Udaipur, India paints a picturesque scene with its numerous lakes nestled among the Aravalli hills, including Fateh Sagar Lake and Lake Pichola. It has earned the nickname “Venice of India.” Every year, tourists from all over the world flock to this city to immerse themselves in its captivating beauty and rich culture. The City Palace, luxurious hotels like Taj Lake Palace, Oberoi Udaivilas, Jag Mandir Palace, and other renowned attractions are all situated on or near Lake Pichola. A great weekend getaway destination from New Delhi.
Helpful Information
Getting to Udaipur
By Air
This was my first trip to Udaipur from Kolkata by Air India. I just landed at Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur and found it a tiny airport but well-managed. Many domestic airlines connect the city to all the major cities of India, including Jaipur, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. Daily air services are available for Delhi and Mumbai.
After we arrived and got our bag, we found currency exchange booths inside. Also, when we went out to the arrival hall saw a few ATMs. Getting a ride from the airport to the city was easy. From Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR), located near Dabok, to our hotel was about 28 Miles (45 km), and pre-paid AC Taxi cost us 800 rupees (US$ 12.00). So we paid up-front and got a taxi voucher from the booth outside the terminal, and the agent directed us to our designated driver. It took us about an hour to get to our hotel.
By Train
Udaipur Railway Station is located not so far from the city center and is well connected with all the other cities of Rajasthan and India. From Udaipur, frequent trains run between Udaipur, connecting Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi. We booked a taxi ride from the hotel desk to the railway station cost 400 rupees (US$ 6.00) for a 5 miles (8 km) ride.
By Road
Udaipur is well connected by road to major cities in India. Therefore, enjoying exciting road trips to and from Udaipur is excellent. For example, I took a road trip by private taxi from Udaipur to Jodhpur and had a great experience of a lifetime. There are also bus services (regular/deluxe) connecting Udaipur with nearby cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Chittorgarh, Indore, Kota, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, and Mt. Abu.
Getting Around
Moving around the city is not a problem as there is a variety of transportation to choose from. Of course, you won’t find yellow taxis but what you will find are average to luxurious private taxis/cabs. I have hired both tuk-tuk and private taxis on a 12 hours basis for sightseeing or day trips and found it very safe, convenient, and cost-effective.
One of the friendliest and most tourist-friendly drivers was Mr. Tara’s Tel: +91 9772889556. I would definitely recommend him for your Udaipur trip and especially for those who are travel photographers.
Mr. Tara in the white dress, one of the friendlies guides I have ever met in Udaipur
The locals usually depend on Tongas and Auto-rickshaws (Three-wheelers/tuk-tuk) to move around the city. Auto Rickshaws are readily available throughout the city. It would be best if you bargained with the auto-rickshaw driver and set the fair in advance. Unmetered taxis are also available in the city, but the same obstacle of bargaining was difficult for a first-timer like me.
Udaipur is a small city not crowded with vehicles, so that one can get around the city on a bicycle. Moreover, you can hire bicycles that are available all over the city.
If you are interested in hiring a Tuk Tuk for sightseeing, then Mr. Imran is your best bet. He is friendly, knows all the tourist spots in town, and speaks English. So it should not cost you more than 1500 rupees/day. His Cell number is +91 9829479030, email: is imran4201@yahoo.com. He will try his best to convince you for a few shopping runs. If you are not interested, just tell him not to waste your time.
Guided Tour – A few tour companies offer guided sightseeing tours in Udaipur.
Best Time to Visit
It’s a tricky question to answer as many circumstances must be considered. Furthermore, Udaipur is a year-round destination, so you will have a different enjoyable experience depending on the time of the year.
Since Udaipur is part of the State of Rajasthan’s desert land, be ready to experience harsh summers when temperatures rise to 114º F (45º C). However, nights are still cooler than days due to the desert effect.
In my opinion, the best time to visit Udaipur is between September and March. First, however, depending on what you want to do in Udaipur:
November to February – These months constitute the winter season in Udaipur. The maximum temperature during this time does not go beyond 86º F (30º C), and the minimum hovers around 53º F (12º C). The slight breeze in the air offers tourists a perfect climate for sightseeing.
March to June – These months constitute the summer season in Udaipur, and summers are pretty extreme. However, while days are hot, with the maximum temperature between 104º – 113º F (40º – 45º C), evenings are relatively pleasant.
