Udaipur
Nicknamed the "City of Lakes," Udaipur is a mesmerizing city in Rajasthan, India. [1]. It is the historical capital of Mewar in the old Rajputana Agency. It was constructed in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Rajput Sisodia line, who relocated his capital from Chittorgarh to Udaipur after Akbar besieged the city.
Maharana Udai Singh II and his succeeding Maharanas erected the City Palace concurrently with the construction of the city of Udaipur during the next 400 years. The Maharanas lived and administered their kingdom from this palace, making it a notable historical landmark.
Culture Most Rajasthani[2] people are vegetarians. The people of Udaipur are very friendly. Ghagra choli is the traditional outfit of the Rajasthani women, and Kurta dhoti is the traditional attire of the men's outfit.
Climate Owing to its location in Rajasthan's desert region, Udaipur experiences hot weather most of the time. Mid-March to June is considered the summer season, with temperatures ranging from 23 °C (73 °F) to 44 °C (111 °F) during that time. July is when the monsoon season arrives, accompanied by dust storms and thunderstorms.
Winters October through March are pleasant and agreeable months. During this time, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C.
Summers Between 28.8°C and 38.3°C is the range of air temperature during the summer[3]. Weather: The summertime in Udaipur is as hot as it gets in the rest of Rajasthan. The air becomes unbearably uncomfortable as temperatures soar above forty degrees.
Monsoons Rainfall in Udaipur occurs from June to September, providing much-needed relief from the heat and a verdant landscape. As lakes like Fatehsagar[4] and Pichola fill up, the natural beauty is enhanced. Although a lot of rain can cause waterlogging, the season is generally regarded favorably because of its beneficial effects on the environment.
How to reach
By car
| Destination | Distance from Udaipur (km) |
|---|---|
| Sawai Madhopur/Ranthambore | 638 |
| Delhi | 676 |
| Mumbai | 725 |
| Ajmer | 307 |
| Ahmedabad | 257 |
| Jodhpur | 260 |
| Bikaner | 488 |
By plane Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR), popularly referred to as Dabok Airport is located 25 kilometers northeast of the city center of Udaipur. Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo are just a few of the airlines that offer regular flights from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai to the airport. Travelers have several transportation options upon arrival at the airport. Taxis are readily available at the prepaid taxi booth, offering convenient transfers to the city at a cost of ₹650. Also, two buses run daily to ferry passengers back and forth between Udaipur City and Maharana Pratap Airport, Dabok.
NON-AC BUS Departure Timings
Driver Name: Om Prakash Contact No.: 9462437443, 0294-2944445
| CHETAK PAHADA BUS STAND | MAHARANA PRATAP AIRPORT |
|---|---|
| 6:00 am | 8:30 pm |
| 11:40 am | 1:30 pm |
| 3:00 pm | 4:30 pm |
| 6:00 pm | 7:10 pm |
AC BUS Departure Timings
Driver Name: Laxman Singh Contact No.: 81071 03240, 0294-2944445
| CHETAK PAHADA BUS STAND | MAHARANA PRATAP AIRPORT |
|---|---|
| 6:10 am | 8:35 am |
| 12:50 pm | 3:25 pm |
| 5:00 pm | 7:30 pm |
The bus running between Chetak and Maharana Pratap Airport stops at Delhi Gate, Surajpol, Thokar Chauraha, Debari and Dabok.
