UDAIPUR
Udaipur is the City of Lakes, a mesmerizing jewel of Rajasthan famous for its grand palaces, reflective waters, and rich Rajput history. It’s a city of romance and artistry, framed by the Aravalli Hills.
This destination offers an exquisite blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor, making it a cultural heartland. Its timeless elegance is defined by majestic lakeside views and bustling bazaars.
Most Popular Attractions
Historic Lakeside Palaces & Havelis
City Palace: A majestic complex of interconnected palaces offering stunning views of Lake Pichola and the city.
Lake Pichola: The iconic artificial lake, famous for its picturesque islands and serene boat rides.
Jag Mandir Palace: A beautiful island palace in Lake Pichola, where Prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jahan) once took refuge.
Jagdish Temple: A grand 17th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings.
Taj Lake Palace (Jag Niwas): The stunning former summer palace, now a luxury hotel, appearing to float on the waters of Lake Pichola.
Bagore Ki Haveli: A historic haveli on the water’s edge of Lake Pichola, famous for its daily traditional dance performances.
Sajjan Garh (Monsoon Palace): A hilltop royal residence offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding lakes, especially beautiful at sunset.
Fateh Sagar Lake: Another major lake in the city, known for its three small islands and clear blue waters.
Saheliyon Ki Bari: A beautiful garden of the maids of honor, noted for its fountains, marble art, and kiosks.
Dudh Talai: A small, charming pond adjacent to Lake Pichola, offering a cable car ride to the Machla Magra Hill.
Ahar Cenotaphs: A royal cremation ground with a group of dome-shaped cenotaphs dedicated to the Mewar rulers.
Cultural & Artistic Sites
Shilpgram: A rural arts and crafts complex showcasing the traditional village life, architecture, and crafts of Rajasthan and other western states.
Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO): Situated on an island in Fateh Sagar Lake, it’s one of Asia’s premier solar observing sites.
Vintage and Classic Car Museum: A private collection of stunning antique cars once owned by the Maharana of Udaipur.
Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal: A cultural institution dedicated to studying and promoting folk art, culture, drama, and music.
Maharana Pratap Memorial: A hilltop memorial dedicated to the legendary Rajput warrior Maharana Pratap and his horse, Chetak.
Local Markets & Modern Leisure
Hathi Pol Bazaar: A bustling market famous for its traditional Rajasthani miniature paintings, handicrafts, and colorful textiles.
Bada Bazaar: The main shopping area, known for its jewelry, leather goods, and a variety of local products.
Ambrai Ghat: A popular riverbank area offering one of the best nighttime views of the City Palace and Lake Palace.
Ganguar Ghat: A vibrant ghat on the shores of Lake Pichola, often the site of local festivals and ceremonies.
Pichola Lake Boat Ride: An essential experience to view the lakeside palaces and ghats from the water.
Sukhadia Circle: A large, popular traffic circle and recreational spot with a fountain in the center of Fateh Sagar Lake.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Boat Ride on Lake Pichola: Experience the ultimate Udaipur view with a sunset cruise, gliding past the City Palace and the iconic Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) islands.
Witness the Dharohar Folk Dance Show: Attend an evening cultural performance at the Bagore Ki Haveli, which features traditional Rajasthani dances, puppet shows, and colourful costumes.
Explore the City Palace Complex: Spend several hours wandering through the interconnected palaces, courtyards, and gardens of this magnificent structure, which offers breathtaking views of the lake.
Visit the Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh): Drive up to this hilltop palace for a spectacular panoramic view of the city, its lakes, and the Aravalli mountains, especially stunning at sunset.
Wander the Old City’s Lanes: Get lost in the narrow, winding streets of the old town, discovering hidden havelis (traditional mansions), bustling markets, and artisan shops selling miniatures and leather goods.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic Mewari and Rajasthani dishes like Dal Baati Churma or Gatte ki Sabzi from a local family or chef.
Hike to the Karni Mata Temple: Take the cable car or climb the steps to this temple on the Machla Magra hill for magnificent views over Lake Pichola, the City Palace, and the surrounding area.
Shop for Miniature Paintings: Udaipur is famous for its intricate miniature paintings. Visit a workshop to see the artists at work and buy an authentic piece.
Go on a Local Food Tour: Sample the street food staples of the region, such as Mirchi Bada (spicy potato fritters), Kachoris, and local sweets at a lively market.
Attend a Hindu Aarti Ceremony at Jagdish Temple: Experience the evening religious rituals, music, and devotional atmosphere at this large, centrally located 17th-century temple.
