowk that you can visit. However, I found the prices slightly expensive when compared to the local market.
Baadi Mahal
The Baadi Mahal, constructed during the rule of Rana Amar Singh II, stands as the embodiment of Mughal architectural splendor. Beautifully landscaped gardens and extensive marble-pillared corridors add to its royal charm. What is interesting about the Baadi Mahal is that despite being located at the highest level of the City Palace Complex, it actually rests at ground level!
Zenana Mahal
The Zenana Mahal or the Queen’s Palace includes a beautiful marbled pavilion known as the Chowmukha, which was added to the Udaipur City Palace Complex by Rana Sangram Singhji II during his rule (1710-1734). The Millennium Dome crowning the Chowmukha is a modern touch inaugurated in the year 2000 to celebrate the start of the millennium.
The Chowmukha was once the seat of cultural activities, rituals and lavish banquets organized by the royal women. This opulent setting also served as the Queen’s court where discussions pertaining to the Zenana Mahal were conducted.
TWT Tip: You can indulge in the renowned culinary speciality of Rajasthan, Dal Bati Churma, at Zenana Mahal. Savor its delectable taste at just INR 150.
Museum Galleries
The palace galleries unfold a lavish display of regal artifacts, encompassing an array of treasures such as weapons, utensils, pottery, paintings, armor, attires, books etc.
Amidst this opulent collection, the Pratap Gallery is a standout. It commemorates the valorous legacy of Maharana Pratap by displaying original weaponry used in the historic battle of Haldi Ghati (1576). Other notable galleries include the Silver Gallery and the Music Gallery which offer a glimpse into the grandeur and musical heritage of the royal families.
Kanch Ki Burj
One of my favorite places in the palace was the Kanch Ki Burj. Since we began our Rajasthan trip with Jaipur, the Kanch Ki Burj reminded me of the Sheesh Mahal in Jaipur, an architectural wonder built by Maan Singh.
With intricate red, yellow and white glass (kanch) inlay work adorning the walls and ceiling, the Kanch Ki Burj is a mesmerizing spectacle for the beholder. Commissioned by Maharana Karan Singh, this opulent addition to the Udaipur City Palace provided a royal retreat during the winters to its occupants.
Mor Chowk
Inspired by the peacocks that continue to grace the lands of Rajasthan, the Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) displays the extraordinary craftsmanship of local artisans. Intricately designed with colorful mosaic tiles and glass inlay work, the Mor Chowk captures the very essence of opulence that defined the regal era.
Moti Mahal
The ivory doors of the Moti Mahal open into a kaleidoscopic ensemble of stained glasses and mirrors that decorate the wall of this palace. It was initially built during the reign of Maharana Karan Singh and was later improved to its current state by Maharana Jawan Singh.
During festive occasions, the royal ladies of the palace would gather in the Moti Mahal to view the events taking place beyond the palace walls.
Badi Chitrasali Chowk
Apart from its architectural beauty, what makes Badi Chitrasali Chowk a popular spot for tourists, is the panoramic view it offers of the Udaipur city, Lake Pichola, and the Jag Mandir.
Warnings:
Being one of the major tourist attractions, the City Palace Udaipur often sees an influx of visitors, particularly during festivals and holidays. Since we went during the peak season and also during the peak hours, which is usually after 11 am, the narrow winding staircase was so packed with tourists that it became quite claustrophobic. Hence, I personally recommend you plan accordingly and reach early to avoid the crowd.
Certain staircases within the palace are narrow and steep (as I mentioned earlier). Thus, they might present a challenge for the elderly or those with mobility issues. Also, remember to carry a bottle of water with you as the palace tour spans over an hour and the interiors can get hot and humid. It took us about 2 hours to cover the palace, since our guide was a local who had worked in the palace for about 10 years and he gave us a detailed historical account of the palace.
Timings: 9.30 am-5.30 pm
Ticket: INR 300 (3.62 USD)
To book your tickets online and for more information about the City Palace, Udaipur, visit their official site.
