Best Things To Do In Udaipur India
Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, Udaipur is often overlooked by those completing the famous Golden Triangle route, but we think it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Rajasthan and definitely worth adding to the itinerary!
This enchanting city seamlessly blends royal heritage, architectural splendour, and natural beauty, offering a magical experience. We have written this guide as your ultimate roadmap to experiencing the very best of the “City of Lakes”. We’ll break down the top 10 must-do activities, providing insider tips and hidden gems to help you navigate Udaipur like a pro! Let’s dive in!
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Check Out Our Firsthand Experience In Udaipur On YouTube!
The Best Things To Do In Udaipur India:
1. Visit City Palace
First on our list of the best things to do in Udaipur is a visit to City Palace. Perched majestically on the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, the City Palace was constructed over a period of 400 years by successive rulers of the Mewar dynasty. The Palace is a stunning blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, spanning an impressive area with intricate marble work, delicate mirror decorations, coloured glass windows, and ornate courtyards. The Palace offers a breathtaking journey through Rajasthan’s royal history.
We enjoyed exploring multiple museums within the Palace that showcase royal artefacts, miniature paintings, and historical weaponry. We also particularly enjoyed the Palace’s strategic location, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding city. As the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, we highly recommend giving the City Palace a visit!
Multiple Udaipur tours include a visit to the City Palace. We have included some of our top picks below.
Best Udaipur Day Tours
If you are looking to tick off lots of the best things to do in Udaipur, we highly recommend booking a day tour or even a multi-day tour. These tend to be very affordable and make seeing all the top sites a breeze! Our top picks are below:
2. Take A Boat Ride On Lake Pichola
A boat ride on Lake Pichola is a fantastic Udaipur experience that offers an unparalleled perspective of the city’s breathtaking landscape. You’ll be treated to stunning views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Lake Palace, each rising majestically from the lake’s surface like architectural jewels. The boat ride provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the intricate details of these historic structures, with the Aravalli Hills creating a dramatic backdrop that embraces the entire scene.
Top Tip
We highly recommend taking this boat journey at sunset. At this time the lake transforms into a canvas of golden and orange hues, reflecting the palaces and creating a magical atmosphere.
3. Have Dinner Overlooking Lake Pichola
Dining with a view of Lake Pichola is an unforgettable culinary experience that captures the romantic essence of Udaipur. Many rooftop restaurants and heritage hotels offer breathtaking dining experiences where you can enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine while overlooking the shimmering waters and illuminated palaces. One of our personal favourites is Rainbow Restaurant Udaipur. Alternatively, you can book an evening boat ride and dinner as part of a lovely package!
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4. Take Part In A Cooking Class
Next on our list of the best things to do in Udaipur is to take part in a cooking class! We had a great time making samosa’s, cooking fresh roti’s and curry. These hands-on experiences typically take place in local homes or specialized cooking schools, where local cooks guide you through authentic Rajasthani cuisine.
Many cooking classes can also include a market tour, where you’ll explore local spice markets and learn about ingredients before returning to prepare your feast. Beyond just learning recipes, these classes offer a deep dive into the cultural significance of food in Rajasthani society, providing insights into family traditions, cooking methods, and the stories behind each dish.
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5. Get A Traditional Henna Tattoo
Getting a traditional henna tattoo in Udaipur was one of Beth’s favourite experiences throughout our India trip! Known as “mehndi” in Hindi, henna is an intricate temporary body art which is deeply rooted in Indian cultural celebrations and has been practised for centuries. In Udaipur, skilled henna artists can be found in local markets and near popular tourist areas, offering everything from simple designs to elaborate, full-hand and full-arm patterns that tell stories through their intricate details. The rich reddish-brown henna stain typically lasts 1-2 weeks, serving as a beautiful memory of your Udaipur adventure and a connection to the city’s artistic heritage.
