Things to do in Udaipur to explore all that the city has to offer

Udaipur, one of Rajasthan’s picturesque towns, is located far to the west of the state. It is known by the nicknames ‘City of Lakes’ and ‘Venice of the East.’ The city’s history goes back more than a millennium, making it a significant cultural centre. Udaipur is renowned for its many beautiful sights, lakes, forts, and parks. It has a wide variety of exciting attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages.

Additionally, the city of Udaipur allows people to reach this location through the following entryways.

By air: The Maharana Pratap Airport, located around 20 kilometres from central Udaipur, is the closest major airport. There are frequent flights to and from India’s main cities.

By train: It is possible to travel from other important cities in India to Udaipur owing to the Udaipur railway station. Auto-rickshaws, municipal buses, and taxis are readily.

By road: Udaipur has a robust bus service network that connects it to several other cities in the area. Udaipur is well-connected to the cities of Delhi, Indore, Jaipur, and Kota through frequent bus services.

 

10 things to do in Udaipur to make the most of your trip

Sailing on Lake Pichola

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A man-made lake known as Lake Pichola is nestled in the middle of Udaipur. Lake Pichola, the earliest and among the biggest lakes in the city, is visited by lakhs of people daily due to the peace and beauty around it. It is surrounded by towering hills, historical monuments, and swimming ghats. When the sun goes down, the historic structures and clear waters take on a golden hue due to the reflection of the light from the sky.

Sailing on Lake Pichola’s placid waters is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The canopies on these boats can fit between six and eight people. The boat excursion begins at Rameshwar Ghat, and the first stop is at the Lake Palace. After that, it goes to the Jagmandir, where you may pause and reflect on the beautiful sights you have seen along the way.

Udaipur’s summers are unbearable due to the city’s average high temperature of 40 degrees Celsius. Travellers should not come between March and June to escape the city’s worst weather. The breathtaking vista of Pichola Lake is available from July through September when the monsoons are in full swing. The temperature is stable at about 25–35 degrees C. Taking a tonga, autorickshaw, or cab will get you to the lake quickly and easily. It is also easy to rent local buses since the lake is at a distance of 4.5 km from the city centre. 

See also: Top 15 places to visit in Udaipur

 

Experience diverse events at Fateh Sagar lake

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The Maharana of Udaipur and Mewar, Fateh Singh, gave his name to the artificial lake that was constructed to the northwest of the city of Udaipur and is now known as Fateh Sagar Lake. It was constructed in 1687 and is the second biggest Udaipur’s four lakes. With the Aravali mountains as a background, boating here is a pleasure. You have a wide variety of boats at your disposal, and you may choose the one that best meets your requirements. You must visit this location to see the breathtaking sunsets.

Fateh Sagar lake regularly hosts high-profile events on a regional or global scale. The World Music Festival lasts three days and is one of the most anticipated events. There are always captivating shows by local, national, and worldwide artists at this event, which takes place in February.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela is another popular celebration in Fateh Sagar Lake. This festival, also renowned as Green New Moon Festival, falls in the Hindu calendar month of Shravan (August/September). Over the course of three days, people dress up in brightly coloured costumes to welcome the arrival of the monsoons. The days leading up to the arrival of rain are celebrated with parties, parades, and cultural celebrations of many kinds.

You may go to Fateh Sagar Lake by taking a taxi, either one run by a private company or by the state, which is easy to find in any section of the city. This lake is at a distance of 4.8 km from the city centre. Tuk-tuks are another common form of transportation in Udaipur, and they are known for their low fares and ability to get passengers to their destinations quickly. You also have the option of hiring a taxi that will drop you off right at the entrance to the lake.

See also: 20 best places to visit in India in November

 

Take the ropeway or a gondola to reach the Mansapurna Karni Mata temple

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Maharana Karan Singh constructed the Mansapurna Karni Mata temple on top of Machhala Magar, making it a somewhat inaccessible pilgrimage site. This explains why the temple has never been very popular. In 2008, however, construction began on a ropeway that would carry worshippers from the valley to the hilltop temple, where they could more easily pray to Goddess Karni. Accessibility to the temple has been improved by the addition of a stairway from Maniklal Verma Park. 

Take a Gondola ride to the sacred Mansapurna Karni Mata temple in Udaipur for a thrilling adventure. The ropeway is a fast and relaxing way to get to the temple in just five minutes while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Since the Gondolas on this route run in both directions, they may carry twelve passengers total: six on the outbound journey and six on the return.

The trip on the cable car departs at Deendayal Upadhyay Park in Doodh Talai, which is only three km from the local railway station. Its central location is close to major tourist destinations, including Lake Pichola and City Palace.

 

Get lost in City Palace’s Museum

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The City Palace was constructed on the shores of Lake Pichola. Built by Maharana Uday Singh in 1559, the palace was the official residence and administrative centre of the Maharanas and the centre of political and religious life in the country. Subsequently, his successors erected other additions to the palace, increasing its already impressive splendour.