TWT Tip: Before leaving the palace grounds, make sure to get yourself clicked by one of the numerous professional photographers stationed nearby. You can even wear the traditional Rajasthani attire that is available on rent. The photograph is promptly framed and handed over. It serves as a great memento to treasure for years to come.
2. Lake Pichola & Jag Mandir Palace
If you plan to take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, I recommend purchasing your ticket from near the City Palace Main Entrance, so that you can head straight after completing your City Palace Museum Tour.
The boat ride expense ranges from INR 500 (6.03 USD) from 10 am to 3 pm and INR 800 (9.64 USD) from 4 pm to 6 pm. However, my tour agency had booked a sunset cruise with one of the few boating agencies that operate outside the City Palace as they offered more economical options.
Embarking on a boat ride, especially at the time of sunset, on the golden-hued glistening waters of Lake Pichola was a magical experience that is still etched in my memory. The 1-hour ride commenced from inside the City Palace and took us around the majestic Taj Lake Palace (on the Jag Niwas Island, Lake Pichola) and made a halt at the Jagmandir Island Palace.
Jagmandir Island Palace is a 17th-century three-storied palace that has been revived into a haven for tourists by the HRH Group of Hotels. Overlooking Lake Pichola, this opulent setting offers fine dining venues, a picturesque garden at the palace courtyard, and a museum that unfurls the heritage of the Mewar dynasty.
The most awe-inspiring sight awaited us at the entrance as 8 grandiose elephant statues sculpted from white marble ushered us into the Jag Mandir Palace. Some of the notable architectural creations inside the palace that you can check out are the Gul Mahal, Zenana Mahal, and the Bara Patharon Ka Mahal (Palace of the Twelve Stones). Moreover, Jag Mandir offers one of the most picturesque spots for cinematic photography, especially if you visit during sunset as we did.
3. Jagdish Temple
Whenever I visit a place, I always make sure to visit the local temples. Temples in India are not just seats of religious practice, but also unfold the architecture, culture, history and lifestyle of a bygone era.
The Jagdish Temple located about 160 m from the Udaipur City Palace is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. And according to the locals, this ancient temple was constructed in 1651 under Maharana Jagat Singh’s patronage after the Lord appeared in his dream and wished to be established in Mewar.
You will come across a beautiful brass statue of Garuda (Lord Vishnu’s vehicle) guarding the temple as you ascend the marble steps. The significance of this temple lies in its meticulously hand-crafted, three-tiered structure that depicts a myriad of tales from Hindu mythology.
4. Doodh Talai/Dudh Talai
The Doodh Talai is an artificial pond located at the heart of Udaipur City, 1 km away from the Udaipur City Palace. According to the locals, the pond was named Dudh (milk) Talai (pond), since the milk vessels of the royals were washed here. However, others believe that the pond was a source of fresh water for the king’s cattle.
Dudh Talai is flanked on both sides by the Manik Lal Verma Park and the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Park, which are a must-visit if you have some spare time. They offer stunning views of the surrounding water bodies and hill range. There are also Camel Riding, Horse Riding and Boating options near the pond.
5. Karni Mata Temple
Just outside Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Park, you will find the ticket booking counter for the Manshapurn Karni Mata Temple Ropeway journey. This 400-year-old ancient Hindu temple is also accessible by foot. However, it’s quite an arduous climb.
Nestled atop the Machla Magra Hills, the temple of Manshapurn (bestower of wishes), Karni Mata is revered as a potent deity who benevolently answers the prayers of her devotees. Apart from the temple’s architectural grandeur, its supreme location atop the hill offers an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of Udaipur City.
However, being one of the most popular places to visit in Udaipur, especially due to the ropeway journey that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding flora, it is natural to see extended queues at the boarding point. We had to wait about 30 minutes. But believe me, the journey was totally worth the wait.
ManshapurnKarni Mata Temple RopewayTimings: 9 am-8 pm
Ticket: INR 107 per person. A private cabin will cost INR 642.
6. Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
Once you are done touring the popular destinations near Lake Pichola, head to the Sajjangarh Palace/Sajjangarh Fort which overlooks the Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola and the enchanting Aravalli Hills. Perched atop a hill, this architectural wonder, built in 1884, is named after Maharana Sajjan Singh.
We had to purchase entry tickets for ourselves and our travel bus at the entrance gate of Sajjangarh. From there, it is a 5 km drive to the palace. The lush greenery that flanks the road to the top of the mountain coupled with the pleasant weather is absolutely surreal. Sajjangarh Palace is best enjoyed in the afternoon when the sun is not too strong.
The parking lot is quite spacious and offers ample space for parking your vehicle. If you have some spare time I suggest visiting the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, tickets of which can be purchased near the parking lot. Once you reach the palace’s courtyard, you’ll find that every nook and corner from here to the inside of the palace serves as a viewpoint and you can see many tourists grouping together for photos.
I suggest you complete your Sajjangarh Palace tour before sundown and make Bagore Ki Haveli your next destination, especially to watch the Rajasthani Cultural Show at 7 pm.
TWT Trivia: Udaipur was once a fortified city guarded by an array of 11 gates to ward off enemy attacks. Some of these gates, also known as poles, that have endured the passage of time are Suraj Pole, Hathi Pol, Chand Pole, Bada Pole, Udia Pole and Brahm Pole.
7. Bagore Ki Haveli
For a deeper insight into Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, the Bagore Ki Haveli is a must-visit. This enormous mansion, now turned into a museum, was built by Mewar’s Prime Minister, Shri Amarchand Badwa in the 1700s and later improved and extended by Maharaj Shakti Singh of Bagore in 1878. Located on the Gangaur Ghat, it overlooks Lake Pichola.
Much like the City Palace Udaipur, Bagore Ki Haveli also has peacock murals made of colorful mosaic and glass inlay work, a sheesh (glass) mahal, ornate pillars and expansive courtyards with fountains. Apart from the weaponry, utensils and other memorabilia that are on display in its 138 rooms, the Turban Museum draws special attention with the world’s largest turban on display.
After a quick tour of Bagore Ki Haveli, we had stayed back to watch the Lok Dharohar Show. This famous Rajasthani Folk Dance Show has been running for the past 22 years from 7 pm to 8 pm in the museum premises. The best thing about this show is that it is a colorful amalgamation of dance forms from different parts of Rajasthan, such as Chari, Bhavai, Kathputli (puppet) and others. The tickets for the show can be purchased at a nominal price (it was INR 100 when I visited before the pandemic) from the entrance of Bagore Ki Haveli.
Before heading back to your hotel, you can enjoy some quiet time at the steps of the Gangaur Ghat, where you will be treated with the cool breeze of the lake and soulful music by local artists. There are also around 15 to 20 handicraft and traditional clothing stores that provide a good shopping experience (I remember buying a Bandhani dupatta and a block-printed cotton shirt for my dad).
Timings: 9.30 am-5.30 pm and 6.30 pm-8 pm
Ticket: INR 100 only for foreigners
8. Saheliyon Ki Bari (Garden of Maidens)
Crafted under the patronage of Maharana Sangram Singh II, this exquisite garden was once built for the royal women of Mewar. It is one of the best places to visit in Udaipur. As the tale goes, Saheliyon Ki Bari was constructed for the queen and her 48 maidens who followed her to Udaipur as presents for her wedding.
In fact some of the fountains were specially imported from London to create a cinematic ambiance, where the royal maidens enjoyed their time under a perpetual drizzle. Adorned with a lotus pond (Kamal Talai), rain fountains, marble pavilions and elephant statues, Saheliyon Ki Bari still preserves its timeless charm.
Timings: 9 am-7 pm.
Ticket: INR 10 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners.
9. Lake Fateh Sagar
Fateh Sagar is one of the five major lakes in Udaipur. Flanked by the Aravalli Hills on three sides and the Moti Magri (Pearl Hill) on the North, this is one of the most enchanting tourist spots in Udaipur. The Lake is embellished with 3 beautiful islands that host the Nehru Park, the Udaipur Solar Observatory, and a public park.
