Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes,” is a popular travel destination in India known for its picturesque lakes, palaces, and temples. Some of the main attractions in Udaipur include the City Palace, which is a complex of palaces and courtyards, and the Jagdish Temple, which is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Udaipur is also known for its beautiful lakes such as Pichola Lake and Fateh Sagar Lake, which offer boat rides and other activities. Additionally, Udaipur is known for its Rajput-era architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage, it’s also a great place for shopping. The city is also home to many luxury hotels, which offer a great view of the beautiful lakes.
Places to See in Udaipur
Udaipur is known for its rich history and culture, and there are many places to see and things to do in the city. Some of the main attractions in Udaipur include.
1: City Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan
This is a complex of palaces and courtyards that was built by the Rajput Maharanas of Mewar over a period of 400 years. It offers a great view of the city and the surrounding lakes. The palace is located on the banks of Lake Pichola and is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles.
The palace complex is divided into several sections, including the main palace, the palace of kings, the palace of queens, and the palace of courtiers. Some of the main attractions within the palace include the Durbar Hall, which is a grand hall used for royal audiences and ceremonies.
The Mor Chowk, which is a courtyard with a peacock-shaped mosaic inlaid on the floor, and the Crystal Gallery, which is a collection of crystal objects including chandeliers, tables, and sofas.
The palace also features several museums, such as the Maharana Mewar Museum, which exhibits a collection of costumes, textiles, paintings, and other artifacts from the Mewar dynasty, and the Museum of Arms and Armour, which displays a collection of weapons and armor used by the Mewar kings.
2: Jagdish Temple, Udaipur, Rajasthan
This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built in the 17th century. It is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple was built in the 17th century by Maharana Jagat Singh I and is an excellent example of the Indo-Aryan style of architecture.
The temple’s entrance is through a triple-arched gate, which leads to a large courtyard. The main temple stands on a raised platform and features a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as Jagdish (the ruler of the universe). The temple’s Shikhar (spire) is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
The temple also features several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva. The temple is visited by many devotees, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Udaipur. The temple is open to visitors every day, and visitors are expected to follow the dress code and remove their shoes before entering the temple.
3: Lake Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan
This is a white marble palace located on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola. It was built in the 18th century by Maharana Jagat Singh II, and it’s one of the most iconic and beautiful palaces in India and offers a great view of the lake and the city.
It is a luxury hotel located on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The palace is made of white marble and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures. The palace is surrounded by courtyards, gardens, and fountains, and it offers a great view of the lake and the city. The palace also features a beautiful terrace that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
The palace was converted into a luxury hotel in the 1960s and it’s now open to visitors. The palace offers a variety of activities such as boat rides, yoga, and spa treatments, and it’s a perfect place to spend a luxurious and romantic getaway. Visitors can also dine in one of the palace’s restaurants, which offer traditional Rajasthani and international cuisine.
4: Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Fateh Sagar Lake is a man-made lake located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The lake was built in the 17th century by Maharana Jai Singh II and was later reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh. It’s one of the four lakes in Udaipur, and it’s known for its beautiful surroundings, boating facilities, and panoramic views.
Fateh Sagar lake is surrounded by three small islands, two of which are open to the public. The Nehru Island park, also known as Children’s Park, is a popular destination for families and children, with a small zoo and a play area. The second island, known as the Udaipur Solar Observatory, is a research facility that’s open to visitors during certain hours.
Fateh Sagar lake offers boat rides and other activities such as water sports and fishing, visitors can also take a boat ride around the lake to explore the three islands and enjoy the beautiful views. The lake also offers a great view of the surrounding mountains and the Aravalli range.
Fateh Sagar lake is open to visitors every day, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon. The lake is also a popular spot for picnics and evening walks, visitors can also enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants or cafes located around the lake. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful view of the lake from the nearby Fateh Sagar Paal, a small palace built by Maharana Fateh Singh which is now a famous restaurant.
