10 Best Places to Visit in Udaipur
Are you dreaming of planning an exhilarating and charming getaway? Why not pack your bags and venture to Udaipur, Rajasthan – often hailed as the “Venice of the East”? This enchanting city is one of Rajasthan’s most spectacular gems, offering a captivating glimpse into bygone-era palatial architecture. Elevate your experience by staying in one of the finest villas in Udaipur for your stay, or opt for the immersive charm of a homestay.
With its regal history, bustling bazaars, majestic structures, and serene ambience, Udaipur promises to cast a spell on you. Amidst this city’s myriad attractions, discover the best tourist spots in Udaipur!
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List of the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur, Rajasthan
Here’s a list of Udaipur’s most popular tourist attractions that promise to captivate your senses and leave you enchanted:
1. Udaipur City Palace
When your villa or homestay in Udaipur is secured, your first destination should be the majestic City Palace. Located on the serene banks of Lake Pichola, this architectural marvel offers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s princely grandeur, built for the erstwhile Mewar ruling family. The palace is a testament to luxury, featuring towering structures adorned with detailed mirror work, murals, unique paintings, antique furniture, and intricate marble work.
The complex includes enchanting villas and palaces such as Bhim Vilas, Amar Vilas, Manak Mahal, Krishna Vilas, and Moti Mahal. Don’t miss the Mewar Light and Sound Show in the evening, adding a captivating touch to your Udaipur experience!
Timings: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM (Every day)
Entry Fee: ₹15 for Children and ₹30 for Adults
2. Jagmandir
Experience romance in the air at Jagmandir in Udaipur, a 17th-century palace complex nestled on the serene shores of Lake Pichola. Often referred to as Lake Garden Palace, Jagmandir invites you with its sheer splendour and tranquillity.
Explore its enchanting divisions, including the Gul Mahal, Garden Courtyard, Darikhana, Bara Patharon ka Mahal, Zenana Mahal, and Kunwar Pada ka; ensure to include a visit to Jagmandir during your boat ride, adding a touch of magic to your Udaipur sojourn.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 06:00 PM (Every day)
Entry Fee: Free
3. Lake Palace
The enchanting Lake Palace captivates with its beauty, gracefully positioned on the 4-km long, man-made Lake Pichola. Operated by the Taj Group, this iconic palace offers captivating views of the Aravalli Hills, creating one of the most romantic settings in the entire state.
Don’t miss the immersive heritage walks that unfold the palace’s rich history. Maharaja Jagat Singh II’s creation boasts sculpted marble and intricate mouldings that will leave you spellbound. Indulge in a day of serene boating on Lake Pichola, starting from Rameshwar Ghat to the City Palace, and let the allure of Lake Palace weave its magic.
Timings: 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM (Every day)
Entry Fee: Free
Boat Ride Fee: ₹400/head for Adults, ₹200/head for Children
4. Saheliyon Ki Bari
Also referred to as the ‘Garden of the Maidens‘, Saheliyon Ki Bari was crafted by Maharana Sangram Singh in the early 18th century. This breathtaking creation was dedicated to the maids accompanying the Princess of Udaipur to her husband’s home, forming part of the Maharana’s dowry.
The garden witnessed the joyous celebrations of graceful women dancing and singing. The exquisite marble elephants, enchanting fountains, a serene lotus pool, and charming kiosks are a testament to the luxury of that era.
Timings: 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM (All days)
Entry Fee: ₹5/person
5. Jagdish Temple
The Indo-Aryan Jagdish Temple, commissioned by Maharana Jagat Singh, is a brilliant example of architectural brilliance. Located near the Badi Pol entry of the City Palace, climbing up a few steps brings you to this spiritual haven. The black stone idol of Lord Vishnu and the brass Garuda image facing it exude awe-inspiring vibes.
Numerous shrines pay homage to deities like Lord Shiva, the Sun God, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Shakti. Don’t miss the enchanting experience of the sunset Aarti, adding a touch of magic to your visit.
Timings: 05:00 AM – 02:30 PM; 04:00 PM – 10:00 PM (All days)
Entry Fee: Free
6. Fateh Sagar Lake
With its mesmerising blue waters set against lush green hills, Fateh Sagar Lake has rightfully earned Udaipur the moniker of ‘The Second Kashmir.’ Renowned for its exceptional cleanliness and vast expanse, the lake is a must-visit attraction. Its four islands, accessible only by boat, boast public parks and a noteworthy solar observatory.
