Udaipur, fondly called the City of Lakes is a stunning corner of Rajasthan that is bound to endear most visitors. Spend your days walking through alleyways dripping with history, savouring delectable local delicacies, admiring colourful Rajasthan fabrics swaying in the wind, and sharing tales with locals who greet visitors with huge smiles.
Accommodation in Udaipur
In keeping with the list of our favourite things to do in Udaipur below, we’d suggest choose a hotel that alleviates your stay in Udaipur from being a regular hotel stay to an experience in itself. Fortunately Udaipur has plenty of experiential accommodation to suit all budgets. Choose an atmospheric B&B in the city centre if you’re on a budget.
If you’re willing to splurge a bit then choose a room at one of the luxury hotels at Lake Pichola. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Taj Lake Palace, and Leela Palace are the 3 most popular options available. We chose Leela Palace Udaipur and had a sensational time. The hotel is ranked as the #1 hotel in India on Tripadvisor and it’s easy to see why. It’s opulent, scenic, and offers a range of special dining opportunities. Highly recommended.
12 Things to See and Do in Udaipur
Without further ado, here are some of our favourite things to see and things to do in Udaipur:
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1) City palace
City Palace is a bit of an icon in Udaipur. It is virtually impossible to visit the city without stopping by this legendary Mewar Palace. Walk through 400 year old courtyards, step into bright blue rooms, and look out through colourful glass-stained windows. The joy of visiting the City Palace is somewhat reduced because most scenic arches and terraces are barricaded and out of bounds for visitors. However that doesn’t stop crowds from thronging the City Palace in Udaipur.
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2) Sunset at Lake Pichola
One doesn’t have to wonder too far from the City Palace to witness the other icon of Udaipur. One of the topmost things to do in the city of lakes is to visit the lakes of course! Lake Pichola is the biggest lake here and makes for a gorgeous sight at any time of the day. It is easy to spot Lake Pichola from City Palace and numerous other parts of the old city. However we suggest opting for a sunset cruise at the lake – sip on a drink as you watch the sun set over the Aravallis.
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3) Doodh Talai
Everyone makes a beeline for the iconic Lake Pichola but it’s the smaller lakes that have my heart. Check out the tiny lake called Doodh Talai just outside the old city – it makes for some gorgeous photographs, which probably explains its popularity among wedding photographers.
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4) Badi lake
Another lake that you must visit if you are in Udaipur is Badi Lake. There is a nice hike in the area, if you are craving some activity on holiday. Badi Lake provides a scenic backdrop for photographs and is definitely one of the most picturesque sights in the area
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5) Monsoon Palace
Sajjangarh or Monsoon Palace is the perfect place to watch the sun set over the city of Udaipur. We suggest going to Monsoon Palace in the evening – walk through its delicate archways, absorb the view, and linger on till the sun sets.
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6) Ahar Cenotaphs
Onto my FAVOURITE monument in Udaipur. These tombs were made for the Kings of Mewar over 350 years ago. These Royal cenotaphs are in a state of disarray because barely any tourists visit the site. However that does not make them any less special – in fact the lack of crowds at Ahar Cenotaphs actually makes them truly memorable. Make sure you drop by!
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7) Walk around the Old City
The historical city centre of Udaipur is full of historical treasures at every corner. It’s the perfect place to interact with locals, pick yourself a colourful souvenir or two, and devour a meal in a local restaurant. If you enjoy luxurious bohemian clothes and accessories, then Ganesh Handicraft Emporium is perfect for a peruse. The emporium of a series of little shops built around a colourful old school courtyard. If you’re not in the mood for a splurge, you can pick up plenty of colourful Rajasthani handicrafts and garments, at affordable rates, in the market as well. Wares are displayed on trunks of trees, in little shops, and alleyways. There’s no dearth of choice here. Just don’t forget to smile and bargain.
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8) Eat your heart out
Food is an intrinsic part of any Indian experience. Visiting Udaipur is no exception. You don’t need to spend much money to experience the culinary landscape for yourself. Try out the archetypal Rajasthani pyaz kachori (fried balls of dough stuffed with onions, lentils, and spices) and a variety of Indian sweetmeats at Jagdish Misthan Bhandar (JMB). If street food tickles your fancy, then try out chaat (moorish tangy and spicy nibbles) at Sukhadia Circle.