Visit Shilpgram (Rural Arts & Crafts Complex): Explore this traditional craft village to see the rural life and cultural heritage of Rajasthan, especially during the annual Shilpgram Festival (late December).
Local Tips & Transport
Auto-Rickshaws and Taxis: Auto-rickshaws are the most common and convenient way to travel within the city. Always agree on the fare (or insist on using a meter) before starting your journey, as they often quote inflated prices to tourists. Ride-sharing apps are also increasingly available.
Walking is Enjoyable: The area around the City Palace, Lake Pichola, and the main old city bazaars is best explored on foot. Many roads are too narrow for cars, and walking allows you to discover hidden courtyards and shops.
Renting a Scooter/Motorcycle: For greater independence, especially if you plan to visit Sajjangarh Fort or nearby areas, renting a scooter is a popular and affordable option. Ensure you have an international driving permit and are comfortable navigating heavy traffic.
Cabs for Outstation/Airport: For travel to the airport or a day trip to surrounding areas like Kumbhalgarh Fort or Ranakpur Temple, it’s best to hire a pre-paid taxi or a driver for the day. Udaipur Airport (UDR) is about a 45-minute drive from the city center.
Dining on the Lakes: Udaipur is famous for its rooftop restaurants with lake views. While romantic, these spots can be pricey. For more authentic and budget-friendly meals, look for small, non-view restaurants in the old city lanes.
Respecting Dress Codes: When visiting temples, the City Palace, or other religious sites, it is respectful to dress conservatively. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Footwear must be removed before entering any temple.
The Udaipur Scams: Be wary of seemingly helpful individuals who may try to steer you into specific, overpriced shops or tours, particularly around the City Palace or Jagdish Temple. Politely but firmly decline. Trust the government-approved ticket counters and guides.
Art and Handicrafts: Udaipur is a hub for high-quality miniature paintings, jewellery, and traditional leather goods. Always be prepared to bargain politely in the street markets and smaller shops, but be respectful of the quoted price in government-run emporiums.
Hidden Gems:
- Ambrai Ghat: Located across Lake Pichola from the City Palace, this ghat offers the most photogenic sunset and evening view of the illuminated palace and the Lake Palace.
- Fateh Sagar Lake: A beautiful, slightly less-crowded alternative to Lake Pichola, known for the three small islands, including Nehru Park. It’s a great spot for a relaxed morning stroll.
- Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the Maidens): A peaceful and exquisitely maintained royal garden featuring fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants, offering a quiet escape from the city bustle.
Mewari Hospitality: The local culture, especially in Mewar (the region of Udaipur), is known for its warm and genuine hospitality. A simple “Namaste” (traditional greeting) goes a long way.
Monsoon vs. Winter: The winter months (October to March) are the most pleasant time to visit. However, the monsoon season (July to September) transforms the city, as the lakes fill up and the Aravalli hills turn lush green, offering a unique, beautiful experience.
Top Restaurants
Natraj Dining Hall & Restaurant [$5-$12] – Famous for its traditional, unlimited Rajasthani and Gujarati Thali, offering a true local dining experience with fast service.
Millets of Mewar [$8-$15] – A favorite for its healthy, authentic Rajasthani, Indian, and fusion dishes made with millets, offering a nutritious take on local cuisine.
Gordhan Thal Restaurant [$10-$18] – A highly-regarded spot for an authentic Rajasthani welcome and a traditional, grand ‘Thali’ meal, offering excellent food and service.
Khamma Ghani Restaurant [$12-$20] – Located on the edge of Rang Sagar lake, this restaurant offers a lovely garden setting and traditional Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine.
Jheel’s Rooftop Café [$10-$20] – Known for its lovely views over Lake Pichola and the old city, this is a popular spot for casual dining with Indian and Continental options.
Santosh Bhojnalaya & Restaurant [$5-$10] – A budget-friendly, local favorite offering simple, good quality Indian food, especially known for its filling meals.
Pick & Move Kabab Corner [$8-$15] – A good local choice for non-vegetarian North Indian and Mughlai dishes, particularly their kebab platters.
The Rising Restaurant [$10-$18] – Offers a good value for money with a variety of North Indian and Chinese dishes in a well-decorated setting with a sweet-winded rooftop.
Pandit Ji Ka Paratha [$5-$10] – A well-regarded spot known for its affordable, hygienic, and home-style Parathas (Indian flatbread).
Shree Ganesh Bhojnalaya Dal Bati & Restaurant [$5-$10] – Specializes in the iconic Rajasthani dish, Dal Bati Churma, a must-try for local cuisine.
