Udaipur

Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is one of the most visited tourist places in Rajasthan. Located around stunning water lakes and enveloped by the Aravali Hills in all directions, Udaipur is known for its azure lakes, magnificent palaces, vibrant culture and delectable food. Along with being a must-visit destination, it is also one of the best places to experience luxury in India.

WEATHER

 

AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Rainfall (mm)	3.0	3.2	2.2	4.6	10.4	58.5	172.0	162.8	72.9	13.0	2.9	1.9

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT

October to March is the best time to visit Udaipur. The winter season is pleasant making it an ideal time to explore the city at its best. Also, Shilpgram Crafts Fair is being organized every year during the winter season which people can enjoy in Udaipur in this season. A monsoon from July to September is another ideal time to visit Udaipur as it is pleasant and a relief from the torrid climate of Rajasthan. However, summer months must be avoided as the temperatures rise up to 42 degrees. 

CUISINE

Udaipur is where much of Rajasthan's grandeur resides, traces of which can be seen in the rich cuisine available here. A visit to Udaipur will not be complete without you indulging in its grand cuisine. One simply cannot miss out on the authentic deliciousness of Dal Baati Churma and Gatte ki Sabji. Rajasthani Thali is full of sweet, tangy and spicy, home-made flavours and is definitely a must-have! Udaipur also tends to your sweet-tooth with its traditional, Orange Jalebis which are made in pure, Desi Ghee. We assure you, you will not be able to stop at just one!

So, enrich your stay further by pampering your taste buds with the mouth-watering cuisine of this vibrant city. Some of the most famous foods in Udaipur that one should definitely try are Dabeli, Pav Bhaji, Daal Baati Churma, Bread Pakora, Mini Mirchi Bada, Kachori Chaat and Hari Mirch Chai Shot.

SHOPPING

Udaipur is celebrated for the amazing handicrafts that have made Rajasthan unique. There is something enchanting and unique to offer to everyone. Rajasthan’s best-selling items range from precious stones jewellery, bright colourful textiles, meenakari items, gemstone paintings, oxidized silver & copper items, Pichwai & miniature paintings, sculptures, panels, paintings, and other items in marble stone.

For home décor this place is a paradise, you can choose from the fine marble floorings, paintings in semi-precious stones, antique wooden furniture, jharokhas, lovely statues, waterfalls, and vibrant coloured furnishings. The hand-printed linen of Rajasthan is extremely popular all over. And the icing on the cake is the ethnic charm and exquisite workmanship.

Top Places for Shopping in Udaipur: Hathi Pol Bazaar, Bada Bazaar, Mochiwada Bazaar, Chetak Circle, Clock Tower, Jagdish Temple Street, Shilpgram, Lake Palace Road, Rajasthali, Bapu Bazaar, Sadhna Emporium, Maldas Street, Swarnkar Arts And Crafts, City Palace Road.

LANGUAGE

Hindi and Mewari are the major languages spoken in Udaipur. Marwari, Wagdi, Urdu and Gujarati are some others which are in use in the city.

THINGS TO DO

1. TAKE A BOAT CRUISE ON LAKE PICHOLA

The heavenly Lake Pichola is an artificial lake located in the heart of Udaipur, Rajasthan. The oldest and one of the largest lakes of the city, the Lake Pichola observes lakhs of tourists because of its tranquillity and beauty. Flanked by lofty hills, heritage buildings and bathing ghats, it is a dream come true for peace and nature lovers. Visiting the lake is one of the top things to do in Udaipur, and it is incomplete without a boat ride, especially in the dawn. The boat ride starts at Rameshwar Ghat and it first takes you to the Lake Palace Hotel. Then, it proceeds to the Jagmandir where you can stop for some time and reminisce the scenic views. The yellow glow of the palaces nearby with their reflection in the water seems to hypnotise.

2. EXPLORE THE OLD-WORLD CHARM OF BAGORE KI HAVELI

Built in the 18th century by one of the ministers of Mewar, Bagore Ki Haveli is a grand mansion-cum-museum that displays copper vessels, jewellery boxes, hand fans, hookahs, dice games, and other interesting artifacts used by the Rajputs. The structure offers impressive views of Lake Pichola and is a showcase of Rajasthani heritage and architecture. There are more than 100 rooms in the haveli, with paintings, detailed glasswork, and carvings to surprise you at every turn. If you want to catch the delightful Dharohar Dance Show, plan your visit in the evening.

