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Author: Barry Pickard
Contents
Udaipur is an enchanting city, a gem in the heart of Rajasthan, India. This city, steeped in history and culture, is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered by those who dare to venture off the beaten path.
Founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur is a testament to the grandeur of the Rajput era. Its rich history is etched in every corner, from the majestic City Palace that towers over Lake Pichola, to the ancient temples and bustling bazaars that line its winding streets.
But Udaipur is more than just a historical spectacle. It’s a city that thrives on its vibrant arts scene, mouth-watering cuisine, and the warmth of its people. Whether you’re exploring the intricately carved havelis, cruising on the serene lakes, or simply soaking in the stunning sunsets, Udaipur offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every kind of traveller.
For the independent traveller, Udaipur is a dream come true. The city centre’s compact size makes it easy to navigate, and its friendly locals are always willing to share their stories and guide you to hidden gems. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or just someone in search of a unique adventure, Udaipur has something for you.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of these attractions appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the stunning attractions you should visit in Udaipur, or indeed, a general tour of India.
7 Attractions You Should Visit in Udaipur, India
7. City Palace
The City Palace, a marvel of Mewar architecture, was built over a period of nearly 400 years, with contributions from several rulers of the Mewar dynasty. Its construction began in 1559, started by Maharana Udai Singh II, the founder of Udaipur. This magnificent palace stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history and royal heritage.
As you wander through its grand corridors, you’ll be captivated by the intricate carvings, stunning frescoes, and sparkling mirror work that adorn its walls. From the historic Baadi Mahal to the enchanting Peacock Courtyard, every corner of the City Palace tells a story of its glorious past.
But the City Palace is not just about history. It offers a plethora of experiences for the discerning traveller. Marvel at the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Aravalli Mountains from the palace’s numerous balconies. Explore its fascinating museum that houses a splendid collection of Rajput miniatures, armoury, and royal memorabilia. For the independent traveller, the City Palace is a paradise. Its compact yet diverse offerings make it an ideal destination to explore at your own pace.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
There are helpful signs and directions that lead you through the palace. Follow these, and you will not miss any of the highlights. However, if you do want to use the services of a trained guide, look out for the official guides, who will be identified by their orange lanyards. They will charge a fixed fee for their tour.
Tickets for the museum and palace interiors can be purchased from the kiosk at Shitla Mata, on the southern tip of the complex, or at the Badi Pol gate at the northern approach. Whichever ticket office you use, though, make sure to visit the Badi Pol and the Tripoliya Gate which it connects to.
I would advise planning to spend at least one and a half hours in the palace, although you could easily spend three.
There is an excellent restaurant in the courtyard in front of the entrance to the museum and there is also a nice canteen at the internal courtyard at the end of your self-guided tour. Both a good stops for a meal and drink.
6. Jagdish Temple
The Jagdish Temple is an architectural marvel, nestled amidst the bustling streets just to the north of City Palace. The temple, an epitome of Indo-Aryan architecture, was built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh I. This three-storied temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, stands as a testament to Udaipur’s rich spiritual heritage. Its intricate carvings, towering shikharas, and stunning stone sculptures are a visual treat.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a serene ambience, with the main shrine housing a beautiful four-armed statue of Lord Vishnu, locally known as Jagannath, the Lord of the Universe. The temple complex also features smaller shrines, each with their own unique allure.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
There are shelves at the top of the main stairway where you can take off and leave your footwear.
Have some change handy to give as an offering when you visit the main shrine.
One of the best external views of the temple can be found from the terrace of the Mayur Café, which it above the Hotel Baba Palace. Not only is the view great, but the food is top notch.
Another lovely restaurant, which is just to the side of the temple, is the Marwadi Bhojanalanya (The Royal Taste of Marwar).
5. Jagmandir
Jagmandir is an island palace nestled in the heart of the serene Lake Pichola. Its historic buildings and stunning views are a must-visit for those who seek to explore beyond the ordinary. Also known as the “Lake Garden Palace,” Jagmandir was built in the 17th century. Its construction was started by Maharana Karan Singh II and was later completed by his successor, Maharana Jagat Singh I. This palace is a splendid example of Rajput architecture, with its domed pavilions, sculpted marble columns, and impressive gardens.
As you step onto the island, you’ll be captivated by the panoramic views of the city and the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. The main attraction is the palace itself, but from here you can enjoy a leisurely boat ride around the lake, dine at the stylish restaurant that offers local and international cuisine, or simply relax in the lush gardens and soak in the beauty of your surroundings with a drink from the bar.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
Part of the island is now a heritage hotel, the Jagmandir Island Palace, which offers 10 luxurious suites. So why not treat yourself and stay a night or two.
Ferries leave from the Rameshwar Ghat, which is a two-minute walk south of the City Palace. Purchase your ticket at the lakeside kiosk. If your time is limited in Udaipur, taking a ferry to Jagmandir can take the place of specialised boat trip around Lake Pichola.
The hotel has an excellent spa, so, if you have time when on the island, book yourself in for a treatment at Panghat at Jagmandir.
4. Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola is an artificial freshwater lake, brimming with history and natural beauty. Named after the nearby Picholi village, the lake was created between 1382-1384 AD by Banjara, a gypsy “Banjara” tribesman who transported grain, during the reign of Maharana Lakha. Later, Maharana Udai Singh II, enchanted by the charm of this lake with the backdrop of green hills, founded the city of Udaipur on the banks of the lake.
A boat ride on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola will captivate you with the stunning views of the city and the mountains in the distance. The lake is enveloped by lofty Palaces, temples, bathing ghats and elevated hills on all its sides. In the southern part of this lake, there are island palaces like Jagniwas and Jagmandir, which add to the lake’s charm and grandeur.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
There are a number of boat trip companies that operate from the jetties directly east of Jagmandir, just off the Jaal Boraj Road. I took the circuit cruise offered by Yash Amusement, and found them to be safe, value for money and offered a great chance to experience the beauty of the lake.