As per historical records, when the initial lake built in the 1600s by Maharana Jai Singh got washed away, Maharana Fateh Singh spent an enormous sum of money to build an embankment (Connaught Bund) in order to save the lake. It still remains a major water source for the people of Udaipur.
A boat ride on Fateh Sagar Lake was not on our itinerary, however, you can avail speed boats and motorboats from the Mewar Boating Agency to travel to these islands. The system here is that a boat takes you to the island and a return boat brings you back, all for a very nominal charge. The only downside is that you may have to wait a while for the return boat to arrive and this may cause a delay in your tour plans.
TWT Trivia: Aptly named the City of Lakes, Udaipur is also home to the world’s 2nd largest artificial lake called the Jaisamand Lake or the Dhebar Lake created during the 17th century.
10. Maharana Pratap Smarak (Memorial Park)
The Moti Magri (Pearl Hill), which hosts the Maharana Pratap Smarak is located exactly opposite to the Fateh Sagar Lake. According to historical records, this terrain was covered in lush forests 400 years ago. It was in this forest that Maharana Pratap pledged to live, driven by an unyielding resolve to liberate his country from Mughal rule. He gave up the luxuries of his palace for it.
The memorial park is beautifully landscaped and displays some of the finest statues of Maharana Pratap, his steadfast horse Chetak, Hakim Sur and other revered figures. It also has a couple of great viewpoints and an old mansion known as the Moti Mahal. There is also a light and sound show in the evening around 7 pm that you can attend.
Timings: 8 am-8 pm
Get Travel Ready With All The Essentials For Your Next Trip! Photo: Mokobara Suitcase
We had the evening off on Day 3 of our Udaipur trip for shopping. So we visited the Ambrai Ghat . It is a popular spot on the banks of Lake Pichola that offers breathtaking vistas of the lake, City Palace and the Taj Lake Palace.
It is best to visit the ghat during sunset when the tranquil waters of the lake gleam a golden hue. I suggest you stay on a little longer for an iconic night view of the palace glittering in golden lights against the dark waters of the lake.
12. Shilpgram
Shilpgram is an artisan’s village located about 5 km from the Maharana Pratap Smarak. It showcases a mesmerizing array of local craftsmanship. The place has a serene rural vibe to it with Rajasthani music playing in the background as you walk past an enchanting collection of diverse traditional houses. Some small shops sell handicrafts, making Shilpgram a good place to buy unique souvenirs.
However, the best time to visit Shilpgram is at the end of December during the Shilpgram Festival. During this vibrant time, you will find hundreds of artisans from different parts of India selling their creations. A cultural show also displays dance forms from different parts of India.
Timings: 11 am-7 pm
Ticket: INR 55
13. Vintage And Classic Car Museum
If you’re a car enthusiast, you can make a quick trip to the Udaipur Vintage And Classic Car Museum, which is located about 1 km from the Udaipur City Palace. The museum also provides a guide for each group, which enhances the overall experience. However, the ticket price is slightly on the expensive side, making it difficult to fit into the itinerary of a budget trip.
Timings: 9 am-9 pm
Ticket: INR 400
14. Saas Bahu Temple/ SahastraBahu Temple
Situated approximately 22 km from Udaipur city, nestled in the Nagda village, this ancient 10th-century Hindu Temple is renowned for its masterful stone carvings. This heritage temple bears the intriguing name of ‘Saas Babu temple’ which literally translates to ‘Mother-in-law and Daughter-in-law temple’.
According to local historical records that I found during my research, King Mahipala of the Kachchhwaha Dynasty erected this architectural gem for his queen so that she can worship her beloved deity, Lord Vishnu. Since the idol depicted Lord Vishnu with thousand hands, the temple was initially named Sahastrabahu Temple. In due course, the prince erected another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva to honor his wife’s deep-seated devotion for the Lord. As time went on, the temple came to be known as the Saas Bahu Temple.
