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About Udaipur in India
Udaipur is a city steeped in history, having served as the capital of the Mewar Kingdom for centuries. It has miraculously preserved much of its ancient grandeur, with its majestic architecture and royal residences standing as a testament to its glorious past.
Today, Udaipur is a trove of attractions, boasting around 1,000 temples and shrines, including the awe-inspiring City Palace, the serene Lake Pichola, and the sacred Jagdish Temple. Not to be missed are renowned sites such as the Monsoon Palace and the enchanting streets of the old city.
Visitors often expand their exploration by visiting nearby celebrated destinations, such as the Pink City of Jaipur, the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, and the Blue City of Jodhpur.
No.1 City Palace of Udaipur
If you're weaving your way through the romantic soul of Rajasthan, the City Palace of Udaipur stands unrivaled as the jewel in the city's majestic crown. Perched grandly on the banks of Lake Pichola, the palace complex is a labyrinth of regal opulence, a mere 3 kilometers from the heart of Udaipur city. It is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, and a testimony to the grandeur of the Mewar kingdom.
The City Palace is a harmonious blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European, and Chinese architecture, making it a visual feast for culture and history buffs. The echoing courtyards, embellished with mosaic peacock motifs, and the panoramic views of the lake make it a photographer's paradise. But watch your step; the royal corridors are as intriguing as they are steeped in history!
Highlights of the City Palace include:
Amar Vilas: This enchanting sky garden is also the highest point of the City Palace.
Badi Mahal: The main palace of the complex, sitting atop a rock formation 89 feet high. Miniature paintings here will captivate any art enthusiast.
Zenana Mahal: Once the abode for royal ladies, it has now been converted into a museum displaying the lifestyle of the Mewar royalty.
Manak Mahal: The Ruby Palace is famed for its exquisite works of glass and mirrors.
Mor Chowk: One of the most iconic spots within the palace, the exquisite peacock mosaics represent three seasons: summer, winter, and monsoon.
Sheesh Mahal: The Palace of Mirrors is a marvel with its walls inlaid with mirrors and colored glass.
No.2 Jagdish Temple
Jagdish Temple, towering at a height of 79 feet and dominating the skyline of Udaipur, is one of the most significant Hindu temples in the city. It serves as a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and a must-visit destination for tourists. The temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is located just outside the city palace and has been a site of continuous worship since 1651.
Highlights of the temple include:
Main Shrine: The central shrine houses a striking black stone idol of Lord Vishnu as Lord Jagannath, the Lord of the Universe.
Carved Pillars: The first two levels of the architecture feature 50 intricately carved pillars, each depicting mythological and contemporary scenes.
Aarti Ceremony: An unmissable spiritual experience, the Aarti ceremony is a ritual of light and devotional songs that fill the temple with divine energy.
How to Visit Jagdish Temple:
- Enter Jagdish Temple and admire the two massive stone statues at the entrance along with an inscription on a stone slab honoring Maharana Jagat Singh.
- Ascend the 32 marble steps to reach the main shrine and behold the grand brass statue of Garuda, half-human and half-eagle, guarding the entrance to Lord Vishnu.
- Explore the most prominent feature of the temple, the four-armed idol of Lord Vishnu as Lord Jagannath, which is considered the highlight of Jagdish Temple.
Timings and Tickets:
The Jagdish Temple in Udaipur is open to visitors free of charge and there are no tickets required for entry.
Here's a breakdown of the timings:
Morning: 4:15 AM to 1:00 PM
Evening: 5:15 PM to 8:00 PM
No.3 Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola sits at the heart of Udaipur, its still waters home to 2 palaces that seem to mystically float upon its surface, beckoning countless visitors to Udaipur. Crafted in the 14th century, this man-made lake is a tranquil paradise that seamlessly blends with the historic edifices it mirrors.
The lake features 4 main islands that are key attractions in the area:
Jag Niwas: Now the luxurious Lake Palace Hotel, it is a masterpiece of Rajasthani architecture.
Jag Mandir: Rich in history and enchanting architecture, it invites visitors to return to a royal past.
Mohan Mandir: An island graced with a beautiful temple.
Arsi Vilas: Situated on the lake's western shore, this island boasts a palace and bird sanctuary.
Encircled by rolling hills, heritage buildings, and bathing ghats, Lake Pichola's allure is magnified at dawn and dusk. The interplay of light transforms the lake into a canvas of gold and azure, reflecting the silhouettes of the City Palace and the surrounding Aravalli Mountains.
Experiences at Lake Pichola:
Take a boat ride during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset to witness the lake and cityscape in their most enchanting light.
Explore the islands of Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir to immerse yourself in the splendor of Rajasthan's royal heritage.
Enjoy panoramic views from the myriad rooftop restaurants along the lake, offering meals with a scenic backdrop.
Wander along the ghats to experience the rhythm of local life and the ceremonial activities of the lake.