3. RIDE THE MANSAPURNA KARNI MATA ROPEWAY

Want to enjoy a bird’s eye view of Udaipur’s iconic landmarks and its enchanting natural setting? The Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway offers you just that. Get into the neat and well-maintained red cabins and enjoy the ride from the Deen Dayal Park until you reach the famous Karni Mata Temple on the summit of the Macchala Hill. Catch the ride at dusk if you want to see the city bathed in golden-hour lighting.

4. VISIT THE VINTAGE AND CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM

After a heavy dose of royal splendor, celebrate the mechanics and aesthetic details of classic cars at the Vintage and Classic Car Museum. If you are an automobile enthusiast, you must include this in your list of things to do in Udaipur.  Some of the precious cars on display at the museum include Rolls Royce models, an old Vauxhall, and a couple of Cadillac cars. The original Shell petrol pump on display adds an extra dollop of charm to the museum, which is one of the offbeat places to visit in Udaipur.

5. GO WILDLIFE SPOTTING AT SAJJANGARH WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

A trip to the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is an exploration of the rich wilderness that adds to the unique setting of the city. The sanctuary was originally a hunting reserve of the Mewar royals, and today it is home to tigers, wild boars, hyenas, and many deer species. The Bari Lake inside the sanctuary is one of the spots here where many of the local fauna can be spotted. There is a popular trekking route for those looking for a bit of a scenic workout.

6. VISIT UNDER THE SUN, INDIA’S LARGEST FISH AQUARIUM

One of the fun things to do in Udaipur is to visit Under the Sun, a modern aquarium which is home to some of the most enigmatic aquatic creatures on the planet. This relatively new landmark is a great place to visit with kids as they can marvel at the riches of the ocean. Apart from the breathing and swimming exhibits, there are many interesting marine-themed installations and giant informational images on display here.

7. TAKE A TRIP TO THE MONSOON PALACE

Also known as Sajjangarh Palace, the Monsoon Palace counts among the must-visit places in Udaipur. Perched on a hill above the Fateh Sagar Lake, this white marble structure offers you stunning views of the lake and the city. Built in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh, the palace boasts of some of the archetypal elements of Rajput architecture such as hug entrance gates, turrets, latticework, roofed verandahs, and painted and carved motifs on the walls. You will also enjoy the drive as you head out of the city and into the cooler climes of the hills.

8. VISIT SHILPGRAM

At Shilpgram, a heritage arts and crafts complex spread across 70 acres, you will get to see the traditions and lifestyles of the local tribes represented in an authentic and detailed manner. While here, you can explore the vernacular architecture and watch artisans at work. A day spent here is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Udaipur with friends. If you are visiting the place in December, make it a point to attend the annual Shilpgram Festival.

PLACES TO VISIT

1. LAKE PALACE

Now a hotel but was originally called Jagniwas and served as a summer palace. Built between 1743 and 1746 on the island near Jagmandir in Lake Pichola, the palace, which faces east, is a wondrous sight to behold. The walls made of black and white marbles are adorned with semi-precious stones and ornamented niches. Gardens, fountains, pillared terraces, and columns line its courtyards.

2. CITY PALACE

Built on the banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace in Udaipur is considered to be the largest royal complex in Rajasthan. The magnificent palace was built in the year 1559 by Maharana Uday Singh and served as the main seat of power, where the Maharanas lived and administered the kingdom from. Subsequently, the palace was made even more splendid by his successors, who added a number of structures to it. The Palace now has an assortment of Mahals, courtyards, pavilions, corridors, terraces, rooms and hanging gardens. There is a museum here as well that showcases some of the finest elements of Rajput arts and culture - from colourful paintings to the typical architecture found in Rajasthani palaces.

3. JAG MANDIR

Jagmandir is a palace built on an island on the Lake Pichola. Also called the ‘Lake Garden Palace’, the construction for this began in 1620 and was completed around 1652. The royal family used the palace as its summer resort and for hosting parties. Interestingly, Prince Khurram - later Emperor Shah Jahan - was given shelter here when he rebelled against his father Emperor Jahangir. The Palace had such an impact on Emperor Shah Jahan that it went on to become the inspiration for one of the most magnificent Wonders of the World, The Taj Mahal.

4. MONSOON PALACE

Situated just outside Udaipur, this 19th-century palace is built on top of Bansdara hills. Used as a monsoon palace and hunting lodge, its builder, Maharana Sajjan Singh, originally planned to make it an astronomical center. The plan was cancelled with Maharana Sajjan Singh's premature death. It is still an awe-inspiring sight on the Udaipur skyline and offers spectacular views of the city and the areas around.