July to October – These months constitute the monsoon season in Udaipur. Even though rainfall is significantly less, the surrounding mountains turn lush green and scenic. During this off-season budget, travelers can enjoy good hotel and travel deals.
Useful Information
How Many Days is Enough to Visit
It is well worth planning a few extra days in the Udaipur as there are so many attractions to see, which will surely make it challenging to narrow down your list. Moreover, on your way from one point to another, the landscape is so fascinating that it will be difficult for you not to make frequent unplanned stops resulting in going way over your scheduled plan.
Of course, the place of interest is subject to individual opinion, but regardless of the interest, it is good to allocate at least two to three days in Udaipur and its surroundings. Four to Five days at least to see, relax, and enjoy the food that it offers without rushing. No matter how many days you plan, at the end of your trip, you will think that you must go back again.
Useful Tips
Travel Insurance – Bad things can happen anytime, especially when you are doing activities you are not used to. I have practical experience in this. Travel insurance will protect you and your family from surprises. Don’t think about all the things that might go wrong on your trip, but these things can and do happen.
Search Flights, Hotels, & Cars
Places To See In And Around Udaipur
The city of Udaipur offers numerous monuments and palaces waiting to be explored. You must visit the City Palace, Jag Mandir Palace, and Bagore-Ki Haveli, as they are among the most renowned attractions in Udaipur. Make sure not to overlook the captivating Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake. Take a boat ride to witness the sunset, admire the splendid view of Lake Palace hotel, and appreciate its architectural brilliance.
Visit Lake Pichola
Pichola Lake, with dimensions of 3 miles long and 2 miles wide and a depth of 30 feet, stands as one of Rajasthan’s most exquisite and picturesque lakes. Situated in the heart of the city, it ranks among the largest lakes in Udaipur. Pichola Lake was skillfully constructed in 1362 by Pichhu Banjara during Maharana Lakha’s reign. Its scenic surroundings, set against the backdrop of lush green hills, offer a breathtaking sight. The lake is encircled by majestic palaces like the City Palace, temples, bathing ghats, and elevated hills on all sides. The captivating beauty of Pichola Lake makes it an absolute must-visit during your trip to Udaipur.
Fateh Sagar Lake
It is an artificial lake named after Maharana Fateh Singh of Udaipur and Mewar, constructed northwest of Udaipur to the north of Lake Pichola in the 1680s. Fateh Sagar Lake is the second artificial lake of Udaipur, the first being Jaisamand lake. Located north of Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake lies just beside the entrance to Moti Magri Hill. It’s about 2.4 km long and 1.6 km wide and deep to the extent of 11.5 meters. It is beautiful during the sunset, making it the most attractive place in Udaipur.
The Monsoon Palace
During our short trip to Udaipur, we did not know how to rush through all the spots to mark them as seen. Our guide, Mr. Imran, suggested we visit The Monsoon Palace, also known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, on top of a hill. You can’t miss it because it was visible from all the parts of Udaipur.
It is said that originally this Palace was built to get a glimpse of Maharana Sajjan Singh’s hometown Chittorgarh. Also, the panoramic view of Udaipur was outstanding from the palace. It’s only 5 km from Udaipur at an elevation of 2268 ft. I definitely recommend visiting this 19th. Century built palace if you are in Udaipur and looking for something interesting.
City Palace Udaipur
Nestled along the serene banks of Lake Pichola, the Udaipur City Palace mesmerizes visitors as a true architectural marvel of Rajasthan. Drawing in countless tourists, it proudly holds the distinction of being the largest palace complex in the region. Initially crafted by Maharana Udai Singh, this awe-inspiring structure underwent subsequent expansions and embellishments under the reign of his successors. The Palace harmoniously blends a captivating fusion of towers, arches, and domes, showcasing various sections of the illustrious City Palace. Today, the primary section of the palace serves as an esteemed museum, exhibiting a treasure trove of historical artifacts. Undoubtedly, a visit to this extraordinary place is an absolute must for any traveler seeking to be enthralled by Rajasthan’s rich heritage.
Jagdish Temple
If you are visiting The City Palace, you can’t miss it, as Jagdish temple is in the same complex. This Temple is one of the most famous temples of Udaipur and one of the most visited in the region. If you are staying in an old town like the Lal Ghat area, you are only a few minutes away. Jagdish temple was built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh, who ruled the Udaipur from 1628 – 1653.
