Best Places to Visit in Udaipur (India’s “City of Lakes”)

Want to Know About Venice of the East

Udaipur, a city that feels like a painting brought to life, is an enchanting destination that captures the heart of every traveler. Known as the “City of Lakes” and the “Venice of the East,” its unique blend of majestic history, royal grandeur, and tranquil waters creates an atmosphere unlike any other. This isn’t just a list of places; it’s a guide to experiencing the real Udaipur, from a traveler who has walked its winding streets and soaked in its sunsets.

Questions that arises in your mind and t answers that addressed here

Before we dive into the must-see spots, let’s talk about the common concerns of first-time visitors.

• “Is it too hot?” The best time to visit Udaipur is from October to March. The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing. If you visit during the monsoon (July-September), you’ll witness the city’s lush greenery come alive, but be prepared for occasional rain. Summers (April-June) are extremely hot and best avoided.
• “How do I get around?” The city center is compact and best explored on foot. For longer distances, auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) and taxis are readily available. Always agree on a price beforehand or use ride-hailing apps. Hiring a scooter is a popular option for those who want to explore at their own pace.
• “Will I get scammed?” This is a valid concern in any tourist-heavy city. Be firm but polite. When shopping, bargaining is expected, especially in local markets like Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar. A good rule of thumb is to start at about half the quoted price. For guides, use licensed ones and always keep some small cash handy for tips and small purchases.
• “What should I wear?” Udaipur is a traditional city. While there’s no strict dress code, it’s respectful to wear modest clothing, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Comfortable, breathable cotton clothes are a must, regardless of the season.

Places To Visit in Udaipur

The City Palace: A Grandeur of History

Standing majestically on the banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace is the crown jewel of Udaipur. It’s not just one palace, but a sprawling complex of courtyards, pavilions, and hanging gardens, showcasing an exquisite fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Don’t just rush through; take your time to explore the intricate mirror work in the Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) and the stunning stained-glass windows.

• Pro Tip: Take a guided tour to truly understand the history behind this magnificent structure. Plan your visit for late afternoon and stay for the captivating “Mewar Sound and Light Show” in the evening, which brings the city’s rich history to life.

Lake Pichola: The Soul of Udaipur

This man-made lake is the heart of the city’s charm. Surrounded by hills, temples, and palaces, a boat ride on Lake Pichola is an unforgettable experience. The tranquil waters reflect the grand architecture, especially at sunset when the sky turns a fiery orange and the lights of the palaces begin to twinkle.

• Pro Tip: Book a sunset boat ride. It’s a bit more expensive, but the view of the City Palace and the iconic Jag Mandir island palace glowing in the evening light is absolutely worth it.

Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh): Sunset Like Never Before

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the entire city, the Monsoon Palace offers the most spectacular panoramic views. This 19th-century palace was built as a monsoon retreat for the royal family and is now the ultimate spot for sunset chasers. The sight of the sun sinking behind the Aravalli hills, casting a golden glow over the lakes and city, is pure magic.

• Pro Tip: Get there an hour before sunset to grab a good spot and watch the colors change. You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the scenic drive up the hill.

Authentic Experiences

Dharohar Folk Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli

Don’t leave Udaipur without experiencing the vibrant culture of Rajasthan. Every evening, the Bagore Ki Haveli museum hosts a spectacular folk dance and puppet show called “Dharohar.” The energetic performances, traditional music, and colorful costumes will leave you mesmerized.

• Pro Tip: The show starts at 7 PM, but get in line by 6:30 PM to secure a good seat as it gets packed quickly.

Jagdish Temple: A Spiritual and Architectural Marvel

Located right in the heart of the city, this magnificent Indo-Aryan temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The intricate carvings on its pillars and walls are a sight to behold. It’s not just a tourist spot, but an active place of worship, offering a glimpse into local religious customs.

• Pro Tip: Take off your shoes before entering and be respectful of the worshipers.

Vintage Car Museum: A Peek into Royal Luxury

For a unique experience, visit the Vintage Car Museum, a small but impressive collection of classic cars once owned by the Maharajas of Mewar. Here you’ll find Rolls-Royces, Cadillacs, and other rare models, all in immaculate condition.

