Rajasthan
Udaipur Travel Guide
The City of Lakes, with palaces on the water and Aravalli views.
- Best months Oct–Mar
- Ideal trip length 2–3 days
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is set among the Aravalli hills in southern Rajasthan, with palaces, havelis and lakeside ghats around Lake Pichola. It feels softer and more romantic than most Rajasthan cities and is a favourite for weddings and honeymoons. Plan two to three days, with time for boat rides and nearby forts.
Best time to visit
Recommended
October to March is the best season, with comfortable days and cool nights. The monsoon from July to September fills the lakes and turns the hills green, which many people enjoy, though it can be humid and rainy. April to June is hot.
How to reach
Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) at Dabok, about 20 km from the city, has flights from Delhi, Mumbai and several other cities.
Udaipur City station has trains from Jaipur, Ajmer, Delhi and Ahmedabad. Check timings, since services are fewer than at larger Rajasthan junctions.
Udaipur is linked by highway to Jodhpur, Ajmer, Ahmedabad and Chittorgarh, and buses and taxis run to nearby attractions such as Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur.
Where to stay
The area around Lake Pichola and Gangaur Ghat gives you lake views and walkable sights, in everything from budget guesthouses to palace hotels. Fateh Sagar offers quieter stays, and the outskirts have resorts in the hills.
Top things to see and do
- 1
City Palace
A large palace complex on the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, with courtyards, balconies and museum galleries about the Mewar rulers.
- 2
Lake Pichola boat ride
A boat trip on the lake, best at sunset, with views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir and the lake islands.
- 3
Saheliyon ki Bari
A garden with fountains and lotus pools, created for the women of the royal household.
- 4
Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)
A hilltop palace with panoramic views of the city and lakes, especially in the late afternoon.
- 5
Bagore Ki Haveli
An old mansion on the lake with a museum of royal life and an evening show of Rajasthani dance.
- 6
Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur
A day trip to the long-walled fort of Kumbhalgarh, listed by UNESCO, and the intricately carved Jain temples at Ranakpur.
Food to try
Try dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, laal maas and Mewari thali. Lakeside cafes and rooftop restaurants serve Indian and continental food with views.
Travel tips
- Time your boat ride for sunset, and avoid the middle of the day in summer.
- Wear comfortable shoes, since many sights involve steps and uneven stone.
- Hire a car for a day trip to Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur, since public transport is limited.
- Water levels in the lakes vary after the monsoon, so some activities may be limited in dry months.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Udaipur?
Two days cover the City Palace, the lakes and the gardens. Add a day for Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur, or Chittorgarh.
Is Udaipur good in the monsoon?
Many travellers like it, as the lakes are full and the hills are green. Expect rain and humidity, and plan indoor options.
Can I visit the Lake Palace?
The Lake Palace on Lake Pichola is a luxury hotel, and entry is mainly for guests and restaurant bookings. Check current rules with the hotel.
Official sources
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.