Udaipur, India Travel Guide

Explore Udaipur, the City of Lakes, brimming with royal palaces, serene lakes, and vibrant culture. Discover Rajasthan’s jewel with its rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, Udaipur is a city that exudes romance and beauty. Known as the City of Lakes, it is surrounded by the serene waters of Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and others. The city is adorned with grand palaces, ancient temples, and charming old havelis, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. One of the main attractions is the City Palace, a sprawling complex on the banks of Lake Pichola. This architectural marvel offers stunning views of the lake and the city. The palace is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, with intricate peacock mosaics and beautiful marble work. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Jagdish Temple, an iconic 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. A boat ride on Lake Pichola is a must-do activity. It gives you a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and takes you to the picturesque Jag Mandir and the luxurious Taj Lake Palace, which seems to float on the water. For a panoramic view of Udaipur, head to the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, perched high on a hilltop and offering breathtaking sunset views. Udaipur is also a cultural hub, hosting vibrant festivals like the Mewar Festival and the Shilpgram Crafts Fair. The local markets, such as Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar, are brimming with colorful handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Don't forget to savor traditional Rajasthani cuisine, which includes delicacies like Dal Baati Churma and Gatte ki Sabzi. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Udaipur promises an unforgettable travel experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Udaipur.

Visit the City Palace early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Plan a boat ride on Lake Pichola during sunset for the best views.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the city has many cobbled streets and hills.
Try local Rajasthani cuisine at traditional eateries for an authentic experience.
Carry cash as many small shops and markets do not accept cards.
Hire a local guide to get insights and stories about the historical sites.

Explore Udaipur: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Udaipur

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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City Palace

Discover the grandeur of Udaipur's City Palace, a historical masterpiece that showcases Rajasthan's royal heritage and architectural splendor.

4.5

Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace

Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, a must-visit historical landmark in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

4.4

Shrinathji Temple

Discover the spiritual essence of Rajasthan at Shrinathji Temple, a celebrated Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Krishna, rich in culture and tradition.

4.7

Maharana Pratap Museum

Uncover the legacy of Maharana Pratap at this captivating museum, where history comes alive through artifacts and stories of valor.

4.5

Best landmarks in Udaipur

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City Palace

Discover the grandeur of Udaipur's City Palace, a historical marvel that showcases the majestic heritage of the Mewar dynasty.

4.5

Wax Museum Udaipur

Explore the fascinating Wax Museum Udaipur, where lifelike sculptures of legends and icons transport you through history and culture in a captivating setting.

4.7

Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace

Discover the splendid Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace in Udaipur, a historical gem offering stunning views and a glimpse into Rajasthan's royal heritage.

4.4

Jagdish Temple

Explore the exquisite Jagdish Temple, a majestic Hindu shrine in Udaipur's Old City, offering a serene atmosphere and stunning architecture.

4.7

Best restaurants in Udaipur

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Natraj Dining Hall And Restaurant

Experience authentic Rajasthani flavors at Natraj Dining Hall & Restaurant - A culinary gem in Udaipur offering diverse vegetarian delights.

4.3

Khamma Ghani Restaurant

Experience the essence of Rajasthani cuisine at Khamma Ghani Restaurant - where tradition meets flavor in Udaipur.

4.2

1559 AD

Discover exquisite fine dining at 1559 AD near Fateh Sagar Lake in Udaipur – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

4.6

Restaurant Harigarh

Discover the exquisite flavors of India and beyond at Restaurant Harigarh - Udaipur's must-visit culinary destination offering diverse dining experiences.

4.4

Best bars in Udaipur

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Rootage Restaurant And Bar Lounge

Discover the vibrant flavors of Udaipur at Rootage Restaurant And Bar Lounge, where fine dining meets a lively bar experience in a chic ambiance.

4.5

Twist Bar & Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Udaipur at Twist Bar & Lounge, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.

4.3

The Artist House, Udaipur

Experience the vibrant heart of Udaipur at The Artist House, where comfort meets cultural richness and nightlife thrives.

4.1

Hangout The Cocktail Room

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hangout The Cocktail Room in Udaipur, where exquisite cocktails meet live music in an inviting atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Udaipur

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GV'S 24 CLUB & BAR

Discover Udaipur's nightlife at GV'S 24 Club & Bar, where great music, delicious drinks, and an electric atmosphere await you.

4.6

Beyond Bar & Club | BB Club Udaipur

Discover Udaipur's nightlife at Beyond Bar & Club - a disco paradise with amazing music, drinks, and unforgettable moments.

4.1

THE LPK CLUB & RESORT

Discover the ultimate blend of nightlife and relaxation at THE LPK CLUB & RESORT in Udaipur, where every night is an unforgettable experience.

4.5

R Adda Udaipur

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Udaipur at R Adda, where electrifying music and great ambiance create unforgettable moments.

4.5

Best shops in Udaipur

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Bada Bazaar

Discover the vibrant Bada Bazaar in Udaipur, a bustling market filled with traditional crafts, local delicacies, and a lively atmosphere that reflects Rajasthani culture.

4.1

Bapu Bazaar Shopping Street, Udaipur

Discover the colors, crafts, and culinary delights of Bapu Bazaar, Udaipur's premier shopping destination.

4.2

Sona Photo Gifts - Best Gift Shop/Photo Print Shop/T-Shirt Printing Shop/Photo Frame Shop/Customized Gift Shop

Discover unique personalized gifts and keepsakes at Sona Photo Gifts in Udaipur, where creativity meets quality craftsmanship.