By bus
| Destination | Travel Time | Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Abu | 5 hours | ₹100 |
| Agra | 6 hours | ₹120 |
| Ahmedabad | 6 hours | ₹200 |
| Jodhpur | 8 hours | ₹125 |
| Ranakpur | 3 hours | ₹85 |
| Ajmer | 8 hours | ₹150 |
| Jaipur | 9 hours | ₹200 |
| Delhi | 14 hours | ₹420 |
| Mumbai (sleeper) | 16 hours | ₹600 |
| Mumbai (seat) | 16 hours | ₹400 |
Please note that these are the bus services from Udaipur, and they can be booked through the RSRTC Bus Ticket Booking mobile app. The fares and travel times are subject to change. By train
| Destination | Frequency | Travel Time | Fare (AC) | Fare (SL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chittorgarh | 6-7 per day | 2 hours | N/A | ₹140 |
| Ahmedabad | Daily | 10 hours | N/A | ₹200 |
| Ajmer | 4 per day | 5 hours | ₹680 | ₹135 |
| Sawai Madhopur | Daily | 7 hours | ₹1,625 | ₹270 |
| Jaipur | 3 per day | 7 hours | ₹855 | ₹170 |
| Agra | Daily | 13 hours | ₹2,355 | ₹360 |
| Delhi | 2 per day | 12 hours | ₹1,440 | ₹390 |
| Mumbai | Every other day | 17 hours | ₹1,785 | ₹475 |
| Khajuraho | Daily | 21 hours | ₹3,245 | ₹485 |
Tourist review
Just click here, and you can check out what people have to say about their experiences in the city
2 days itinerary
Day-1:Arrival at Udaipur Railway Station and transfer to your hotel Check in to the hotel and relax Sightseeing tour of Fateh Sagar, Rani Road, Lake Pichola Boating, Jagdish Temple, Gangour Ghat, Daiji Bridge Dinner at a lake-view restaurant near Jagdish Temple
Day-2:Full-day sightseeing tour of Udaipur City Palace, Old City Market, Karni Mata Temple and Ambrai Ghat Sunset Jagdish Temple[5], Gangour Ghat, Daiji Bridge Dinner at Natraj Hotel
Next Day: After freshen up and breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Udaipur Railway Station to board your train for your onward destination
Get around
Udaipur has a decent bus system. The majority of Udaipur can be explored on foot, particularly along the old streets. To get to the Monsoon Palace or the Jungle Park, you may need to take a taxi or an auto rickshaw (tuk-tuk). Tuk-tuks in the city usually cost between $50 and $100. App-based services such as Uber, Rapido, and Ola, on the other hand, are gaining popularity due to their low prices and hassle-free fares. You can also rent a bike, a scooter, or a bicycle.
Things to do
- City Palace: The most beautiful palace [6]. The finest thing is the cleanliness and upkeep. It is indeed as large as it seems in the image. So keep your stamina up. The museum and art gallery are noteworthy since they were created and run by the Ministry of Culture. Explore the intricately designed courtyards, museums, and panoramic views of the city.
Entry ticket fees are 20 ₹ To visit the palace museum you have to pay, 400 ₹for adults 150 ₹for students (they'll verify your I'd card prior) timing is 9:30 am – 5:30 pm 200 for the Camera Fee Same for foreigners Lakes
- Lake Pichola: Lake Pichola is one of Udaipur's most famous tourist attractions. Flanked by islands, palaces, temples, mansions, ghats, and restaurants, Lake Pichola offers something for everyone. Anyone visiting the lake should not miss out on the magnificent views of sunrise and sunset from the lake.
- Fateh Sagar Lake: The scenery around this lake can be enjoyed by either a motorboat or a leisurely boat. Both boats have the same fare, which is Rs.460 per person. It is the most gorgeous of all the lakes because it is man-made. Small islands house the Udaipur Solar Observatory, Nehru Park, and a public park featuring a jet spring.
- Jag Mandir: this area is like heaven on earth!! Located in the middle of the lake. You can go there by boat, which will cost 600 per person. The boat will circle the lake and drop you off there. You can tour the entire area and then take any boat back. The view is breathtaking! The beautiful marble construction and tranquil environs make it an ideal getaway.
Gardens
- Saheliyon Ki Bari: Saheliyon ki bari is a fountain garden in Udaipur, built during Rana Sangram Singh's reign. The main attraction of the place is beautiful architecture and fountains which are more than 400 years old. These fountains work on hydraulic pressure and rely on water from the banks of Fateh Sagar lake. None of these fountains use any form of electrical energy to pump water.
- Gulab Bagh and zoo: This place is wonderful and worth visiting. It is surrounded by a forest containing a lush green belt. It is a world-famous Vedic cultural center made by Aryasmaj. A lot of tourists also visit here. Entry ticket is Rs.30/- for general, 20/-for children and students, and 150/- for foreign nationals.
Temples
- Jagdish Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Universe Preserver. The temple is regarded as the largest in all of Udaipur. The shrine's gateway may be seen from the City Palace's Bara Pol, 150m away. This massive temple is built in the Indo-Aryan architectural style. The temple is three stories tall and a work of art in architecture. It has finely carved pillars, painted walls, ornamented ceilings, lush halls, etc.
- Bohra Ganeshji: This is the approximately 350-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The followers have historically and religiously influenced it. In the Hindu faith, worshiping this deity is a prerequisite for starting any significant endeavor, including marriage, business, real estate purchases and sales, etc. After their wishes are granted, people offer food to the gods by performing prasadi.