5: Sajjangarh Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Also known as Monsoon Palace, is a hilltop palace that offers a great view of the city and the surrounding lakes.
Sajjangarh Palace, also known as the Monsoon Palace, is a hilltop palace located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The palace was built in the 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh and it’s known for its beautiful views of the city, the surrounding lakes, and the Aravalli range.
The palace was originally built as a monsoon palace, where the Maharana and his court could retreat during the rainy season, but it was never used for that purpose. The palace features a blend of Rajput and European architectural styles and is surrounded by a large garden, which offers a great view of the city and the surrounding area.
The palace is now open to visitors, and it’s a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the beautiful views of Udaipur. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and explore its various rooms and courtyards, including the Durbar Hall, the Rang Mandap, and the royal chambers.
The palace is open to visitors every day, but it’s closed on certain religious festivals and ceremonies. Visitors can also take a walk in the palace’s garden and enjoy the beautiful view of the city and the surrounding lakes. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the palace’s restaurant which offers a great view of the city.
6: Bagore ki Haveli, Udaipur, Rajasthan
This is a haveli (mansion) located on the banks of Lake Pichola that now serves as a museum displaying the rich culture and heritage of Udaipur.
Bagore ki Haveli is a haveli, or traditional Rajasthani mansion, located on the banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The haveli was built in the 18th century by Amir Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar, and it’s known for its intricate architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Haveli is now a museum and cultural center, which displays a collection of traditional Rajasthani arts, crafts, costumes, and other artifacts. The haveli features a large central courtyard, which is surrounded by various rooms and halls, including the Durbar Hall, the Rang Mandap, and the royal chambers. Each room is adorned with intricate carvings, frescoes, and paintings, which depict the rich culture and heritage of Rajasthan.
The haveli also features a traditional Rajasthani puppet show, which is held every evening. It’s a great opportunity to see the traditional art of puppetry, and it’s a popular attraction for visitors.
The Haveli is open to visitors every day, and it’s a great place to explore the rich culture and heritage of Rajasthan. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the haveli’s rooftop restaurant, which offers a great view of Lake Pichola and the city of Udaipur.
7: Saheliyon ki Bari, Udaipur, Rajasthan
This is a garden that was built in the 18th century for the queen and her friends. It features fountains, flowerbeds, and kiosks.
Saheliyon ki Bari, also known as the “Garden of Maidens,” is a beautiful garden located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The garden was built in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh II for the use of the queen and her maids. It’s known for its fountains, flowerbeds, and kiosks, and it’s a popular destination for visitors who want to enjoy the beauty of nature.
The garden features several fountains, including the large central fountain, which is the main attraction of the garden. The garden also features a lotus pool, a sandstone elephant, and a variety of flowerbeds. The garden is surrounded by a high wall, which provides privacy and seclusion for the queen and her maids.
Saheliyon ki Bari is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, visitors can take a stroll through the garden, take a seat on one of the garden’s many benches, or simply sit and relax by the fountains. The garden is open to visitors every day, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.
It’s a great place to see the traditional Rajasthani architecture and landscaping, visitors can also take a glimpse of the royal life of the Rajput queens and their attendants in this beautiful and well-maintained garden. The garden also offers a great view of the city and the surrounding area.
8: Shilpgram, Udaipur, Rajasthan
This is an open-air crafts village and rural museum where you can see the traditional arts, crafts, and culture of Rajasthan. Shilpgram is an open-air crafts village and rural museum located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The village was established to promote the traditional arts, crafts, and culture of Rajasthan, and it’s a popular destination for visitors who want to learn more about the state’s rich cultural heritage.
The village features a variety of traditional Rajasthani houses, which have been reconstructed to showcase the traditional architecture and construction techniques of the region. Visitors can explore the houses and learn about the lives of the people who lived in them. The village also features a number of workshops, where visitors can see artisans at work and learn about the traditional crafts of Rajasthan.
