Trip Capsule

UDIAPUR TOUR

The city of lakes

Udaipur Overview:

Romantic and whimsical, Udaipur will make you fall in love at first sight. The city of lakes is home to Rajputana forts, ornate palaces, resplendent temples, busy markets , stunning architecture , serene lakes and most romantic sunsets .

Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes” or the “Venice of the East,” is a popular tourist destination in India. It is located in the southern part of Rajasthan and is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills. Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II and was the capital of the Mewar Kingdom. The city has become a very popular destination for marriages, thanks to all the Bollywood and Hollywood films that have been shot here.The city is truly traveler’s paradise and frankly speaking Rajasthan had been on my bucket list ever since I read about it in my history books. Fantasizing about the royals, their heritage and cultural vibrance , I always wanted to experience the royalty of Rajasthan.

Things to see

Visiting Udaipur is all about reliving the era of monarchy and admiring the city’s artificial beauty. Because it is situated around the emerald lake and is surrounded by the verdant hills of the Aravallis, Udaipur is appropriately known as the “Venice of the East.” It is a vision in white, soaked in romance and beauty. Udaipur, one of India’s most charming cities, offers a wealth of picturesque sights and sensations. Here are a few things to see to appreciate this romantic beauty.

● City Palace:

Your first destination in Udaipur will be the city palace, which stands as a symbol of amazing architecture. The City Palace is a grand palace complex located in the heart of Udaipur. It was built by Maharana Udai Singh II and features a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.

The palace represents the Mughal-style ornamentation and Rajput military architecture built by 22 successive Maharanas between the 16th and 20th centuries. Today, much of it serves as a museum. The entrance is the majestic Tripoli Gate, which is spread out among numerous palaces. One of the catalogues that describes each area is worthwhile to purchase.

Distance: 3.3 km from Udaipur Railway Station

Pricing: INR 300 for Indians, INR 600 for foreign nationals

Personal experience:
The City Palace is a magnificent palace complex with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It offers stunning views of Lake Pichola and the surrounding areas. I enjoyed the guided tour of the palace and learning about the royal history of Udaipur.

Advice:
It can get crowded, so it’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

● Lake Pichola:

Lake Pichola is a beautiful artificial lake located in the centre of Udaipur. It is surrounded by hills, temples, and palaces, and offers stunning views of the city.

You must explore Lake Pichola, which is undoubtedly Udaipur’s lifeblood. One of Rajasthan’s most stunning and attractive lakes is Pichola Lake. The oldest and largest lake in Udaipur is Pichola Lake, which is situated in the centre of the city (3 miles in length and 2 miles in width with upto 30 feet deep at places). Pichola Lake is surrounded on all sides by grand palaces, kothis, bathing ghats, temples, and hills. How can I appreciate this lake the most? You will surely fall in love with this city if you take a sunset tour. Many residents bathe in the lake.

Distance: 3.5 km from Udaipur Railway Station

Pricing: Boat ride starting from INR 400 per person

Personal experience:
Lake Pichola is a beautiful lake that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding hills. I enjoyed taking a boat ride on the lake and seeing the palaces and havelis from a different perspective.

Advice: It can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

● Jag Mandir:

Jag Mandir is a beautiful palace located on an island in Lake Pichola. It was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in the 17th century and features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

The only way to get to Jag Mandir, which is spectacularly situated on an island on Lake Pichola, is by boat. This architectural wonder from the 17th century is well known for destination weddings and as a location for movie shoots. The expansive courtyard with black and white marble tiles and the flower-filled gardens on the east side are the most stunning aspects of this architectural marvel. There are eight life-size white marble elephant sculptures located close to the island’s boat ramp as you enter Jag Mandir. A satisfying lunch is undoubtedly available at the hotel Jag Mandir.

Distance: 3.5 km from Udaipur Railway Station

Pricing: : Entrance fee is INR 400 for Indians and INR 700 for foreign nationals, including a boat ride and a tour of the palace.

Personal experience:
Beautiful palace with stunning views of the lake and Udaipur skyline. Impressive architecture and intricate carvings, with marble statues and stone jali screens. Enjoyed spending a few hours exploring the palace and garden.

Advice: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as some walking is involved. Be prepared for a bumpy boat ride. Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.