Museums
- Bagore Ki Haveli: this is one of the most attractive spots in Udaipur. This is a museum near Pichola Lake's historic city. This museum celebrates Rajasthan's rich heritage culture. Evenings will feature wonderful dance music and puppet shows from 7 PM to 8 PM, providing a glimpse of traditional Rajasthan culture. This is unquestionably a must-see location, particularly for tourists. The nighttime entertainment costs Rs 100 per person
- Vintage Car Museum: The vintage and car collection is a must-visit attraction to all car lovers… one will find the sublime troupe of cars from 1930s Rolls Royce to 1940s Mercedes the Cadillac and MG, Worth time to spend.
- Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace): The greatest time to visit this place is during the monsoon season. The ticket price is Rs. 155 per person. & R.59 per child from the main gate (both sides) for a breathtaking view of the city of lakes and the nature surrounding the palace. The route to the palace is very excellent. You could stay here for 45 minutes to an hour. It would be ideal if you came early in the morning or late in the evening to take in the scenery.
Offbeat places
- Badi Lake: Lake Badi is a man-made freshwater lake in the Indian city of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan. Maharana Raj Singh I (1652-1680) built the lake in the village of Badi, about 12 kilometers from Udaipur, to mitigate the devastating effects of famine. Jiyan Sagar was named after his mother Jana Devi.
- Ambrai Ghat: It is a wonderful place to visit with family, friends, or Couples. Historical place and famous place in Udaipur for locals as well as tourists. Just feeling its beauty by soaking in it and enjoying its awesome view, can capture some too. The city palace and Taj hotel views were very good and also it's one of the oldest ghats in history, very clear and calm. Try to go before sunset, you will enjoy it.Timings: 06.00 am to 10.00 pm every day
- Shilpgram-the Craft Village: Shilpgram, a rural district bordering Fateh Sagar Lake, is famous for Shilpgram Crafts Village, a sprawling open-air attraction featuring traditional-style huts containing tools and everyday items from various regions of western India. An amphitheater hosts live music and folk dancing, and artisans demonstrate craft-making. A bazaar sells handicrafts and Rajasthani textiles. A few casual restaurants dot the countryside.Timings: 11.00 am to 07.00 pm every day Entry Fee: Indian ₹30 per person 50 for foreigners
- Peepliya Ji: Udaipur does not feature among the top hill stations in the country but travel about half an hour outside the city limits and you will come across one of the most enticing monsoon spots of the region – Peepliya Ji. The place is a village that can be reached through one of the most scenic rides from Udaipur. Head straight to the highest point in the village and you will be engulfed by soothing winds. If you get a chance to visit this destination during the monsoons, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking sight of monsoon clouds caressing the mountain region. The captivating view of the green valley below will be another perk of making a trip to this place. Peepliya Ji is about 30 kilometers from Udaipur
- Bahubali hill: Amazing view after 500 meters of trekking; it's a very easy trek, so anyone can go; however, the best time to visit is early in the morning, around 6 to 6.30 AM. You'll have a fantastic sunrise view, and being surrounded by lakes only adds to the beauty. Locals charge a fee of Rs 15-20 if you bring your own snacks. On top of that, you'll get chips, a cold drink, tea, and so on.
- Neemach mata mandir: Neemach Mata Temple is located on a hill on the banks of the Fateh Sagar. Perched atop a hill, the temple provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Fateh Sagar Lake and the Surroundings of Udaipur. The climb, though steep, is rewarded with a tranquil ambiance. The temple architecture is striking, and the idol is revered. The religious aura and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit for those seeking both spiritual solace and natural beauty in Udaipur.
- Karni Mata Temple The temple is quite famous amongst Hindus. There is a nice and clean pond at the base known as Doodh Talai. You can either hike to the top using stairs or take the ropeway. Waiting time for ropeway can be 30-60 minutes on weekends. A ticket for Ropeway costs 110 rupees. The temple hilltop is ideal to witness scenic sunsets and panoramic views of the city as well.
- Gangaur Ghat: Gangaur Ghat or Gangori Ghat is a main ghat situated near the waterfront of Lake Pichola in Udaipur. It is situated near the Jagdish Chowk area. It is known for Bagore-ki-Haveli, a popular tourist destination in the city. The view from here is very nice especially when it starts to get darker. The city will be lit with yellow lights all over. This is a good place to sit and enjoy the lake view, you can also see the Taj Hotel at a distance from here and you can sit on the steps and watch the scenic beauty of the city.