Named after Maharana Fateh Singh of Udaipur and Mewar, this lake not only supplies water to the urban areas but also plays a pivotal role in the city’s life, employing a significant portion of the populace.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Boat Ride Fee: ₹30/person for a Regular Boat Ride, ₹100-200/person for a Motorboat Ride, ₹200-400/person for a Speedboat Ride
7. Udaisagar Lake
Constructed by Maharana Udai Singh in 1565, Udaisagar Lake stands as one of Udaipur’s five renowned lakes. Originally formed due to a dam built across the Berach River to secure a consistent water supply for the city, it has evolved into a top destination in Udaipur.
The lake’s tranquil surroundings and picturesque sunsets make it a captivating spot. Enhance your experience by opting for a boat or a shore cruise on a camel, adding charm to your visit.
Timings: All around the day
Entry Fee: Free
8. Lake Pichola
Among the most popular things to do in Udaipur, Lake Picholo tops the charts. Constructed in 1362 AD, likely by a Banjara tribesman, Lake Pichola stands today as an iconic symbol of Udaipur. The lake is a must-visit destination, spanning nearly 3 kilometres in width and 4 kilometres in length
Over the years, many palaces, ghats, temples, royal quarters, and chabutaro have adorned its shores and islands. While renowned structures like the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir captivate visitors for a unique experience, consider taking a boat from the City Palace to the Arsi Vilas Island and exploring the bird sanctuary it hosts.
Timings: 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Boat Ride Fee: ₹400/person for Adults; ₹200/person for Children
9. Hathi Pol Bazaar
Shopping in a new city is a rite of passage for every tourist and this is one of the markets in Udaipur that would offer you a fun and engaging time. You’ll come across local as well as branded products from hand-embroidered bags and beautifully patterned clothes to silver jewellery and home décor items. It’s the best place to shop for souvenirs as well for your friends and family. However, when you visit this market, you must buy their miniature paintings, hand paintings on silk or Ichhwai Paintings as they are incredibly popular.
Timings: 10 A.M – 10 P.M
10. Sajjan Garh Biological Park
This park is in the foothills of the Sajjangarh Palace and includes over 21 species, such as lions, tigers, ostriches, marsh crocodiles, and so on. You can walk around the park and view these animals along the way. These gorgeous species are taken care of in the park by the Zoo Hospital and Nutrition Centre. You can either explore the place on foot or hire a golf cart or a cycle for the same. This wildlife park in Udaipur is the perfect place to indulge in adventure in India because of the beautiful species to look at.
Timings: Wednesday to Monday – 10 A.M to 6 P.M, Tuesday – Closed
Entry Fee: ₹35/person for Adults; Free for up to 5 years of children; ₹300/person for Foreign Tourists
Camera Fee and Video Camera: ₹80 and ₹200 respectively.
Best Time to Visit Udaipur
Udaipur experiences a moderate climate throughout the year, making it a destination worth visiting at any time. However, the peak tourist season in Udaipur is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The months of July and August receive moderate rainfall, offering a lush green landscape, but it can be a bit humid. The off-season months are usually from April to June when the weather is hot, but this period sees fewer tourists, making it a good time for budget travellers.
Winding Up
Udaipur unveils a tapestry of experiences tailored to every traveller’s desires, be it orchestrating a dream wedding in Udaipur, seeking a blissful romantic getaway for couples, planning an enriching family vacation, or embarking on an adventure with friends. Apart from the enchanting attractions listed earlier, ensure not to overlook the Shilpgram Handicrafts Museum and Ambrai Ghat, offering captivating vistas of Lake Pichola. Delve into the opulent heritage at the Crystal Gallery, housing exquisite crystals procured from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh.
For food enthusiasts, savour the flavours of traditional Rajasthani food, tantalize your taste buds at cafes in Udaipur overlooking the lake, and embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant street food in Udaipur.
Embark on your Udaipur odyssey at your own pace, unravelling captivating narratives and tales that adorn the City of Lakes, crafting an indelible chapter in your Rajasthan travel itinerary.