The temple’s architecture instantly reminded me of the magnificent Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. Spectacular figures and figurines hand-carved on yellow-stoned pillars and archways. The ceilings are equally ornate with floral motifs on stone. You can spend hours admiring the beauty of this temple. The realization that this spectacle was created hundreds of years ago by the finest craftsmen in Rajasthan is surely going to leave you spellbound.
Timings: 5 am-12 pm and 4 pm-9 pm.
15. Eklingji Temple
The Eklingji Temple is one of the most revered temples in Rajasthan dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dating back to the 8th century it was constructed under the patronage of Maharana Bappa Rawal (you can see his statue inside the temple).
However, the Delhi Sultanate invasion of Mewar left the temple in ruins. Though Hamir Singh and Rana Kumbha had later rebuilt the temple, it was again destroyed by a Malwa Sultanate attack on the capital. Later during the 15th century Rana Raimal reinstated the dynasty’s tutelary deity and reconstructed it to its present form.
Eklingji Temple complex comprises 108 temples with intricate hand carvings on stone, making it an architectural masterpiece. The remarkable four-faced Shiva idol unites the principal deities of the Hindu mythology – Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Surya.
I suggest you visit the Eklinji Temple in the morning and head to the Saas Bahu and Adbhud Jain Temples. Furthermore, photography is not allowed within the temple premises and you will be asked to keep your bags, leather items and cameras inside lockers available at the entrance.
Note: The temple also has a strict dress code and mini skirts, shorts, low-waist jeans, off-shoulder/sleeveless or crop tops are not allowed. Most of the women in our group wore sarees or salwar suits and the men were wearing kurta pajamas. So we didn’t face any restrictions at the temple.
Located merely 850 meters away from the Saas Bahu Temple, lies the ancient Adbhud Ji Jain Temple. The white marble structure adorned with exquisite carvings is reminiscent of the famous Dilwara Jain Temple in Mount Abu.
Built under the patronage of Rana Kumbha, this temple is dedicated to the revered Jain Saint Shanti Nath. The temple’s distinctive hallmark lies in its exceptional 9 feet tall idol, which is also what earned the temple its name of Adbhud (Unusual) Ji Temple.
TWT Tip: Plan a one day’s trip from Udaipur to explore the Saas Bahu, Eklingji, and Adbhut Ji Jain Templesa. There are also some great accommodation options such as the Sarasiruham Resort and the YAAN Wellness Resort, where you can spend the night.
17. Kumbhalgarh Fort
Plan a separate day to visit the Kumbhalgarh Fort that is located approximately 80 km from Udaipur city. We had started early in the morning and it took us around 2 hours 30 minutes to reach the fort. The fort tour requires a lot of walking under the sun. So I recommend you wear light cotton clothes and comfortable walking shoes. Definitely carry a water bottle and some snacks with you.
The massive Kumbhalgarh fortress was built on the Aravalli Range by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century. Underscoring its historical significance, the fort is now declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As told by our tour guide, in order to secure the borders of Mewar, Maharana Kumbha had established a formidable network of 32 forts amongst which Kumbhalgarh is one of the grandest. The fort was built over a span of 15 years from 1442-1458. It was referred to as the ‘Ajay Durg’ (undefeated fortress) since the fort was impenetrable and had deftly warded off 17 enemy assaults.
The wall of Kumbhalgarh is known as the Great Indian Wall stretching 36 km and is believed to be the 2nd largest in the world after the Great Wall of China.
Main Attractions Inside Kumbhalgarh Fort
9 gates of the fort.
Badal Mahal – the fort experiences a magical cloud cover during the rainy season. Hence the palace within the fort that the Maharanas used as their personal retreat is named Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds).
Zenana Mahal – the Queen’s chamber.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (Shiva Temple).
Parshwanath Jain Temple.
I suggest you make time for the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary after completing your tour of the fort. The sanctuary also has provision for a jungle safari known as the Leopard Safari. Owing to the dense forest that drapes the Aravalli Range of mountains, the sanctuary is home to numerous animals.
Kumbhalgarh FortTicket: INR 40 for Indian visitors and INR 600 for Foreign visitors.