The Lake Palace
The Lake Palace, originally known as Jag Niwas Palace and now a hotel called Taj Lake Palace, served as a summer palace. Constructed between 1743 and 1746 on an island near Jagmandir Palace in Lake Pichola, it has gained a reputation as one of the most luxurious hotels in India. In fact, it frequently ranks among the top 10 hotels in the world. Notably, you might have spotted this magnificent hotel in the James Bond movie ‘Octopussy.’ Despite my desire to experience a night’s stay there, the cost proved to be beyond my budget. Nevertheless, according to friends, the experience is deemed worthy of every penny spent.
Jag Mandir
A visit to Udaipur is incomplete without taking a boat ride to the Jag Mandir Palace, built on an island in Lake Pichola. This hour-long journey gives you splendid views of the City Palace complex, the picturesque ghats, Sajjangarh, and Bagore ki Haveli. Built-in marble and yellow sandstone, the towering structure displays marvelous architecture.
Construction of Jag Mandir Palace commenced in 1551 and reached completion around 1652. Moreover, the royal family actively utilized the palace as a summer retreat and for hosting parties. Interestingly, during his rebellion against his father, Emperor Jahangir, Prince Khurram, who would later become Emperor Shah Jahan, sought refuge within its walls.
Moti Magri
Mewar dynasty has seen a number of great Rajput heroes, the most well-known of which is Maharana Pratap, the warrior who brought immense glory to Mewar. Udaipur pays tribute to the brave king through the Maharana Pratap memorial atop Moti Magri or pearl hill, situated by the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. The memorial shows Maharana Pratap atop his loyal horse Chetak, and even with the many great architectural marvels of Udaipur, Moti Magri manages to stand out.
Bagore-Ki-Haveli in old town Udaipur
Bagore-ki-Haveli is an 18th-century haveli located right on the waterfront of Lake Pichola at Gangori Ghat. The Haveli has 138 rooms and numerous corridors, balconies, courtyards, and terraces. The most interesting is to visit the haveli in the evening to watch the colorful Rajasthani folk dance and music. Dharohar Dance is between 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Cost: Bagore-ki-Haveli Rs 30; Dharohar Dance Rs 100, camera Rs 50. Address: Gangaur Ghat, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
Where to stay in Udaipur, India
Chunda Palace, Udaipur
The spectacular Chunda Palace offers breathtaking views of the City Palace and the beautiful Lake Pichola. The heritage-style hotel was designed to portray the elegance and charm of the Mewar dynasty. The hotel features two pools, various activities, and luxurious rooms with hot tubs. It is ideally located about 3.7 miles from the railway station and 17 miles from the airport. Enjoy a memorable dining experience at Terrace Restaurant, which features excellent views of the Palace of the King of Mewar and Lake Pichola. During the high season, you need to make bookings months ahead of your trip; otherwise, you risk getting a sold-out situation.
Jaiwana Haveli, Udaipur
A 5-minute walk from Udaipur’s famous City Palace and Jagdish Temple, Jaiwana Haveli was once the private residence of the Thakur of Jaiwana. This heritage property also houses a shopping arcade and a rooftop restaurant with Indian and European dishes. In addition, the property offers a view of Lake Pichola and the surrounding Aravali hill range from its terrace. Jaiwana Haveli Udaipur is a 25-minute drive away from Udaipur Airport. Guests can request an Ayurvedic massage or choose from a wide range of activities to enjoy, from cooking and painting classes to sightseeing tours.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Udaipur, India? Any cool tips to share?
loved being in Udaipur, India, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit India.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
Was this travel guide helpful for you?
If you’d like to help me continue making free guides, here is one way you can help:
- Share This Guide – If you have a friend that would benefit from this guide, share it with them. Or post this guide on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Your Support would definitely help me make more free guides like this. Thank you in advance!
Affiliate Link – This post in Dizzy Traveler contains affiliate links, which means I receive a referral commission if you purchase after clicking at no additional cost to you. These funds go to maintain the site. Thank you for your support.
Book your Sightseeing Trip
There are a lot of beautiful places to visit and do some exciting sightseeing activities to bring unforgettable memories back home. Please click on our below affiliate link to see your options.
Fine way of explaining, and pleasant paragraph to take facts concerning my presentation subject matter, which i am going to
present in university.
Thank you so much for visiting my blog and glad that you liked it. I really appreciate your comments!