5. AHAR MUSEUM

Ahar Museum is in close proximity to an impressive cluster of cenotaphs of the Maharanas of Mewar. The museum has a small, but rare collection of earthen pottery. You can also browse through sculptures and archaeological finds, a few dating back to 1700 BC. A 10th century metal figure of Buddha is a special attraction here.

6. JAGDISH TEMPLE

Dedicated to the preserver of the universe, Lord Vishnu; the Jagdish Temple is a grand and majestic structure that stands in the City Palace Complex of the breathtaking city of Udaipur in Rajasthan. Jagdish Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also known as Lord Laxmi Narayan and is reputed for being the most significant temple in the entire city of Udaipur. In fact, the gateway to this grand temple can be seen from the Bara Pol of the City Palace. Beautiful carvings, numerous appealing statues and an atmosphere of serenity make this place of worship an ideal choice for seekers of solace and faith.

7. FATEH SAGAR LAKE

This delightful lake, bordered by hills and woodlands, lies to the north of Lake Pichola. This artificial lake is connected to Lake Pichola by a canal. The lake houses the beautiful Nehru Island as well as an islet on which stands the Udaipur Solar Observatory. It was inaugurated by the Duke of Connaught and was initially called Connaught Bundh.

8. SAHELIYON KI BARI

Saheliyon Ki Bari is a majestic garden in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. It is also known as the Garden or the Courtyard of Maidens. As the name suggests, it was made for the maidens who accompanied the Princess after her marriage to Maharana Sangram Singh. The mesmerizing Saheliyon Ki Bari is located on the banks of the Fateh Sagar Lake in Udaipur. It has beautifully landscaped lush green lawns, canopied walking lanes and magnificent fountains. Most visitors think Saheliyon ki Bari is one of the best places in Udaipur to relax and rejuvenate with friends, family or even alone. The history, the traditional architecture and the regal vibe attract tourists from all over the world.

9. GULAB BAGH AND ZOO

Gulab Bagh (Sajjan Niwas Garden) is the largest garden in Udaipur. Spread over 100 acres, the garden proudly displays innumerable species of roses, from which it also gets its name. The mini zoo within the garden is a short walk away from the rose gardens. A very few numbers of species of animals are housed in this zoo including the wide-eyed owls and has enough places to visit within the vicinity like the toy train which is open to the kids and the adults.

10. BHARATIYA LOK KALA MANDAL

Dedicated to the study of folk art, culture, songs and festivals of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal is a cultural institution in Udaipur. Besides propagating folk culture, it also houses a museum that exhibits various artefacts of Rajasthani culture.

11. BAGORE KI HAVELI

Bagore-ki-Haveli is located by Lake Pichola, at Gangaur Ghat. Amar Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar, built it in the 18th century. The massive palace has over a hundred rooms that display costumes and modern art. The glass and mirrors in the interiors are structured in classical haveli style.

12. SHILPGRAM

Situated 7 kms west of Udaipur near Lake Fateh Sagar is the Centre's Shilpgram - the Rural Arts and Crafts Complex. Spread over 70 acres, and surrounded by the Aravallis, the Rural Arts and Crafts Complex has been conceived as a living museum to depict the lifestyles of the folk and tribal people of the west zone.

13. AMBRAI GHAT

Ambrai Ghat, also known as Manjhi Ghat Udaipur is one of the best and the most popular ghats in Udaipur. This place is filled with local people as well as tourists. In the early morning hours, you can find peace and solace with old citizens of Udaipur who do Yoga, bathe into lakes, and do several other activities. In the evening, you can enjoy the city lights and appreciate the detailed view of the Heritage Hotels like Lake Palace Udaipur, Jag Mandir, Shiv Niwas etc from the ghat.

14. VINTAGE CAR MUSEUM

Located just a few kilometers away from the magnificent City Palace Vintage Car Museum is an awesome place for automobile and car lovers.

Moving away from the grand forts, castles and pristine lakes that Udaipur is so well known for, the Vintage Car Museum makes an interesting diversion. The museum is a collection of a good many vintage automobile models used by the Mewar dynasty of Udaipur.

15. CRYSTAL GALLERY

Crystal gallery has a stunning collection of crystal artefacts and is the largest collection of crystal in the world. The gallery is located inside the Fateh Prakash Palace and was established by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877. He had ordered the crystal artefacts from Birmingham in 1877. However, by the time they were delivered, Maharana has passed away. 110 years later, in 1994, the artefacts were displayed in the gallery which has been open to the public ever since.