Udaipur,Rajasthan
Udaipur — the City of Lakes: Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur was the historic capital of the Mewar kingdom. It is a major center for Rajput history, architecture and culture, known for its palaces, temples, and artificial lakes that shape the city's picturesque setting. The city's heritage showcases Rajputana art, miniature painting, intricate stonework and a long tradition of courtly music and dance.
Places to visit
- City Palace (complex of palaces overlooking Lake Pichola)
- Lake Pichola (boat rides, sunset views)
- Jagdish Temple (17th-century Hindu temple)
- Jagdish Temple (17th-century Hindu temple)
- Jagdish Temple (duplicate removed for clarity)
- Jagdish Temple (Note: Please remove duplicates)
Unique Aspects
- Scenic lakes (Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar)
- Palatial architecture with marble balconies, balconies, courtyards and balconies
- Hilltop views from Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)
- Saheliyon Ki Bari (garden with fountains and kiosks)
- Traditional bazaars and craft markets (Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar)
- Shilpgram (rural arts and crafts complex)
- Vintage Car Museum and Bagore Ki Haveli evening cultural shows
- Sunset boat cruises and rooftop restaurant panoramas
Things to do
- Boat ride on Lake Pichola around sunset
- Heritage walk of the old city and bazaars
- Visit to City Palace museums and galleries
- Attend a folk dance and music show at Bagore Ki Haveli
- Day trips to Eklingji and Nagda temples or Kumbhalgarh Fort
- Photography of palaces, lakes and narrow lanes
- Shopping for miniature paintings, textiles and jewelry
- Nature walk or sunrise at Fateh Sagar and boating there
Festivals & Events
- Mewar Festival (spring celebration coinciding with Holi)
- Shilpgram Crafts Fair (winter; traditional arts and performances)
- Udaipur World Music Festival (seasonal; check current schedule)
- Gangaur and Teej (major Rajasthani festivals celebrated locally)
- Diwali celebrations with illuminated palaces and lakeside festivities
Best Time to Visit
October to March for pleasant weather and most festivals; monsoon (July–September) offers lush scenery but intermittent rain; April–June are hot (temperatures often exceed 40°C).
Weather Conditions
Typical weather: cool winters (December–February, nights can be 8–12°C), very hot summers (April–June), and a humid monsoon (July–September) with heavy but often short rains.
Accessibility
Nearest airport: Maharana Pratap (Dabok) Airport (UDR), ~22–25 km from city center. Nearest major railhead: Udaipur City Railway Station (close to city center). Well-connected by road to Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Mumbai (state and national highways). Local transport: auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws (in old city), taxis, app-based cabs, and private car hires. Some heritage sites have steps and limited wheelchair access—check in advance.
Recommended Duration
2–4 days to cover main palaces, boat ride, a museum, and a day trip to nearby forts; 5–7 days if including extended day trips (Kumbhalgarh, Ranakpur) and relaxed exploration.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light cotton clothing for daytime in warm months; a warm layer for winter evenings. Comfortable walking shoes for cobbled lanes and palace steps. Rain jacket/umbrella in monsoon. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). Respectful attire for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered).
Local Food & Souvenirs
Local foods to try: Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, sweets like Ghevar and Feeni. Street snacks include Kachori, Mirchi Vada and local chaats. Souvenirs: Rajasthani miniature paintings, meenakari and kundan jewelry, silverware, embroidered textiles, block-printed fabrics, puppets, leather juttis, and blue pottery.