Do
Cultural shows
- Bagore ki haveli is one of Udaipur's most attractive spots. This is a museum near Pichola Lake's historic city. This museum celebrates Rajasthan's rich heritage culture. Evenings will feature wonderful dance music and puppet shows from 7 PM to 8 PM, providing a glimpse of traditional Rajasthan culture. This is unquestionably a must-see location, particularly for tourists. The nighttime entertainment costs Rs 100 per person
Volunteering
Animal aid unlimited:, near Badi TB Hospital, Badi Village, Liyo Ka Gurha (7 km from the old town), ☏ +91 99505 31639. 350 ownerless animals are given love and nursed back to health by volunteers. Run by an American family who will welcome you any time between 9 AM and 5 PM. Did you ever scratch a donkey under his chin? Have you ever bottle-fed a baby goat? Ever helped a dog who lost her leg learn to walk again? Here's your chance. Free, donations encouraged
Fairs and festivals
The Mewar festival, held every year in the month of March-April, can be split into distinct but integral parts i.e. Religious and Cultural. The festival coincides with the Gangaur festival which holds a special significance for womenfolk, the celebrations for which begin at least a fortnight ago.
Shopping malls
Nexus Celebration Mall: Light-filled, multi-level mall with various shops, restaurants & a food court, [7]. Opposite Devendra Dham, Pulla Bhuwana, Bhuwana, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004 Phone: 0294 244 5111
Lake City Mall: stores that sell delicious food, such as Pantaloons, KFC, and Inox Cinema. Another excellent facility, etc., is located at the top left of the same building, at the Radisson Green Hotel. Address: University Rd, Ashok Nagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001 Phone: 096674 66660
Urban Square Mall: A huge mall with great infrastructure, beautiful interiors, food court decorated in a European theme with many renowned food companies. The ambiance is fabulous!! Must visit if you come to Udaipur. Address: Plot No. F - 210 to 223, Udyog Vihar, Gaurav Path, RIICO Industrial Area, Sukher, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001
Food
the following popular kiosks in Udaipur that provide authentic street food are sure to satisfy your hunger:
| Place | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Poornima | Vada Pav |
| Jain Nashta Centre | Poha |
| Vinod Coffee House | Coffee |
| Chetak | Boiled Egg Bhurji |
| Sindhi | Falooda |
| Panchwati | Maggi, Sandwich |
| Pandit | Pav Bhaji |
| Manak Balaji | Mirchi Vada |
- Natraj Dining Hall & Restaurant 22-24 City Station Road, ☏ +91-294-2487488, +91 9414757893, +91 9799031771. It is a sister concern of Natraj Lodge. Unlimited thali ₹220, including unlimited sweet (that's the only difference from Natraj Lodge). Food is more delicious than Natraj Lodge but more spicy as well
- Honey dal bati : Very cheap and provides fresh and tasty daal plus bati and 1glass buttermilk unlimited in 80 rupees for each person, It is located 3-4km away from the railway station and central bus stand. Address: Nokha Rd, Nokha, Azad Nagar, Central Area, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001
- Chamunda dal bati : Very cheap and provides fresh and tasty daal plus bati and 1glass buttermilk unlimited in 80 rupees for each person, It is located 3-4km away from the railway station and central bus stand. Address: Nokha Rd, Nokha, Azad Nagar, Central Area, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001
There are also American fast food restaurants such as McDonald's and Subway in the Celebration Mall
Stay
Zostel udaipur: Dorm bed: ₹449, Double: ₹1,999 Address: Purohit Ji Ka Khurra, Chand Pole, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001 Phone: 022 4893 4056 If you find an expensive hotel below your city then you can stay 5 km away from the city like Hiranmagri, Bhopalpura Bhuwana etc.
Stay safe The people of Udaipur are incredibly helpful, and the city is safe. But tourists are urged to protect their personal property, especially if they are carrying a passport, have a lot of cash, or credit cards. Concealed money belts are useful tools to prevent pickpocketing. Never leave valuables or cash in your hotel room. Verify all invoices from hotels, restaurants, and lounges for inaccuracies. Never give someone cash up front, not even cab drivers. It is best to stay in a hotel in Udaipur proper if you are traveling alone, rather than in a remote location.