The village also features a number of museums and exhibits, which showcase the rich culture and heritage of Rajasthan, including traditional costumes, textiles, jewelry, and other artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances, which are held regularly in the village.
Shilpgram is open to visitors every day, and it’s a great place to learn about the traditional arts, crafts, and culture of Rajasthan. The village offers a unique and authentic experience, and it’s a great way to explore the rich cultural heritage of the state.
8: Jag Mandir, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Also known as the “Lake Garden Palace“, is a palace located on an island in Lake Pichola that offers a great view of the city. Jag Mandir is a palace located on an island in Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The palace, also known as the “Lake Garden Palace,” was built in the 17th century by Maharana Karan Singh and it’s known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
The palace features a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, and it’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and courtyards. The palace’s main hall, known as the “Zenana Mahal,” is adorned with intricate carvings and frescoes, and it’s open to visitors. The palace also features a number of other halls and rooms, including the “Karan Vilas,” which is known for its beautiful frescoes, and the “Khush Mahal,” which offers a great view of the lake and the city.
Jag Mandir is also known for its association with the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who took refuge in the palace for several years while he was in conflict with his father. Visitors can also take a boat ride to the palace and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the city, and also take a look at the beautiful architecture of the palace.
The palace is open to visitors every day, but visitors are required to follow a dress code and remove their shoes before entering the palace. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the palace’s restaurant, which offers a great view of the lake and the city.
These are just a few of the many places to see and things to do in Udaipur. The city offers a rich cultural experience and a great opportunity to explore its history and heritage.
Things to do in Udaipur
Udaipur popular travel destination in India known for its picturesque lakes, palaces, and temples. There are many things to do and see in Udaipur, some of the popular activities include.
- Visit the City Palace: This is a complex of palaces and courtyards that was built by the Rajput Maharanas of Mewar over a period of 400 years. It offers a great view of the city and the surrounding lakes, and it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Udaipur.
- Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola: Lake Pichola is one of the most popular lakes in Udaipur, and it offers boat rides to explore the lake and its surrounding islands, including the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir.
- Explore the Jagdish Temple: This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built in the 17th century. It is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Udaipur.
- Visit the Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace): This is a hilltop palace that offers a great view of the city and the surrounding lakes, it was built in the 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh.
- Explore the Bagore ki Haveli: This is a haveli (mansion) located on the banks of Lake Pichola that now serves as a museum displaying the rich culture and heritage of Udaipur.
- Take a walk in the Saheliyon ki Bari: This is a garden that was built in the 18th century for the queen and her friends, it features fountains, flowerbeds, and kiosks.
- Visit the Shilpgram: This is an open-air crafts village and rural museum where you can see the traditional arts, crafts, and culture of Rajasthan.
- Enjoy the beautiful view from Fateh Sagar Lake: This is a beautiful lake that offers boat rides, water sports, and a great view of the surrounding mountains.
- Shop in the local markets: Udaipur has a vibrant street market where you can find traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.
- Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal: Udaipur is known for its delicious traditional Rajasthani cuisine, and visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional.
Lakes of Udaipur Popular in India
There are several lakes in Udaipur, some of the most notable ones are:
- Lake Pichola: This is the most famous lake in Udaipur and it’s known for its beautiful views and boat rides. It’s surrounded by several palaces and temples, including the City Palace and the Jag Mandir.
- Fateh Sagar Lake: This is a man-made lake that was built by Maharana Jai Singh in the 17th century. It’s known for its beautiful views and water sports, and it’s also home to the Nehru Bridge, which offers a great view of the lake and the city.
- Udai Sagar Lake: This is a large lake located about 15 km from Udaipur city. It’s known for its beautiful views and it’s a popular spot for boating and fishing.
- Swaroop Sagar Lake: This lake is located on the north side of Udaipur, it’s known for its beautiful views and its proximity to the Jagdish Temple and the Monsoon Palace.
- Rangsagar Lake: This lake is located on the east side of Udaipur, it’s known for its beautiful views and boating.
