India’s diverse landscape offers stunning destinations year-round, with Udaipur standing out as a winter gem. Known as the “City of Lakes,” it captivates visitors with its breath-taking lakes, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM on a journey through Udaipur’s must-visit spots, famous lakes, and top hotels to make the most of your trip.

Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur attracts travellers with its serene landscapes, royal architecture, and vibrant markets. Its temples, forts, and museums add to its historical charm, while stunning lakes like Pichola and Fateh Sagar enhance its beauty, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture.

1. Fateh Sagar Lake – Udaipur being the “City of Lakes,” never has water shortage throughout the year, and this comes as a blessing in Rajasthan which is rhetorically considered having a dry land scape. 

THINGS TO DO

• Water activities like motor boating and slow boating.
• Have amazing street food on the area around the lake.     

2. Sajjangarh fort- Maharana Sajjan Singh of Mewar Dynasty commissioned the fort. In current days it is also called the “Monsoon Palace.” It is a beautiful white coloured palace, and its true beauty is seen in the monsoon months. The palace in around 10 kms away from the centre of Udaipur.

THINGS TO REMEMBER

• The palace is at a height from the main city, and you can use six-seater private vehicle to reach the palace.
• There is a checkpoint where people need to get tickets.
• There are government run vehicles that will take you to the palace from the checkpoint.
• The landscape is hilly. Therefore, it is suggested to take local drivers.
• The palace is open from 9am to 5pm only.
• Stay safe from the monkeys.

THINGS TO DO-

• Visit the shop near the palace which sells local souvenirs.
• Enjoy the view and have food at the café near the palace.

3. Sahelliyon ki Baadi – ‘Garden of Maidens’ 

It is a beautiful garden that is in the northern part of the city and has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants. 

This garden was laid for a group of 48 maidens by Maharana Sangram Singh for royal ladies who accompanied the queen after marriage to Udaipur.

THINGS TO DO-

• Explore the beautiful garden and the amazing architecture.
• Visit the museum inside the garden to know more about the history.
• Just outside the ticket counter you can have amazing street food, chai, and of course Mewari Kulfi. 

4. Karni mata Mandir –This is a Hindu temple in Udaipur, Rajasthan, and Doodh Talai Lake which offers breath-taking views of the city. It is located on the Machla Magra Hills near the Din Dayal Upadhyaya Park, which is at a perfect height of 150 meters and may be reached via 1050 stairs from Maniklal Verma Park leading straight up to the temple or a four-minute ropeway ride. 

THINGS TO DO-

• Experience a breath-taking view of the city by taking the ticket for Karni Mata Ropeway. 
• Visit the temple between 4am to 9pm. 

5. Lake Pichola- (one amongst the best lakes)

Artificial freshwater lake located in Udaipur, which was created in the 14th century. It spans approximately 4 square kilometres and is surrounded by picturesque hills, temples, palaces, and Ghats. The lake is famous for its serene beauty and its reflection of the historic City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Lake Palace, which appears to float on its waters. 

THINGS TO DO-

• Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, offering stunning views of Udaipur’s architectural marvels. 
• Water activities in the Pichola Lake also attracts the visitors. 

6. Jagmandir Island Palace-

This is one of the best hotels located on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the 16th century, it was initially conceived as a retreat for Maharana Jagat Singh I. The palace features exquisite marble and sandstone architecture, with beautiful courtyards, gardens, and intricate carvings. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of royal grandeur.

THINGS TO DO-

• Boat Ride: Visitors enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola, offering breath-taking views of Jag Mandir Palace and the surrounding landscape.
• Explore the Palace: visitors can Wander through the elegant courtyards, beautiful gardens, and marvel at the intricate architecture and carvings of the palace.
• Photography: it is the place for all the photograph lovers as Capturing stunning views of the palace, lake, and the City Palace in the background give the best captures and memories.

7. City Palace – The City Palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan, is a majestic complex that blends Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. Built over nearly 400 years by successive Maharanas, it stands as one of India’s largest royal residences. The palace is adorned with intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and expansive courtyards. With its grandeur and historic significance, the City Palace remains a symbol of Udaipur’s royal heritage and cultural richness.

THINGS TO DO

• Explore the Museums and visit crystal gallery – Tourists can visit the various museums showcasing royal artefacts, artwork, and historic memorabilia from Udaipur’s royal family. The city palace is a home to world’s largest collection of crystal ware, which includes royal furniture, chandeliers and glass artefacts. 
• Stroll through Courtyards, gardens and take a heritage walk- Visitors can wander through the palace’s beautiful courtyards, balconies, and lush gardens, taking in the architectural splendour. A heritage walk can be very interesting for people who are keen to learn about the rich history and culture of the palace through guided tours. 
• Attend Cultural Performances- Some evenings feature folk dances and cultural performances within the palace grounds which is an engaging activity for tourists who want to learn and experience the Rajasthani culture.

1. Hathi pole market – This market located in the city is the home to all kinds of Rajasthani products including Jutis, cotton dresses, bags, handicrafts and so much more. The market is open from 11 am to 9pm and if you are in Udaipur, Hathipol is a must visit. 

2. Vintage Car collection- Located on the Gulab Bagh Road, this luxury and grandiose lived and managed by the royal families of Udaipur is worth visiting. The museum showcases some of the most exquisite collection of royal antique cars which make it a heritage site, which is worth exploring. 

EATERIES THAT CAN’T GO WRONG

1. Khamma Ghani Restaurant– One of the best fine dining destinations, this place offers a wide variety of dishes. This restaurant is a perfect place for experiencing the beautiful lakeside view as it is located near rang Sagar Lake in Udaipur.  It offers a wide variety of delicious flavours such as continental (Veg. & Non Veg.), Traditional Indian, Chinese and much more with an exotic range of mocktails all under one roof with a soothing environment.

2. Tribute Udaipur – Located in the heart of Udaipur, Tribute offers a dining experience that blends royal heritage with modern elegance. Overlooking Lake Pichola and the City Palace, its serene ambiance, soft lighting, and lush greenery create the perfect setting for a memorable meal. The menu features authentic Rajasthani delicacies like laal maas, dal baati churma, and gatte ki sabzi, each dish celebrating the region’s rich flavours. With impeccable service and a picturesque view, Tribute promises a feast for both the senses and the soul.

3. Millets of Mewar– Millets of Mewar is a must-visit eatery that has gained popularity online for its unique and inclusive dining experience. As the name suggests, the restaurant specializes in millet-based dishes, offering a healthy alternative to traditional meals. From millet grain pizzas to millet vegetable biryani, every dish is gluten-free, free from artificial colouring, heavy spices, and excess oil, ensuring both taste and nutrition. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just looking for a delicious, guilt-free meal, Millets of Mewar promises a flavourful experience that celebrates the essence of Mewar in every bite.

TRAVELLING AND COMMUTING OPTIONS-  

Travelling to Udaipur is easy as the railways, airways and roadways are connected directly to many towns and cities of India.

• The airport is an hour drive from the Udaipur city hence road or rail is a preferable route to take. 
• Commuting within the city is also easy with availability of Ola and uber taxis. Along with that local transportation like buses, E-rickshaws and autos are also available. 

CONCLUSION

Your trip to Udaipur will be an unforgettable experience, filled with rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and tranquil beauty. The food, the spaces will all offer you a glimpse into the grandeur of Rajasthan’s Royal history and let you live few days like a royal. To conclude, this trip for you will be a true escape into the heart of Rajasthan and you will look forward to returning one day.