● SaajjanGarh Fort:

From the City Palace, you may get your first look of SaajjanGarh Fort, also known as Monsoon Palace, which is perched atop the Aravalli Hills like a crown. The issue with Udaipur is that in the evening, the entire city comes to life. It is challenging to decide what to see during a sunset because every nook and cranny appears to be immaculate. Like Jag Mandir or Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh is a similar place. Sunset is the ideal time to explore this location. Since I was only there for two days and one night, I was only able to spend one evening in Udaipur, therefore I missed out on doing that.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station: The distance from Udaipur Railway Station to Sajjangarh Fort is around 15 km.

Pricing: : The entrance fee to Sajjangarh Fort is INR 60 for Indians and INR 600 for foreign nationals.

Personal experience:
Sajjangarh Fort, also known as the Monsoon Palace, is a beautiful palace with stunning views of the surrounding area. The palace was built as a retreat for the royal family during the monsoon season, and it’s known for its unique architecture and scenic location. I enjoyed taking in the panoramic views of Udaipur and the Aravalli hills from the palace, and the sunset views were especially breathtaking. The palace also has a small museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.

Advice: Sajjangarh Fort is located on a hilltop, so be prepared for a steep climb to reach the palace. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or early evening, when the temperature is cooler and the sunset views are spectacular. Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the surrounding area. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water to stay hydrated during the climb.

● Gangaur Ghat:

The atmosphere in Gangaur Ghat varies. If you visit this place in the morning, you’ll see people going about their daily business, temples nearby vibrating with chants, and evenings decked with twinkling lights, however during the day it may get very congested and noisy. Early in the morning is when I went to the ghat, and I’m glad I did because there was less traffic and I could walk there. Also, the area was peaceful since there were no beggars.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station: Distance from Udaipur Railway Station:

Pricing: There is no entrance fee to visit Gangaur Ghat.

Personal experience:
Gangaur Ghat is a picturesque spot in Udaipur, known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the lake. The ghat is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the serene surroundings. I enjoyed taking a boat ride on the lake, which offered great views of the ghat and the surrounding palaces and temples. The ghat is also known for its vibrant Gangaur festival, which takes place every year and attracts a large crowd.

Advice: Gangaur Ghat is a great spot for photography and sightseeing. It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and the crowds are thinner. Bring comfortable shoes as the steps can be steep and slippery. If you’re interested in taking a boat ride, negotiate the price beforehand to avoid being overcharged. Finally, be respectful of the local culture and traditions, and don’t litter in the ghat or the surrounding areas.

● Lake Fateh Sagar:

Lake Fateh Sagar is a man-made lake that is situated north of Lake Pichola. A lot of hills around it on all three sides, and Pratap Memorial is to the north. A boat trip is the finest way to take in the lake. I won’t say it’s essential, but taking a walk around the lake in the early morning or late evening will be more enjoyable and cost less.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station:

Pricing: There is no entrance fee to visit Lake Fateh Sagar. However, there are boating fees if you want to take a boat ride on the lake.

Personal experience:
Lake Fateh Sagar is a popular tourist spot in Udaipur, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. I enjoyed taking a boat ride on the lake, which offered stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Udaipur skyline. The lake is surrounded by parks and gardens, making it a great place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. I also enjoyed visiting the Nehru Park, which is located on an island in the middle of the lake and is accessible by boat.

Advice:
Lake Fateh Sagar is a great place to relax and unwind. It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner. If you’re interested in taking a boat ride, negotiate the price beforehand to avoid being overcharged. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty of the lake and the surrounding area. Finally, be respectful of the environment and don’t litter in the lake or the surrounding areas.

● Jagdish Temple:

Jagdish Temple was constructed in 1651 by Maharaja Jagat Singh and is a prime example of Indo-Aryan architecture. Built in the Vastushastra architectural style, the Jagdish temple is decorated with statues of Gods and Goddesses. There is no entrance fee to the temple, which is located in the town not far from the Tripoli (Three Arched) Gate of the Palace.

Distance: 3.2 km from Udaipur Railway Station

Pricing: Free entry

Personal experience: Jagdish Temple is a beautiful temple with intricate carvings and sculptures. I enjoyed seeing the beautiful architecture and learning about the history of the temple.

Advice: It’s a religious site, so visitors should dress modestly and be respectful.

● Saheliyon Ki Bari

Saheliyon Ki Bari is a beautiful garden located on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. It was built in the 18th century and features fountains, marble elephants, and beautiful flowers.