No.4 Jag Mandir
Jag Mandir, gracing the southern end of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, is a 17th-century marvel known as the "Lake Garden Palace". Its storied past includes serving as a sanctuary for Prince Khurram, later Emperor Shah Jahan, whose rebellion against his father found solace here. The palace's beauty is rumored to have inspired elements of the iconic Taj Mahal.
Today, part of this majestic palace has been transformed into the luxurious Jag Mandir Palace Hotel, offering a unique accommodation experience enveloped in history. The palace continues to be a sought-after venue for high-profile weddings and events.
Palatial Highlights:
Gul Mahal: The oldest section, once Prince Khurram's refuge, displays stunning Islamic architecture.
Darikhana: This northern pavilion is famed for its alfresco dining and breathtaking vistas.
Garden Courtyard: Enclosed by arches, this verdant space features manicured gardens and marble pathways.
Eight Marble Elephants: These life-sized statues stand guard, enhancing the grandeur of Jag Mandir.
Visitor Experience:
Take a serene boat ride from Bansi Ghat jetty to Jag Mandir, enjoying panoramic views of Udaipur and its lakes. The island also boasts a restaurant where you can dine with scenic lake and City Palace views.
Stay at the Jag Mandir Palace Hotel for a lavish experience with impeccable service.
No.5 Bagore Ki Haveli Museum
The Bagore Ki Haveli Museum is a beautiful 18th-century mansion on Lake Pichola's banks in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. Built by Amar Chand Badwa, the then Prime Minister of Mewar, the haveli was originally a private residence. After independence of India, it was converted into a museum and cultural center.
What's Inside
Puppet Section: See colorful Rajasthani puppets.
Royal Exhibit: Peek into royal life with costumes and furnishings against stunning murals.
Turban Display: Check out the turban collection and learn about its significance.
Weapons Gallery: View the swords and guns once wielded by Mewar's fighters.
Wedding Showcase: Get a sense of a traditional Mewari wedding.
Dharohar Dance Show
As the sun sets, the Haveli's courtyard comes alive with traditional music and dance performances, known as the Dharohar dance show, offering a captivating glimpse into the region's folk heritage. The dancers, clad in colorful attire, move to the rhythms that have echoed through Rajasthan's valleys for centuries, leaving an indelible imprint on the heart.
Timings and Tickets:
Timings: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (100 INR)
Dharohar Dance Show: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM (250 INR). The deadline to purchase dance performance tickets is 6:15 PM.
Recommended Visiting Time: 1.5 - 2 h
No.6 Sahelion Ki Bari
If you're seeking a unique and enchanting destination in Udaipur, look no further than Sahelion Ki Bari. Imagine the noble ladies of yesteryear strolling, playing, and singing here, with imported British rain fountains crafting the illusion of rainfall just for them.
Today, a walk through this garden, with its sheltered walkways, allows you to bask in the cool breezes and fine mists from the fountains, still imbued with its historical charm.
Built-in the 18th century, Sahelion Ki Bari was a pleasure garden constructed by a Maharana for his queen and her 48 attendants – hence its name, 'Garden of the Maidens.'
Located about 3 kilometers north of Udaipur's city center, near Lal Ghat, it spans roughly 6 acres, featuring 4 different themed pools.
Sawan Bhado: The main pool with fountains shaped like birds that create the effect of rainfall when water jets from their beaks.
Lotus Pool: Distinguished by four elephant fountains that shoot water from their trunks, encircling a marble lotus-shaped fountain.
Rang Mahal: Adorned with colorful enamel that decorates the glass windows, reflecting sunlight in various hues.
Bin Badal Barsaat: Fountains with statues of five maidens holding basins, simulating artificial rainfall.
Timings and Tickets:
Open Hours: 9 AM - 7 PM
Entry Fees: 50 INR
Time Required: 1-2 hours
No.7 Sajjan Garh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
Sajjan Garh Palace, also known as the Monsoon Palace, is an architectural marvel perched atop a hill on the outskirts of Udaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the late 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh, the palace was originally intended to be an astronomical center and to observe the monsoon clouds, hence its popular name.
Perched atop a hill in the Aravalli Hills, the palace provides a panoramic vista of Udaipur city, Lake Pichola, and the surrounding landscapes. This is a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning shots of Udaipur.
Things to Do at Sajjan Garh Palace:
Waiting for the enchanting sunset, Sajjan Garh Palace is a popular spot to witness the sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky bursts with vibrant hues, creating a magical spectacle.
Take a stroll in the white marble courtyard, admiring the architectural details of towers, domes, and lattice windows, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the palace.
Timings and Tickets:
Open Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry Fees: 300 INR
Time Required: 1 hours
No.8 Fateh Sagar Lake
Fateh Sagar Lake is another famed artificial lake in Udaipur, a prime spot for boating, picnicking, and taking in the views. Its deep blue waters and sunsets make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The lake is named after Maharana Fateh Singh of Udaipur and Mewar.