The serene Doodh Talai lake is also next to the jetties and is worthy of a photo opportunity.
Make sure to visit some of the bathing ghats that line the lake. The Gangour Ghat, just minutes from the Jagdish Temple, is an especially beautiful place to view the lake.
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3. Manshapurn Karni mata Ropeway
The thrilling Manshapurna Karni Mata Ropeway is a gondola with breathtaking views, connecting the Deendayal Upadhyay Park with the summit of Machhala Hill. The ropeway was built in 2008 to facilitate easy access to the Karni Mata Temple, and since then, it has become a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.
As you ascend on the ropeway, you’ll be captivated by the panoramic views of the city, the serene Lake Pichola, and the majestic City Palace. The ride itself is an adventure, offering a bird’s eye view of the city that is truly unparalleled.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
Time your ascent to the top of Machhala Hill to take in sunset, for some amazing views of the lake.
2. Gulab Bagh and Bird Park
Gulab Bagh and Bird Park is a sprawling garden and aviary, brimming with natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Gulab Bagh is the biggest garden in Udaipur and was established in the 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh. There is also a large rose garden that will charm the senses and a miniature train which winds its way through the park. A sure-fire hit for the youngsters.
But the allure of Gulab Bagh doesn’t end with its flora. The garden is also home to the Bird Park, a haven for birdwatchers and children. The aviary is small, being spread over 5 hectares, but there are 12 enclosures, hosting a total of 28 species of birds.
1. Street Art
Udaipur’s street art is a colourful tapestry that weaves together traditional Indian motifs with contemporary themes. As you wander through the city’s winding lanes, you’ll be captivated by the murals that adorn its walls. From intricate mandalas to striking portraits, each piece tells a story, reflecting the city’s cultural heritage and the creativity of its artists.
But the beauty of Udaipur’s street art lies not just in the artwork itself, but also in the experience of discovering it. These murals are tucked away in the city’s nooks and crannies, turning each exploration into a treasure hunt. Whether you’re strolling along the banks of Lake Pichola or navigating the bustling markets of the old city, you never know when you’ll stumble upon a stunning piece of art.
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How to Get to Udaipur
By Air - Dabok Airport, also known as Maharana Pratap Airport, is about 25 km northeast of the city centre. There are daily flights from Delhi and Mumbai, and you can fly to a further eight Indian cities. There are no international flights.
By Rail – Udaipur is connected by rail to several major cities in India including Chittorgarh, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Sawai Madhopur, Jaipur, Agra, Delhi, Mumbai and Khajuraho.
By Road – Udaipur is easily accessible by road from every major destination in India.
Hire a Driver - Hiring a driver is a more economical and personalised way of travelling the Golden Triangle than booking with a bus tour operator. This is my own preferred mode of transport when travelling in India, and the Golden Triangle in particular. I used the excellent services of Vivek at Just To Travels to organise this for me – website & email.
Getting Around Udaipur
The attractions mentioned above are all handily located in the centre of the city, and you can comfortably walk between them. The auto-rickshaws are a handy alternative if you want to take it easier, but always negotiate the fare price before setting off.
To visit some of the sights on the periphery of Udaipur, like the Monsoon Palace, or the Shilpgram traditional village, I would suggest taking an Uber.
Where to Stay in Udaipur
Udaipur is a very popular tourist destination, so you will find a whole range of hotels for all pockets and tastes, with all the main global hotel brands well represented in the city. There are also a number of excellent havelis (traditional townhouses and mansions).
I stayed at the Hotel Boheda Palace and found it very comfortable, with excellent service. Just a ten-minute walk from the shores of Lake Pichola, the hotel has a lovely rooftop terrace, served by a good restaurant, with an excellent view of the City Palace. It was an ideal base for my Udaipur exploration.
What is The Best Time to Visit Udaipur?
Udaipur has three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. Summer, which runs from April to June, tends to be very hot, with the temperature soaring above 40°C, making outdoor activities challenging. The monsoon runs from July to September, but Udaipur receives less rain and humidity compared to other parts of India. The city is adorned with lush greenery, and the lakes brim with water. October to March brings winter, with the temperature ranging from 5°C to 25°C. This provides a comfortable atmosphere for exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes.
The winter months, therefore, are often regarded the best time to visit Udaipur, at least from the weather standpoint. However, if you’re budget conscious or just want to get a fabulous deal, the ideal time to visit Udaipur is from March until the end of September when hotel rates plummet. I visited in August, and found Udaipur hot, but not oppressive, and it didn’t rain during my stay. I also bagged at great deal at the Hotel Boheda Palace.
How Long Should You Stay in Udaipur?
I would advise staying at least three full days. The attractions mentioned above could be visited within two days, but I would bet that once you start walking around the interesting and exciting labyrinth of city centre streets, you will need the three days. There are a number of other attractions in and around Udaipur, so you could easily add a day or two to your trip and still find many things to do and see.
Conclusion
So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Udaipur. This city is not just a destination, it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left its shores. Welcome to Udaipur, the city of lakes, where every turn is a new adventure waiting to be discovered.
Related Blog Posts
If you would like more information on Rajasthan, please view the Tailor-Made Itineraries posts below:
Comment below and let us know what your favourite place was to visit in Udaipur.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of these attractions appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the stunning attractions you should visit in Udaipur, or indeed, a general tour of India.
Join me next time on my adventures when I visit a favourite Indian city of Rudyard Kipling, Bundi. Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries creates one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
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