Distance: 6.5 km from Udaipur Railway Station

Pricing: : INR 10 for Indians, INR 50 for foreign nationals

Personal experience:
Saheliyon Ki Bari is a beautiful garden that was built for the royal ladies of the court. It has beautiful fountains, pools, and marble elephants. I enjoyed strolling through the garden and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Advice: : It’s a popular tourist spot, so it can get crowded during peak hours.

Things to Do in Udaipur:

● Take a Boat Ride on Lake Pichola -

A boat ride on Lake Pichola is a must-do activity in Udaipur. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding hills and palaces.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station: The distance from Udaipur Railway Station to Lake Pichola is around 3 km.

Pricing: The pricing for boat rides on Lake Pichola varies depending on the duration of the ride and the type of boat. A standard boat ride for an hour can cost around 400-500 INR per person. However, prices may vary depending on the season and availability.

Personal experience:
Taking a boat ride on Lake Pichola is a must-do activity in Udaipur. The lake is surrounded by beautiful palaces, temples, and other historic buildings, which offer stunning views from the water. I enjoyed taking a sunset boat ride, which offered spectacular views of the city as the sun went down. The boat ride also offered a glimpse of daily life in Udaipur, as we passed by local homes and businesses along the shore.

Advice: A boat ride on Lake Pichola is a great way to experience the beauty and history of Udaipur. It’s best to take a boat ride during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. Negotiate the price of the boat ride beforehand to avoid being overcharged. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and architecture of the buildings surrounding the lake, consider taking a guided boat tour. Finally, be respectful of the environment and don’t litter in the lake or the surrounding areas.

● Watch a Cultural Show -

Udaipur is known for its vibrant culture and music. You can attend a cultural show to experience the local music, dance, and traditions.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station: The distance from Udaipur Railway Station to Bagore Ki Haveli is around 3 km, and to the City Palace, it is around 2.5 km.

Pricing: The pricing for cultural shows in Udaipur varies depending on the venue and the type of show. Generally, tickets for cultural shows cost around 200-300 INR per person.

Personal experience:
Watching a cultural show in Udaipur is a great way to experience the local Rajasthani culture and traditions. I attended a cultural show at Bagore Ki Haveli, which showcased traditional dance forms like Ghoomar and Kalbeliya, as well as puppet shows and live music performances. The performers were incredibly talented, and the energy and enthusiasm of the audience made the experience even more memorable. I also appreciated the historical setting of the show, as Bagore Ki Haveli is a beautiful historic mansion that has been converted into a museum and cultural center.

Advice:
Watching a cultural show in Udaipur is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions. It’s best to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as shows can sell out quickly. Consider attending a show at a historic venue like Bagore Ki Haveli or the City Palace for a more immersive experience. Be respectful of the performers and their traditions, and avoid taking flash photography during the show. Finally, keep in mind that many cultural shows involve loud music and bright lights, so be prepared if you have sensory sensitivities.

● Visit the Local Markets -

Udaipur has a number of local markets where you can shop for handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles. The most popular markets are Bapu Bazaar and Hathi Pol Bazaar.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station: The distance from Udaipur Railway Station to Bapu Bazaar is around 3 km, to Hathi Pol Bazaar is around 2.5 km, and to Shilpgram is around 6 km.

Pricing: There is no entry fee for visiting the local markets in Udaipur, but the prices of goods and souvenirs can vary depending on the vendor and the type of product.

Personal experience:
Visiting the local markets in Udaipur was one of the highlights of my trip. I especially enjoyed Bapu Bazaar, which is a bustling market full of colorful textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry. The vendors were friendly and welcoming, and I loved practicing my bargaining skills to get a good deal on some beautiful souvenirs. Hathi Pol Bazaar was another interesting market, with a focus on traditional Rajasthani clothing and fabrics. Shilpgram is a more curated and organized market, with shops selling handicrafts from all over Rajasthan. The market also features live demonstrations of traditional crafts like pottery and weaving.

Advice:
Visiting the local markets in Udaipur is a great way to experience the local culture and purchase unique souvenirs. Be prepared to bargain and negotiate prices with the vendors. If you’re not comfortable with bargaining, consider visiting Shilpgram for a more curated and organized shopping experience. Keep in mind that the markets can get crowded, so be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables safe. Finally, be respectful of the vendors and their products, and avoid taking photos without their permission.