There are 3 islands on Fateh Sagar Lake:
- The largest in the center hosts Nehru Park—a garden with a boat-shaped restaurant and a small zoo for children.
- The second island features a park with water-jet fountains.
- The third, and smallest island, has a private pavilion.
Visitor experiences:
- Immerse yourself in picturesque views during sunrise and sunset.
- Boating on the lake is popular, offering a chance to appreciate the surrounding landscape and the tranquility of the lake.
- Take your children and family to the garden island for a delightful picnic.
- Enjoy a morning stroll, a bike ride, or the cool breeze along the expansive promenade.
Timings & Tickets
Open Hours: 8 AM - 6 PM
Entry Fees: 60-125 INR
Time Required: 1-2 hours
No.9 Shilpgram
Shilpgram, meaning "Craft Village" in English, is a unique open-air museum and market showcasing the rich artistic and craft heritage of Rajasthan. It is a must-visit for those interested in Indian traditional rural life and handicrafts. It is located 3 kilometers west of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan, India.
Things to Do in Shilpgram:
- Explore the process of artisans creating goods inside several traditional huts.
- Find a variety of authentic Rajasthani souvenirs at reasonable prices. Support local artisans and bring Rajasthani culture home.
- Throughout the day, enjoy vibrant cultural performances showcasing traditional Rajasthani folk dances and music.
- Take an enjoyable and unique camel ride, which is a typical experience in Rajasthan. Shilpgram offers camel riding experiences for visitors, especially children, to experience desert life.
No.10 Vintage Car Museum
The Vintage Car Museum, officially known as the Vintage & Classic Car Collection. The Vintage Car Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the luxury and elegance of the automotive past, especially as it pertains to Indian royalty. Car enthusiasts and history buffs will find their visit to be a rewarding journey back in time.
Key Highlights of the Vintage Car Museum:
Collection: The museum showcases a select collection of vintage and classic cars that belonged to the Maharajas of Udaipur. Among them are Rolls-Royces, Cadillacs, MGs, and several other prestigious makes.
Royal History: Each vehicle has a story, many being associated with the royal family of Udaipur, and some have been featured in movies and royal ceremonies.
Well-Maintained: The cars are not just old relics; they are in pristine working condition, maintained as they were in their heyday.
Popular Exhibit: One of the star attractions is the 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom used in the famous James Bond movie 'Octopussy', which was partly filmed in Udaipur.
Garden Restaurant: The museum complex includes a garden restaurant offering refreshments, where visitors can relax after viewing the collection.
Accessibility: It is located just a few minutes from the City Palace, making it easily accessible to tourists visiting the area.
Timings & Tickets
Open Hours: 9 AM - 9 PM
Entry Fees: 400 INR
Time Required: 1-2 hours
How to Plan a Tour in India with Top Places to Visit in Udaipur
A stay of 1-2 days in Udaipur is sufficient to experience its essence, including the City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Lake Pichola.
However, Udaipur is often not visited as a standalone destination but rather combined with other Indian destinations such as Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Jodhpur to explore the top attractions of Rajasthan. A well-rounded itinerary typically takes around 9-12 days to cover these destinations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Rajasthan.
Udaipur: 1-2 Days
If you're planning to stay in Udaipur for just 1 day without feeling overwhelmed by the attractions, you can focus your day trip on the City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, and the Monsoon Palace.
For those with more time or a desire to indulge in luxury, you can extend your stay to include additional attractions. Consider adding the Bagore Ki Haveli Museum, Sahelion Ki Bari, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the Vintage Car Museum to your itinerary.
Day 1: City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Boat ride on Lake Pichola, Sajjan Garh Palace (Monsoon Palace).
Day 2: Bagore Ki Haveli Museum, Sahelion Ki Bari, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Vintage Car Museum.
The complete itinerary for your India trip includes Udaipur
Delhi (1-3 days): The bustling capital where historical treasures such as the majestic Red Fort and the poignant India Gate await your exploration. Delight in a traditional rickshaw ride amid the vibrant chaos of Old Delhi.
Agra (2-4 days): Venture to Agra, the epitome of romance. Enjoy the spellbinding beauty of the Taj Mahal during the ethereal glow of dawn or dusk. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Agra Fort and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri.
Jaipur (1-3 days): Make your way to Jaipur, where the regal Amer Fort and the opulent City Palace stand as testaments to the city's rich heritage, known affectionately as the Pink City.
Udaipur (1-2 days): Explore the tranquil 'City of Lakes,' where romantic boat rides and visits to grand palaces and lakes.
For those with additional time:
Jodhpur (1-2 days): Step into the vivid hues of Jodhpur, the enchanting 'Blue City' that basks under the watchful eye of the imposing Mehrangarh Fort.
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