There are now Mahals, gardens, hallways, balconies, chambers, and suspended flower beds spread throughout the palace. A museum is located here, displaying some of the most impressive examples of Rajput artistic and cultural expression, such as elaborately painted murals and replicas of the palaces often seen in Rajasthan. If you are in Udaipur, put this museum at the top of your list of things to do in Udaipur.

The City Palace is a massive structure that stands on a bed of verdant landscape. Several domes, arched windows, and turrets also adorn the palace’s complicated design, a blend of mediaeval, European, and Chinese elements. Several bollywood movies, including ‘Guide’ and ‘Octopussy,’ have been filmed in this location owing to its royal splendour. The City Palace in Udaipur is a beautiful journey back in time, a harmonious fusion of architectural brilliance and a storied past.

At Manek Chowk, between 7 and 8 p.m., you may see the music and light display titled “The Legacy of Honour,” which is put on by Mewar, to know about the rich heritage of Rajasthan.

The City Palace is easily accessible by a network that includes paid taxis, rickshaws, tongas, and public bus service. Ferry journeys from City Palace to Jagmandir may also be taken, each journey costing a person INR 400.

 

Enjoy water activities at Jaisamand Lake

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Jaisamand Lake, at almost 100 square kilometres in size, is the country’s second-largest man-made lake. It is encircled by Jaisamand Nature Reserve, inhabited by a variety of endangered species of animals and migratory birds. The summer palaces that were formerly owned by the Royals of Udaipur also provide a stunning background. 

In the middle of its marble dam is a shrine devoted to Shiva. The temple’s existence is evidence that the inhabitants of Mewar were mindful of the devotional rites they performed. It is also known as Dhebar Lake by the people that live in the area.

Visitors may go paddling or on a boat trip. There is additional gear available for a variety of other water activities. Sunset Point is an intriguing destination for those who are interested in photography and is the most recent addition to the region.

It is around an hour’s drive away from the main city of Udaipur, which is situated approximately 50 kilometres away from the destination. For this reason, it is possible to hire public transport, cabs, rickshaws, and tongas from any section of the town to get to Jaisamand Lake. In addition, there are buses that frequently run between the district headquarters in Udaipur and Jaisamand.

 

Explore Sajjangarh Palace

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The Sajjangarh Palace is a historic royal home that belonged to the Mewar dynasty, and it was built on a hill near the city of Udaipur. The palace complex was commissioned by Maharana Sajjan Singh and built-in 1884 throughout his reign. It was supposed to be a nine-story astrological observatory for monitoring the onset and progression of seasonal showers, which could be observed well from the palace owing to its perch on a prominent Aravalli hilltop known as Bandara Peak. Therefore, it is also known as the ‘Monsoon Palace’. 

Sajjangarh Palace is a wonderful example of Rajput architecture, with its lofty turrets, spires, staircases, and columns all reflecting the fashions of the period. Even more remarkably, it was equipped to collect rainwater using cutting-edge scientific methods. You are free to roam about and observe the area around you if you have an interest in history. You are entitled to explore the mountainous area and indulge in the traditional delicacies of Udaipur. You may spend some quality time with your family in the local animal refuge, where you can bring your children.

The city of Udaipur is approximately five kilometres away, therefore it is easy to go there using public or private transportation. Minivans and taxis are available at the base of the hill to transport you up the steep, twisting path to the palace. 

 

Experience how kings lived at the Taj Lake Palace

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The Taj Lake Palace, initially called Jag Niwas, is among the most attractive and enchanting resorts in the world, and it can be found in the city of Udaipur, hovering over the blue waters of the picturesque Pichola. The previously beautiful summer residence of the monarch of Mewar, Maharana Jagat Singh II, which currently functions as a lovely commercial hotel, was originally used for relaxation by the royal family. The historic palace was constructed in 1754 and transformed into a five-star guesthouse in 1963. Since that time, it has been a popular destination for travellers from all over the world, particularly amorous couples.

When you arrive at the Taj Lake Palace, the experience of checking in is nothing short of spectacular. You may spend the night in a Maharaja’s summer castle floating amid Lake Pichola.

The five-star hotel offers privileged guests a wide range of luxurious amenities and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In addition to the standard fare of in-house infrastructure, high-end accommodations, and indoor entertainment, guests can choose from a wide range of recreational pursuits, sports, and world-class dining venues serving delectable fare from around the globe, including regional specialities like Rajasthani and European fare.

Although throughout the year, the palace provides elegant and luxurious accommodations in addition to other amenities, To avoid the crowds, it is best to schedule your trip between September and March, which are the winter months. The temperature seldom rises over a comfortable level. The weather is also more agreeable and easygoing, making outdoor outings and cultural adventures a lot more appealing options.

You may take a bus from the city to any of the surrounding towns with ease. A taxi or the public transportation system may take you to the shores of Lake Pichola. The Taj Palace Hotel’s crew boat will pick you up at this dock.