• Pro Tip: This is a great stop if you have some extra time, and it’s located near some excellent restaurants.

Dining & Delights: Where to Eat & Shop

• Rooftop Dining: Udaipur is famous for its stunning rooftop cafes and restaurants. Dining with a view of the illuminated City Palace and Lake Pichola is an experience you won’t forget. Look for places with “Lake View” in their name, like Upré or Ambrai.
  • Upré: Where Fine Dining Meets Fairytale Views
    • Upré is a top-tier restaurant that offers an enchanting dining experience with stunning vistas. Situated on a rooftop, its modern decor seamlessly blends with traditional Indian architectural elements, creating a unique and romantic ambiance. The restaurant provides a breathtaking view of Lake Pichola and the City Palace, making it a favorite for both locals and travelers. The menu features a delicious fusion of international and local favorites, with the  
    • Laal Maans and the Kebab platter being highly recommended. Upré is renowned for being an “Insta-worthy” location, so a camera is a must to capture the beautiful surroundings and the delectable food platters. Due to its popularity and spectacular views, it is essential to make a table reservation beforehand to avoid long waits, as the place fills up quickly.  
  • Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant: A Heritage Feast
    • Located in a heritage mansion on the banks of Lake Pichola, the Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant offers a serene and picturesque dining atmosphere. The property itself is considered highly photogenic, leveraging its traditional Mewar architecture and lake-facing location to create a captivating environment ideal for capturing stunning photos. Guests consistently praise the delicious food and the beautiful views from the dining area. This restaurant provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a heritage feast while soaking in the “unbeatable location by Lake Pichola” and the serene atmosphere.  
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on authentic Rajasthani food. Try the famous Dal Baati Churma or a traditional Rajasthani Thali. For a more local feel, explore the street food stalls near the clock tower.
• Shopping: Udaipur is an artist’s paradise. The city is known for its miniature paintings, traditional textiles, and handcrafted leather goods. Head to the local bazaars and be prepared to haggle! For shopping, Udaipur offers a variety of markets, each with its own character. Hathi Pol is known for its traditional paintings and handicrafts, while Bada Bazaar is a bustling destination for clothes, jewelry, and leather goods. Jagdish Chowk, located near the Jagdish Temple, offers a mix of traditional and modern items, from antique jewelry to hand-carved wooden items. A word of advice for shoppers: bargaining is a must at many of the stalls.

When to Visit & Why

The best time to visit Udaipur is from October through March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with clear blue skies and mild temperatures that are perfect for exploring palaces, walking around gardens, and enjoying boat rides without the discomfort of the heat. It is important to note that this is the peak tourist season, so crowds are larger.

The monsoon season, from July to September, is also an appealing option for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and a lush, green landscape. The occasional rainfall adds a romantic charm, and the lakes are at their fullest. The summer months, from April to June, are the least recommended for travel due to scorching heat, but this is the period when budget-friendly deals on accommodations and flights are most abundant.  

Unique Experiences & Important Considerations

For a truly immersive experience, visitors can attend the Dharohar Folk Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli. This lively cultural event, which runs daily from 7 PM to 8 PM, features various dance styles, puppet shows, and traditional music. It is highly recommended to get in the queue promptly at 6:15 PM to secure a ticket and a good seat, as the show packs out every night.

Another unique activity is a visit to Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts complex on the outskirts of the city that showcases the traditional art forms of rural Rajasthan, such as pottery, weaving, and tie-and-dye. Shilpgram is open from 11 AM to 7 PM, with a nominal entry fee of ₹30 for Indian adults and ₹50 for foreigners.  

It is prudent for travelers to be aware of safety considerations. While Udaipur is generally considered one of the safer and more welcoming cities in India, with a relatively low rate of petty crimes , a cautious approach is always advised. Public transportation like buses and auto-rickshaws are generally safe, but travelers should remain vigilant, especially at night.