5.0

Novelty NX A Unit of Novelty store - Best Bridal Jewellery in Udaipur best artificial jewellery in udaipur

Explore the finest bridal jewellery and stunning artificial pieces at Novelty NX, Udaipur's top destination for exquisite adornments.

4.9

Explore Udaipur on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Udaipur, mapped for you.

Udaipur Essentials

Udaipur is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Maharana Pratap Airport, located about 22 kilometers from the city center, has regular flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Udaipur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai. For those traveling by road, Udaipur is accessible via National Highway 8, and there are regular bus services from cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad.
Within Udaipur, you have several transportation options. Auto-rickshaws are a popular and convenient way to get around. Taxis and app-based cab services like Uber and Ola are also available. For a more local experience, you can hire a bicycle or a scooter. Public buses operate within the city, but they can be crowded and less frequent. For shorter distances, walking is an enjoyable way to explore the city's narrow lanes and bustling markets.
The official currency in Udaipur is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and market purchases. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. It is also a good idea to have smaller denominations for convenience.
Udaipur is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's important to remain cautious. Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places like markets and tourist sites. Be wary of touts and overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Areas around the railway station and bus stands can be hotspots for petty crime targeting tourists.
In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for fire services, and 102 for medical emergencies. The Maharana Bhupal Government Hospital and several private hospitals provide medical care. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Keep a copy of your important documents and local emergency contacts handy.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering temples and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' (hands pressed together) or a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Udaipur like a local, visit the local markets such as Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar for traditional Rajasthani crafts and souvenirs. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's rich history and culture. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola for stunning views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir. Don't miss a traditional Rajasthani meal at a local eatery, and try the famous 'dal baati churma'.

When is the best time to visit Udaipur?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Udaipur

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Udaipur. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्कार
  [namaskar]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alvida]
- Yesहां
  [haan]
- Noनहीं
  [nahi]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyavaad]
- Excuse me/Sorryक्षमा कीजिए
  [kshama keejiye]
- How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [aap kaise hain?]
- Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। आप?
  [thik hoon. aap?]
- Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं?
  [kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
- I don't understandमुझे समझ नहीं आया
  [mujhe samajh nahi aaya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेन्यू दिखाइए
  [krupaya menu dikhaiye]
- I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [main maans nahi khaata]
- Cheers!चियर्स!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मैं भुगतान करना चाहूँ
  [krupaya main bhugtan karna chaahoon]
- Help!बचाओ!
  [bachao!]
- Go away!चले जाओ!
  [chale jao!]
- Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [police ko bulaao!]
- Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [doctor ko bulaao!]
- I'm lostमैं खो गया/गई हूँ
  [main kho gaya/gayi hoon]
- I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [mujhe bimari hai]
- I'd like to buy...मैं ... खरीदना चाहता/चाहती हूँ
  [main ... khareedna chahta/chahti hoon]
- I'm just lookingमैं सिर्फ देख रहा/रही हूँ
  [main sirf dekh raha/rahi hoon]
- How much is it?यह कितने का है?
  [yah kitne ka hai?]
- That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [yah bahut mahanga hai]
- Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [ab kitne baje hain?]
- It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [ek baje hain]
- Half past (10)दस बजे तक
  [das baje tak]
- Morningसुबह
  [subah]
- Afternoonदोपहर
  [dopahar]
- Eveningशाम
  [shaam]
- Yesterdayकल
  [kal]
- Todayआज
  [aaj]
- Tomorrowकल
  [kal]
- 1एक
  [ek]
- 2दो
  [do]
- 3तीन
  [teen]
- 4चार
  [chaar]
- 5पाँच
  [paanch]
- 6छः
  [chhah]
- 7सात
  [saat]
- 8आठ
  [aath]
- 9नौ
  [nau]
- 10दस
  [das]
- Where's a/the...?... कहाँ है?
  [... kahan hai?]
- What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [pata kya hai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [agli (bas) kab hai?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (.... के लिए)
  [ek ticket (... ke liye)]

History of Udaipur

Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the capital of the Mewar Kingdom. Legend has it that Udai Singh II came across a hermit while hunting in the Aravalli Hills who advised him to establish a city at that spot to ensure prosperity. Following this advice, the city of Udaipur was born, nestled beside the beautiful Lake Pichola.
One of the most significant historical events associated with Udaipur is the Battle of Haldighati, fought in 1576. This fierce battle was between Maharana Pratap of Mewar and the Mughal army led by Man Singh I of Amber. Although the battle was indecisive, it is remembered for Maharana Pratap's bravery and the valor of his horse, Chetak.
The construction of the magnificent City Palace, which stands on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, began in 1559 under Maharana Udai Singh II. Over the centuries, subsequent Maharanas added to this architectural marvel, resulting in a sprawling complex that showcases a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. It is one of the largest palace complexes in Rajasthan.
Lake Pichola, an artificial freshwater lake, was created in 1362 AD by a Banjara tribesman. The lake and its islands, including Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir, are central to Udaipur's identity. Jag Niwas, now the luxurious Taj Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir, known for its impressive architecture, both have historical significance and have hosted various events and dignitaries over the centuries.
During the British Raj, Udaipur maintained its status as a princely state under the suzerainty of the British Crown. The relationship with the British was largely cooperative, and Udaipur saw various modernizations during this period, including the development of infrastructure such as railways and educational institutions.
After India gained independence in 1947, Udaipur merged with the Indian Union. The city transitioned from being the capital of the princely state of Mewar to becoming a part of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Despite these changes, Udaipur has retained its royal heritage and continues to be a prominent cultural and tourist hub.