● Try the Local Cuisine

Udaipur is known for its delicious Rajasthani cuisine, including dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas. You can try these dishes at local restaurants and street food stalls.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station: The distance from Udaipur Railway Station to Ambrai is around 3.5 km, to Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel is around 2 km, and to Natraj Dining Hall is around 2.5 km.

Pricing:The pricing for local cuisine in Udaipur can vary depending on the restaurant and the type of dish. However, in general, it is quite affordable and good value for money.

Personal experience:
Trying the local cuisine in Udaipur was one of the highlights of my trip. I loved the rich and flavorful curries, which often feature a combination of spices and herbs that are unique to Rajasthan. One of my favorite dishes was the dal bati churma, which is a classic Rajasthani dish that consists of lentil soup, baked wheat dumplings, and sweetened cereal. Another favorite of mine was the Laal Maas, a fiery red mutton curry that is famous in the region. I also enjoyed trying different types of bread, such as the flaky and buttery kachoris and the crispy and savory papads.

Advice:
Trying the local cuisine in Udaipur is a must-do experience for any foodie. Be adventurous and don’t be afraid to try new dishes, as the local cuisine is full of unique and delicious flavors. It is also worth considering taking a cooking class to learn how to make some of the local dishes yourself. Keep in mind that some dishes can be quite spicy, so if you are sensitive to spicy food, be sure to ask the server for recommendations. Finally, always choose clean and hygienic restaurants, and avoid eating street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

● Visit the Vintage Car Museum

The Vintage Car Museum is a must-visit attraction in Udaipur for car enthusiasts. It features a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, including a 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom and a 1924 Austin.

Distance from Udaipur Railway Station: The distance from Udaipur Railway Station to the Vintage Car Museum is around 3.5 km.

Pricing:The entry fee to the Vintage Car Museum is around INR 250 per person. Audio guides are also available for an additional fee.

Personal experience: Visiting the Vintage Car Museum was a unique and fascinating experience. The museum has a collection of vintage cars from the early 20th century, including some rare and beautifully restored models. Some of the notable cars include a 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom, a 1946 Cadillac, and a 1937 Mercedes Benz. The cars are displayed in a large garage-like space, with each car having a plaque that explains its history and significance. The museum also has a small gift shop selling souvenirs and books about vintage cars.

What’s exciting or special about this place: The Vintage Car Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in vintage vehicles. The cars on display are not just beautiful and well-preserved, but also hold cultural and historical significance. It is a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of automotive engineering and design.

Advice: If you plan to visit the Vintage Car Museum, it is best to go during the early hours of the day as the museum can get crowded. Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking around the museum for an hour or more. Finally, if you have any specific questions about the cars, don’t hesitate to ask the museum staff, who are friendly and knowledgeable.

Here are the top 10 FAQs about Udaipur itinerary:

1) What is the ideal duration for a Udaipur itinerary?

Ideally, a Udaipur itinerary should be for 2-3 days to cover all the top attractions and experiences the city has to offer.

2) What are the top places to visit in Udaipur?

The top places to visit in Udaipur include City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Monsoon Palace, and many more.

3) What is the best time to visit Udaipur?

The best time to visit Udaipur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.

4) What is the best way to get around in Udaipur?

The best way to get around in Udaipur is by hiring a private car, taxi, or taking a local tuk-tuk.

5) What are the popular things to do in Udaipur?

Popular things to do in Udaipur include taking a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visiting local markets, trying the local cuisine, watching a cultural show, and visiting the vintage car museum.

6) What are the best places to stay in Udaipur?

The best places to stay in Udaipur are the luxury hotels located on the lakefront and the heritage hotels located in the old city.

7) What is the cost of a Udaipur itinerary?

The cost of a Udaipur itinerary depends on the type of accommodation, transport, and activities you choose. A 2-3 day itinerary can cost anywhere from INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 per person.

8) What are the local delicacies to try in Udaipur?

The local delicacies to try in Udaipur include dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, laal maas, and kachori.

9) Is it safe to travel to Udaipur?

Yes, Udaipur is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always important to take necessary precautions and avoid traveling alone at night.

9) Is it safe to travel to Udaipur?

It is recommended to dress modestly while visiting the palaces and temples in Udaipur. Women should cover their heads and wear long dresses or pants, while men should wear long pants and shirts.