- Doodh Talai Lake: This lake is located on the southern side of Udaipur, it’s known for its beautiful views and it’s a popular spot for boating, picnics, and sunset views.
These are some of the most popular lakes in Udaipur, but there are many other smaller lakes and waterways that visitors can explore.
Best time to visit Udaipur, Rajasthan
The best time to visit Udaipur depends on personal preference, but generally, the best time to visit is during the winter months between October and March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging between 10-25°C (50-77°F). The days are warm and sunny, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city.
In contrast, the summer months between April and June can be very hot, with temperatures rising up to 40°C (104°F) and making it difficult to explore the city. The monsoon season from July to September is also not the best time to visit as it can be quite rainy, and some of the outdoor attractions may be closed.
However, for those who are interested in the monsoon season, it can be a great time to visit as the lakes and waterfalls are full and the greenery is lush. Also, the monsoon season is considered to be the low season and usually less crowded, which could be an opportunity to enjoy the city with fewer tourists.
In summary, the best time to visit Udaipur is during the winter months, but it ultimately depends on your preferences and what you hope to see and experience during your visit.
How to Reach Udaipur, Rajasthan
There are several ways to reach Udaipur including by plane, train, and bus.
How to reach Udaipur from Delhi
- By Plane: The quickest and most convenient way to reach Udaipur from Delhi is by taking a domestic flight. The Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur is well connected to major cities in India, including Delhi. You can book a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi to Udaipur, the flight takes around 2 hours.
- By Train: Udaipur is well connected to Delhi by train. The Udaipur City railway station is well connected to major cities in India, including Delhi. You can take a train from the Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station in Delhi to Udaipur, the journey takes around 12-14 hours depending on the train you choose.
- By Bus: You can also reach Udaipur by bus from Delhi. There are several bus services that operate between Delhi and Udaipur. The journey takes around 12-14 hours, depending on the route and the type of bus you choose.
It is recommended to plan and book your trip in advance as Udaipur is a popular tourist destination and flights, trains, and bus tickets can sell out quickly during peak seasons.
How to reach Udaipur from Lucknow
There are several ways to reach Udaipur from Lucknow, including by plane, train, and bus.
- By Plane: The quickest and most convenient way to reach Udaipur from Lucknow is by taking a domestic flight. The Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur is well connected to major cities in India, including Lucknow. You can book a flight from Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow to Udaipur, the flight takes around 1h 30 min.
- By Train: Udaipur is also well connected to Lucknow by train. The Udaipur City railway station is well connected to major cities in India, including Lucknow. You can take a train from the Lucknow railway station to Udaipur, the journey takes around 15-18 hours depending on the train you choose.
- By Bus: You can also reach Udaipur by bus from Lucknow. There are several bus services that operate between Lucknow and Udaipur. The journey takes around 16-18 hours, depending on the route and the type of bus you choose.
It is recommended to plan and book your trip in advance as Udaipur is a popular tourist destination and flights, trains, and bus tickets can sell out quickly during peak seasons.
How to reach Udaipur from Varanasi
There are several ways to reach Udaipur from Varanasi, including by plane, train, and bus.
- By Plane: The quickest and most convenient way to reach Udaipur from Varanasi is by taking a domestic flight. The Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur is well connected to major cities in India, including Varanasi. You can book a flight from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi to Udaipur, the flight takes around 2 hours.
- By Train: Udaipur is also well connected to Varanasi by train. The Udaipur City railway station is well connected to major cities in India, including Varanasi. You can take a train from the Varanasi railway station to Udaipur, the journey takes around 14-16 hours depending on the train you choose.
- By Bus: You can also reach Udaipur by bus from Varanasi. There are several bus services that operate between Varanasi and Udaipur. The journey takes around 15-18 hours, depending on the route and the type of bus you choose.
It is recommended to plan and book your trip in advance as Udaipur is a popular tourist destination and flights, trains, and bus tickets can sell out quickly during peak seasons.