TWT Trivia: The Kumbhalgarh Fort was cleverly designed to remain hidden from sight despite being erected atop the Aravali Range. Even today one cannot sight the fort unless they are at a distance of 500 m from it.
Apart from the ones mentioned above, a few other lesser-known attractions near Udaipur that you can explore are:
Bahubali Hills
Jaisamand Lake & Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary
Amrakh Ji Mahadev Temple, Amberi
Where To Stay In Udaipur?
We had stayed in a Haveli-styled 3-star hotel in the Old City. You can easily find many such budget hotels that offer good rooms, breakfast and basic amenities. However, if you are planning a royal stay, here’s a list of the best luxury hotels in Udaipur.
Luxury Heritage Stays:
Taj Lake Palace Udaipur
Immersed in rich history, the Taj Lake Palace was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II between 1743-1746 and was initially named Jag Niwas. With a dream-like location, floating in the middle of Lake Pichola, the palace served as a personal retreat for generations of Maharanas.
Now overseen by Taj Hotels, one of the luxury groups of hotels in India and abroad, the Taj Lake Palace ascended to global recognition after it was featured in the James Bond classic ‘Octopussy’ starring the charismatic Roger Moore.
Beyond its luxurious restaurants that offer a regal dining experience, they also offer an exclusive romantic boat dinner. You can check out a video of a traveler’s experience in this 18th-century heritage hotel to get a glimpse of its grandeur.
Taj Fateh Prakash Palace
Another exclusive luxury hotel by the Taj Group, the Fateh Prakash Palace was built by Maharana Fateh Singh as a royal retreat for his prestigious guests. The hotel still preserves its golden era charm and its furniture and decor are from the royal storerooms. Overlooking Lake Pichola, and enveloped by the Aravalli range, this palatial hotel offers one of the best Marwari meals. For booking details, check out their official website.
The Oberoi Udaivilas
Built on the banks of Lake Pichola,Udaivilas gives you an opportunity to experience the royalty of Rajasthan. Lush greenery envelops the hotel courtyard and peacocks grace the hotel premises. Udaivilas offers one of the best Royal stay experiences in Udaipur. Luxury suites with private pools, rooftop restaurants overlooking the lake and City Palace with traditional Rajasthani music playing in the background, transport you to a bygone era of royalty and luxury.
The Leela Palace Udaipur
Nestled along the tranquil shore of Lake Pichola, The Leela Palace is a living example of the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royalty. Adorned with paintings and handicrafts that speak of the golden era, this luxurious haven also offers a boat ride to the entrance gate, similar to the Taj Lake Palace. Among the varied exquisite experiences that the hotel offers, the complimentary boat ride during sunset and Destination Dining at Sheesh Mahal is not to be missed. Check out their website for more details.
Shiv Niwas Palace
The Shiv Niwas Palace located at the southern end of the Udaipur City Palace, was built and used by Maharana Fateh Singh (1884-1930) as his own private residence. You will surely get captivated by the palace’s ornate rooms, colorful chandeliers, antique furniture, landscaped gardens and vast, luxuriously decorated courtyard. The Terrace, Royal and Imperial suites will likely be your best options if you wish to experience the true essence of ancient Indian royalty.
Apart from the above-mentioned luxury hotels in Udaipur, a few others that offer similar experiences include:
You can also tour Udaipur, Rajasthan on a luxury train known as the Palace On Wheels. It has a complete palace setting, but within the compartments of a train. It is in fact one of the most expensive luxury trains in the world.
Where To Dine In Udaipur?
If you are someone who loves exploring different cuisines, you’re in good hands. Food exploration has always been on the top of my charts whenever I travel to a new place and most of the recommendations below are either from my own experience or from relatives and friends who’ve traveled to Udaipur. I’ve also listed a few restaurants that were highly rated on Google on criterias like hygiene, ambience, food taste and variety. Here you go:
Specialities: Badam, Kaju n Fruit Shakes and Homemade Icecream
Address: Bapu Bazar, Nada Khada, Udaipur
Timing: 4 pm-11 pm
What Are Best Local Foods To Try In Udaipur?
