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:

• Dal Baati Churma

• Laal Maas (spicy mutton curry)

• Gatte ki Sabzi

• Kachori & Mirchi Vada

• Mawa Kachori (local sweet)

Top Restaurants:

• Ambrai Restaurant

• Upre by 1559 AD

• Raas Leela

• Millets of Mewar (organic/vegan)

• Natraj Dining Hall (thali meals)

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)