Best Places to Visit in Udaipur

Udaipur is 650 km from Delhi. It is known as the City of Lakes, and it boasts many small and large lakes. The two most well-known lakes in Udaipur are Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake. You can also see islands, resorts, and temples in the middle of the lakes. Luxurious hotels built on the banks of the lakes are ready to welcome you, provided you don't mind a splurge. Udaipur City Palace, the second-largest palace in India. The ancient and magnificent temples standing in this city tell you a lot about its rich history. The fountains of Sahelion Ki Bari create a rhythmic sound that resembles falling rain, giving visitors the delightful feeling of being caught in a gentle downpour. This city is filled with the history and culture of Rajasthan and will take you from the hustle and bustle to a peaceful place. Let's explore some of its famous tourist attractions.

1. City Palace (Paid Entry)

The City Palace in Udaipur is the second-largest palace in India after Mysore Palace. It is also known as Rajmahal. It takes approx one hour to reach the City Palace from the airport and approx 15-20 minutes from the city railway station. With contributions from 22 kings, This palace took over 400 years to build. Situated on the high hills of the Aravalli range and surrounded by Lake Pichola, the palace has remained well-protected. The palace is designed like a maze, which helped safeguard it from invaders. There are many gates, each with a unique name. Just inside the entrance, you’ll come across a 400-year-old statue of Lord Ganesha. The site also preserves the weapons of Maharana Pratap, including his sword, shield, bow, and arrows—symbols of his valor. The Diwan-E-Aam was where the public would present their problem to the king, and the Diwan-E-Khas was reserved for meetings with ministers and dignitaries. Moti Mahal, the queens would watch palace festivities. A unique tradition at the palace involved the king bowing to a golden sun emblem—especially on cloudy days when the real sun was hidden—highlighting the deep reverence for solar deities. The entire palace is a masterpiece of art, and if you're in Udaipur, it's a must-visit.

2. Lake Pichola (Boating Fee)

Pichola is an artificial lake created in 1362. Paid boating services are available here. The lake contains two artificial islands, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir, and is well-connected to the city. The scenic views are stunning, especially from the City Palace. You can also find lakeside hotels, where you can enjoy the lake view, though they can be a bit expensive if your budget is limited.

3. Jag Mandir (Boating Fee)

Jag Mandir, situated in Lake Pichola, was used as a summer palace by the kings. You can attain right here with the boat (paid) and live for a limited time to experience the stunning lake views and sundown view.

4. Saheliyon Ki Bari (Paid Entry)

Saheliyon Ki Bari is a popular garden and tourist spot located on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. Built by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal women, this garden was a gift to his queens, where they would come to relax with their attendants. The garden has fountains that constantly make the sound of rainfall, thanks to an ingenious design that operates without electricity. The lotus pool and elephant statues are another attractions. There's also a small museum showcasing India's history.

5. Fateh Sagar Lake/Nehru Garden (Boating Fee)

A winding road follows the scenic shoreline of Fateh Sagar Lake, offering beautiful views of the water. The view looks very awesome. There are several spots along the way where you can stop and admire the beauty. Boating stations are located at various points, and you can take a boat ride to Nehru Garden, an island in the lake. The views from the garden are peaceful, and the nighttime lighting of Nehru Garden is especially breathtaking.

6. Jagdish Temple

The Jagdish Temple, also called the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, is a significant Hindu shrine in Udaipur. Commissioned by Maharana Jagat Singh, it’s just a 5–10 minute walk from the City Palace and features impressive Indo-Aryan architecture. The temple features intricately carved walls and enshrines a striking black stone idol of Lord Vishnu with four arms.

7. Monsoon Palace or Sajjan Garh (Paid Entry)

The Sajjan Garh Palace, also known as the Monsoon Palace, is situated atop the Aravalli hills. Originally owned by the royal family of Mewar, it is now under the control of the forest department. Maharaja Sajjan Singh had planned to build an astronomical centre here, but his untimely death halted the project. Constructed from white marble, the palace on Lake Pichola can be reached easily by auto-rickshaw or taxi. However, private vehicles are not allowed beyond a certain point, and a government vehicle will take you the rest of the journey. The views from the palace road are spectacular, and you might enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

8. Sajjangarh Biological Park (Paid Entry)

This zoo, spread over 36 hectares, opened in 2015 after construction started in 2004-2005. Here are variety of animals and birds. Guests can enjoy facilities like a golf cart, RO water, resort, restaurant and children's playground. Bicycle facilities are also available to explore the zoo.

9. Bagore Ki Haveli (Paid Entry)

Perched on the banks of Lake Pichola at Gangori Ghat, Bagore Ki Haveli offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal lifestyle of Rajasthan, with its intricate interiors and rich cultural exhibits. It is a large palace with over 100 rooms displaying costumes and modern art. The interiors are adorned with glass and mirrors, similar to other royal palaces in Udaipur and Jaipur. The haveli has been converted into a museum, and there is a paid cultural dance show in the evening.

10. Shilpgram (Paid Entry)

Shilpgram is a wonderful region in which to revel in the way of life of Rajasthan and its villages. Spread over 70 acres, it features many huts that provide you with a feel of conventional village life. You could enjoy camel rides and watch local artists perform, carry out music and dance. Pottery sellers also have small shops here. While it’s a unique place, if you’re pressed for time, you can skip it.

11. Eklingji Temple

Located in the village of Kailashpuri, about 25 km from Lake Pichola, the Eklingji temple is one of the most important temples in Rajasthan. Built by Bappa Rawal in the 8th century, it houses a four-faced Shiva Lingam, with idols of Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartik, and other deities. The temple complex also contains beautiful ponds and a temple dedicated to Mirabai, where she worshiped Lord Krishna at Gangori Ghat.

How to Reach Udaipur

Udaipur is well-connected by road with cities like Jaipur(394 k.m), Delhi(655), Gujrat(395 k.m) and Mumbai(756 k.m). Udaipur is easily accessible by car or bus from nearby cities.
Udaipur City Railway Station is the main station in Udaipur, located about 3 km from the city centre. Udaipur is well-connected to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur, while local travel is made easy with readily available auto-rickshaws and taxis.
Maharana Pratap Airport, also known as Dabok Airport, is located approximately 22 kilometers from Udaipur’s city centre and offers regular flights to key Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
Altitude: 598 meters
Distance from Delhi: 650 km
Nearest airport: Maharana Pratap Airport
Nearest railway station: Udaipur City Railway Station