Udaipur

Introduction 

Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes,” is one of India’s most picturesque and romantic destinations. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and set on the banks of shimmering lakes, Udaipur is a blend of regal heritage, white marble palaces, traditional arts, and tranquil charm. It’s a place where history, luxury, and natural beauty meet.

This guide is designed to help international travelers explore Udaipur with ease—from historic sites and cultural experiences to shopping, food, and travel tips.

Understanding Udaipur 

Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur was the capital of the Mewar kingdom. Unlike the desert cities of Rajasthan, Udaipur is lush and green, thanks to its lakes and gardens. It is known for its royal architecture, miniature paintings, and deep-rooted Rajput traditions.

Getting to Udaipur

By Air

• Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR): 22 km from city center; flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. 

By Train

• Udaipur City Railway Station (UDZ): Connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. 

By Road

• Well-connected by bus and taxi to Jaipur (400 km), Jodhpur (250 km), and Mount Abu (165 km). 

Navigating Around Udaipur

• Auto-rickshaws and E-rickshaws: Best for short distances
  
• Ola/Uber: Limited, but available
  
• Private cabs or scooters: Ideal for sightseeing day trips
  
• Boats and ferries: Operate on Lake Pichola and Fatehsagar for scenic transport 

Must-Visit Attractions

City Palace

• Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹300 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Rajput and Mughal architecture, museums, courtyards, and views over Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola & Boat Ride

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
• Boat Ride Fee: ₹400–₹800 (depends on route and timing)
  
• Highlights: Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas (Lake Palace), sunset views

Jagdish Temple

• Timings: 5:00 AM – 2:30 PM & 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  
• Entry: Free
  
• Highlights: Ornate carvings and Indo-Aryan architecture
  
  Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)
  

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Panoramic views of lakes and city, best during sunset
  
  Bagore Ki Haveli
  

• Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Evening Show at 7:00 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹100 (Indians), ₹150 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Museum and Dharohar folk dance performance
  

Offbeat Experiences

• Shilpgram: A crafts village 3 km away—ideal for local art, music, and dance
  
• Sahastra Bahu Temples (Nagda): 10th-century temple complex near Eklingji
  
• Boat dinner cruise on Lake Pichola: For a romantic evening
  
• Vintage Car Museum: For automobile enthusiasts
  

Theatres & Cultural Shows

• Bagore Ki Haveli (Dharohar Dance Show): Traditional Rajasthani music, dance, and puppetry
  
• Shilpgram Amphitheatre (during festivals): Folk performances and tribal arts
  

• City Palace Courtyards (special events): Music concerts, light shows
  

Best Places to Eat

• Ambrai Restaurant (Amet Haveli): Stunning lake views and Indian cuisine
  
• Upre by 1559 AD: Rooftop restaurant with fusion fare and ambiance
  

• Natraj Dining Hall: Authentic Rajasthani thali on a budget
  

• Millets of Mewar: Organic, healthy Indian food
  
• Jheel’s Rooftop Cafe: Great coffee and casual dining by the lake
  

Nightlife and Evening Experiences

• Sunset Boat Ride on Lake Pichola: Calm waters and golden skies
  

Shopping in Udaipur

• Hathi Pol Bazaar: Miniature paintings, handicrafts, and folk art
  

• Bada Bazaar: Textiles, juttis, and silver jewelry
  
• Chetak Circle: Leather goods, puppets, and souvenirs
  
• Shilpgram: Artisan village for unique handmade items
  

Tip: Look for authentic Pichwai paintings and handcrafted home décor

Festivals & Events

• Mewar Festival (March/April): Celebrates spring with cultural processions
  
• Shilpgram Utsav (December): Folk arts and crafts fair
  

• Diwali & Holi: Celebrated with lights, colors, and community events
  

Government Safety Measures for Foreign Tourists

1. Tourist Police: Stations near major sites
   
2. Emergency Numbers: 112 (all-in-one helpline), 1363 (tourist support)
   
3. Pink Autos: Female-friendly transport options
   
4. Tourist Info Centers: Located near City Palace and airport
   
5. Verified Guides: Use only licensed personnel for heritage sites 

What to Wear in Udaipur

• Light, breathable fabrics in summer (March–June)
  
• Light woollens in winter (Nov–Feb evenings can be chilly)
  
• Cover shoulders and knees for temples and traditional areas 

Traditional Attire:

• Men: Kurta-pajama or Nehru jacket for evening dinners or events
  
• Women: Lehengas, salwar-kameez, or sarees—many shops offer rentals 

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Ideal for sightseeing and festivals
  
• April to June: Hot, but manageable with early starts
  
• July to September: Green landscapes and monsoon charm 

Conclusion 

Udaipur is poetry in stone, water, and sunlight. Whether you’re watching a sunset from a palace balcony or cruising across Lake Pichola, the city captures the essence of regal Rajasthan. It’s peaceful, romantic, and rich with tradition.

Let Experencia India help you plan the perfect Udaipur escape—where every view is a postcard and every corner tells a story.