Udaipur is the crown jewel of Rajasthan, celebrated as the 'City of Lakes' for its stunning artificial water bodies and magnificent palaces. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March to enjoy the regal architecture and boat rides comfortably.
Top Things to Do in Udaipur
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Getting Around Udaipur
From the Airport
Prepaid Taxi. The most reliable way to reach the city from Maharana Pratap Airport is via the prepaid taxi counters located inside the arrival hall; the 45-minute trip costs roughly 800-1200 INR. Hotel Transfer. Most mid-to-high-end hotels in Udaipur offer organized airport pickups, which are often the most convenient and stress-free option for first-time visitors.
Once You're There
Auto-Rickshaw. Auto-rickshaws are the primary way to navigate the city and are widely available; always agree on a price before starting your journey. Walking. The old city area is very compact and best explored on foot, though the streets can be narrow and crowded with bikes. Rideshare. The Uber app is available in Udaipur and provides a transparent pricing alternative to traditional rickshaws for longer trips.
Where to Stay in Udaipur
Hotel picks for Udaipur are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Udaipur
Millets of Mewar★ 4.6 (4,977)Badhu Ji ka Darwaja, 51, City Palace Rd, Near Jagdish Temple, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, IndiaA health-conscious gem serving innovative dishes made from traditional, locally sourced grains.
Sun N Moon Cafe★ 4.5 (5,397)84, Level, 5, Gangaur Ghat Marg, above Hotel Udai Niwas, Near Jagdish Temple, Silawatwari, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004, IndiaA cozy rooftop spot in the heart of the old city, popular for its relaxed vibe and affordable snacks.
Savage Garden★ 4.4 (802)71, Gangaur Ghat Marg, above Cafe Edelweiss, Old City, Silawatwari, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004, IndiaHoused in a charming heritage building, this spot is celebrated for its unique fusion pasta and artistic decor.
Natraj★ 4.2 (19,515)22-24, City station road, Railway Station Rd, Jawahar Nagar, Shivaji Nagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, IndiaThe go-to spot for an authentic, unlimited Rajasthani thali that captures the true essence of local spice profiles.
Traditional Khana★ 4.2 (3,877)48D, Panchwati Circle, adjoining R KAY Mall, Panchwati, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, IndiaKnown for its home-style cooking and welcoming atmosphere that feels like a family kitchen.
Raas Leela★ 4.2 (1,424)Sony Ji ki Bari, adjoining The Leela, Outside Chandpole, Ambamata, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004, IndiaA romantic dining destination where tables are set amidst greenery with a beautiful view of the lake.
Khamma Ghani Restaurant★ 4.1 (20,100)53, Rang Sagar, Near, Hotel Natural Marg, Ambamata, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004, IndiaProvides a tranquil, upscale environment right by the water, ideal for a quiet evening meal.
Jheel's Ginger Coffee Bar & Bakery★ 4.1 (6,933)Hotel Jheel 52 56, Gangaur Ghat Marg, Old City, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004, IndiaA serene lakeside cafe perfect for enjoying a strong coffee while watching boats drift across the water.
Ambrai Restaurant★ 4.0 (4,220)62, Ambrai Rd, Chand Pole, Silawatwari, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, IndiaFamous for its unparalleled, direct views of the City Palace and Lake Pichola illuminated at night.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Udaipur
Palaces and Old City Charm
Morning. Start your journey at the grand City Palace, a massive complex overlooking Lake Pichola that offers a deep dive into Mewar history. Spend at least three hours wandering through the ornate courtyards, mirror-work chambers, and royal galleries. Exit the palace and walk just a few minutes to the nearby Jagdish Temple, a towering Indo-Aryan structure known for its intricate stone carvings. It is best to arrive here early to avoid the mid-day heat and large tour groups. Before leaving the area, take a moment to observe the daily rituals performed by the local priests at the temple entrance.
Afternoon. After a morning of history, head toward the waterfront to visit Bagore Ki Haveli, a historic mansion turned museum that showcases traditional Rajasthani costumes and art. The museum is compact but packed with fascinating artifacts from the royal era. Afterward, wander through the narrow, winding lanes of the old city, where you will find local artisans selling silver jewelry and textiles. Stop for a refreshing drink at a small cafe tucked away in these alleyways to experience the authentic pace of local life. Make your way toward the lakefront to prepare for a spectacular sunset view.
Evening. Conclude your first day by walking to Ambrai Ghat, arguably the best vantage point in the entire city for photography. As the sun sets, the lights of the City Palace reflect beautifully on the water, creating an unforgettable scene. Spend your evening here simply soaking in the atmosphere as the city transitions into night. It is a popular spot for locals and travelers alike, so finding a comfortable place to sit on the stone steps is key. Finally, walk to a nearby rooftop restaurant to enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner while looking back at the illuminated palace.
Lakeside Serenity and Gardens
Morning. Begin your second day at the lush Saheliyon-ki-Bari, a historic garden built for the royal ladies, featuring beautiful fountains and marble pavilions. Spend an hour walking through the manicured lawns and enjoying the quiet shade of the ancient trees. From there, take a short rickshaw ride to the expansive Fateh Sagar Lake. You can walk along the promenade or simply sit by the water to watch the local life unfold. The morning air here is crisp and perfect for a relaxing stroll away from the dense city center.
Afternoon. Head toward the Moti Magri hill, which offers a panoramic view of the lake and houses the memorial of Maharana Pratap. The climb is gentle and provides a great perspective of the city's geographical layout. After exploring the memorial, take a taxi toward the Shilpgram crafts village located on the outskirts. This living museum displays the traditional architecture and crafts of various rural tribes in Rajasthan. It is a fantastic place to see artisans at work and perhaps purchase authentic, handmade souvenirs directly from the creators.
Evening. For your final stop of the day, travel up to the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, perched high on a hill overlooking the entire region. Arriving about an hour before sunset allows you to witness the landscape turn into a golden hue as the sun dips below the horizon. The palace itself is a shell of its former glory, but the view is truly unparalleled. After descending from the hill, head back toward the lake area to enjoy a quiet, late dinner at a garden-style restaurant. This area is much calmer than the city center, offering a peaceful end to your day.
Island Temples and Cultural Exploration
Morning. Start your final day by heading to the main jetty at Lake Pichola to board a boat for a tour of the lake. The boat ride takes you past the iconic Lake Palace and allows for a unique perspective of the city's architecture from the water. Your primary destination is Jag Mandir, an island palace built of red sandstone and marble. Spend time exploring the gardens and the museum inside the island complex, which feels like a floating sanctuary. It is a relaxing way to spend the morning, surrounded by water and cool breezes.
Afternoon. Return to the main city and spend your afternoon exploring the local markets, such as Bada Bazaar and Hathi Pol. These markets are the best places to hunt for authentic Rajasthani paintings, colorful puppets, and intricate embroidery work. Be prepared to bargain, as it is a standard part of the shopping experience here. Take your time to walk through the stalls, as you will often find hidden gems tucked away in the corners. Stop for a quick local street food snack, like a kachori or a cold lassi, to keep your energy up.
Evening. Spend your final evening attending a cultural performance at the Dharohar Folk Dance Show, held within the Bagore Ki Haveli complex. The show features traditional Rajasthani dances, including the famous Ghoomar and fire dance, performed by local artists in traditional attire. The energy in the courtyard is infectious and provides a perfect cultural finale to your trip. After the show, take a final walk along the Gangaur Ghat to say goodbye to the lake. Finish your trip with a memorable dinner at a restaurant overlooking the water, reflecting on your time in the city.