Top Places to Visit in Udaipur

In the majestic land of Udaipur, where stories of royalty whisper through magnificent palaces and forts and the serene water of Lake Pichola speak oodles about the glorious history, you will find yourself completely enchanted. It is home to the famous Rajput ruler Maharana Pratap. Udaipur is like a painting beautifully painted with rich cultural traditions and architectural marvels. The city is dotted with architectural masterpieces. Popularly known as the ‘city of lakes’, and ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur echoes the sounds of the bygone era of raja-maharajas, adding a magical touch to travellers’ Udaipur tour experiences. 

Udaipur’s regal appeal, timeless beauty, and rich tapestry of culture and history will surely leave a lasting mark on your heart and mind. Here are the top places to visit in Udaipur that promise to exceed any traveller’s expectations! Make sure you include these places on your Udaipur tour itinerary.

The City Palace: Melody of history and marble

Step into the City Palace on the eastern bank of Lake Pichola and you will be swept off your feet by its magnificence. It boasts of architectural brilliance beautifully woven into Rajasthan’s regal history. Its mesmerizing facades, arches, domes, courtyards and balconies meticulously blend Rajput, European and Mughal styles of architecture. Its Crystal Gallery, Sheesh Mahal and Amar Vilas Palace are a visual delight. The City Palace Museum is a fascinating attraction with royal artefacts. Don’t miss the light and sound show at the City Palace! Located within the premises of the City Palace is the Fateh Prakash Palace, a heritage property now converted into a hotel. Within Fateh Prakash Palace is the Crystal Gallery which displays the largest private collection of crystals in the world. On your Udaipur tour itinerary, City Palace should be the first place to visit.

The Jagdish Temple: Culture weaved in craftsmanship

Located within the City Palace Complex, the Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, features intricately carved spires, pillars and sculptures beautifully reflecting Indo-Aryan architecture. It exhibits the amazing craftsmanship of the artisans. It was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651.

Lake Pichola: The romance of history and beauty

Enjoy a boat ride on alluring Lake Pichola, capturing the city’s skyline, and amazing views of nearby palaces and hills. The reflection of grey-blue mountains on it is a visual delight. This manmade freshwater lake was built by Maharana Pichhu Banjara in 1362. Adding fairy-tale charm to the Lake is the Jag Mandir located in its centre and known for its magnificent architecture and lovely gardens. Located in the middle of this lake is the stunning Lake Palace (made of white marble), converted into a heritage hotel. Visit the Ambrai ghat at the lake to get picture-perfect photographs. This lake is a sparkling gem of Udaipur tourism.

Jag Mandir: A fairytale castle-like Island

Take a boat ride to Jag Mandir, also known as the ‘Lake Garden Palace’, ideally located in the middle of Lake Pichola. It will win your heart with its exquisite architecture, detailed carvings on the façade, well-laid-out gardens and surrounding views. Its Gul Mahal is elaborately decorated and the dining experience at the terrace of Jag Mandir is superb. A wonderful light and sound show is also held at Jag Mandir occasionally and if you get a chance to watch it, don’t miss it. It is also known for its royal weddings. It was built by Maharana Amar Singh in 1551.

Saheliyon-ki-Bari: A tranquil retreat

Spend some quality time at this historic garden of Udaipur which is bestowed with gorgeous greenery, beautiful lotus pools, lovely fountains and exquisite marble pavilions with detailed carvings, and you will get rejuvenated to the hilt. Dating back to the 18th century, this garden oozes the splendour of the Mewar era. It was built by Rana Sangram Singh for his ladylove and his maidens. Let your Udaipur tour have an element of rejuvenation through a visit to this wonderful garden.

Fateh Sagar Lake: The majestic retreat

Featuring 3 wonderful islands with a park on one of them, Fateh Sagar Lake is a perfect retreat for a traveller. The largest island has been converted into Nehru Park, home to a zoo with a variety of birds and animals. This lake is the pride of Udaipur city. Enjoy a boat ride and capture mesmerizing views of the surroundings. It is an artificial lake made by Maharana Jai Singh in the 17th century.

Bagore ki Haveli: An architectural masterpiece

Located on the western edge of Gangaur Ghat, this majestic haveli was built in the 18th century by the Mewar prime minister. It is traditionally and ornately decorated with 138 rooms, some reflecting the beauty of the era when they were built while others showcase cultural displays, including the world’s biggest turban. Also, there is a gallery in the haveli which is dedicated to a collection of world-famous monuments carved out of polystyrene. Also, watch the bewitching Rajasthani Dharohar Folk dance that is held in the courtyard of the haveli in the evening.

Vintage Car Museum: Travel back in time

Offering a glimpse into the royalty of the era of raja-maharajas, the Vintage Car Museum houses a rich collection of vintage and classic cars of the Maharanas of Mewar, both past and present. Many vehicles here are more than 70 years old but restored and maintained very well. The car museum is located in the original former Mewar State Motor Garage. It is a classic attraction of any Udaipur tour itinerary.

Eklingji Temple Complex: Timeless beauty

Eklingji Temples Complex houses a collection of ancient and intricately carved temples- a complete architectural delight. A total of 108 temples are there in the complex, including the only temple of the Lakulish sect in India. It was built in the 8th century by ruler Bappa Rawal.

Kumbhalgarh Fort: Unparalleled Heritage

You will be amazed to see this fort’s fortification and the 36 km long external wall. It is the largest fort complex in the world and is known as the Great Wall of India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. It is located 80 km from Udaipur. Its defence was breached only once. Explore the interesting ruins of this historic and one of the most important forts of Rajasthan.

How to Reach Udaipur

Udaipur is easily accessible by air, rail and road as it is well connected to the major cities of India.

By Air: Udaipur has its domestic airport called Maharana Pratap Airport which is 22 km from the main city. Regular flights are available to the major cities of India such as Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Goa, Chennai, Chandigarh, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. The nearest international airport is in Jaipur, 402 km away. 

By Rail: The city of Udaipur has seven railway stations, connecting it to all the major cities of Rajasthan and India such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Delhi, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Patna, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Goa, Lucknow and many more. 

By Road: Udaipur is well connected to the major cities of Rajasthan and the country by road. Apart from driving down/cab, one can opt for luxury Volvo buses from Delhi and other cities are available to reach Udaipur.

Best time to Visit Udaipur

The most favourable time to visit Udaipur is winter (from October to February) as the weather remains pleasant. Summers (March to June) are quite hot here. 

Udaipur is full of attractions, however, the above-mentioned places to visit in Udaipur are truly amazing, adding unforgettable memories to one’s Udaipur tour.