Adventure Bucket List: Things To Do In Udaipur

The Lake Palace, afloat on the serene Lake Pichola, is a hallmark of Udaipur’s architectural and cultural splendour. Originally a royal palace, it is now a luxury hotel, managed by the Taj group. This white-marble wonder appears to float magically on the lake’s surface, offering a picturesque view at all times of the day. A boat ride to the palace is a must-do, offering a panoramic view of the city and the Aravalli Hills.

Overlooking Lake Pichola, the City Palace is a monumental complex of 11 palaces, courtyards, and gardens, renowned for its intricate peacock mosaics and stunning architecture. The palace provides a splendid view of the city and its surroundings. Inside, you’ll find a museum showcasing artefacts from the city’s history.

Near the City Palace lies the Jagdish Temple, a large Hindu temple that is an architectural marvel in itself. It is an exemplary representation of Indo-Aryan architecture and provides a peaceful escape within the city.

Located by the waterfront of Lake Pichola, this haveli (traditional mansion) has been converted into a museum showcasing Rajasthani culture. In the evenings, it hosts Dharohar, a cultural show that includes traditional dance and music performances.

Udaipur is not just about sightseeing; it offers a plethora of activities:

• Boat Rides: Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake offer romantic boat rides, especially enchanting during sunset.
• Heritage Walks: Discover the old city on foot, exploring its bustling bazaars and hidden alleys.
• Cultural Shows: Bagore Ki Haveli hosts Dharohar, a cultural show displaying traditional Rajasthani dances and music.
• Cooking Classes: Participate in local cooking classes to learn authentic Rajasthani cuisine.
• Mewar Festival: This festival, held in March-April, marks the advent of spring. It’s characterized by a display of Rajasthani culture, with music, dance, and processions.
• Spa Treatments: Indulge in luxury spa treatments offered by many high-end hotels.
• Art Classes: Participate in miniature painting workshops conducted by local artisans.

Beyond the famous landmarks, Udaipur is dotted with lesser-known yet captivating spots:

• Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace): Perched atop a hill, it offers a panoramic view of Udaipur and its lakes.
• Saheliyon Ki Bari: A beautiful garden adorned with fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions, illustrating the luxurious lifestyle of the royals.

Udaipur is a shopper’s paradise:

• Hathi Pol Bazaar: Known for Rajasthani handicrafts, paintings, and unique souvenirs.
• Bada Bazaar: Offers a variety of clothing, including the traditional Rajasthani Bandhani and Lehariya fabrics.
• Shilpgram: A crafts village showcasing rural arts and crafts, ideal for experiencing the local culture.

The city is equally mesmerizing at night:

• Ambrai Ghat: Offers a stunning night view of the City Palace and Lake Palace, perfect for a romantic evening.
• Rooftop Restaurants: Many rooftops in Udaipur offer a splendid view of the lit-up cityscape, serving delicious local and international cuisines.

Udaipur is famed for its romantic ambience:

• Fateh Sagar Lake: A quiet boat ride here during sunset offers an unforgettable experience.
• Dudh Talai Garden: A tranquil spot with a panoramic view of Lake Pichola, City Palace, and Jag Mandir.

Engage in various activities to truly experience Udaipur:

• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Get a bird’s eye view of the city.
• Horse Riding: Explore the countryside on horseback.
• Vintage Car Rally: Witness a parade of royal vintage cars, often organised in the city.

Udaipur is famed for its beautiful lakes, each offering a unique experience. Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Udai Sagar Lake are popular for boat rides, especially during sunset, providing breathtaking views of the city and the Aravalli Hills.

This ‘Garden of the Maidens’ was built for a group of forty-eight young women attendants who accompanied a princess to Udaipur as part of her dowry. The garden set on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake has beautiful fountains, kiosks, marble elephants, and a delightful lotus pool.

Perched on a hill, the Sajjangarh Palace offers panoramic views of Udaipur’s lakes and palaces. It was built primarily to watch the monsoon clouds; hence, it’s popularly known as Monsoon Palace. It’s particularly enchanting during sunset.

The Aravalli range surrounding Udaipur is ideal for trekking and hiking. Popular trails lead to the Monsoon Palace, Badi Lake, and Kumbhalgarh Fort. These treks offer a blend of adventure and scenic beauty.

Exploring the countryside on a bicycle is a refreshing way to see Udaipur’s rural landscapes, interact with the local populace, and understand their way of life.

Participate in workshops that teach traditional Rajasthani arts like miniature painting, pottery, or cooking. These workshops provide a hands-on experience of the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.

Experience the local cuisine which is a vital part of the cultural experience. Dishes like Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas, and Gatte ki Sabzi are a must-try.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fort is known for its long wall, often compared to the Great Wall of China. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Udaipur.

Located about 90 km from Udaipur, this temple is a stunning example of Jain architecture and is famous for its intricate marble carvings.

• Ambrai at Amet Haveli: This restaurant, located by the famous Pichola Lake, is one of Udaipur’s most celebrated dining spots. It offers a serene atmosphere with its location in a heritage hotel built in the 1730s​​.
• Tribute Restaurant: This is another highly recommended place, offering a unique dining experience. It’s among the 17 best restaurants listed by a source that also mentions other notable names like Cafe Ra, Jheel’s Rooftop Restaurant, Rainbow Restaurant, and Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant​​.
• Millets of Mewar: Known as Udaipur’s first dedicated health food restaurant, Millets of Mewar specializes in Indian, Asian, and fusion cuisines. They offer a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, catering to those looking for healthier meal choices​​.
• Hotel Hilltop: For those looking for a place with a view, the terrace of Hotel Hilltop is a great choice. It’s located atop Ambavgarh Hill, the highest point in Udaipur, offering stunning views of Fateh Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and the town​​.
• Raaj Bagh: This restaurant is renowned for its Indian cuisine and bar, and is a fantastic place for dinner. It’s part of the list of the best restaurants with a view in Udaipur, along with Aravali Lakeview by Radisson Blu and Jaiwana Haveli Roof Top Restaurant​​.

These are some of our favourite places to eat in Udaipur. Make sure to ask people around and explore new places to really enjoy the Rajasthani taste.

• Taj Lake Palace: For a luxurious stay.
• Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel: A heritage hotel offering a more traditional experience.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Udaipur is during the cooler months from September to March.
• Transportation: Udaipur is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Within the city, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are available for transportation.
• Local Customs and Etiquette: It’s important to respect the local culture and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Udaipur, with its majestic palaces, tranquil lakes, vibrant bazaars, and romantic allure, offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a peek into India’s royal past, Udaipur has something for everyone. It’s a city where every corner tells a story, waiting to be discovered and cherished.