Here’s a quick list of my favorite Rajasthani vegetarian dishes that I managed to try in Udaipur. I recommend you order a complete Rajasthani thali, which usually includes most of the dishes mentioned below.
Dal Bati Churma
The most popular dish of Rajasthani cuisine is Dal Bati and Churma. It is made of pulses (dal), baked wheat flour balls (bati) and coarsely crushed baked wheat flour flavored with dry fruits, jaggery and ghee or clarified butter.
Mohan Thaal
A mouth-watering sweet dish made of gram flour, clarified butter (ghee), milk and dry nuts (pista & cashew).
Mawa Kachori
Unlike the traditional kachori which is a savory dish, the mawa kachori has a sweet stuffing made of milk solids, nuts, and cardamon and is served dipped in sugar syrup.
Lehsun Ki Chutney
A spicy condiment prepared with garlic and served with rice, roti or Dal Bati Churma.
Ker Sangri
A medium spicy vegetable curry made of locally grown ker berries and sangri beans.
Poha
A breakfast item made with flattened rice, peanuts, onion, potato and spices.
Jodhpuri Kachori
A remarkably savoury snack made of refined flour, onion, garlic, ginger and spices.
Gatte Ki Sabji
A spicy curry made of gram flour rolls.
Moong Daal Ka Halwa
A delicious sweet dish prepared with lentils, milk and ghee.
Balushahi
A doughnut-like sweet dish prepared with flour and sugar syrup.
Kadhi
Thick curry prepared with curd with crisp fritters immersed in it.
Masala Chhach
Spiced Buttermilk, best consumed cold after an outing in the sun.
Diljani
A delicious desert made of gram flour, ghee, sugar syrup and dry fruits.
Kalakand
A type of sweet milk cake often sprinkled with cardamom powder and pista nuts.
Shahi Paan
A mouth freshener that is usually consumed after a meal, containing dry dates, fennel seeds, cardamom, and sweet-flavored betel nut wrapped in a betel leaf.
Best Shopping Destinations In Udaipur
Hathi Pol Bazaar
What To Buy: Various shops selling handicrafts made of wood and brass, earthen wall hangings, Rajasthani dolls, bags, handmade joothis (footwear), Bandhni dupattas, traditional Rajasthani fabrics, block printed shirts, tops, bed sheets, etc. You need to bargain well to reduce the prices.
Address: Hathipole, Chamanpura
Bada Bazaar
What To Buy: Traditional Bandhani fabrics, Rajasthani sarees, leather footwear, and silver jewelry.
Address: G N P (Girdhar Das Nathu Lal Parikh)
Apart from the above-mentioned spots, the Gangaur Ghat Road and the Lake Palace Road are lined with an incredible array of fabric and handicraft stores.
What Are The Cultural Rajasthani Dance Shows In Udaipur?
Folk Dance & Puppet Show in Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir
Timings: 12 pm-1pm, 6pm-7pm, 7.15pm-8.15pm
Tickets: INR 120 for Indians and INR 180 for foreigners. You can also buy a combo ticket of INR 170 (Indians) and INR 260 (foreigners) and visit the Lok Kala Museum that is open from 9 am-5.30 pm.
Lok Dharohar (Folk Dance Show) at Bagore Ki Haveli
Timings: 7pm-8pm
Tickets: INR 100
Adventure Activities Available In Udaipur
Rampol Heritage Track
Manshapurn Karni Mata Ropeway
Karni Mata Hiking Trail
Chirwa Ghata Zipline
Mewar Biodiversity Park, Amberi (Hiking, Zipline)
Hiking to Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
Hiking at Bahubali Hills
Frequently Asked Questions On Udaipur Travel
1. What are the things to do in Udaipur?
Here’s a list of things that you can do during your stay in Udaipur:
Take a tour of the City Palace.
Enjoy a meal of Dal Bati Churma.
Take a stroll in Saheliyon Ki Bari (garden).
Enjoy a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola.
