Udaipur
One of the most popular cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is quite famous for its lakes and palaces. Known as ‘Jewel of Mewar’, this city was founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1553, on the banks of Lake Pichola. Claimed as the most romantic city of the royal state of Rajasthan, Udaipur boasts of picturesque locations and scenic surroundings offering an amazing vacation option for discerning travellers. Today, it is a perfect mix of old-world charm and contemporary attractions.
The City of Lakes
Tours to Udaipur & Beyond
Things To Do
City exploration
As the hub of Udaipur The City Palace stands majestically on the hill guarded by crenellated fort walls. A riot of arches, domes, turrets, crenellations and chattris crown the steep fortress. In contrast to its rugged exterior, the inside presents a delicate and feminine world of beauty with lavish use of marble, mirror work, frescoes, wall paintings, a profusion of coloured glass, fluted columns, inlay work, silver doors, fountains and gardens. A series of courtyards, jharokhas, chattris, terraces, corridors, stairways, over planning pavilions and hanging gardens form an astonishing and harmonious whole.
Udaipur Lake Palace is one of the most romantic places of Rajasthan. The Palace situated amidst the scenic Pichola Lake offers a heavenly view to the onlooker. The imposing Aravalli Hills on one side and soaring palaces on the other, make the perfect background to this beautiful Lake Palace.
Bagore ki Haveli, another architectural beauty, was erected by the Prime Minister of Mewar, during the 18th century. Placed on the Gangaur Ghat of the Lake Pichola, this mansion was converted into a museum after restoration work of 5 years. With its beautiful terraces and courtyards, over 100 rooms, fine mirror work and striking frescoes, a visit to this Haveli is a real delight. The museum houses traditional Rajasthani art and crafts, royal paintings and personal items and costumes of Maharajas. There is also a puppet gallery and an impressive turban collection along with the biggest turban of the world.
Located in the middle of Lake Pichola on an island, Jag Mandir Palace is another fine example of Udaipur’s much-celebrated architecture. From the ornate façade and elephant statues at the island jetty to the Gul Mahal (which was the residence of a Mughal prince), the palace complex is a sheer celebration of architectural splendor. The palace has also been featured in Octopussy, the 1983 James Bond movie.
Udaipur has many vantage points but the panoramic sights enjoyed from the middle of a lake have a unique charm of their own. An evening boat ride over the gentle currents of the lake Pichola, as the ghats, temples, and havelis on the banks sparkle in twilight, counts among the best things to do in Udaipur. Don’t forget to capture amazing shots of the islands on the lake and the beautiful palaces and other edifices located within these islands.
After a heavy dose of royal splendour, celebrate the mechanics and aesthetic details of classic cars at the Vintage and Classic Car Museum. If you are an automobile enthusiast, you must include this in your list of things to do in Udaipur. Some of the precious cars on display at the museum include Rolls Royce models, an old Vauxhall, and a couple of Cadillac cars. The original Shell petrol pump on display adds an extra dollop of charm to the museum, which is one of the offbeat places to visit in Udaipur.
What is Udaipur trip without a shopping session at a local bazaar? Head over to Hathi Pol, a popular shopping place in Udaipur that remains unchanged for centuries in many ways. Haggle at the stalls and get amazing bargains on curios, crafts, textiles, and more. The Pichwai and Phad paintings and the Rajasthani miniature paintings sold here are a treasure to take home.
Also known as Sajjangarh Palace, the Monsoon Palace counts among the must-visit places in Udaipur. Perched on a hill above the Fateh Sagar Lake, this white marble structure offers you stunning views of the lake and the city. Built in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh, the palace boasts of some of the archetypal elements of Rajput architecture such as hug entrance gates, turrets, latticework, roofed verandahs, and painted and carved motifs on the walls. You will also enjoy the drive as you head out of the city and into the cooler climes of the hills.
At Shilpgram, a heritage arts and crafts complex spread across 70 acres, you will get to see the traditions and lifestyles of the local tribes represented in an authentic and detailed manner. While here, you can explore the vernacular architecture and watch artisans at work. A day spent here is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Udaipur with friends. If you are visiting the place in December, make it a point to attend the annual Shilpgram Festival.
The sound of the waves, the view of the beautiful lake and Aravalli Hills at the rooftop restaurant are just splendid here. Add to that the extensive dishes of the Rajasthani cuisine – spicy, delicious and authentic. Jagat Niwas creates a dining experience like no other. It is often flocked by food lovers looking to try the state’s famous dishes.
The Sheesh Mahal is the another perfect spot to have a date. The open-air dining and the lake view make for a perfect romantic set-up. The mirrors in the palace just increase the aesthetic appeal of the experience. This is how the royalty ate and now you get to do it with your own King or Queen. So if you are wondering where you should have your next dinner date, make a trip to Udaipur for a royal and authentic meal under the night sky and cool breeze.
Ranakpur Jain temple
Ranakpur Temples are acclaimed world-wide for their intricate and superb architectural style. These temples form one of the five major pilgrimages of the Jains. Located in village of Ranakpur, the temple lies at a distance of 95 kms to the north of Udaipur city.
The Jain Temples of Ranakpur are certainly creditable for their splendid architecture. This temple is wholly constructed in light colored marble and comprises a basement covering an area of 48000 sq feet. There are more than 1400 exquisitely carved pillars that support the temple. You would be amazed to see at a height of 45 feet engraved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures. Each column is intricately carved and it is surprising to know that no two columns have the similar design.
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort is the second most important fort of Rajasthan after Chittorgarh. Located at a distance of 64 kms from Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh Fort is easily accessible from the city of Udaipur. This unconquerable fortress is secured under the kind protection of the Aravali ranges. Kumbhalgarh Fort was built by Maharana Rana Kumbha in the 15th century.
Encircled by thirteen elevated mountain peaks, the fort is constructed on the top most ridges around 1,914 meters above sea level. The fortifications of the fort extend to the length of 36 kilometers and this fact has made this fort to be in the international records. It is stated to be the second longest wall in the world, the first being ”the Great Wall of China”. The huge complex of the fort has numerous palaces, temples and gardens making it more magnificent. The hefty walls of the fort are broad enough to stand eight horses side by side. There are not less than 360 temples inside the complex of the Fort. Amongst all of them, Shiva Temple is worth visiting that comprises a huge Shivalinga (Phallic form).
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Udaipur, often referred to as the “City of Lakes,” is generally during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant with sunny days and cool nights, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions comfortably. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) during these months.
Visiting Udaipur during the winter allows you to enjoy outdoor activities like boat rides on Lake Pichola, exploring the majestic City Palace, wandering through the vibrant markets, and witnessing cultural events and festivals without the discomfort of heat.
However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of late monsoon (September) or early summer (April to June). Just be prepared for warmer temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 38°C (77°F to 100°F), especially in April and May, which are the hottest months.
Traveling to Udaipur during the monsoon season can be a unique and enchanting experience, despite the challenges posed by heavy rainfall. The monsoon season transforms Udaipur and its surroundings into a lush green paradise. The lakes, gardens, and hills come alive with vibrant foliage, offering picturesque views and excellent opportunities for nature lovers and photographers. Monsoon is considered the off-season for tourism in Udaipur, so you can expect fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. This can be advantageous if you prefer a more peaceful and laid-back travel experience.