6. Witness A Traditional Rajasthani Dance Show
Experiencing a Traditional Rajasthani Dance show is a great way to spend an evening in Udaipur! These vibrant performances showcase the region’s rich artistic traditions through spectacular folk dances. Dancers often wear brilliantly colored costumes with intricate mirror work and traditional jewelry which creates a visual spectacle that tells stories of Rajasthani life, love, and legend. The performances are accompanied by traditional musical instruments, creating an immersive experience that brings the state’s cultural narratives to life. We had a lovely evening watching one of these dances so wanted to add it our our list of things to do in Udaipur!
Check Out Our Firsthand Experience At The Cultural Dance Show & The Countryside Bike Tour On YouTube!
7. Join A Udaipur Countryside Bike Tour
Next on our list of things to do in Udaipur is to join a countryside bike tour! We had a wonderful day escaping the city to see some of the stunning Indian countryside near Udaipur! This tour allows you to pedal through picturesque villages, lush farmlands, and winding rural roads, to experience the authentic rhythm of life in the Aravalli Hills region.
You can expect to encounter stunning landscapes featuring rolling hills, serene lakes, and vibrant agricultural scenes, with opportunities to interact with local communities and understand their daily lives. Many bike tours include stops at local homes, where you might be invited for traditional chai or visit small workshops showcasing local handicrafts.
8. Visit A Traditional Miniature Painting Store
Visiting a traditional painting store in Udaipur offers a captivating glimpse into one of Rajasthan’s most cherished art forms. These intricate paintings, known for their delicate brushwork and vibrant colours, have been a hallmark of Udaipur’s artistic heritage for centuries. We spent a few hours at Janak Arts, which offers demonstrations where skilled artists showcase the techniques and painstaking details involved in creating these masterpieces. You’ll have the opportunity to watch as artists apply fine brushstrokes using squirrel hair brushes and natural pigments, bringing stories to life on small canvases, making a visit here one of our top things to do in Udaipur.
9. Witness Jag Mandir
Next on this list is the Jag Mandir, an exquisite palace located on an island in the middle of Lake Pichola. This architectural marvel offers a glimpse into the royal heritage of Udaipur. Built in the 17th century, the marble palace seems to float on the lake’s surface. The palace is renowned for its intricate design, featuring beautiful stone elephants, elegant courtyards, and ornate pavilions that showcase the finest Rajput architectural craftsmanship.
To reach Jag Mandir, you need to jump on a boat and enjoy a scenic journey across Lake Pichola before exploring the palace’s historic chambers.
10. Visit Monsoon Palace
Perched high in the Aravalli Hills, Monsoon Palace is last on our list of things to do in Udaipur. This white marble palace was originally constructed in the late 19th century as an astronomical observatory and to monitor monsoon clouds. Today, it serves as a mesmerizing viewpoint that offers an unparalleled vista of the entire city, its lakes, and the surrounding countryside. The palace is particularly magical during sunset, when the golden light bathes the landscape, and the city below comes alive with twinkling lights. Many Udaipur Day tours include a trip to Monsoon Palace at a great price!
How Long Should You Stay In Udaipur
To fully experience the magic of Udaipur, we would recommend a stay of 2-3 days; this should allow enough time to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and venture into the beautiful local countryside. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you could easily spend 5 days here!
Where To Stay In Udaipur
Here are our top recommendations for where to stay in Udaipur:
The Best Time To Visit Udaipur India
Much like lots of areas in Rajasthan, the best time to visit Udaipur is between October and March when the climate is cooler and drier. During these months, daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 35°C.
It’s important to note that January and February are the chilliest months, with nighttime temperatures often dipping below 10°C. We suggest packing warm layers for evening outings if you visit during this time of year. Additionally, the winter months from December to February may bring foggy conditions, which could impact visibility.
Conclusion – The Best Things To Do In Udaipur
Udaipur is a living canvas of royal heritage, natural beauty, and cultural richness that promises an unforgettable adventure. From the shimmering lakes and magnificent palaces to the vibrant cultural experiences and warm hospitality, the City of Lakes was one of our absolute favourite places in India. We hope our guide and suggestions for the top things to do in Udaipur help inspire your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking historical insights, artistic inspiration, culinary adventures, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in the magical landscape of Rajasthan, Udaipur offers a journey that promises to be as enchanting and timeless.
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love
Beth and Denz