 

Meander around the Saheliyon Ki Bari

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Udaipur is home to the magnificent Saheliyon Ki Bari Garden. The ‘Garden’ and the ‘Courtyard of Maidens’ are two other names for this location. The grounds are well manicured and include verdant lawns, tree-lined paths, and stunning fountains. Saheliyon ki Bari is regarded as one of Udaipur’s top destinations for a rejuvenating break with loved ones. Visitors come from around the globe to experience the royal atmosphere and soak in the city’s rich history and ancient architecture.

Given the beautiful statues and fountains that are inside the garden, the first thing that a visitor should do is take some time to meander around the space quietly. The experience is made even more delightful by the fact that each fountain has its unique characteristics. The tranquillity of the garden will be worth the time it takes to enjoy the rain showers provided by the fountains. Visitors should definitely check out the marble bench where the Maharana and his lady would sit to admire the garden’s lovely fountains and the towering green trees that line the garden’s perimeter.

Saheliyon ki Bari may be reached by road from anywhere in Udaipur. The most efficient method to go to the Bari is to take a public bus. Within 15 minutes of leaving Udaipur, visitors in privately driven automobiles may arrive at Saheliyon ki Bari through Shastri Marg and University Road or Saheli Marg.

 

Relive history at Bagore Ki Haveli 

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Bagore ki Haveli in Udaipur is an extravagant palace with courteous hospitality; it was constructed in the 18th century on the shores of Lake Pichola. The Mewar Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Amar Chand Badwa, commissioned the construction of this extravagant haveli, which has more than a hundred rooms filled with intricately decorated crystal and gem works. The exterior of the palace is covered with stunning works of art from the Mewar period, the most famous of which are the two stunning glass and mirror peacock sculptures on show in the Queen’s Chamber.

The haveli, after years of restoration and renovation, is now a museum that attracts not only the typical visitor but also those with an interest in the region’s culture and traditions. The Dharohar Stage Show, a famous nighttime event, is a celebration of Rajasthani culture and folklore and the haveli’s main draw.

Enjoy the exquisite glassworks and murals that date back to the Mewar period as you explore the more complicated parts of the palace. Do not miss your chance to delve through an incredible trove of historical attire, artworks, and instrumentation. Take in a play showcasing Rajasthan’s rich cultural history at the theatre grounds. Get your fill of puppetry and traditional Rajasthani stories during puppet performances. Shop around at local boutiques and shops for reasonably priced artwork, and handmade goods.

Bagore ki Haveli is most comfortable between September through March, when temperatures average 28 degrees Celsius. Due to its desert location, the city of Udaipur experiences very high temperatures throughout the summer, making tourism and other outdoor activities quite unpleasant.

Local buses, cars, and rickshaws operate frequently and provide convenient transportation throughout the city. The Bagore ki Haveli is conveniently positioned within a 1.5-kilometre radius of the city’s core, making it accessible via public transportation. You may either take a taxi or reserve a private car to get here.

 

Find inner peace at Jagdish Temple

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The Jagdish Temple in Udaipur is widely regarded as the city’s holiest site due to its devotion to Lord Vishnu. This magnificent temple’s entrance can be viewed from the City Palace’s Bara Pol. This sacred space is perfect for those in search of peace and religion, owing to its intricate carvings, a plethora of beautiful sculptures, and tranquil environment.

The impressive four-armed figure of Vishnu, sculpted from a single block of black stone, presides over the main temple. The main temple dedicated to Lord Jagdish is in the middle, while four lesser temples surround it on all sides. These temples honour several deities, including Ganesha. 

The Jagdish temple is a must-see on any visit to the City Palace since it exemplifies the style of building that the Mewar kings of Rajasthan were so fond of. Since the shrine serves as a sacred site, visitors not only get the opportunity to view the deity they adore, but they can also take in the ornate sculptures and artworks that adorn the complex. Even though it is not required, visitors who desire to make offerings to the divinity may buy items such as garlands and sweets within the complex that houses the temple.

Within Udaipur’s City Palace Complex is where you’ll find the Jagdish Temple. Several streets branch out from the Jagdish Chowk, the main square where the temple is situated, in all directions because of its strategic location in Udaipur. As a result, people from all around the city, including those coming from the airport and the train station, may easily get there by using one of the many buses, cars, or other road transportation options available.

 

FAQs

Who should go to Udaipur?

Udaipur is ideal for couples who wish to escape the city for some quiet time together. A top choice for honeymoons and weddings. Hippies, travellers, and environmentalists will also like it.

What is Udaipur renowned for?

Udaipur is perhaps the most romantic city in the world. It is known for its fabulous temples, fortresses, and ancient ruins. Udaipur also serves as the location of one of the world's finest hotel and resort complexes. The city also features intuitive access to air, road, and train networks.

What is the perfect time of year to visit Udaipur?

Udaipur is at its most beautiful between October through March. Because the winter months are mild, this is a good time to take advantage of the city in all of its splendour. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, is another great time to go to Udaipur since the weather is nice, and it provides a welcome escape from the scorching heat of Rajasthan. On the other hand, you need to steer clear in the summertime because the temperature might reach 42 degrees.

How long of a stay in Udaipur is recommended?

Two days is more than enough time to let the splendour of Udaipur encircle you and take your breath away.