The U.S. government advises increased caution while traveling in India, specifically recommending that women do not travel alone. This perspective stands in contrast to travel-specific sources that rate Udaipur as a safe destination for solo female travelers, as long as common sense precautions are followed, such as dressing modestly, avoiding isolated areas, and refraining from carrying too much cash. It is wise to consider these varying viewpoints and adopt a pragmatic approach to personal safety.  

My Personal Visit Experience: Two Days of Royal Charm

Follow our personal two-day trip to Udaipur, a city of stunning palaces, serene lakes, and spiritual moments. From the photogenic Royal Courtyard hotel to a breathtaking sunset at Jag Mandir, here’s our candid guide to the best of the City of Lakes.

From Jaipur to the City of Lakes

Udaipur was the final, and most enchanting, chapter of our Rajasthan trip. After experiencing the vibrant energy of Jaipur and the spiritual devotion of Khatu Shyam, we were ready for the tranquil beauty that awaited us. This isn’t just a list of places; it’s our personal, two-day guide to the city, filled with the moments that made it special.

Watch our entire Rajasthan journey and see these beautiful places for yourself: [Your YouTube Channel Link Here]

Our 2-Day Udaipur Itinerary

Day 1: Palaces, a Peaceful Stay, and the Perfect Sunset

We arrived in Udaipur early and were immediately struck by the calm atmosphere. We took a taxi to our hotel, The Royal Courtyard – Luxury Suites, a peaceful gem located near Sajjangarh Fort. The setting was exactly what we needed: quiet, with stunning hill views that were incredibly photogenic. The calm was perfect for relaxing after a long journey.

After a little rest and a delicious breakfast at the hotel, our first destination was the magnificent City Palace. You can’t visit Udaipur and miss this. The palace is a colossal complex of courtyards, museums, and royal gardens. The main museum ticket was ₹400 per person, and we didn’t regret it for a second. The history inside is so rich, and the architecture is beyond grand. We spent a good 3-4 hours exploring the mirror work and stained-glass windows, finding the same iconic photo spots we had seen all over social media.

Following our palace tour, we grabbed a quick lunch on-site before heading for a boat ride on Lake Pichola. The boat ride cost us ₹800, and it was the best money we spent. The ride itself was peaceful, offering incredible views of the city. We went to Jag Mandir Palace and were lucky enough to be there for sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, with the golden light reflecting off the water and the palace, was a truly unforgettable moment.

The day was tiring but filled with so many memorable moments. For dinner, we skipped a fancy restaurant and went to a local dhaba near our hotel, eager to try some authentic food. It was a simple, delicious way to end a happening day.

Day 2: Spirituality, a Famous View, and a Folk Dance Surprise

We began our second day with a visit to Jagdish Temple. As soon as we entered, we were surrounded by a deep sense of devotion. The local kirtan, with the sound of dhol and devotional singing, made us feel like we were a part of the spiritual energy of the city. We took a moment to simply lose ourselves in the bhakti (devotion).

Next, we headed to Upré, a famous rooftop restaurant known for its stunning lake views. We went for lunch and took countless amazing photos. The view of the city from there is truly special, making it one of the most Instagram-friendly spots in Udaipur. You can see the visual proof right here. Honestly, the food was just average for us, but the ambiance and the photos made the visit entirely worth it.

In the evening, we were excited to see a local folk dance and puppet show. We tried to go to the famous Bagore Ki Haveli, but unfortunately, the show was not playing that day. It was a slight letdown, but we were determined to see a show. We found another well-known venue, Kumbh Kala Krati, and were so glad we did. The vibrant folk dances and lively puppet show were incredible and gave us a real taste of Rajasthani culture.

Our two days in Udaipur were a mix of planned sights and unexpected moments. It was the perfect ending to our epic trip through Rajasthan. From the beautiful Pink City and the spiritual calm of Khatu Shyam to the royal charm of Udaipur, this journey was truly one for the books.

Final Words

If you’re planning a short visit, this two-day itinerary is a great starting point. We saw the best of the city without feeling rushed. We hope our experience helps you plan your own perfect trip.

Happy travels!

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