About Udaipur Travel Guide
Destination Overview – Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, also known as the "City of Lakes", is one of the most romantic and royal destinations in India. Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills in southern Rajasthan, Udaipur is famous for its palaces, serene lakes, timeless architecture, and rich Rajput heritage.
This city is a favorite for honeymooners, heritage lovers, photographers, and luxury travelers.
Top Attractions & Places to Visit
City Palace – Grand complex with courtyards, museum, and views of Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola – Scenic boat rides to Jag Mandir and Lake Palace
Jagdish Temple – 17th-century Indo-Aryan temple near City Palace
Saheliyon ki Bari – Garden of royal ladies with fountains and lotus pools
Fateh Sagar Lake – Boating and views of Nehru Garden Island
Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace – Hilltop palace with panoramic sunset views
Bagore ki Haveli – Folk museum and cultural dance performances
Shilpgram – Rural arts and crafts village showcasing Rajasthan's traditions
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities
April to June – Hot summers; perfect for early morning lake visits
July to September – Monsoon turns the city lush and photogenic
How to Reach
By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport (22 km from city) – well connected to major Indian cities
By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station – direct trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad
By Road: Smooth connectivity with NH-8 and luxury buses from Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Mount Abu
Accessibility for Differently-Abled Travelers
City Palace and some public areas have ramps, wheelchairs, and guides available, though older heritage spots may have limited accessibility. Choose hotels with accessible rooms and lifts.
Things to Do & Experiences
Enjoy a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola
Witness folk performances at Bagore Ki Haveli
Explore the old city lanes for handicrafts and silver jewelry
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with lake views
Visit local art galleries for miniature paintings
Attend the Mewar Light & Sound Show at City Palace in the evening
Accommodation Options
Luxury:
Taj Lake Palace
The Oberoi Udaivilas
RAAS Devigarh
Leela Palace Udaipur
Mid-Range:
Jagat Niwas Palace
Trident Udaipur
Hotel Lakend
Budget:
Zostel Udaipur
Banjara Hostel
Hotel Boheda Palace
Local Cuisine & Dining
Must Try:
Top Restaurants:
Travel Tips & Safety
Bargain at local markets, but respectfully
Wear light cotton clothes in summer, and layers in winter evenings
Keep cash for smaller vendors, though UPI is widely used
Most lakes are clean but avoid swimming
Book palace and boat tickets in advance during tourist season
Weather & Packing Suggestions
Summer (Apr–Jun): Light cottons, hat, water bottle
Winter (Oct–Feb): Sweater or shawl for mornings and evenings
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Umbrella, sandals with grip
Currency & Connectivity
ATMs and forex counters available across the city
UPI & card payments accepted in most tourist areas
Strong 4G coverage with all major mobile networks
Suggested Itinerary
3N/4D Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival → City Palace → Jagdish Temple → Lake Pichola Sunset Boat Ride
Day 2: Fateh Sagar → Saheliyon Ki Bari → Shilpgram → Bagore Ki Haveli Show
Day 3: Sajjangarh Palace → Shopping in Hathipole → Rooftop Dinner
Day 4: Local village tour or Museum visit → Departure
Shopping & Souvenirs
Miniature paintings (Pichwai & Rajputana style)
Silver jewelry and oxidized metalwork
Bandhani & leheriya sarees
Handicrafts, wooden puppets, mojris (Rajasthani footwear)
Kumbhalgarh pottery
Best Markets:
Hathipole Bazaar
Bada Bazaar
Shilpgram Craft Market
Jagdish Chowk Market
Cultural & Historical Background
Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur became the capital of Mewar Kingdom after Chittorgarh. It flourished as a center of Rajput culture, valor, and architecture.
The city is often called the "Venice of the East" and remains a top wedding and film shooting destination.
Local Transport Options
Auto-rickshaws and tuk-tuks for short rides
Taxis and cab apps (Ola/Uber) available
Bicycle rentals and walking tours in old town
Boat taxis and lake ferries for island visits
Nearest Railway Station
Udaipur City (UDZ) – centrally located and connected with Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Ahmedabad
Pre-paid autos and cabs are easily available outside the station
FAQs About Udaipur Tour
How many days are enough for Udaipur?
3 to 4 days are ideal to explore lakes, palaces, and markets at a relaxed pace.
Is Udaipur suitable for honeymoon couples?
Absolutely! It’s one of India’s most romantic destinations.
Are lake boat rides safe for kids and elderly?
Yes. Boats have life jackets and are family-friendly.
Can I visit Udaipur in summer?
Yes, but keep sightseeing limited to mornings and evenings due to heat.
Sustainability & Responsible Tourism
Avoid feeding fish or littering near lakes
Support local artisans and heritage homestays
Choose eco-friendly transport and reusable water bottles
Respect local dress codes, especially near temples
Be cautious with wildlife in Sajjangarh area (monkeys, peacocks)