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9) Dine with a view
But that’s not all Udaipur has to offer.Choose a scenic restaurant, that boasts of a great view for dinner each night. There is no dearth of restaurants overlooking Lake Pichola in Udaipur. Ambarai Restaurant and Upre Restaurant are perfect for sundowners and dinner. Rainbow Café and Café Jheel are ideal for breakfasts. A number of luxury hotels have stunning restaurants overlooking Lake Pichola and Udaipur’s historical monuments. One of our favourites is Sheesh Mahal at Leela Palace Udaipur.
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10) Visit the ghats of Udaipur
Traditionally ghats are used by locals for celebrating Hindu festivals and offering prayers to the Gods. But they make for perfect pitstops on a sightseeing tour of the city of Udaipur. If you’re a believer you’ll find the temples at every ghat quite fascinating. But even if you’re an atheist (like me), you are bound to find the ghats fascinating from an anthropological point of view. Start at the magnificent Gangaur Ghat in the middle of city. You could also visit Lal Ghat or Ambrai Ghat if you enjoy your first skirmish with the ghats of Udaipur.
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11) Visit the scenic Pipliya
If you, like us, enjoy roadtrips, then make sure you drive to Pipliya. This is not something that features on most lists of things to do in Udaipur but it definitely should. The drive to this little village is quite scenic and Pipliya makes for the perfect spot for a picnic with friends of family.
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12) Take a day trip to Kumbhalgarh Fort
The magnificent Kumbhalgarh Fort is less than 2 hours away from Udaipur. If you are in the city for more than a couple of days, then make sure you plan a day trip to this Mewar fort. The sheer size of this sprawling historical structure is bound to overwhelm you. But that’s not all. Kumbhalgarh Fort boasts of a 38 kilometre long wall which ranks as one of the longest walls in the world, second only to the Great Wall of China.
That’s it – a list of our favourite things to do in Udaipur. Have you been to Udaipur? Leave your suggestions in the comments below 🙂
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Savi-Vid, every time I read your articles I am desperate to pay visit to that particular place just because your write ups are so inspiring.
I knew a bit about Udaipur and also have kept that in my bucket list but then this brief article makes me to plan for Udaipur at the earliest possible.
You guys are absolutely amazing.
Thanks a ton Diganta – hope you visit Udaipur super soon. There is so much to do and see there – it’s gorgeous 🙂
This is what I love about your blog: it enticed me to visit places I’ve never even heard of! What company did you use for your sunset cruise?
So happy to hear that Adele – you’ll love Udaipur when you visit 🙂 Most hotels arrange their own sunset cruises – we went on the cruise arranged by The Leela 🙂
What a gorgeous place… when can I go?! xx
http://www.mimazine.co.uk/
Hehe super soon I’d say 😉
The city of lakes looks absolutely stunning – as always you guys have beautifully depicted the landscape and the general feel of the place. You’ve really inspired me to travel to India!
Thanks Mark – we were quite surprised by just how much was in store for us in Udaipur 🙂 You must visit
Hi.. been der dis year only.. v clbrtd our first anniversary @ambrai .. it was awesome experience to b der.. leaving pillai village dat u metioned i hv covered almost evrythng..?
Hey that’s awesome – so good to know you had such a good time in Udaipur 🙂
good article, thank you for continuing to share your adventures with us and to bring stories like this to the world
Glad you enjoyed reading our list of things to do in Udaipur Dounya 🙂
I hav visited udaipur but I think will have to go now again… Ur outfits are to die for Savi..
Thanks a ton Amrutaa – hope you get to re-visit Udaipur super soon 🙂
I had never seen or heard about Ahar cenotaphs in Udaipur before you posting it. It looks really gorgeous.
hey Loreta – glad you discovered something new to do in Udaipur after reading this post 🙂
Devi Garh just outside Udaipur is very special, had the Devi Garh family suite over new year 2015/16. Worth checking out if you are still there. Possibly the best service we’ve had anywhere.
Awesome places that I can’t wait to visit 😀 Thanks Savi and Vid for sharing
Glad you enjoyed it Anthony 🙂
I have visited Udaipur and totally agree with both of you that its a must visit place in India. Love the royal palaces and the food. Its best to visit in cooler December -March months.