Charcoal by Carlsson [$15-$30] – A trendy spot with a rooftop that specializes in barbecue meats, wood-fired pizzas, and grilled fare with a modern, funky twist.
Nyoto – Interpretive Indian Cuisine [$20-$40] – Offers a modern and inventive take on classic Indian cuisine, focusing on presentation and fusion of flavors.
Poppy by Royal Repast | Heritage Kitchen & Bar [$20-$35] – Blends modern dining with a heritage setting, offering a menu that mixes Italian and Asian flavors.
Hari Vedas [$15-$30] – A restaurant focused on vegetarian and plant-based dishes with a modern presentation and fair pricing.
The Pot Garden [$15-$25] – Offers a focus on healthy food and Continental cuisine in a lovely garden setting, providing a quiet, relaxed atmosphere.
Aosa – Bakehouse & Roastery [$10-$20] – A unique spot combining a bakehouse and roastery, specializing in American and Continental fare, great for brunch or a casual meal.
Tapri [$10-$20] – A popular cafe-style spot known for its wide variety of teas and quick bites, offering a modern, casual place for friends.
O’Brew [$10-$20] – A restaurant/bar with a youthful vibe, known for its beverages and a menu that includes Mexican influences.
Jaipur Jungle [$15-$25] – A theme restaurant with an appealing ambiance and music, serving multi-cuisine food like North Indian, ideal for a fun outing.
Savage Garden [$15-$30] – A cozy rooftop restaurant that offers a mix of Italian, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine with a view of Lake Pichola.
Syah [$60-$100] – Situated atop Udai Kothi, this fine dining experience focuses on an innovative chef’s tasting menu, using locally sourced produce with superb panoramic city views.
Mewar by Vineet [$70-$120] – A refined Indian dining experience at The Oberoi Udaivilas, with views of the garden and lake, offering a gourmet take on local and regional cuisine.
Palkikhana by Shiv Niwas Palace [$30-$50] – Located in the City Palace Complex, this is an elegant spot for Indian and Continental cuisine with a royal ambiance.
Sunset Terrace [$35-$60] – Located at Fateh Prakash Palace, this offers a royal dining experience with spectacular sunset views, perfect for a romantic evening.
Padmini-The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace [$40-$70] – A grand dining experience at the palace hotel, serving North Indian and Rajasthani cuisine with an opulent setting.
The Whistling Teal Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers a beautiful dining setting with multi-cuisine options, well-regarded for its quality and ambiance.
Enigma Fine Dine [$30-$50] – Located near Oberoi Udaivillas, this is a refined dining option known for its elegant setting and multi-cuisine menu.
Suryamahal [$70-$120] – The all-day dining restaurant at The Oberoi Udaivilas, offering international cuisine in a stunning setting with lake views.
Darikhana By Jagmandir [$40-$70] – Located on the Jagmandir Island Palace, offering a unique dining experience in the middle of Lake Pichola.
Tribute Restaurant [$20-$40] – A beautiful lakeside dining spot with horse-themed decor, offering Indian, Asian, and global dishes with a focus on non-vegetarian Rajasthani food.
Ambrai at Amet Haveli [$25-$45] – Highly popular for its iconic, unobstructed lakeside views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir, offering Indian and Continental cuisine. Note: Can be touristy, but the view is truly worth it.
Ghati Pe [$20-$35] – Offers a unique lake-view dining experience with a multi-cuisine menu, providing a memorable spot for special occasions.
The Artist House [$10-$20] – A unique cafe space, often hosting events and known for its creative atmosphere alongside its multi-cuisine menu.
Mr. & Mrs. Idly [$5-$10] – A specific option for high-quality, authentic South Indian food, offering a pleasant change of pace from North Indian and Rajasthani cuisine.
Sankalp [$10-$18] – Part of a popular chain specializing in authentic South Indian food, especially its variety of dosas.
Vegetrainian – The Train Restaurant [$10-$20] – A novel dining concept where the restaurant is themed and decorated like a train, serving pure vegetarian North Indian and Chinese food.
El Parador [$15-$30] – Offers a blend of International and Indian dishes, often highlighted for its unique ambiance and cozy setting.
The Blue Moon [$15-$30] – Known for its scenic location and diverse menu, offering a casual, comfortable dining spot for various cuisines.