Watch a Rajasthani Dance and Puppet show at Bagore ki Haveli (7pm-8pm).
Shop Bandhani dupattas, jootis, and handicrafts at Hathi Pol Bazaar.
2. What are the top hotels in Udaipur?
The top hotels in Udaipur include:
Taj Lake Palace
The Oberoi Udaivilas
Shiv Niwas Palace
The Leela Palace
Radisson Blu
Taj Fateh Prakash Palace
3. How much does a package cost for Udaipur?
For a budget 3-day tour, Udaipur can easily be covered within INR 30k (360 USD). However, if you are planning to stay in one of the luxury heritage hotels like Taj Lake Palace, your package cost would go beyond INR 1-2 Lakh (USD 1202- USD 2405).
4. What is the best way to reach Udaipur?
The easiest way to travel to Udaipur is by a direct flight to Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur. Udaipur also has 2 railway stations — Udaipur City and Rana Pratap Nagar Railway Station, and there many direct trains from Delhi, Ahmedabad, Patna, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Mysore.
5. What is the local food of Udaipur?
You will find many famous dishes like Dal Bati Churma, Ker Sangri, Kadhi, and various types of sweets like Diljani, Balushahi and others.
6. What is the best time to visit Udaipur?
The best time to travel to Udaipur is between September and March.
7. Who should visit Udaipur?
Udaipur is an enchanting tourist destination that attracts tourists of all age groups. From solo travelers, couples, to families touring with children, Udaipur is sure to leave you mesmerised with its abundant flora, royal palaces and amazing food.
8. What is not so good about Udaipur?
Udaipur, being one of the most versatile tourist destinations in India, offers an opportunity for both budget and luxury travel. It attracts a huge number of tourists throughout the year. Hence, you may find the main tourist places in Udaipur quite crowded.
9. What is famous about Udaipur?
Udaipur is renowned for the majestic City Palace, the enchanting Saheliyon Ki Bari garden and also for hosting one of India’s most luxurious hotels Taj Lake Palace located on an island in Lake Pichola.
10. Where should I stay in Udaipur?
Udaipur offers a wide variety of lodging options from 5-star luxurious heritage properties, and affordable heritage hotels to budget-friendly hotels. You can pre-book your hotels from any of the booking sites like Make My Trip and Booking.com. Or even directly book from the hotel’s website.
11. When is the cheapest time to visit Udaipur?
The off-season in Udaipur is from July to mid-October. The prices of flights and hotels are likely to go up a week before the Dussehra festival.
TWT Summary Of Udaipur
Growing up in a Bengali household, one of the most cherished memories of my childhood is of my mom sitting on the bed on a Sunday afternoon, reading out tales from the ‘Raj Kahini’- a classic historical novella written on the Rulers of Rajasthan by Abanindranath Thakur (the book has been translated in English by many authors in case you wish to give it a read). Thus, my Udaipur trip felt more like living a long-cherished dream.
The City of Lakes is steeped in history and every nook and corner of the city narrates the valorous sagas of Maharanas who bravely fought the Mughal forces to maintain the autonomy of Mewar. From visiting the royal City Palace, to taking leisurely strolls in the enchanting gardens of Saheliyo Ki Bari, it was easy to lose myself in a world of royalty that once existed.
So if you are planning your next trip to Udaipur, this comprehensive guide will help you find the most popular tourist attractions, finest heritage properties, most tantalizing cuisines and best shopping destinations for a travel experience that will remain etched in your memory for years to come.
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Traveling to the mountains has been an annual ritual for Sayantani and her family since her childhood. Her first international trip was in 2011 to the picturesque Yamaguchi prefecture of Japan, through a student exchange program conducted by the Govt. of Japan. A post-graduate in English Literature from the University of Calcutta, Sayantani also holds a diploma in Japanese from Rabindra Bharati University. Over her 7-year career span, she has written over 120 articles on beauty, lifestyle, travel and food for various online platforms. Read More
One thought on “Udaipur Travel Guide: Tourist Spots, Best Foods, Shopping & More!”
Excellent. Detailed informative article.