Yes Subroto, we loved being in Udaipur and enjoyed each minute of our visit there- glad to know you agree with us 🙂
Hi Savi Vid, this looks super amazing. do you think 2 nights 3 days sufficient for this kind of trip?
we will be visiting India during first 2 weeks of Feb, so will have to keep it short.
thanks.
Hey we’d suggest at least 4 days if you want to do all these things but 3 days are enough if you want to get a feel of Udaipur and pick and choose the stuff you’d like to see 🙂
Hi Savi/Vid, your trip to Udaipur looks like absolute heaven! I just wanted to ask – is The Leela, the hotel on the lake, or is that the Taj? Would you pick one over the other for any reason? I have had pretty bad experiences picking the wrong places to stay while traveling in India and would want to make the right decision!
Thanks 🙂
Hey Saana – Leela is one the side of the Lake and the Taj is in the lake – to be honest, both hotels are some of the very best in the world. Pick the one you’re getting a better deal on for your dates 🙂
I am planning a trip to Udaipur with my friends,
I have few questions in my mind :
1. How many days we will require to cover all these places?
2. Is july a good time to visit?
3. Any hotel you would suggest that’s in our budget since we’re students and planning this trip from our savings?
Thankyou!
It’s very hot in July, so it isn’t the best time to visit. You’ll need at least 5 days if you want to cover all these things. Try renting an apartment on Air BnB – that’s the best option on a budget!
Hi Savi & Vid for the list and special thanks for Telling to go to less known place of Udaipur Ahar Cenotaphs it is beautiful.
Hi can you pls suggest me some good sunset cruise at Lake pichola?? V r 3couples and 1 infant
Hey you can book one at your hotel or get there and compare prices to get the best deal on a sunset cruise at Lake pichola
Hey guys! Im there for 2 nights and 3 days…. can u help me with some must visits and shopping places barring temples
Hi Savi,
What would be best season to visit Udaipur
Winter months (November-Feburary) are ideal 🙂
Wat is the best time of year to visit Rajasthan?
Thinking to go in March
Please suggest
March is a good time – not too hot or too cold 🙂
i have been living in udaipur from last 5 years, it is the best city i have ever lived in. everyday i fall in love with this place
We can see why 🙂
Thanks for the detailed post Savi 😀 I’m planning to visit Udaipur this month and your blog has come in super handy! However, just had a query. I can’t seem to find Ahar Cenotaphs on Google Maps! Could you please help out with where exactly it’s located? Thanks in advance 🙂
Ask your hotel concierge or locals to tell you 🙂 much easier that way 😉
I am planning to visit Udaipur in October 2nd week for 4 days..Good time to visit…?
Another question… is it a good idea to visit Chittorgarh fort as well from Udaipur for a day trip as it is around 100 km from Udaipur or you still suggest going to Kumbhalgarh Fort…?
October should be a good time to visit Udaipur 🙂
We’d say better go to Kumbhalgarh fort unless you don’t mind spending a LOT of time on the road
Dear Savi and Vid,
We are planning for a honeymoon to Rajasthan.. Having a bit constrained on time.. So just have 4 days in hand.. Could you suggest which place to visit for a relaxing trip.. And a good heritage hotel to stay for a day… Leela palace is quite on the higher side ?
Hi Aneeta – that’s awesome. You could also consider Jaipur and Fairmont Hotel if you get a good deal as it’s your honeymoon, a nice hotel would be good 🙂 If not, there are some really cool AirBnB’s in Udaipur
I am live in Udaipur and I didn’t know about Ahar, I am planning my next weekend there.
Got something new, Thank you
Thats amazing 🙂
Nice Blog. Udaipur is one of the beautiful city in india. If you are planning to visit kumbhalgarh then you must stay at Edhatu Kumbhalmer Resort. It is one of the Best Resort in Kumbhalgarh. Here is the link of the website: https://prayaanhospitality.com/kumbhalgarh
nice blog and detailed information about our udaipur.
thanks a lot !!
Must say you have spent your time in Udaipur like a local. Very well written and informative one. Keep up the good work.
yes the city of lake is best city for destination wedding and if you are looking for best wedding planner then check out best wedding planner in udaipir
Hello Savi and Vid,
Planning to do a day trip consisting of Badi Lake (with the hike) and Pipliya.
Do you have any suggestions for the Pipliya route / what to do / where to eat, etc?
Hey you’ll find lots of small eateries – none that stood out though 🙁