Oladar House [$15-$30] – A family-friendly restaurant with a regal, traditional interior and a menu of Indian cuisine.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Upre by 1559 AD: Perched on the terrace of the Lake Pichola Hotel, this iconic spot offers stunning, romantic views of Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, and the City Palace, with a menu of signature cocktails and sophisticated dining.
Ambrai Restaurant (Amet Haveli): A captivating al-fresco dining experience right on the banks of Lake Pichola, offering some of the best unobstructed views of the City Palace. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and well-curated drinks selection.
Baro Masi by Udai Kothi: Located on the rooftop of the Udai Kothi boutique hotel near Hanuman Ghat, this chic bar is known for its spectacular sunset cocktails, creative mixology (try the ‘Kothi Cup’), and a glass floor section above the pool.
Library Bar (The Leela Palace): An intimate, opulent lounge bar inside The Leela Palace, featuring dark wood paneling and a fine collection of spirits, vintage wines, and classic and contemporary cocktails, exuding an old-world regal charm.
Taro Sky Bar & Lounge (Parallel Hotel): A sophisticated venue often mentioned for its special curated cocktails and an aesthetic ambiance, located on Saheli Marg in the Polo Ground area.
Panera Bar (Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel): Found within the majestic City Palace Complex, this bar boasts a regal ambiance with ornate décor, plush sofas, and royal portraits, offering a fine selection of exclusive beverages and cocktails.
Jannat Rooftop Bar (Hotel Hilltop Palace): Located atop Hotel Hilltop Palace on Ambavgarh Hill, this bar provides sweeping, ultimate views of Fateh Sagar Lake and the cityscape, perfect for a sundowner with affordable cocktails.
Harbour Bar (Hotel Inder Residency): A sophisticated bar designed like a ship’s harbor inside Hotel Inder Residency, offering a classy interior and a comprehensive menu of cocktails and liquors.
Sangria Bar & Rooftop Lounge (Swaroop Vilas): A groovy, open-air bar near Swaroop Sagar Lake known for its vibrant atmosphere, lakeside views, and an in-house mixologist crafting tempting cocktails.
Bougainvillea Terrace by the Lake (Lake End Hotel): A leafy, spacious, and architecturally-designed lounge on the shore of Fateh Sagar Lake, ideal for a sophisticated sundowner with a concise but well-selected drinks menu.
Aangan Terrace Bar (Near Fateh Sagar Lake): Offers a rich Rajasthani cultural experience with folk performances alongside delectable food and a choice of drinks, located near Fateh Sagar.
Picholi Bar (Jagmandir Island): Accessible by boat, this bar on Jagmandir Island in Lake Pichola offers royal vibes and an unparalleled perspective for enjoying fine wines and beers while looking across to the City Palace.
Qalaa – Art Bar & Coffee House (Bloom Boutique): A hidden treasure in a 190-year-old heritage property near Lake Pichola, known for its impressive cocktails and bohemian, artistic decor.
The Sunset Terrace (Fateh Prakash Palace): Located within the palace complex, this spot offers one of the best views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace, making it a perfect spot for classic cocktails and witnessing the sunset.
Hook and Irons Café and Bar: A centrally located venue with an elegant bar setup, known for its right mix of music, ambiance, and a fantastic bevy of brews and cocktails.
Vegas 69 Bar & Restro: Described as one of the best clubs in Udaipur, offering an awesome ambiance, great music, and a rocking crowd, making it a fantastic place for a lively party.
Club Elrow Udaipur: Known for having a great atmosphere and amazing music, with friendly staff, suggesting a high-energy environment for dancing and a fun night out.
The Lounge at The Artist House: Located in a converted theater building, this is a fashionable hangout that attracts a hip, youthful crowd, often hosting DJs on Friday and Saturday nights, making it a prime party spot.
Brewz Rock Café: An energetic rock restro bar (often functioning as a club) known for its loud music, colorful disco lights, and hosting events like DJ nights and Retro Bollywood Nights, particularly popular with a young crowd.
Twist Lounge & Bar: A lively spot in the city where you can sit around the bar and enjoy Live Music Sessions or DJ sets, known for its vibrant, fun atmosphere.
Bamboo Beats: A pub and disco hybrid that brings alive the nightlife in an amazing manner, featuring multi-colored laser lights, smoke-covered floors, and groovy Bollywood and Hollywood numbers for dancing.
Volcano Retro & Disc: Counts among the top hangout places to chillax and shake a leg once the sun goes down, featuring contemporary décor and comfortable seating.
LPK Club (Love Passion Karma Club): Associated with The Love Passion Karma Club And Resort, offering a club setting with multi-cuisine options and a lively party atmosphere.