Government hospitals
- Ayurvedic Hospital, Moti chohtta (Tel: 2-421968)
- Maharana Bhopal general hospital (Tel: 2-528811-19)
- Natural Hospital, Bhatyani chohtta (Tel: 2-422700)
- T B Hospital (tel: 2-560310)
- Women's Hospital (Tel: 2-523989)
Private hospitals
- Aravali Hospital, 332 Ambamaata Scheme, Mullatalai, Udaipur (Tel: 2430222, 2431222)
- Goyal hospital, 328-A, Vasant Vihar, Sector-5, Hiran Magri, Udaipur (Tel: 0294-2465764)
- J.K. Hospital & Research Centre, Bhupalpura, Udaipur (Tel: 2418544)
- Jagrati Orthopedic Hospital, Hospital Road, Udaipur (Tel: 2529234)
- Sanjeevani Nursing Home, Sevashram Chowraha, Udaipur (Tel: 2412770)
- Shreyas Children & Maternity Hospital, Fatehpura, Udaipur (Tel: 2560861)
- Dr. Chaudhary Hospital & Medical Research Center, Udaipur (Tel: 0294 2465566)
- Pacific hospital Bhilon ka Bedla, N.H. 27, Pratap Pura, Girwa, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001 Phone: 0294 352 0000
- Geetanjali Hospital Hiranmagri Extension, Manwakhera NH-8 Bypass, Near Eklingpura Chouraha, Rajasthan 313001 Phone: 0294 250 0006
Blood bank
- M.B. Govt. Hospital Blood Bank, Udaipur (Ph. No. 0294-2528811)
- GBH American International Hospital, 101, Kothi Bagh, Bhatt Ji Ki Bari, Udaipur (Ph. No. 0294-2426000)
- Udaipur M/s Saral Blood Bank, 30, Bhikharinath ka math, Bhupalpura, Udaipur. (Ph. No. 0294-2416285)
Go next
- Chittorgarh: The fastest way to reach Udaipur to Chittorgarh is by train to Chittaurgarh and takes 2h 10m. The recommended way to reach from Udaipur to Chittorgarh is to train to Chittaurgarh which takes 2h 10m. Train numbers 02964 etc. Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort in India covering 700 acres on top of a 590 ft hill, complete with towers and walls that have stood since the Maurya Empire rulers built it in the 7th century
- MountAbu: The cheapest way to reach Udaipur to Mt Abu is by bus to Mount Abu which takes 3h 10m. The fastest way to reach Udaipur to Mt Abu is a cab to Mount Abu which takes 1h 40m. The recommended way to reach Udaipur to Mt Abu is by bus to Mount Abu which takes 3h 10 minutes. Mount Abu is a hill station in western India’s Rajasthan state, near the Gujarat border. Set on a high rocky plateau in the Aravalli Range and surrounded by forest, it offers a relatively cool climate and views over the arid plains below. In the center of town, Nakki Lake is a popular spot for boating. Close by are the centuries-old Dilwara Temples, ornately carved from white marble and of great spiritual importance
Day trips
Udaipur offers great excursions to its outskirts. Hire a cab or explore by yourself to some of the great escapades on the city outskirts.
- Eklingji temple:The Eklingji temple is open all seven days of the week. The temple darshan timings are in the morning from 4.30 am to 7.00 am, in the afternoon from 10.30 am to 1.30 am, and in the evening from 5.00 pm to 7.30 pm Eklingji is a Hindu temple complex in Udaipur District of Rajasthan in western India. It is situated in Kailashpuri village, near the former capital of Mewar, i.e., Nagda. Eklingji is believed to be the ruling god of Mewar Princely State and the Maharana rules as his Dewan
- Haldighati: The mountain pass has gone down the annals of history as the site where the Battle of Haldighati was fought in 1576 between Rana Pratap Singh of Mewar and Raja Man Singh of Amber who was the general of the Mughal emperor Akbar. The site of the battle lies at the south-west side of Nathdwara
References
- ↑ Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills, it's renowned for its serene lakes, opulent palaces, and vibrant culture
- ↑ https://udaipurtimes.com/travel-and-tourism/digital-payment-facilities-at-udaipur-city-station/cid13656819.htm
- ↑ https://www.travelandleisureasia.com/sg/destinations/india/best-places-to-visit-in-udaipur-lake-pichola-city-palace-saheliyon-ki-badi/
- ↑ https://udaipurtimes.com/travel-and-tourism/udaipur-city-railway-station-redevelopment-progress/cid13653140.htm
- ↑ https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/trends/story/puducherry-puri-udaipur-among-top-travel-destinations-for-indians-this-holiday-season-409272-2023-12-13
- ↑ I've ever seen
- ↑ plus a movie theater